Merck-Gilead Drug Duel Is Heating Up

A couple of experimental drugs designed to fight HIV in new ways will highlight an important and closely watched medical meeting next week.

Drugmakers Merck(MRK Quote) and Gilead Sciences(GILD Quote) are expected to present new clinical data at the annual Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections, Feb. 25-28 in Los Angeles.

The CROI meeting brings together scientists and researchers from around the world and is generally viewed as one of the most important forums for the presentation of new HIV drug research. CROI is also a bit unique in that it bars entry to anyone connected to Wall Street, including sell-side analysts and fund managers. Even the financial press -- myself included -- isn't allowed to attend. ...