Seattle-based biotech VLST has moved into oncology and the clinical development arena by licensing CP-870,893, an anti-CD40 monoclonal antibody, from Pfizer. The drug has completed five Phase I trials and VLST will be responsible for advancing it into Phase II development. As part of the deal, Pfizer has acquired a 5% equity stake in VLST and will retain co-exclusive rights to the drug in the oncology vaccine field. The agreement represents the latest example of Pfizer’s portfolio management strategy in oncology.