UAW Auto Workers Prepare for Targeted Strikes as Contracts Expire

The United Auto Workers (UAW) union is barreling towards a confrontation with Detroit automakers as contracts for 145,000 members expire Thursday night. With little progress made in negotiations so far, the UAW is planning targeted strikes to bring production to a halt.

The contracts cover union workers at Ford, General Motors and Stellantis, which operates the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram brands. If new four-year agreements are not reached by the 11:59 pm deadline, the UAW will initiate selective walkouts aimed at crippling operations.

According to UAW President Shawn Fain, the union will announce which unspecified facilities will strike at 10 pm Thursday absent any last-minute deals. He confirmed the UAW does not plan to continue bargaining on Friday if it moves forward with work stoppages.

Experts say the UAW could paralyze North American auto output quickly by striking only one or two key plants per automaker. For example, halting production at a couple engine and transmission factories could idle up to three-quarters of assembly lines in less than a week.

This targeted approach allows the UAW to conserve its $825 million strike fund, which would drain rapidly if all 145,000 members walked out simultaneously. Members on strike receive $500 weekly from the fund.

Fain has demanded an immediate 20% raise in the first year of new contracts, plus 5% hikes in each subsequent year of the 4-year deal. But automakers have proposed more modest increases in the range of 17-20% over the life of the contract.

The UAW is also seeking to limit the use of temporary workers, who receive lower pay and fewer benefits compared to permanent employees. This has emerged as a major sticking point, especially with Stellantis.

All automakers stated they aim to reach agreements before midnight to avert walkouts. There remains a small chance of an eleventh-hour deal, though Fain insisted the deadline is firm and the UAW is prepared to strike.

The union could opt to reach separate contracts with one or two automakers while targeting the other(s) for strikes. Stellantis is seen as most prone to a walkout due its greater temporary workforce and past corruption scandals tying executives to union leaders.

Ford has not had a national strike since 1976, giving it leverage in negotiations. A short-term extension past Thursday is possible if talks are progressing, but Fain has repeatedly said 11:59 pm is the “deadline, not a reference point.”

Industry experts predict almost certain strikes at some Stellantis facilities. Potential targets include transmission plants in Indiana and Michigan. Shutting down a couple engine or transmission factories per automaker could rapidly idle assembly lines across North America.

In the event of a walkout, Fain instructed members not on strike to remain working under the expired contract rather than an extension. This could allow non-striking workers to collect state unemployment benefits and ease pressure on the UAW strike fund.

With the auto industry struggling with shortages and high inflation, a prolonged strike could have devastating consequences. But workers want a fair share of record profits, amid union concerns temporary employees erode hard-fought gains.

If negotiators walk away prior to midnight as talks deteriorate, last-ditch deals become unlikely. The two sides remain far apart on critical issues with hours left before contracts lapse. Against this backdrop, targeted strikes at U.S. auto plants seem imminent.

Carbon Credit Firm DevvStream To Go Public In $212M SPAC Merger

DevvStream Holdings, a leading developer of carbon offset projects and associated credit streams, has signed a definitive agreement to go public through a merger with special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) Focus Impact Acquisition Corp.

The combined company will be named DevvStream Corp. and is expected to list on the Nasdaq under ticker “DEVS”. The deal values DevvStream at an implied $212.8 million enterprise value.

Founded in 2021, Vancouver-based DevvStream partners with corporations and governments on sustainability initiatives. It brings projects generating carbon credits to market by co-investing or providing technical services in exchange for a share of long-term credit streams.

This capital-light model requires little upfront investment for participation in the fast-growing carbon markets. DevvStream estimates its current portfolio will generate $13 million in net revenue in 2024 and $55 million in 2025 as projects are expanded.

DevvStream participates in both regulated compliance markets and the rapidly expanding voluntary carbon credit market. The voluntary market hit $2 billion in 2022 but could reach up to $250 billion by 2030 according to estimates.

The merger will provide further expansion capital to DevvStream as it scales its portfolio of emissions-reducing projects. Focus Impact raised $172.5 million in its May 2021 IPO into a trust that will go to the combined company after redemptions.

According to DevvStream CEO Sunny Trinh, “Entering into a definitive agreement to merge with Focus Impact is a significant step towards accelerating the growth of our differentiated technology-based approach to carbon markets.”

He added that enhancing transparency and reliability in voluntary markets in particular can help drive participation and meaningful emissions reductions.

Focus Impact CEO Carl Stanton said the proposed merger “presents a significant opportunity to create substantial value for our shareholders.” He cited DevvStream’s systematic approach to carbon project development and blockchain-enabled tracking.

The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2023, subject to shareholder approvals and other customary closing conditions. Upon completion, DevvStream will be listed on the Nasdaq under ticker “DEVS”.

With global momentum building around carbon markets and climate action, the merger comes at an opportune time. DevvStream is now poised to capitalize on surging demand as both corporations and governments seek to curb emissions.

Release – ISG Announces 2023 ISG Paragon Awards™North America Winners

Research News and Market Data on III

ISG Announces 2023 ISG Paragon Awards™North America Winners

9/14/2023

Program recognizes innovative approaches to leveraging technology and new operating models for business success

STAMFORD, Conn.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Information Services Group (ISG) (Nasdaq: III), a leading global technology research and advisory firm, has announced the winners of the 2023 ISG Paragon Awards™ North America, which celebrate the ongoing transformation of sourcing industry partnerships through new approaches and technologies.

Winners in each category were selected by a panel of independent industry experts and announced at the ISG Sourcing Industry Awards Gala Dinner on Wednesday, September 13, at the Westin Dallas Stonebriar Golf Resort & Spa in Dallas.

The 2023 North America ISG Paragon Award winners are:

Excellence: Recognizing outstanding delivery by a technology or service provider

Infosys with Fortune Brands

Innovation: Recognizing the importance of imagination and entrepreneurial spirit in helping organizations future-proof their businesses and better serve clients

Material with Whataburger

Transformation: Recognizing the successful transformation of an organization or key business function

USTwith Harris Health

Workplace of the Future: Recognizing client and employee experience and productivity beyond technology

Unisys with California State University

Environmental Sustainability: Recognizing outstanding positive impacts in one or more environmental sustainability fields for clients, consumers, communities and/or employees

Mastek with Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management

Diversity: Recognizing diversity of thought and lived experience that enables changes to the status quo to deliver better client outcomes

Hexaware with IQVIA

“Congratulations to the winners of the 2023 ISG Paragon Awards North America for their innovative achievements in the technology services and sourcing industry,” said Todd Lavieri, partner and president, ISG Americas and Asia Pacific. “Providers and enterprises are continuously finding new ways to complement each other’s strengths and overcome business challenges together. ISG is honored to recognize these important and effective partnerships.”

The ISG Paragon Awards™ North America, produced by ISG Events, were awarded during ISG Sourcing Industry Week, which includes the ISG Sourcing Industry Conference and ISG SourceIT. Winners of the ISG Provider Lens™ Awards, recognizing outstanding performances by providers featured in ISG Provider Lens studies, were also honored at the September 13 gala.

ISG made a contribution in honor of ISG Sourcing Industry Week to Bridging Tech, a nonprofit public charity dedicated to providing educational opportunities and technology to K-12 students affected by homelessness.

