Saturday, November 21, 2009 
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San Diego’s Top Influentials highlights the Who’s Who in San Diego business, profiling the top newsmakers of 2008. This year we focus on the leaders in Biotech, Tech & Defense; Construction; Finance; Law and Business & Consumer Services; and Real Estate.
Since 1886, The Daily Transcript has seen and reported on many significant changes to San Diego’s economic landscape, many of which stem from the remarkable ideas and contributions of individuals. We pay tribute to these prominent newsmakers — San Diego’s movers and shakers — with a special salute to the Top Influentials.
Since 1886, The Daily Transcript has seen and reported on many significant changes to San Diego’s economic landscape, many of which stem from the remarkable ideas and numerous contributions of single individuals. These individuals have impacted our lives, our communities, our economy. Now, we pay tribute to these prominent newsmakers – San Diego’s movers and shakers – with a special salute to the 120 Top Influentials.
As The Daily Transcript celebrates its 120th year in print, our editorial board -- with help from the San Diego Historical Society -- reflects back on our region’s rich history. In this feature, we pay tribute to some of the pioneers who played an integral part in laying the foundation for San Diego’s future growth. Read more about the contributions these individuals have made as the Transcript takes a brief look back through time.
In celebration of The Daily Transcript's 120th Anniversary, we pay tribute to the prominent business leaders -- past and present -- who have impacted the region. The Daily Transcript thanks its sponsors for participating in this anniversary publication.
Optimer Pharmaceuticals Chief Executive Officer Michael Chang is optimistic that larger venture capital firms won't be overlooking the company for long.
Started in 2000 by Chang and fellow researchers Chi-Huey Wong and Samuel Danishefky, Optimer specializes in carbohydrate chemistry and drugs that combat cancer, arthritis and immune disorders.
The company is especially excited about a new drug being developed to fight clostridium difficile bacteria, which causes a potentially deadly form of diarrhea that some health experts say is on the rise in hospitals and nursing homes. The drug had some success in Phase 2 clinical trials and the Food and Drug Administration approved expanded tests through 2008.
"The FDA thinks this is a very important topic, so we developed this product on a fast track," Chang said. "The product is a unique chemical structure, a new mechanism, we think that's really vital. It's a very interesting product."