Biotechnology UK drug developer Vernalis says that, along with its partner USA-based Biogen Idec, the companies will continue its novel A2A receptor antagonist program for Parkinson's disease with a next generation Vernalis compound. Based on findings from preclinical studies, the companies have discontinued development of V2006/BIIB014, also known as vipadenant, in favor of the alternate compound, which is also in development. The news saw Vernalis' shares plunge 12% to 35.5 pence, while Biogen slipped 1.6%. 20 July 2010