Full details of the ISG Paragon Awards program are available on the award website.

About ISG

ISG (Information Services Group) (Nasdaq: III) is a leading global technology research and advisory firm. A trusted business partner to more than 900 clients, including more than 75 of the world’s top 100 enterprises, ISG is committed to helping corporations, public sector organizations, and service and technology providers achieve operational excellence and faster growth. The firm specializes in digital transformation services, including automation, cloud and data analytics; sourcing advisory; managed governance and risk services; network carrier services; strategy and operations design; change management; market intelligence and technology research and analysis. Founded in 2006, and based in Stamford, Conn., ISG employs more than 1,600 digital-ready professionals operating in more than 20 countries—a global team known for its innovative thinking, market influence, deep industry and technology expertise, and world-class research and analytical capabilities based on the industry’s most comprehensive marketplace data. For more information, visit www.isg-one.com.

Source: Information Services Group, Inc.

Release – Tonix Pharmaceuticals Announces Poster Presentation Involving TNX-1700 in Preclinical Colorectal Cancer Models at the Seventh International Cancer Immunotherapy Conference 2023

Research News and Market Data on TNXP

September 14, 2023 7:00am EDTDownload as PDF

CHATHAM, N.J., Sept. 14, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp. (Nasdaq: TNXP) (Tonix or the Company), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, today announced a poster presentation at the Seventh International Cancer Immunotherapy Conference 2023 (CICON23): Translating Science into Survival. The Conference is being held September 20-23, 2023, in Milan, Italy. A copy of the poster will be made available on the Tonix Pharmaceuticals website following the presentation at www.tonixpharma.com.

Poster Presentation Details
    
Title:  mTFF2-MSA (mTNX-1700) Suppresses Tumor Growth and Increases Survival in Anti-PD-1 Treated CT26.WT Subcutaneous and CT26-Luciferase Orthotopic Syngeneic Colorectal Cancer Models by Targeting MDSCs in BALB/C Mice
    
Authors:  Bruce L. Daugherty, Rebecca J. Boohaker, Rebecca Johnstone, Karr Stinson, Grace Zhao, Mingfa Zang, Jin Qian, Timothy C. Wan, Seth Lederman
    
Session Date:  September 21, 2023
    
Session Time:  12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m
    
Poster Number:  P220


Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp.
*

Tonix is a biopharmaceutical company focused on commercializing, developing, discovering and licensing therapeutics to treat and prevent human disease and alleviate suffering. Tonix Medicines, our commercial subsidiary, markets Zembrace® SymTouch® (sumatriptan injection) 3 mg and Tosymra® (sumatriptan nasal spray) 10 mg under a transition services agreement with Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC from whom the products were acquired on June 30, 2023. Zembrace SymTouch and Tosymra are each indicated for the treatment of acute migraine with or without aura in adults. Tonix’s development portfolio is composed of central nervous system (CNS), rare disease, immunology and infectious disease product candidates. Tonix’s CNS development portfolio includes both small molecules and biologics to treat pain, neurologic, psychiatric and addiction conditions. Tonix’s lead development CNS candidate, TNX-102 SL (cyclobenzaprine HCl sublingual tablet), is in mid-Phase 3 development for the management of fibromyalgia, having completed enrollment of a potentially confirmatory Phase 3 study in the third quarter of 2023, with topline data expected in the fourth quarter of 2023. TNX-102 SL is also being developed to treat fibromyalgia-type Long COVID, a chronic post-acute COVID-19 condition. Enrollment in a Phase 2 proof-of-concept study has been completed, and topline results were reported in the third quarter of 2023. TNX-601 ER (tianeptine hemioxalate extended-release tablets) is a once-daily oral formulation being developed as a treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD), that completed enrollment in a Phase 2 proof-of-concept study in the third quarter of 2023, with topline results expected in the fourth quarter of 2023. TNX-4300 (estianeptine) is a single isomer version of TNX-601, small molecule oral therapeutic in preclinical development to treat MDD, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Relative to tianeptine, estianeptine lacks activity on the µ-opioid receptor while maintaining activity in the rat Novel Object Recognition test in vivo and the ability to activate PPAR-β/δ and neuroplasticity in tissue culture. TNX-1900 (intranasal potentiated oxytocin), is in development for preventing headaches in chronic migraine, and has completed enrollment in a Phase 2 proof-of-concept study with topline data expected in the fourth quarter of 2023. TNX-1900 is also being studied in binge eating disorder, pediatric obesity and social anxiety disorder by academic collaborators under investigator-initiated INDs. TNX-1300 (cocaine esterase) is a biologic designed to treat cocaine intoxication and has been granted Breakthrough Therapy designation by the FDA. A Phase 2 study of TNX-1300 is expected to be initiated in the third quarter of 2023. Tonix’s rare disease development portfolio includes TNX-2900 (intranasal potentiated oxytocin) for the treatment of Prader-Willi syndrome. TNX-2900 has been granted Orphan Drug designation by the FDA. Tonix’s immunology development portfolio includes biologics to address organ transplant rejection, autoimmunity and cancer, including TNX-1500, which is a humanized monoclonal antibody targeting CD40-ligand (CD40L or CD154) being developed for the prevention of allograft rejection and for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. A Phase 1 study of TNX-1500 was initiated in the third quarter of 2023. Tonix’s infectious disease pipeline includes TNX-801, a vaccine in development to prevent smallpox and mpox. TNX-801 also serves as the live virus vaccine platform or recombinant pox vaccine platform for other infectious diseases. The infectious disease development portfolio also includes TNX-3900 and TNX-4000, which are classes of broad-spectrum small molecule oral antivirals.

*Tonix’s product development candidates are investigational new drugs or biologics and have not been approved for any indication.

Zembrace SymTouch and Tosymra are registered trademarks of Tonix Medicines. Intravail is a registered trademark of Aegis Therapeutics, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Neurelis, Inc. All other marks are property of their respective owners.

This press release and further information about Tonix can be found at www.tonixpharma.com.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “forecast,” “estimate,” “expect,” and “intend,” among others. These forward-looking statements are based on Tonix’s current expectations and actual results could differ materially. There are a number of factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, risks related to the failure to obtain FDA clearances or approvals and noncompliance with FDA regulations; risks related to the failure to successfully market any of our products; risks related to the timing and progress of clinical development of our product candidates; our need for additional financing; uncertainties of patent protection and litigation; uncertainties of government or third party payor reimbursement; limited research and development efforts and dependence upon third parties; and substantial competition. As with any pharmaceutical under development, there are significant risks in the development, regulatory approval and commercialization of new products. Tonix does not undertake an obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement. Investors should read the risk factors set forth in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 13, 2023, and periodic reports filed with the SEC on or after the date thereof. All of Tonix’s forward-looking statements are expressly qualified by all such risk factors and other cautionary statements. The information set forth herein speaks only as of the date thereof.

Investor Contact

Jessica Morris
Tonix Pharmaceuticals
investor.relations@tonixpharma.com
(862) 904-8182

Peter Vozzo
ICR Westwicke
peter.vozzo@westwicke.com
(443) 213-0505

Media Contact

Ben Shannon
ICR Westwicke
ben.shannon@westwicke.com
(919) 360-3039

Source: Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp.

