RE:Pfizer or Roche as jv partners for the NMIBCMerck has the most to lose. Not only in sales but also in the return on investment of the new facility.
If Merck feels TLD1433 may cause them harm, they have a few options.
1) Manipulate TLT stock to cuase it to fail, (enabling brokers to short)
2) Lobby the FDA to stall and bury TLD1433 BTD and AA
3) Cause disruptions with TLD1433 production
4) Buyout TLT or Partner for the rights to TLD1433
This is a very high stakes game. Companies will go to ANY means when they feel threatened (especially big pharma)
I am very suspicous that some of this may laready be taking place.
Sorry to sound like a downer, but it is the real world.