Torcetrapib: Biomarker for the Big Pharma Business Model

As biotechs often live or die on the success of one pipeline project, so too Pfizer finds itself in the same position. Weak drug launches, intense competition in its core cholesterol franchise, and, analysts say, an unimpressive pipeline. Except torcetrapib--perhaps the most important clinical-stage project in the industry. If it fails, Pfizer's in trouble. If it succeeds, Pfizer will have proven that giantism isn't antithetical to growth.