Released September 14, 2023

Release – Comtech Launches Network Agnostic Dynamic Cloud Platform for Satellite Providers

Research News and Market Data on CMTL

BY THE COMTECH EDITORIAL TEAM – SEP 14, 2023 | 2 MIN READ

MELVILLE, N.Y. –
September 14, 2023 — Comtech (NASDAQ: CMTL) announced today its Dynamic Cloud Platform (DCP) is now available for commercial and government satellite service providers in U.S. and international markets.

Comtech’s DCP will enable traditionally disparate satellite systems and ground station infrastructures to be easily integrated, creating a new path to introduce cloud-based applications, waveforms, and services. The company’s DCP is designed to be infrastructure, cloud, and application agnostic-allowing satellite customers to easily orchestrate, integrate, and manage a wide variety of applications, waveforms, and services across private, public, and hybrid cloud-based networks.

“We have proven and extensive experience integrating a variety of 5G technologies levering Comtech’s DCP for a number of terrestrial and wireless customers, including tier-1 mobile network operators,” said Ken Peterman, President and CEO, Comtech. “Now, our DCP is expanding into the satellite and space market-opening the door for commercial and government customers to integrate new network agnostic waveforms and applications that will help usher in a new era of ubiquitous, smart-enabled connectivity.”

Comtech is conducting trials and initial testing that will enable multiple satellite-based waveforms to be deployed using DCP across different cloud-based infrastructures. As part of the launch, Comtech’s DCP now offers a unique satellite-based software development kit to allow for the integration of virtualized ground stations and other applications across cloud networks. Comtech is also offering professional services to assist satellite customers with the integration of new applications on its DCP.

About Comtech

Comtech Telecommunications Corp. is a leading global technology company providing terrestrial and wireless network solutions, next-generation 9-1-1 emergency services, satellite and space communications technologies, and cloud native capabilities to commercial and government customers around the world. Our unique culture of innovation and employee empowerment unleashes a relentless passion for customer success. With multiple facilities located in technology corridors throughout the United States and around the world, Comtech leverages our global presence, technology leadership, and decades of experience to create the world’s most innovative communications solutions.For more information, please visit www.comtech.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information in this press release contains statements that are forward-looking in nature and involve certain significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results and performance could differ materially from such forward-looking information. The Company’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings identify many such risks and uncertainties. Any forward-looking information in this press release is qualified in its entirety by the risks and uncertainties described in such Securities and Exchange Commission filings.

PCMTL

Investor Relations

Robert Samuels

631-962-7102

robert.samuels@comtech.com

Media Contact

Jamie Clegg

480-532-2523

jamie.clegg@comtech.com

Ocugen (OCGN) – OCU400 Update Shows Improvement In Three Vision Measures


Thursday, September 14, 2023

Ocugen, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on developing and commercializing novel gene therapies, biologicals, and vaccines. The lead product in its gene therapy program, OCU400, is in Phase 1/2 clinical trials for retinitis pigmentosa.

Robert LeBoyer, Senior Vice President, Equity Research Analyst, Biotechnology, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

Data Shows Clinically Meaningful Improvements. Ocugen provided an update to the Phase 1/2 clinical trial data for OCU400 in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA), two rare diseases in which genetic mutations cause loss of vision and progress to blindness. We see these data as clinically meaningful for these indications as well as providing proof-of-concept for Ocugen’s method of targeting a “master control gene” that has downstream effects on other genes.

We See Proof-of-Concept For The “Master Control Gene” Approach. RP is a group of genetic disorders with over 100 possible genetic mutations that may be present and contributing to loss of vision. This makes the course of disease highly variable and difficult to target with a single therapy. Ocugen has been developing OCU400 to target the RHO and NR2E3 genes that control pathways and regulate other genes that act later in those pathways. The data show that OCU400 can affect several genetic pathways in eye, with improvements in three measures of vision.


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This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision. 

Cancer Immunotherapy Developer Calidi Goes Public Via SPAC Merger

Calidi Biotherapeutics has completed its merger with special purpose acquisition company First Light Acquisition Group (FLAG), debuting as a publicly traded cancer immunotherapy company. The combined entity, now named Calidi Biotherapeutics, Inc., will commence trading on the NYSE American under ticker symbols “CLDI” and “CLDI WS” on September 13.

The merger provides Calidi with gross proceeds of approximately $28 million before expenses and debt repayments. This consists of $25 million raised in a concurrent private offering, $1 million in cash from FLAG’s trust, and $2 million in PIPE and non-redemption agreements.

Founded in 2014, Calidi is developing first-in-class immunotherapies using allogeneic stem cells to deliver targeted cancer treatments. The SPAC deal enables the company to continue advancing its pipeline as a publicly listed firm.

Calidi’s lead candidates CLD-101 and CLD-201 leverage proprietary platforms called NeuroNova and SuperNova. Both utilize allogeneic stem cells loaded with oncolytic viruses that directly infect and kill tumor cells.

CLD-101, which employs neural stem cells, is currently in a Phase 1 trial for recurrent high-grade glioma brain tumors. Interim data is expected in 2024. CLD-201 uses mesenchymal stem cells to treat advanced solid tumors, with a Phase 1/2 study slated for 2024.

Take a moment to take a look at PDS Biotechnology, a clinical-stage immunotherapy company developing a growing pipeline of targeted cancer and infectious disease immunotherapies.

According to Calidi CEO Allan Camaisa, the IPO “will allow us to push the boundaries of cell-based virotherapies and continue to research novel ways to eradicate cancer.”

SPACs have become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional IPOs in the biotech sector. Also known as “blank check companies”, SPACs raise capital through an IPO and then merge with a private entity to take it public. This allows the operating company to avoid some of the uncertainty associated with a traditional public debut.

First Light Acquisition Group, led by CEO Tom Vecchiolla, raised $172.5 million in its own IPO in May 2021. The team then sought a merger target that could benefit from the injection of public capital. They ultimately settled on clinical-stage Calidi and its novel immunotherapy approach.

In addition to the SPAC proceeds, Calidi has secured a $10 million forward purchase agreement from several institutional investors. It also intends to execute a $50 million purchase agreement with Lincoln Park Capital Fund.

Between its strengthened balance sheet and non-dilutive financing options, Calidi believes it now has the runway to advance its programs into 2025 without need for further equity funding.

According to Vecchiolla, “We are excited to see Calidi continue to grow as they transition into a public company and look forward to their clinical pursuit of new treatment options for patients everywhere in need.”

The merger completes Calidi’s transformation into a publicly traded company. With shares soon to start trading on the NYSE American under ticker “CLDI”, the company is poised to continue developing its promising immunotherapy candidates for cancer patients in need of new treatment options.

Rocket Shares Soar as FDA Aligns on Danon Disease Gene Therapy Trial

Rocket Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: RCKT) announced it has reached alignment with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on the design of a global pivotal Phase 2 trial for its gene therapy RP-A501 in Danon Disease. This marks an important milestone on the path to delivering a potentially transformative treatment for this devastating inherited cardiomyopathy.

Danon Disease is caused by genetic mutations in the LAMP2 gene leading to fatal heart failure. There are currently no approved therapies. The disease affects an estimated 15,000 to 30,000 patients in the U.S. and Europe, taking the lives of most males by age 20 and females by 40. RP-A501 aims to be the first-ever therapy to change the course of Danon Disease.

