Technology-agnostic diagnostics

When Novartis AG launched its molecular diagnostics unit in late 2008, it said it would pursue partnerships for discovering and developing biomarkers to augment its internal capabilities. The pharma struck its second such collaboration last month, with Pathwork Diagnostics Inc., which will provide the ability to analyze expression of thousands of genes at once.

In the past 18 months, the molecular diagnostics unit has started 10 R&D programs, according to unit head Michael Nohaile, and he expects to double that within a year. While Novartis won't disclose specific programs, about half are in oncology and half in other therapeutic areas...