Novo to stop r&d in small molecules for diabetes

Novo Nordisk, one of the largest diabetes treatment companies in the world, will cease their research and development (r&d) amongst small molecules for the oral treatment of diabetes. Their existing projects will apparently be divested, and the bulk of their r&d power focused on protein-based pharmaceuticals.
The company, who have consistently proven themselves to be a part of the top flight of global diabetes companies, are now amassing a strong pipeline of pharmaceuticals based on proteins. Their existing small-molecule projects will probably be out-licensed to other companies who will continue creating medications for diabetics .
According to Novo, 180 staff will be affected by the decisio, but the operating profit forecasts will not be affected. The Novo executive vice president reportedly said: “Our core competences lie within therapeutic proteins, and it is within this area that we can make the greatest difference in terms of patient outcomes and company growth. Therefore, it is a logical move to focus all our research and development efforts on this area.”