The news sent Rocket’s stock price soaring 34% to $20.46 in after-hours trading on Tuesday, as investors welcomed the positive regulatory update.

The planned Phase 2 pivotal trial will be a global, single-arm, open label study enrolling 12 Danon Disease patients. This includes a pediatric safety lead-in of 2 patients. All participants will receive a dose of 6.7 x 1013 GC/kg of RP-A501 delivered through intravenous infusion.

To support potential accelerated approval by the FDA, the co-primary efficacy endpoints at 12 months are LAMP2 protein expression and reduction in left ventricular mass, a key measure of heart damage. Expression of LAMP2, which is deficient in Danon patients, and decreased cardiac hypertrophy would signal RP-A501 is restoring cardiac function at its root genetic cause.

Take a moment to look at Ocugen Inc., a biotechnology company focused on discovering, developing and commercializing novel gene and cell therapies and vaccines.

Secondary trial endpoints consist of the biomarker troponin, heart failure questionnaires, functional classification, event-free survival, and safety. These could support eventual full approval. A concurrent global natural history study will provide an external control arm for comparison.

According to Rocket CEO Dr. Gaurav Shah, “RP-A501 has the potential to restore normal cardiac function and provide a lifetime of benefit to patients with Danon Disease who have no other viable treatment options.” The company believes this pivotal trial design sets the most rapid path to deliver RP-A501 to patients in dire need.

Rocket’s gene therapy approach involves using an engineered virus called AAV9 to deliver a functional LAMP2 gene into patients’ heart cells. The gene insert encodes LAMP2B, a key protein involved in the cellular recycling process called autophagy. Restoring LAMP2B in the heart could potentially halt the accumulation of cellular debris and improve cardiac structure and function.

The company has already manufactured sufficient high-quality RP-A501 drug product at its in-house cGMP facility to supply the full pivotal Phase 2 trial. Qualified potency assays are also in place to support quality control and regulatory compliance.

Looking ahead, Rocket plans to file a Clinical Trial Application in the EU in Q3 2023 to initiate study activities abroad. The company also recently secured an ICD-10 code from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for LAMP2 deficiency, which will support diagnostic efforts.

This alignment with the FDA represents a major achievement for both Rocket and the Danon Disease community. RP-A501 would be the first-ever approved treatment for this deadly cardiovascular condition. The gene therapy aims to be a one-time curative infusion that could provide transformative and lifelong benefits to affected patients.

Beyond Danon Disease, Rocket believes this program paves the way for developing genetic medicines against other inherited heart diseases. Cardiac gene therapy has long faced hurdles, but the company is forging a new path for treating genetic cardiovascular conditions at their root.

With the pivotal Phase 2 trial design now locked in, Rocket can move full speed ahead on enrolling patients and gathering data to support potential approval. The company expects to release initial results from the trial evaluating RP-A501 in 2024. This could lead to a approved treatment for Danon Disease in the not too distant future—bringing tremendous hope to patients and families affected by this devastating illness.

Tonix Pharmaceuticals announces poster presentation involving TNX-1700 in preclinical colorectal cancer models at the 7th International Cancer Immunotherapy Conference 2023.

Release – Liz Truss Signs with Regnery

Research News and Market Data on SALM

September 13, 2023 11:59am EDT

IRVING, Texas–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Salem Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: SALM) announced today that Regnery Publishing signed a book deal with Liz Truss, the 56th Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Ten Years to Save the West is scheduled to publish on April 16, 2024.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230912443070/en/

Liz Truss (Photo: Business Wire)

Around the world, many supposedly conservative political parties have been captured by the same left-wing influences that set the agenda and frame the debate in so many institutions, including the media, academia and the corporate world. Drawing on her ten years of service in Tory governments – when she often found herself to be the only conservativein the room – the scrappy champion of limited government and individual freedom exposes the threat of the massive, unaccountable administrative state and the complacent political and corporate establishment.

Ahead of the Presidential election in the fall of 2024, Truss will in particular sound a timely alarm bell that failing to learn from her experiences in the UK – where the state is now spending 47% of national income – could lead to the same mistakes being made in the U.S., with disastrous consequences for American families.

Peppered with newsworthy anecdotes from her time in public life – such as her memorable last meeting with Queen Elizabeth II, her challenges to Vladimir Putin and Xi Jinping as Foreign Secretary, her encounters with the Trump administration as Trade Minister, and her dismay at the political class’s attempts to betray Brexit – this book will be a timely warning about the perils to conservatism posed by the global left in the years ahead.

Liz Truss said, “After more than ten years as a British government minister, I’ve seen up close the threats posed to global democracy. Across the free world, we face massive, unaccountable administrative states and complacent political and corporate establishments which are not only putting the brakes on economic growth, but also hampering our ability to stand up to authoritarian regimes like China and Russia. I want to share the lessons from my experience in government and those international meetings where I was often the only conservative in the room and demonstrate that we have stark choices to make if we wish to avoid a managed decline of the Western architecture that has presided over generations of relative peace and prosperity.”

The UK edition of this book will be published by Biteback Publishing.

ABOUT LIZ TRUSS:

Liz Truss has been the Conservative Member of Parliament for South West Norfolk since 2010 and served as the 56th Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, during which time she led the nation in mourning Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II as King Charles III acceded to the throne. She continuously held ministerial office for more than ten years between 2012 and 2022 and sat at the Cabinet table in six different roles prior to becoming Prime Minister.

ABOUT REGNERY PUBLISHING:

Regnery Publishing, a Salem Media Group company, is the country’s preeminent publisher of conservative books. In its seventy-five years, Regnery has published many of the seminal works of the conservative movement, including Russell Kirk’s The Conservative Mind and William F. Buckley Jr.’s God and Man at Yale. More recently, Regnery has published bestsellers by Mollie Hemingway, George Gilder, Dennis Prager, Josh Hawley, Ted Cruz, and David Limbaugh.

ABOUT SALEM MEDIA GROUP:

Salem Media Group is America’s leading multimedia company specializing in Christian and conservative content, with media properties comprising radio, digital media and book and newsletter publishing. Each day Salem serves a loyal and dedicated audience of listeners and readers numbering in the millions nationally. With its unique programming focus, Salem provides compelling content, fresh commentary and relevant information from some of the most respected figures across the Christian and conservative media landscape. Learn more about Salem Media Group, Inc. at www.salemmedia.comFacebook and Twitter.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230912443070/en/

Evan D. Masyr
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
(805) 384-4512
evan@salemmedia.com

Source: Salem Media Group, Inc.

Released September 13, 2023

Release – Travelzoo META’s Travel Companions Take Over NASDAQ Headquarters in Times Square

Research News and Market Data on TZOO

September 13, 2023

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NEW YORK, Sept. 13, 2023 /PRNewswire/ — Thousands of people visiting Times Square were stopped in their tracks. Splashed across the façade of NASDAQ’s headquarters yesterday were fantastical animals from the Metaverse. Travelzoo META’s Travel Companions gazed out at onlookers and announced with their presence that the future of travel is here. Travelzoo® (NASDAQ: TZOO), a global Internet media company that provides exclusive offers and experiences for members, recently announced the launch of Travelzoo META, a members-only service offering groundbreaking Metaverse travel experiences.

