Busy Novartis

The research arm of Novartis AG has done more than 60 early stage deals this year as it seeks to jumpstart new programs, speed up existing programs and enter new areas. The company announced two of these deals last week: one on the technology side and one on the product side.

The proteomics collaboration with Cellzome AG fills in a specific hole in Novartis' pathway analysis capability, while giving Cellzome an urgently needed infusion of cash. The key for Cellzome will be how well it uses that lifeline to create a sustainable business...