Release – ZyVersa Therapeutics Reports First Quarter 2023 Corporate and Financial Results

Research News and Market Data on ZVSA

May 12, 2023

Key Highlights:

  • Continued progress has been made in advancing an investigator-initiated clinical trial to gain human proof-of-concept for Cholesterol Efflux Mediator™ VAR 200 in patients with renal disease
  • Announced publication of several peer-reviewed journal articles supporting ASC inhibition as a promising therapeutic target – data continue to demonstrate that multiple types of inflammasomes are activated in various conditions (Alzheimer’s disease, traumatic brain injury, and injury from intracortical implants), and substantiate that extracellular release of ASC specks to neighboring cells heighten and perpetuate damaging inflammation leading to disease progression in conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and alcoholic hepatitis
  • Added three internationally recognized experts in the field of glomerular disease to Renal Scientific Advisory Board, and an internationally recognized authority in the field of innate immunity to our Inflammatory Disease Scientific Advisory Board
  • Enhanced our Board of Directors with addition of three biopharmaceutical leaders with impeccable credentials and a proven track record of success

WESTON, Fla., May 12, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ZyVersa Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: ZVSA; “ZyVersa”), a clinical stage specialty biopharmaceutical company developing first-in-class drugs for treatment of patients with renal and inflammatory diseases who have unmet medical needs, provides a corporate update and reports financial results for the first quarter of 2023 ending March 31, 2023.

“This is a very exciting time in the growth and evolution of ZyVersa as we seek to build shareholder value through development of first-in-class drugs at the forefront of innovation for renal and inflammatory diseases,” said Stephen C. Glover, Co-founder, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, and President of ZyVersa. “We are currently advancing a dynamic pipeline of drug candidates with multiple programs built around our two proprietary technologies – Cholesterol Efflux Mediator™ VAR 200 for treatment of kidney diseases and Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100 for treatment of multiple CNS and other inflammatory diseases. We believe that both technologies have transformative potential, enabling development of drugs for patients who have limited or no therapeutic options.”

Mr. Glover continued: “Highlighting our Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100, ZyVersa expects to complete IC 100’s preclinical program this year, with an Investigational New Drug (“IND”) submission anticipated in second quarter of 2024. We were pleased to report publication of data in several peer-reviewed journal articles demonstrating the role of ASC specks in heightening and perpetuating damaging inflammation in neurological conditions (Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and traumatic brain injury), and in alcoholic hepatitis. These data support the therapeutic potential of inhibiting ASC and ASC specks with IC 100 to control inflammation associated with various inflammatory diseases.”

“Regarding Cholesterol Efflux Mediator™ VAR 200, ZyVersa continues to leverage relationships with experts in the field of renal disease,” stated Mr. Glover. “To that end, we welcomed three new members to our Renal Disease Scientific Advisory Board. We look forward to benefitting from their decades of experience as we advance our investigator-initiated trial to evaluate VAR 200 in patients with renal disease, expected to begin in the fourth quarter of 2023.”

FIRST QUARTER AND RECENT PROGRAM UPDATES

Targeting Renal Disease with Phase 2a-Ready Cholesterol Efflux Mediator™ VAR 200

  • Continued progress is being made to launch an investigator-initiated clinical trial in patients with renal disease to gain human proof-of-concept for Cholesterol Efflux Mediator™ VAR 200, with trial initiation expected in the fourth quarter of 2023
  • Added to ZyVersa’s Renal Scientific Advisory Board (1) Dr. Daniel C. Cattran, Professor of Medicine, University of Toronto; (2) Dr. Fernando C. Fervenza, Professor of Medicine, Mayo Graduate School of Medicine and Director of the Nephrology Collaborative Group; and (3) Dr. Richard J. Glassock, Professor Emeritus, David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA

Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100: Targeting Inflammation Associated with Multiple CNS and Other Inflammatory Diseases