With its launch, Travelzoo META opened registrations for Founding Membership. Founding Members of Travelzoo META will have the opportunity to be the first to experience travel in the Metaverse. Each Founding Member will also be entitled to one of the world’s first personality-based, emotionally-driven Travel Companions (NFTs) that match their personal Metaverse travel style.

Travelzoo META’s experiences are intended to allow its members to explore hard-to-reach corners of the world, like summiting Mount Everest, or travel back in time, to Ancient Rome perhaps. They can also discover new spaces beyond imagination. All this is possible using a mobile or desktop device and a simple browser.

“The Metaverse is too big for companies to ignore,” states global management consulting firm McKinsey & Company. The firm has recently confirmed its estimate of the Metaverse becoming a $5 trillion market by 2030. One of the business segments which McKinsey & Company is particularly bullish on is travel. The Metaverse is expected to have a major impact on the travel industry and change travel experiences for consumers.

Find out how you can be part of the future of travel. Become a Travelzoo META Founding Member at http://meta.travelzoo.com.

About Travelzoo META
Travelzoo META is a paid members-only service offering groundbreaking Metaverse travel experiences. Working in partnership with cutting-edge creators, we have access to the latest immersive experiences that are intended to allow members to explore hard-to-reach corners of the world, travel back in time, or discover new spaces beyond imagination.

Travelzoo and Travelzoo META are registered trademarks of Travelzoo. All other names are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Paige Cram – Los Angeles
+1 609 668 0645
pcram@travelzoo.com

Cat Jordan – London
+44 77 7678 1525
cjordan@travelzoo.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/travelzoo-metas-travel-companions-take-over-nasdaq-headquarters-in-times-square-301926585.html

SOURCE Travelzoo

Release – PDS Biotech to Host Key Opinion Leader Roundtable Addressing Current and Future Treatments for Recurrent/Metastatic HPV-Positive HNSCC and the Potential Application of PDS0101 on September 27, 2023

Research News and Market Data on PDSB

Company to provide updated VERSATILE-002 data on combination of PDS0101 and KEYTRUDA®

PRINCETON, N.J., Sept. 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

Company to provide updated VERSATILE-002 data on combination of PDS0101 and KEYTRUDA®

PRINCETON, N.J., Sept. 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PDS Biotechnology Corporation (Nasdaq: PDSB) (PDS Biotech or Company), a clinical-stage immunotherapy company developing a growing pipeline of targeted cancer immunotherapies and infectious disease vaccines based on the Company’s proprietary T cell activating platforms, today announced it will host a Key Opinion Leader (KOL) Roundtable on Addressing Current and Future Treatments for Recurrent/Metastatic Human Papillomavirus (HPV)-Positive Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) and the Potential Application of PDS0101, including an update from the Phase 2 VERSATILE-002 trial, for analysts, investors and the scientific community from 8:00 – 9:00 AM EDT on Wednesday, September 27, 2023.

The Company-sponsored event will focus on current and potential treatments for HPV16-positive head and neck cancer, including the emerging use of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), and unmet needs of this growing patient population. The event will also include a presentation on updated data from the VERSATILE-002 study of the combination of KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) and PDS0101, PDS Biotech’s novel investigational HPV-targeted immunotherapy, as well as the design for the planned VERSATILE-003 Phase 3 clinical trial due to be initiated in the fourth quarter of 2023. The event will be moderated by PDS Biotech’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Lauren V. Wood, and will feature presentations from the following head and neck cancer KOLs:

  • Dr. Glenn Hanna, Assistant Professor, Harvard University and Medical Oncologist, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
  • Dr. John Kaczmar, Associate Professor, Medical University of South Carolina
  • Dr. Ricard Mesía, Head of Medical Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology
  • Dr. Katharine Price, Associate Professor, Oncology Head and Neck Disease Group, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center

Registration of PDS Biotech’s KOL Roundtable is now open, and a live webcast of the event will be available online in the investor relations section of the Company’s website at https://www.pdsbiotech.com/index.php/investors. A replay will be available for 90 days following the webcast.

About PDS Biotechnology

PDS Biotech is a clinical-stage immunotherapy company developing a growing pipeline of targeted cancer and infectious disease immunotherapies based on our proprietary Versamune®, Versamune® plus PDS0301, and Infectimune® T cell-activating platforms. We believe our targeted immunotherapies have the potential to overcome the limitations of current immunotherapy approaches through the activation of the right type, quantity and potency of T cells. To date, our lead Versamune® clinical candidate, PDS0101, has demonstrated the ability to reduce and shrink tumors and stabilize disease in combination with approved and investigational therapeutics in patients with a broad range of HPV16-associated cancers in multiple Phase 2 clinical trials and will be advancing into a Phase 3 clinical trial in combination with KEYTRUDA® for the treatment of recurrent/metastatic HPV16-positive head and neck cancer in 2023.   Our Infectimune® based vaccines have also demonstrated the potential to induce not only robust and durable neutralizing antibody responses, but also powerful T cell responses, including long-lasting memory T cell responses in pre-clinical studies to date. To learn more, please visit www.pdsbiotech.com or follow us on Twitter at @PDSBiotech. 

About PDS0101 

PDS0101, PDS Biotech’s lead candidate, is a novel investigational human papillomavirus (HPV)-targeted immunotherapy that stimulates a potent targeted T cell attack against HPV-positive cancers. PDS0101 is given by subcutaneous injection alone or in combination with other immunotherapies and cancer treatments. In a Phase 1 study of PDS0101 in monotherapy, the treatment demonstrated the ability to generate multifunctional HPV16-targeted CD8 and CD4 T cells with minimal toxicity. Interim data suggests PDS0101 generates clinically active immune responses, and the combination of PDS0101 with other treatments can demonstrate significant disease control by reducing or shrinking tumors, delaying disease progression and/or prolonging survival. The combination of PDS0101 with other treatments does not appear to compound the toxicity of other agents.

About VERSATILE-003

VERSATILE-003 is a randomized, controlled Phase 3 trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of PDS0101 in combination with Merck’s anti-PD-1 therapy, KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) compared with KEYTRUDA® monotherapy as the control arm. The primary end point for the study is patient overall survival (OS). The combination is being evaluated in immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-naïve patients with recurrent/metastatic HPV16-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and was granted Fast Track designation by the Food and Drug Administration in June 2022.  

