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, and Pharmaceuticals – and then categorized by type – Acquisition, Alliance, or Financing. This month’s column covers deals announced March 2015.

Targacept spun out in 2000 from tobacco giant RJ Reynolds, with 60 patents, 23 scientists and an ongoing strategic alliance with Aventis. Not to mention $30 million from venture backers excited about the company's potential for discovering drugs that act on neuronal nicotinic receptors.