  • On track to complete IND-enabling preclinical studies by end of year, with the goal of filing an IND application with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in the second quarter of 2024
  • Highlighted peer-reviewed journal articles supporting the potential of ASC inhibition to control damaging inflammation associated with numerous diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, traumatic brain injury, and alcohol induced hepatitis
  • Added to ZyVersa’s Inflammatory Disease Scientific Advisory Board Dr. Douglas Golenbock, The Neil and Margery Blacklow Chair in Infectious Diseases and Immunology, and Professor and Chief, Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology at the UMass Chan Medical School

FIRST QUARTER FINANCIAL RESULTS
Since its inception in 2014 through March 31, 2023, ZyVersa has not generated any revenue and has incurred significant operating losses and negative cash flows from its operations. Based on our current operating plan, we expect our cash of $1.3 million as of March 31, 2023, will only be sufficient to fund our operating expenses and capital expenditure requirements on a month-to-month basis. ZyVersa will need additional financing to support its continuing operations. ZyVersa will seek to fund its operations through public or private equity or debt financings or other sources, which may include government grants and collaborations with third parties.

Research and development expenses were consistent at approximately $1.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023 (“Successor Period”), with an immaterial decrease of $11 thousand or 1.0% from the three months ended March 31, 2022 (“Predecessor Period”).

General and administrative expenses were $3.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, an increase of $1.2 million or 53.7% from $2.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2022. The increase is primarily attributable to an increase of $0.4 million in director and officer insurance, a $0.4 million increase in marketing costs for investor and public relations, and $0.4 million in payments for the Effectiveness Failure related to the PIPE shares.

Net losses were approximately $3.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2023, with an improvement of $0.2 million or 5.5% compared to a net loss of approximately $3.7M, for the three months ended March 31, 2022. Net losses for the three months ended March 31, 2023 benefited from a $1.0 Million deferred tax benefit compared to none for the year earlier period.

About ZyVersa Therapeutics, Inc.

ZyVersa (Nasdaq: ZVSA) is a clinical stage specialty biopharmaceutical company leveraging advanced, proprietary technologies to develop first-in-class drugs for patients with renal and inflammatory diseases who have significant unmet medical needs. The Company is currently advancing a therapeutic development pipeline with multiple programs built around its two proprietary technologies – Cholesterol Efflux Mediator™ VAR 200 developed to ameliorate renal lipid accumulation that damages the kidneys’ filtration system in patients with glomerular kidney diseases, and Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100, targeting damaging inflammation associated with numerous CNS and other inflammatory diseases. For more information, please visit www.zyversa.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this press release regarding matters that are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These include statements regarding management’s intentions, plans, beliefs, expectations, or forecasts for the future, and, therefore, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on them. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed, and actual results may differ materially from those projected. ZyVersa Therapeutics, Inc (“ZyVersa”) uses words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “plans,” “expects,” “projects,” “future,” “intends,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue,” “guidance,” and similar expressions to identify these forward-looking statements that are intended to be covered by the safe-harbor provisions. Such forward-looking statements are based on ZyVersa’s expectations and involve risks and uncertainties; consequently, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the statements due to a number of factors, including ZyVersa’s plans to develop and commercialize its product candidates, the timing of initiation of ZyVersa’s planned preclinical and clinical trials; the timing of the availability of data from ZyVersa’s preclinical and clinical trials; the timing of any planned investigational new drug application or new drug application; ZyVersa’s plans to research, develop, and commercialize its current and future product candidates; the clinical utility, potential benefits and market acceptance of ZyVersa’s product candidates; ZyVersa’s commercialization, marketing and manufacturing capabilities and strategy; ZyVersa’s ability to protect its intellectual property position; and ZyVersa’s estimates regarding future revenue, expenses, capital requirements and need for additional financing.

