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.

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.

For biopharma, launching first products, and especially sudden profitability, doesn't necessarily predict which companies will succeed. Instead, an examination of stock market success shows the need to bring a succession of drugs, or at least additional indications, into clinical trials-mostly through aggressive deal-making.

2005's top early stage venture financings reflect a drive for size and experience on the biotech side, and the demand for less-invasive procedures in the device world. Start-Up lists the top ten Series A rounds of 2005.