CHIRON - COMBINATORIAL CHEMISTRY TO VACCINES

Chiron is a major player in the biotechnology area. It specialises in three sectors: therapeutic proteins (such as interferon), vaccines spe cifically for viral diseases (such as hepatitis) and the new area of c ombinatorial chemistry. After substantial restructuring, all areas are generating significant income and are strongly supported by an extens ive portfolio of more than 100 US patents. The Company's strategy, whi ch resembles that of Genzyme, looks likely to be rewarded by substanti al profits.