SHAMAN PHARMA ON THE WARPATH

Shaman Pharmaceuticals, based in California, outlined its aggressive product development strategy and pipeline at the CS First Boston International Health Care Conference, held in London this month.

Lisa Conte, president and chief executive, outlined the company's strategy as one of discovery, isolation and development of novel drugs from tropical plants that have a history of medicinal usage among indigenous people. To achieve this, the company utilizes field researchers schooled in the discipline of ethnobotany, the study of how native people use plants, in combination with modern chemistry techniques, said Ms Conte.

Ms Conte also emphasized that the company will only pursue compounds on which it can attain a strong patent position. Shaman has composition of matter and use patent protection on its three lead compounds; two antivirals and an antifungal product.