Forward Looking Statements 

This communication contains forward-looking statements (including within the meaning of Section 21E of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 27A of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended) concerning PDS Biotechnology Corporation (the “Company”) and other matters. These statements may discuss goals, intentions and expectations as to future plans, trends, events, results of operations or financial condition, or otherwise, based on current beliefs of the Company’s management, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, management. Forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “likely,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “forecast,” “guidance”, “outlook” and other similar expressions among others. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors, including, without limitation: the Company’s ability to protect its intellectual property rights; the Company’s anticipated capital requirements, including the Company’s anticipated cash runway and the Company’s current expectations regarding its plans for future equity financings; the Company’s dependence on additional financing to fund its operations and complete the development and commercialization of its product candidates, and the risks that raising such additional capital may restrict the Company’s operations or require the Company to relinquish rights to the Company’s technologies or product candidates; the Company’s limited operating history in the Company’s current line of business, which makes it difficult to evaluate the Company’s prospects, the Company’s business plan or the likelihood of the Company’s successful implementation of such business plan; the timing for the Company or its partners to initiate the planned clinical trials for PDS0101, PDS0203 and other Versamune® and Infectimune® based product candidates; the future success of such trials; the successful implementation of the Company’s research and development programs and collaborations, including any collaboration studies concerning PDS0101, PDS0203 and other Versamune® and Infectimune® based product candidates and the Company’s interpretation of the results and findings of such programs and collaborations and whether such results are sufficient to support the future success of the Company’s product candidates; the success, timing and cost of the Company’s ongoing clinical trials and anticipated clinical trials for the Company’s current product candidates, including statements regarding the timing of initiation, pace of enrollment and completion of the trials (including the Company’s ability to fully fund its disclosed clinical trials, which assumes no material changes to the Company’s currently projected expenses), futility analyses, presentations at conferences and data reported in an abstract, and receipt of interim or preliminary results (including, without limitation, any preclinical results or data), which are not necessarily indicative of the final results of the Company’s ongoing clinical trials; any Company statements about its understanding of product candidates mechanisms of action and interpretation of preclinical and early clinical results from its clinical development programs and any collaboration studies; and other factors, including legislative, regulatory, political and economic developments not within the Company’s control. The foregoing review of important factors that could cause actual events to differ from expectations should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with statements that are included herein and elsewhere, including the other risks, uncertainties, and other factors described under “Risk Factors,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and elsewhere in the documents we file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements are made only as of the date of this press release and, except as required by applicable law, the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.    

Versamune® and Infectimune® are registered trademarks of PDS Biotechnology Corporation. KEYTRUDA® is a registered trademark of Merck Sharp and Dohme LLC, a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA.

Investor Contact:
Rich Cockrell
CG Capital
Phone: +1 (404) 736-3838
Email: pdsb@cg.capital

Media Contacts:
Dave Schemelia
Tiberend Strategic Advisors
Phone: +1 (609) 468-9325
Email: dschemelia@tiberend.com

Eric Reiss
Tiberend Strategic Advisors
Phone: +1 (802) 249-1136
Email: ereiss@tiberend.com

(Nasdaq: PDSB) (PDS Biotech or Company), a clinical-stage immunotherapy company developing a growing pipeline of targeted cancer immunotherapies and infectious disease vaccines based on the Company’s proprietary T cell activating platforms, today announced it will host a Key Opinion Leader (KOL) Roundtable on Addressing Current and Future Treatments for Recurrent/Metastatic Human Papillomavirus (HPV)-Positive Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) and the Potential Application of PDS0101, including an update from the Phase 2 VERSATILE-002 trial, for analysts, investors and the scientific community from 8:00 – 9:00 AM EDT on Wednesday, September 27, 2023.

The Company-sponsored event will focus on current and potential treatments for HPV16-positive head and neck cancer, including the emerging use of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), and unmet needs of this growing patient population. The event will also include a presentation on updated data from the VERSATILE-002 study of the combination of KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) and PDS0101, PDS Biotech’s novel investigational HPV-targeted immunotherapy, as well as the design for the planned VERSATILE-003 Phase 3 clinical trial due to be initiated in the fourth quarter of 2023. The event will be moderated by PDS Biotech’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Lauren V. Wood, and will feature presentations from the following head and neck cancer KOLs:

  • Dr. Glenn Hanna, Assistant Professor, Harvard University and Medical Oncologist, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
  • Dr. John Kaczmar, Associate Professor, Medical University of South Carolina
  • Dr. Ricard Mesía, Head of Medical Oncology, Catalan Institute of Oncology
  • Dr. Katharine Price, Associate Professor, Oncology Head and Neck Disease Group, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center

Registration of PDS Biotech’s KOL Roundtable is now open, and a live webcast of the event will be available online in the investor relations section of the Company’s website at https://www.pdsbiotech.com/index.php/investors. A replay will be available for 90 days following the webcast.

About PDS Biotechnology

PDS Biotech is a clinical-stage immunotherapy company developing a growing pipeline of targeted cancer and infectious disease immunotherapies based on our proprietary Versamune®, Versamune® plus PDS0301, and Infectimune® T cell-activating platforms. We believe our targeted immunotherapies have the potential to overcome the limitations of current immunotherapy approaches through the activation of the right type, quantity and potency of T cells. To date, our lead Versamune® clinical candidate, PDS0101, has demonstrated the ability to reduce and shrink tumors and stabilize disease in combination with approved and investigational therapeutics in patients with a broad range of HPV16-associated cancers in multiple Phase 2 clinical trials and will be advancing into a Phase 3 clinical trial in combination with KEYTRUDA® for the treatment of recurrent/metastatic HPV16-positive head and neck cancer in 2023.   Our Infectimune® based vaccines have also demonstrated the potential to induce not only robust and durable neutralizing antibody responses, but also powerful T cell responses, including long-lasting memory T cell responses in pre-clinical studies to date. To learn more, please visit www.pdsbiotech.com or follow us on Twitter at @PDSBiotech. 

About PDS0101 

PDS0101, PDS Biotech’s lead candidate, is a novel investigational human papillomavirus (HPV)-targeted immunotherapy that stimulates a potent targeted T cell attack against HPV-positive cancers. PDS0101 is given by subcutaneous injection alone or in combination with other immunotherapies and cancer treatments. In a Phase 1 study of PDS0101 in monotherapy, the treatment demonstrated the ability to generate multifunctional HPV16-targeted CD8 and CD4 T cells with minimal toxicity. Interim data suggests PDS0101 generates clinically active immune responses, and the combination of PDS0101 with other treatments can demonstrate significant disease control by reducing or shrinking tumors, delaying disease progression and/or prolonging survival. The combination of PDS0101 with other treatments does not appear to compound the toxicity of other agents.

About VERSATILE-003

VERSATILE-003 is a randomized, controlled Phase 3 trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of PDS0101 in combination with Merck’s anti-PD-1 therapy, KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) compared with KEYTRUDA® monotherapy as the control arm. The primary end point for the study is patient overall survival (OS). The combination is being evaluated in immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-naïve patients with recurrent/metastatic HPV16-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and was granted Fast Track designation by the Food and Drug Administration in June 2022.  

