Biopharma start-ups raised $693 million in Q4 2011, up 131% from Q3. Device companies brought in $111 million, and diagnostics firms raised $120 million total, $96 million of which was from Biocartis’ Series C. Cancer was the most prevalent therapeutic area for biopharma alliances. And in great contrast to Q3’s one M&A deal involving a start-up company, Q4 saw nine start-up acquisitions.

A roundup of recent medtech strategic alliances, mergers & acquisitions and financings.

The dealmaking column is a survey of recent transactions, including strategic alliances, mergers & acquisitions, and financings, in the life sciences industries. Deals are listed by the following industry sectors: in vitro diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and research/analytical instrumentation and reagents. All transactions are excerpted from Elsevier's Strategic Transactions, providing comprehensive transaction coverage from 1991 to the present.