Derived from Strategic Transactions, Elsevier Business Intelligence’s premium source for tracking life sciences deal activity, the Dealmaking column is a survey of recent health care transactions listed by relevant industry segment – In Vitro Diagnostics, Medical Devices, and Pharmaceuticals – and then categorized by type – Acquisition, Alliance, or Financing.

Vifor Uriach Pharma, a joint-venture between Spain's Uriach Group and the Swiss firm Vifor Pharma, is now up and running.

The dealmaking column is a survey of recent transactions, including strategic alliances, mergers & acquisitions, and financings, in the life sciences industries. Deals are listed by the following industry sectors: in vitro diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and research/analytical instrumentation and reagents. All transactions are excerpted from Windhover's Strategic Transactions database, providing comprehensive transaction coverage from 1991 to the present.

Signs are that Spanish biotech, until now held back by a lack of capital and management expertise, may be about to receive the kick-start it badly needs. Newly-created Ysios Capital Partners is the country's first specialist VC. It's raising a first fund worth €65 million ($92 million)--and it's not alone.