Barry Simon

Immunomedics, Inc. researching, developing, manufacturing, and marketing biopharmaceutical products. It focuses on monoclonal antibody-based products for the targeted treatment of cancer. The company was founded by David M. Goldenberg in July 1982 and is headquartered in Morris Plains, NJ.

iTherX is a clinical stage pharmaceutical company focused on the discovery and development of innovative treatments for Hepatitis C. This is a disease that affects almost 3% of the world's population, and is the major cause of chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, liver failure and primary liver cancer. Currently there is only a single mode of therapy and less than 5% of patients can be successfully treated. The company continues to carry out focused research in their areas of expertise to provide sustainability of product pipelines. In an era of managed care and increased regulatory scrutiny, it is easy to yield to the temptation of producing 'me too drugs'. However, they think that innovation in the development of pharmaceutical products is important because it is the only way to improve the outcomes for patients. As such, they also think that innovation can ensure the financial returns that investors in health care deserve for the risks that they take. Their innovative approach is evident in their pipeline of Hepatitis C drug candidates. As new and better treatments are being sought, most companies involved in this effort are targeting the enzymes responsible for viral replication: polymerases and proteases. While these are important targets, there is a great deal of duplication of effort in these initiatives. At iTherX, they are pioneering the development of a novel class of HCV antivirals by targeting the steps involved in the entry of the hepatitis C virus into liver cells. Their Host Cell Receptor Target Program engenders small molecule compounds that target a liver cell membrane protein, SR-B1, which recognize and dock the virus. Their lead compound, ITX5061, has extensive safety data in over 250 patients, and shows picomolar potency in inhibiting HCV infection in vitro. They plan to initiate a Phase 2a clinical trial in HCV patients in Q2 of 2009. They have also used medicinal chemistry to develop back-up compounds for this program, and a clinical candidate has been selected for development. Another innovative program is novel cell receptor, which develops antagonists (including biologics) against a novel liver cell membrane protein required for infectivity of the virus.

Connetics Corp. develops and commercializes dermatology products. The firm offers remedies for psoriasis in adults, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and acne. The company was founded in 1993 and is headquartered in Palo Alto, CA.

NantKwest, Inc. engages in the research and development of immunotherapies. It uses natural killer cells to treat cancer, infectious diseases, and inflammatory diseases. The company was founded by Gary N. Keller and Hans Georg Klingemannon October 7, 2002 and is headquartered in San Diego, CA.

Roche Diagnostics Corp. develops and manufactures diagnostic products. It offers anticoagulation management, blood gas and electrolytes, cholesterol and urinalysis products. The firm provides a broad portfolio of tools that help healthcare providers in the prevention, diagnosis and management of diseases like HPV, HIV, heart failure and diabetes, as well as other medical conditions, such as fertility and blood coagulation. Its products and services uses by researchers, physicians, patients, hospitals and laboratories worldwide. The company was founded in 1964 by Willard Eason and is headquartered in Indianapolis, IN.