Gesynta’s SEK190m ($20m) private placement allows its lead asset to enter Phase IIa studies for treating chronic inflammatory conditions in certain systemic sclerosis patients.

Glenmark is moving ahead with studies for its inhibitor of mPGES-1 amid cautious optimism. Pain management is, however, not a core thrust for the Indian firm and it hopes to out-license the potential first-in-class molecule at some stage.

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 in October 2017.

AbbVie takes options on three oncolytic virus immunotherapies under development at Turnstone. Amgen and CytomX swap IP in cancer immunotherapy collaboration, while Nicox and pSivida will team to fight glaucoma and other eye diseases.