New factors emerge from time-to-time, and it is not possible for ZyVersa to predict all such factors, nor can ZyVersa assess the impact of each such factor on the business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements included in this press release are based on information available to ZyVersa as of the date of this press release. ZyVersa disclaims any obligation to update such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release, except as required by applicable law.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities.

Corporate and IR Contact
Karen Cashmere
Chief Commercial Officer
[email protected]
786-251-9641

Media Contacts
Tiberend Strategic Advisors, Inc.
Casey McDonald
[email protected]
646-577-8520

Dave Schemelia
[email protected]
609-468-9325

Release – Onconova Therapeutics To Participate In Ladenburg Thalmann Virtual R&D Showcase On Narazaciclib In Endometrial Cancer

Research News and Market Data on SHWZ

Showcase to feature presentations by key opinion leaders Drs. Gaël Roué and Bhavana Pothuri

Showcase to take place on May 18, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. ET

NEWTOWN, Pa., May 12, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Onconova Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: ONTX), (“Onconova” or “the Company”), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing novel products for patients with cancer, today announced that Steven M. Fruchtman, M.D., President & CEO of Onconova Therapeutics, will participate in a Ladenburg Thalmann virtual R&D showcase on Thursday, May 18, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. ET.

The R&D showcase will feature presentations by key opinion leaders Gaël Roué, Ph.D. (Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute), and Bhavana Pothuri, M.D. (New York University Langone Health), who will discuss narazaciclib’s differentiated kinase inhibitory profile, the current treatment landscape in endometrial cancer, as well as Onconova’s planned Phase 1/2a trial of narazaciclib combined with letrozole in recurrent metastatic low-grade endometrioid endometrial cancer (LGEEC). Presentations by the KOLs will be followed by remarks from Dr. Fruchtman as well as a question and answer session moderated by Ahu Demir, Ph.D., Managing Director, Senior Research Analyst, Ladenburg Thalmann & Co.

To register for the showcase, click here.

KOL Bios

Dr. Gaël Roué leads the Lymphoma Translational Group at the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, with a special focus on oncogenic signaling, B-cell receptor pathways and the role of intrinsic protein homeostasis in the control of lymphoma-stroma crosstalk. Dr. Roué obtained his Ph.D. in Molecular and Cellular Biology from the University of Caen. Dr Roué is co-author and lead author of a patent, two book chapters, and nearly 90 articles published in international peer-reviewed journals. He has led almost 20 national and international research projects. Dr Roué also serves as an ad-hoc reviewer for several journals in the fields of hematology and oncology, being an editorial board member for three of them, and is an external evaluator for different national and European funding agencies.

Dr. Bhavana Pothuri earned her medical degree from Jefferson Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University. She completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Jefferson Health System and a fellowship in Gynecologic Oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. She is a Professor in the Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Medicine at the New York University (NYU) School of Medicine, Medical Director of Clinical Trials Office, Director of Gynecologic Oncology Clinical Trials, Director of Gynecologic Oncology Research, and Site Principal Investigator for the Perlmutter Cancer Center, NYU Langone Health. Dr. Pothuri is also the Principal Investigator for Onconova’s planned Phase 1/2a trial in endometrial cancer. In addition, her research focuses on using the PARP inhibitor, niraparib, as frontline maintenance treatment for ovarian cancer, as well as dostarlimab, a PD-1 inhibitor, in endometrial cancer.

About Onconova Therapeutics, Inc.

Onconova Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing novel products for patients with cancer. The Company has proprietary targeted anti-cancer agents designed to disrupt specific cellular pathways that are important for cancer cell proliferation.

Onconova’s novel, proprietary multi-kinase inhibitor narazaciclib (formerly ON 123300) is being evaluated in a combination trial with estrogen blockade in advanced endometrial cancer. Based on preclinical and clinical studies of CDK 4/6 inhibitors, Onconova is also evaluating opportunities for combination studies with narazaciclib in additional indications.

