Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. has bolstered its immuno-oncology ambitions by acquiring IL-8 focused Cormorant Pharmaceuticals AB, the 4-year old Swedish biotech. Cormorant’s shareholders are getting $95M up front with the promise of a further $425M if milestones are achieved.

The anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody Arzerra (ofatumumab) has not been recommended for the maintenance therapy of relapsed chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), an expanded indication, by the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP).

As an exclusive partner of U.S. Partners HealthCare International (PHI), Saint Lucia Consulting has received investment funds from Sequoia Capital and will provide cancer evaluation services (CES) for Chinese patients who are seeking medical treatment in U.S.

Start-Up's monthly comprehensive review of emerging life science companies that have received venture funding during the month, including companies in the pharmaceutical, medical device, diagnostic and research instrumentation and reagent sectors.