Pharmaceutical Product Development, Inc. (PPD) has entered into a definitive merger agreement to be acquired by The Carlyle Group and Hellman & Friedman for $3.9 billion in cash, making PPD a private company. The transaction, subject to customary closing conditions, is expected to close in 4Q11. “The sale of PPD to The Carlyle Group and Hellman & Friedman provides an attractive return for our shareholders, while also ensuring a secure foundation and commitment to investment, innovation ...