Human Genome, Novartis discontinue Zalbin

Human Genome Sciences Inc. (NASDAQ:HGSI) and partner Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS; SIX:NOVN) discontinued development of Zalbin albinterferon alfa-2b after FDA issued a complete response letter for a BLA for the HCV candidate. Human Genome said in June that approval of the fusion protein of interferon (IFN) alpha and albumin was unlikely after FDA expressed concerns regarding the product's risk-benefit assessment. In April, Novartis withdrew an MAA for the product in Europe, where it is known as Joulferon. Human Genome was up $0.32 to $29.79 on Tuesday. ...