Californian biopharmaceutical company Calando Pharmaceuticals has granted an exclusive worldwide license to Benitec (ASX:BLT) for the use of its polymeric nucleic acid delivery technology, which Benitec will use in conjunction with its RNA interference (RNAi)-based therapeutic for hepatitis C virus (HCV). [ + ]

Victorian Primary Industry researchers have developed a real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test that will become the basis of an early-warning system for avian influenza. [ + ]

Acrux [ASX: ACR] has announced positive results for a Phase 1 proof-of-concept, pharmacokinetic study of its contraceptive spray Nesterone MDTS. [ + ]

V-Kardia, the first spin-off company from the Baker Heart Research Institute in Melbourne, has entered into an agreement with Californian-based molecular cardiology company, Celladon, to develop and supply its V-Focus device for percutaneous delivery of gene therapy for congestive heart failure. [ + ]

The federal government has set up the Private Sector Investment Taskforce to come up with strategies to gain more support for Australian researchers from business and philanthropic funds, both in Australia and overseas. [ + ]

Brisbane Agenix (ASX:AGX, OTC(NASDAQ):AGXLY) has found that its Thromboview blood clot diagnostic is safe and not associated with an immune response, according to results from its Phase Ib deep vein thrombosis (DVT) study. [ + ]

A study has shown that brain shrinkage occurs only in ageing men, although cognitive performance remains constant. [ + ]

Brain shrinkage, a common symptom of ageing when people enter their 60s, appears to have no impact on an individual’s capacity of thinking or learning, according to a research conducted by Australian National University (NAU) scientists, calling for a revision on the long-standing views about the influence of aging on the brain.

Cure Cancer Australia has announced the winners of its 2005 young researcher awards, which recognise outstanding cancer researchers in the early stages of their career. [ + ]

Australian healthcare company, Mayne Group, will proceed with the demerger of its global injectable pharmaceutical business, Mayne Pharma, and its domestic healthcare businesses, Mayne Diagnostic Services, Mayne Pharmacy, and Mayne Consumer Products. [ + ]

A new technique that better identifies asthma and allergy triggers may soon provide some welcome relief to susceptible individuals. [ + ]

Thebarton (SA) epilepsy specialist Bionomics (ASX:BNO, BNOOA; US OTC:BMICY) is getting positive feedback on its newly commercialised DNA diagnostic for severe myoclonic epilepsy of infancy (SMEI). [ + ]

An initial recommendation has been made in the patent infringement dispute between Sydney artificial heart firms Ventracor (ASX:VCR) and Heartware (ASX:HTW). [ + ]

Dr Jonas Alsenas has resigned as CEO and director of Melbourne based Prana Biotechnology (ASX:PBT; NASDAQ:PRAN), with Geoffrey Kempler re-assuming the joint positions of executive chairman and CEO. [ + ]

Victoria won't meet its objective of becoming a top five global biotech location by 2010 if Victorian biotech companies fail to attract expansion capital, according to a report released today by the Committee for Melbourne (CfM). [ + ]