Onconova’s product candidate rigosertib is being studied in multiple investigator-sponsored studies, including a dose-escalation and expansion Phase 1/2a study of oral rigosertib in combination with nivolumab in patients with KRAS+ non-small cell lung cancer, and a Phase 2 program evaluating rigosertib monotherapy in advanced squamous cell carcinoma complicating recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB-associated SCC).

For more information, please visit www.onconova.com.

Forward Looking Statements

Some of the statements in this release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and involve risks and uncertainties. These statements relate to Onconova’s expectations regarding its clinical development and trials, its product candidates, its business and financial position. Onconova has attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including “believes,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “may,” “could,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “preliminary,” “encouraging,” “approximately” or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes. Although Onconova believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date made, expectations may prove to have been materially different from the results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, including the success and timing of Onconova’s clinical trials, investigator-initiated trials and regulatory agency and institutional review board approvals of protocols, Onconova’s collaborations, market conditions and those discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in Onconova’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Any forward-looking statements contained in this release speak only as of its date. Onconova undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release to reflect events or circumstances occurring after its date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Company Contact:
Mark Guerin
Onconova Therapeutics, Inc.
267-759-3680
[email protected]
https://www.onconova.com/contact/

Investor Contact:
Bruce Mackle
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
646-889-1200
[email protected]

Release – Multi-State Cannabis Operator, Schwazze, Acquires Two Retail Dispensaries From Smokey’s Cannabis Company

Research News and Market Data on SHWZ

May 12, 2023

OTCQX: SHWZ
NEO: SHWZ

Star Buds Retailer Now Enters the Fort Collins and Garden City Markets in Colorado

DENVER, May 12, 2023 /CNW/ – Schwazze, (NEO: SHWZ) (OTCQX: SHWZ) (“Schwazze” or the “Company”), announced today that it closed the transaction to acquire certain assets of Cannabis Care Wellness Centers, LLC and Green Medicals Wellness Center #5, LLC (d/b/a “Smokey’s”).  The transaction includes the recreational and medical use Smokey’s dispensaries located at 2515 7th Avenue in Garden City as well as 5740 S. College Avenue in Fort Collins. These two vibrant cannabis markets have limited licenses and present Schwazze with more opportunities to serve customers in northern Colorado. This acquisition continues Schwazze’s deliberate expansion in Colorado, bringing the Company’s total number of Colorado dispensaries to 27. The acquired assets included state and local retail marijuana licenses supporting the adult use dispensaries acquired in the transaction.     

   

The consideration for the acquisition was US$7.5 million paid as a combination of cash and stock.

“As we continue to go deep in the state of Colorado, we’re excited to bring our Star Buds operations to both Garden City and Fort Collins. We will operate a store within a store concept to serve both recreational consumers as well as medical patients. By bringing our operating playbook to two key cities in northern Colorado, it allows us to deliver our brands, product assortment and dedicated service to customers in expanded areas throughout the state,” said Collin Lodge, Colorado Division President of Schwazze.    

Since April 2020, Schwazze has acquired, opened, or announced the planned acquisition of 60 cannabis retail dispensaries (bannered as Star Buds, Emerald Fields, R. Greenleaf, Standing Akimbo, and Everest) as well as six operating cultivation facilities and three manufacturing plants across Colorado and New Mexico. In May 2021, Schwazze announced its Biosciences division, and in August 2021, it commenced home delivery services in Colorado.

About Schwazze

Schwazze (OTCQX: SHWZ) (NEO: SHWZ) is building a premier vertically integrated regional cannabis company with assets in Colorado and New Mexico and will continue to take its operating system to other states where it can develop a differentiated regional leadership position. Schwazze is the parent company of a portfolio of leading cannabis businesses and brands spanning seed to sale. The Company is committed to unlocking the full potential of the cannabis plant to improve the human condition.