Forward Looking Statements 

This communication contains forward-looking statements (including within the meaning of Section 21E of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 27A of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended) concerning PDS Biotechnology Corporation (the “Company”) and other matters. These statements may discuss goals, intentions and expectations as to future plans, trends, events, results of operations or financial condition, or otherwise, based on current beliefs of the Company’s management, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, management. Forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “likely,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “forecast,” “guidance”, “outlook” and other similar expressions among others. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors, including, without limitation: the Company’s ability to protect its intellectual property rights; the Company’s anticipated capital requirements, including the Company’s anticipated cash runway and the Company’s current expectations regarding its plans for future equity financings; the Company’s dependence on additional financing to fund its operations and complete the development and commercialization of its product candidates, and the risks that raising such additional capital may restrict the Company’s operations or require the Company to relinquish rights to the Company’s technologies or product candidates; the Company’s limited operating history in the Company’s current line of business, which makes it difficult to evaluate the Company’s prospects, the Company’s business plan or the likelihood of the Company’s successful implementation of such business plan; the timing for the Company or its partners to initiate the planned clinical trials for PDS0101, PDS0203 and other Versamune® and Infectimune® based product candidates; the future success of such trials; the successful implementation of the Company’s research and development programs and collaborations, including any collaboration studies concerning PDS0101, PDS0203 and other Versamune® and Infectimune® based product candidates and the Company’s interpretation of the results and findings of such programs and collaborations and whether such results are sufficient to support the future success of the Company’s product candidates; the success, timing and cost of the Company’s ongoing clinical trials and anticipated clinical trials for the Company’s current product candidates, including statements regarding the timing of initiation, pace of enrollment and completion of the trials (including the Company’s ability to fully fund its disclosed clinical trials, which assumes no material changes to the Company’s currently projected expenses), futility analyses, presentations at conferences and data reported in an abstract, and receipt of interim or preliminary results (including, without limitation, any preclinical results or data), which are not necessarily indicative of the final results of the Company’s ongoing clinical trials; any Company statements about its understanding of product candidates mechanisms of action and interpretation of preclinical and early clinical results from its clinical development programs and any collaboration studies; and other factors, including legislative, regulatory, political and economic developments not within the Company’s control. The foregoing review of important factors that could cause actual events to differ from expectations should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with statements that are included herein and elsewhere, including the other risks, uncertainties, and other factors described under “Risk Factors,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and elsewhere in the documents we file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements are made only as of the date of this press release and, except as required by applicable law, the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.    

Versamune® and Infectimune® are registered trademarks of PDS Biotechnology Corporation. KEYTRUDA® is a registered trademark of Merck Sharp and Dohme LLC, a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA.

Investor Contact:
Rich Cockrell
CG Capital
Phone: +1 (404) 736-3838
Email: pdsb@cg.capital

Media Contacts:
Dave Schemelia
Tiberend Strategic Advisors
Phone: +1 (609) 468-9325
Email: dschemelia@tiberend.com

Eric Reiss
Tiberend Strategic Advisors
Phone: +1 (802) 249-1136
Email: ereiss@tiberend.com

Release – Ocugen Announces Positive Clinical Study Update From The Phase 1/2 Trial Of OCU400, A Modifier Gene Therapy Product Candidate, For The Treatment Of Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) And Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA)

Research News and Market Data on OCGN

September 13, 2023

PDF Version

  • Favorable safety and tolerability profile of OCU400 investigational drug product in RP and LCA subjects to date
  • Clinical study update suggests continued positive trends in Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) and Multi-Luminance Mobility Testing (MLMT), as well as positive trends in Low-Luminance Visual Acuity (LLVA) among treated eyes
  • 83% (10/12) of subjects demonstrated stabilization or improvement in treated eye either on BCVA or LLVA or MLMT scores from baseline
  • Notably, 86% (6/7) of RHO mutation subjects experienced either stabilization of or increase in MLMT scores from baseline including a subset of 29% (2/7) that demonstrated a 3 Lux luminance level improvement

MALVERN, Pa., Sept. 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ocugen, Inc. (Ocugen or the Company) (NASDAQ: OCGN), a biotechnology company focused on discovering, developing, and commercializing novel gene and cell therapies, biologics, and vaccines, today announced a clinical study update for Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) participants treated in the Phase 1/2 trial to assess the safety and efficacy of OCU400 for RP associated with NR2E3 and Rhodopsin (RHO) mutations and Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) with mutation(s) in the CEP290 gene. This clinical study update is an extension of results provided by Ocugen on April 14, 2023, and includes additional subjects from the high dose group. The Company believes that OCU400—Ocugen’s therapeutic approach, utilizing a proprietary modifier gene therapy platform—has the potential to be a gene-agnostic therapeutic for RP and LCA patients with inherited retinal degeneration.

“This clinical study update supports our vision to help change the lives of patients suffering from inherited retinal diseases,” said Dr. Shankar Musunuri, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, and Co-Founder of Ocugen. “We remain dedicated to our mission of pioneering breakthroughs in biotechnology and believe that OCU400 has the potential to have an impact on the future treatment of patients with RP and LCA.” 

This Phase 1/2 trial is a multicenter, open-label, dose ranging study. A total of 18 subjects with vision impairment due to RP associated with RHO and NR2E3 gene mutations received a unilateral subretinal injection of either a low dose (1.66 x 1010 vg/mL), medium dose (3.33 x 1010 vg/mL), or high dose (1.66 x 1011 vg/mL) of OCU400. The study profile included a diverse group of subjects aged 18-77 years old, with varied disease stages, racial and ethnic profiles, medical histories, and mutation subgroups. Ocugen further expanded this Phase1/2 trial to enroll LCA patients with CEP290 gene mutation and pediatric patients with NR2E3RHO and CEP290 mutations.

Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) such as RP and LCA encompass a group of genetic disorders that affect the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. These diseases often lead to a gradual loss of vision over time and can ultimately result in blindness. Stabilization of vision is crucial for patients with IRDs due to the progressive and degenerative nature of these conditions.

Preserving remaining vision, slowing disease progression, or improving the vision can significantly impact patients’ quality of life. It not only enhances the quality of life for affected individuals but also provides hope for future treatments that may ultimately lead to vision restoration. Comprehensive care, early diagnosis, and access to emerging therapies are essential components of a strategy to stabilize vision in IRD patients.

“I am gratified to see the progress we have made in our pursuit of developing a novel gene-agnostic therapy for RP and LCA. Our team’s unwavering dedication to advancing modifier gene therapy research demonstrated positive preliminary clinical results that offer renewed hope to patients and their families. We remain resolute in our mission and vision to bring a bright future to those with inherited or age-related retinal diseases through courageous innovation and unwavering determination,” said Dr. Arun Upadhyay, Chief Scientific Officer, Head of Research, Development and Medical at Ocugen.

This clinical study update is based on the currently available data from Phase 1 (dose-escalation: Cohort 1, 2 and 3) and the Phase 2 (open enrollment) portion of the study. The exploratory efficacy update includes data for 12 subjects who have completed a minimum of 6-month follow up. The data set comprised of 2 subjects [Cohort 1] with 12-month follow-up, 5 subjects [N=2 from Cohort 1 and N=3 from Cohort 2] with 9-month follow-up, and 5 subjects [N=2 from Cohort 3 and N=3 from Open Enrollment/Phase 2] with 6-month follow-up.

“It is an important steppingstone for Ocugen and its mission to help the nearly 1.6 million patients affected by RP and LCA worldwide. For those suffering from these IRDs, this clinical trial update provides hope. It is encouraging to see a favorable safety and tolerability profile and positive efficacy readout for OCU400 in RP patients,” said Dr. Lejla Vajzovic, Associate Professor of Ophthalmology with Tenure, Director of Duke Vitreoretinal Fellowship Program at Duke Eye Center and Duke University School of Medicine and leader in gene-therapy research.

