Astellas and Cytokinetics are expanding their existing alliance to investigate two candidates against amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, as the Japanese firm looks to build its strategic interests in muscle disease.

Daiichi Sankyo's recent deal for Japan rights to a cell therapy agent illustrates the ongoing corporate appetite for assets able to benefit from the country's favorable regulatory framework for such products.

Chugai is taking concrete steps into the burgeoning regenerative medicine sector in Japan through a new clinical and commercial alliance with a domestic venture for a therapy for knee cartilage disorders.

Mylan adds more than 900 over-the-counter and generic products to its portfolio with the $9.9bn acquisition of Meda. Astellas finalizes the pursuit of Ocata which it began last November.