Schwazze is anchored by a high-performance culture that combines customer-centric thinking and data science to test, measure, and drive decisions and outcomes. The Company’s leadership team has deep expertise in retailing, wholesaling, and building consumer brands at Fortune 500 companies as well as in the cannabis sector. Schwazze is passionate about making a difference in our communities, promoting diversity and inclusion, and doing our part to incorporate climate-conscious best practices.

Medicine Man Technologies, Inc. was Schwazze’s former operating trade name. The corporate entity continues to be named Medicine Man Technologies, Inc. Schwazze derives its name from the pruning technique of a cannabis plant to enhance plant structure and promote healthy growth. To learn more about Schwazze, visit www.Schwazze.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements.” Such statements may be preceded by the words “may,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “intends,” “plans,” “strategy,” “prospects,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “approximately,” “estimate,” “predict,” “project,” “potential,” “continue,” “ongoing,” or the negative of these terms or other words of similar meaning in connection with a discussion of future events or future operating or financial performance, although the absence of these words does not necessarily mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future events or performance, are based on certain assumptions, and are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company’s control and cannot be predicted or quantified. Consequently, actual events and results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks and uncertainties associated with (i) regulatory limitations on our products and services and the uncertainty in the application of federal, state, and local laws to our business, and any changes in such laws; (ii) our ability to manufacture our products and product candidates on a commercial scale on our own or in collaboration with third parties; (iii) our ability to identify, consummate, and integrate anticipated acquisitions; (iv) general industry and economic conditions; (v) our ability to access adequate capital upon terms and conditions that are acceptable to us; (vi) our ability to pay interest and principal on outstanding debt when due; (vii) volatility in credit and market conditions; (viii) the loss of one or more key executives or other key employees; and (ix) other risks and uncertainties related to the cannabis market and our business strategy. More detailed information about the Company and the risk factors that may affect the realization of forward-looking statements is set forth in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Investors and security holders are urged to read these documents free of charge on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise its forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as required by law.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/multi-state-cannabis-operator-schwazze-acquires-two-retail-dispensaries-from-smokeys-cannabis-company-301823025.html

SOURCE Medicine Man Technologies, Inc.

How to Determine When a Biotech Stock Could Expect Market-Moving News

Does the FDA Provide Information that Helps Pharmaceutical Stock Investors?

Investors with a “Stocks on the Move” or “Market Movers” window open sometimes witness a stock climb double or triple digits during a single trading day. It often turns out that it’s a drug company that just passed an FDA milestone. When this happens, these companies have the potential for large movements. The natural question investors ask is, how does one become more aware that there may be an extreme movement in a biotech, or pharmaceutical stock? For wisdom on this subject, I turned to Robert LeBoyer, the Senior Life Sciences Analyst at Noble Capital Markets. Below, cutting through many complex details and variables, is what I discovered from the veteran equity analyst.

The key is to first understand the framework of the FDA approval process. This will help an investor understand the significance of activity and even where to find key dates and imminent decision periods. Especially toward the end of the process, it is especially then when there are events that could rocket the company stock or cause it to retreat. These are PDUFA calendar deadlines and advisory panel meeting dates. Below is an outline of the process and key dates that may allow investors to position themselves to take advantage of any big jump (or even sudden decline) in a biotech’s stock price.

Understanding The FDA Approval Process

The FDA is responsible for regulating the safety and efficacy of drugs and medical devices in the United States. The review process for new drug applications falls under the legally required format called the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA).

PDUFA requires the FDA to collect fees from drug developers to fund the review process, in exchange, the FDA has an obligation to answer the application within ten months. The PDUFA legislation has improved the process for companies seeking FDA approval helping to speed the review process. The fees collected are used to hire additional staff and overall improve the FDA’s review process. This avenue has many benefits. It accelerates the process for the companies that are seeking approval as the FDA can afford greater resources, it benefits the taxpayers as the FDA is then subsidized by those that use its service to review potential products, and it helps those with medical conditions that may benefit from a new drug or class of therapy coming to market sooner as a result of the FDA having greater resources.

