Shire's ophthalmics play

If recent deals and investments in the ophthalmics space are any indication, Shire Ltd. should have several options for monetizing the ophthalmology assets it picked up in its 328 million acquisition of Jerini AG this summer. The German biotech's Jerini Ophthalmic Inc. subsidiary is developing early stage compounds to treat dry age-related macular degeneration, arguably the largest unmet need in the ophthalmic space and thus an attractive indication for investors and partners alike.

Since January 2007, the ophthalmics area has seen over $370 million in venture financing, and investors believe the sector is ripe for growth due to an aging population and limited therapeutic options. The space also has witnessed over 40 deals during the same period (see BioCentury, Sept. 29)...