Key efficacy outcomes from 12 subjects demonstrated:
BCVA:

  • 83% (10/12) of subjects demonstrated stabilization or improvements in treated eyes in BCVA scores from baseline
  • 42% (5/12) of OCU400 treated eyes experienced 4-letter improvement and 33% (4/12) treated eyes experienced 7-letter improvement in BCVA from baseline
  • 57% (4/7) of RHO subjects’ treated eyes experienced 4-letter improvement and 43% (3/7) treated eyes experienced 7-letter improvement in BCVA scores from baseline

LLVA:

  • 83% (10/12) of subjects demonstrated stabilization or improvement in treated eyes in LLVA scores from baseline
  • 42% (5/12) of OCU400 treated eyes experienced 5-letter improvement (1 line) in LLVA from baseline, with 25% (3/7) increasing by 10 letters (2 lines)
  • 43% (3/7) of RHO subjects experienced 5-letter improvement (1 line) in treated eyes in LLVA scores from baseline, among which 29% (2/7) increased by 10 letters (2 lines)

MLMT:

  • 75% (9/12) of subjects demonstrated stabilization or improvement in treated eyes in MLMT scores from baseline
  • 33% (4/12) of subjects in the low, medium, and high dose cohorts experienced at least 1 Lux luminance level improvement from baseline in treated eyes, among which 17% (2/12) increased by 3 Lux luminance levels
  • 86% (6/7) of RHO subjects experienced either stabilization or increases in MLMT scores from baseline, among which 29% (2/7) improved by 3 lux levels

“The RHO mutation affects more than 10,000 people in the US,” said Dr. David Birch, Scientific Director, Retina Foundation of the Southwest and Principal investigator of the study. “In my view, the clinical study update supports the gene-agnostic mechanism of action of OCU400 in RHO patients. The improvements in BCVA, LLVA and MLMT in this patient population are very exciting and encouraging because stabilization alone could be considered as a treatment benefit.”

The clinical study update from the Phase 1/2 clinical trial demonstrated that OCU400 continued to be generally safe and well-tolerated in subjects across different mutations and dose levels. There were no serious adverse events (SAEs) related to the investigational product in the low and medium-dose cohorts. In the high-dose and open-enrollment cohorts, SAEs were reported for two subjects. Adverse events were mostly deemed related to the surgical procedure and resolved within a few days to weeks.

“The clinical study update released by Ocugen appears to have a tangible biological impact on Retinitis Pigmentosa associated with NR2E3 and RHO mutations,” said Dr. David Boyer, Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology USC/Keck School of Medicine Los Angeles, CA and Partner, Retina Vitreous Associates Medical Group. “These findings may indicate a huge step forward in the way we approach and treat this condition. We remain optimistic and eager to continue the trial and understand the full potential of OCU400.”

Ocugen will continue to monitor long-term safety and efficacy data from the treated patients and provide additional updates.

A webcast and conference call will take place today at 8:30 a.m. ET:

Dial-in Numbers: (800) 715-9871 for U.S. callers and (646) 307-1963 for international callers
Conference ID: 7803227

Webcast: Available on the events section of the Ocugen investor site

About Modifier Gene Therapy
Modifier gene therapy is designed to fulfill unmet medical needs related to retinal diseases, including IRDs, such as RP, LCA, and Stargardt disease, as well as dry AMD. Our modifier gene therapy platform is based on the use of Nuclear hormone receptors (NHRs), master gene regulators, which have the potential to restore homeostasis — the basic biological processes in the retina. Unlike single-gene replacement therapies, which only target one genetic mutation, we believe that our modifier gene therapy platform, through its use of NHRs, represents a novel approach that has the potential to address multiple retinal diseases caused by mutations in multiple genes with one product, and to address complex diseases that are potentially caused by imbalances in multiple gene networks. Currently Ocugen has three modifier gene therapy programs OCU400 (RP, LCA), OCU410 (dry AMD), OCU410ST (Stargardt disease).

About OCU400
OCU400 is the Company’s gene-agnostic modifier gene therapy product based on NHR gene, NR2E3NR2E3 regulates diverse physiological functions within the retina—such as photoreceptor development and maintenance, metabolism, phototransduction, inflammation and cell survival networks. Through its drive functionality, OCU400 resets altered/affected cellular gene-networks and establishes homeostasis—a state of balance, which has the potential to improve retinal health and function in patients with inherited retinal diseases.

About Ocugen, Inc.
Ocugen, Inc. is a biotechnology company focused on discovering, developing, and commercializing novel gene and cell therapies, biologics, and vaccines that improve health and offer hope for patients across the globe. We are making an impact on patients’ lives through courageous innovation—forging new scientific paths that harness our unique intellectual and human capital. Our breakthrough modifier gene therapy platform has the potential to treat multiple retinal diseases with a single product, and we are advancing research in infectious diseases to support public health and orthopedic diseases to address unmet medical needs. Discover more at www.ocugen.com and follow us on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, statements regarding qualitative assessments of available data, potential benefits, expectations for ongoing clinical trial results, and anticipated timing of clinical trial updates and regulatory interactions. We may, in some cases, use terms such as “predicts,” “believes,” “potential,” “proposed,” “continue,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “may,” “could,” “might,” “will,” “should,” or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes to identify these forward- looking statements. Such statements are subject to numerous important factors, risks, and uncertainties that may cause actual events or results to differ materially from our current expectations, including, but not limited to, the risks that preliminary, interim and top-line clinical trial results may not be indicative of, and may differ from, final clinical data; that unfavorable new clinical trial data may emerge in the Phase 1/2 clinical trial or through further analyses of existing clinical trial data; that earlier non-clinical and clinical data and testing of may not be predictive of the results or success of later clinical trials; and that that clinical trial data are subject to differing interpretations and assessments, including by regulatory authorities. These and other risks and uncertainties are more fully described in our periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the risk factors described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the quarterly and annual reports that we file with the SEC. Any forward-looking statements that we make in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this press release whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, after the date of this press release.

Contact:
Tiffany Hamilton
Head of Communications
Tiffany.Hamilton@ocugen.com

Release – The ODP Corporation to Participate in the B. Riley Securities Consumer Conference Thursday, September 14th, 2023

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BOCA RATON, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Sep. 12, 2023– The ODP Corporation (“ODP,” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ:ODP), a leading provider of business services, products and digital workplace technology solutions to businesses and consumers, announced today that its executive vice president and chief financial officer, D. Anthony Scaglione, and vice president of investor relations and treasurer, Tim Perrott, will participate in the B. Riley Securities Consumer Conference on September 14th, 2023.

About The ODP Corporation

The ODP Corporation (NASDAQ:ODP) is a leading provider of products, services, and technology solutions through an integrated business-to-business (B2B) distribution platform and omni-channel presence, which includes world-class supply chain and distribution operations, dedicated sales professionals, a B2B digital procurement solution, online presence, and a network of Office Depot and OfficeMax retail stores. Through its operating companies Office Depot, LLC; ODP Business Solutions, LLC; Veyer, LLC; and Varis, Inc., The ODP Corporation empowers every business, professional, and consumer to achieve more every day. For more information, visit theodpcorp.com.

ODP and ODP Business Solutions are trademarks of ODP Business Solutions, LLC. Office Depot is a trademark of The Office Club, LLC. OfficeMax is a trademark of OMX, Inc. Veyer is a trademark of Veyer, LLC. Varis is a trademark of Varis, Inc. Grand&Toy is a trademark of Grand & Toy, LLC in Canada. ©2023 Office Depot, LLC. All rights reserved. Any other product or company names mentioned herein are the trademarks of their respective owners.

Tim Perrott
Investor Relations
561-438-4629
Tim.Perrott@theodpcorp.com

Source: The ODP Corporation