Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare

Singapore - S'pore scientists identify gene responsible for lung cancer

Source: Channel News Asia, 06 January 2012

Singapore scientists have, for the first time, identified a gene responsible for lung cancer.The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) said the finding, reported in the advanced online issue of Cell on January 5, is a huge step towards finding a cure for the disease.

A*STAR said a small number of cells, known as cancer stem cells or tumour-initiating cells (TIC), are responsible for the promotion of tumour growth. And the team was successful in finding a marker, known as CD166, to identify these cells. With the finding of this marker, the team then made more inroads into the genomic study of the TICs, and discovered several genes that were important for the growth of cancer cells.

India - Pfizer adapts in India

Source: The Business Standard, 09 January 2012

Pfizer, the pharma group, is adapting its strategy in India, focusing less on patented big-name brands and instead emphasising lower-priced generic alternatives. Currently, Pfizer sells over 100 products in India, and launched around 30 lines in the branded generics category, an area where it hopes to add an additional 40 products this year.

This model sees pharma firms provide generic drugs which are no longer protected by patents, as is the case when they initially enter the market. While these offerings have traditionally been sold without prominent branding given the lack of differentiation, this trend is quickly changing, meaning marketing and price play a key role.

Indonesia - Indonesia, 6th Largest Pharmaceutical Market by 2016

Source: Indonesia Today, 11 January 2012

Indonesian pharmaceutical market is projected to grow at a high single-digit CAGR in US dollar terms during the forecast period, and it will be the sixth largest pharmaceutical market in the Asia Pacific region by 2016, Reportlinker.com says.

There are around 240 domestic pharmaceutical manufacturers in Indonesia, with the vast majority located in Java.However, despite the country possessing huge manufacturing capabilities, the complete lack of R&D in domestic companies could affect the market, especially if IPR regulations were tightened.

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