> Shanghai-based Ark Biosciences raised an undisclosed amount for an antiviral respiratory candidate with new investors Qiming Venture Partners, joining Morningside and existing investor TF Capital. Release
> Australia's Mesoblast said it intends to expand the Phase III clinical program of candidate MPC-06-ID for low back pain due to degenerative disc disease to include sites in the European Union after feedback from the EMA. Release (PDF)
> Japan's Chugai Pharmaceutical and Aska Pharmaceutical agreed to business transfer agreement for two antithyroid agents, Mercazole and Propacil, marketed by Chugai. Release
> Japan's Kissei Pharmaceutical and Ajinomoto Pharmaceuticals plan joint development of Phase III candidates AJM300 a4 integrin antagonist and AJG511 budesonide rectal foam to treat ulcerative colitis. Release