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 Elsevier's Strategic Transactions, providing comprehensive transaction coverage from 1991 to the present.

The private US biotechnology company Signum Biosciences has appointed Dr Braham Shroot, formerly chief scientific officer of Barrier Therapeutics, as CEO. Dr Shroot succeeds Dr Gregory Stock, who will continue with the company as a member of the board.