Many Aurora kinase inhibitors have entered development, but while none have had a successful end, Lilly believes the specificity of AurKa's AK-01 will make it a safer drug. The asset fits well into Lilly's oncology strategy, which includes both targeted therapies and immuno-oncology drugs.

Brief profiles of these recently formed companies: Admera Health, Denali Therapeutics, Esperas Pharma, and OccuRx.

Brief profiles of these recently formed companies: Admera Health, Denali Therapeutics, Esperas Pharma, and OccuRx.

Derived from Strategic Transactions, Informa’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, Research/Analytical, and Pharmaceuticals – and then categorized by type – Acquisition, Alliance, or Financing. This month’s column covers deals announced April 2015.