The first step is pre-clinical testing in animals for indications of effectiveness and toxicity in a laboratory. If satisfactory, it clears the way for the company to submit an investigational new drug application (IND) to the FDA. The overriding goal of pre-clinical testing is to demonstrate that the product safe to then be tested in humans. The IND application outlines what the sponsor of the new drug proposes for human testing in clinical trials. Once reviewed and granted the company can move to clinical trials.

Clinical Trials

Clinical Trials are done in three phases designed to determine the drug candidate’s safety, characterization, and proof of efficacy.

Phase 1 studies (typically involves 20 to 80 people).

This phase involves testing the drug candidate on a small group of healthy volunteers to assess the drug’s safety and determine the appropriate dosage range. The primary goal is to verify safety and to identify any potential side effects.

Phase 2 studies (typically involve a few dozen to about 300 people).

This phase involves testing the drug on a larger trial group of patients that have the condition the drug is intended to treat. In this phase, the developer determines the drug’s efficacy, optimal dosage, and potential side effects. The primary goal is to assess and characterize the drug’s effectiveness in treating the targeted condition. Stocks will sometimes move on Phase 2 effiacy results.

Phase 3 studies (typically involve several hundred to about 3,000 people).

This final clinical study phase involves testing the drug on an even larger and intentionally diversified group of patients with the very condition the drug is intended to treat. These clinical trials are randomized and controlled to confirm the drug’s safety and efficacy in comparasin to existing treatments, a placebo, or both. The primary goal is to demonstrate statistically significant benefit, as defined by the trial parameters.

The announcement of Phase 3 results is a huge milestone, and by itself ordinarily impacts a stock’s price.

According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) only about 12 percent of drugs entering clinical trials are ultimately approved for introduction by the FDA. But it is costly; estimates of the average R&D cost per new drug range from less than $1 billion to more than $2 billion per drug. So in addition to being expensive, it’s an uncertain process – many potential drugs never make it to market. This is why full FDA approval, which isn’t automatic after a successful Phase 3 clinical trial, can create an huge upswing, even when expected.

Several things can go wrong during the three phases; these include unexpected side effects or toxicity, lack of efficacy, or failure to meet the primary endpoints of the clinical trial. The developer may even find that it is less effective than current medications. These issues can lead to delays in the approval process, additional studies, or even the termination of the drug’s development.

However, if the clinical trials are successful, the company is ready to file a New Drug Application with the FDA.

FDA Panels are experts with knowledge specific to what is being reviewed (Source: FDA)

New Drug Application (NDA)

There is a pre-NDA period, just before a new drug application is submitted to the FDA. At this time the company may seek guidance from the FDA on the new drug process.

The Submission of an NDA is the formal step that asks the FDA to consider the drug for approval to market. The FDA then has 60 days to decide whether the application gets filed for review. If the FDA files to review the NDA, an FDA review team is assigned to evaluate the sponsor’s research on the drug’s safety and effectiveness.

The FDA review includes a product label approval which includes how the drug can be used. This is very important because the drug can only be marketed within the label indications. The FDA also will inspect the facilities where the drug will be manufactured as part of the approval process.

FDA reviewers will either approve the application or instead issue a complete response letter.

PDUFA Calendar

The FDA PDUFA calendar is a schedule of dates for upcoming PDUFA decisions. These dates are important to investors in biotech and pharmaceutical companies because they represent the time period when the FDA will make a decision about a new drug application. If a drug is approved, it can eventually generate significant revenue for the company, while rejection can lead to a decline in the stock price as investors are disappointed.

Updates direct from the FDA on their calendar and meeting schedule can be subscribed to here.

Advisory Panel

In addition to PDUFA dates, there are other FDA events that can trigger movement in biotech and pharmaceutical stocks. These events include advisory committee meetings, which are meetings where a panel of experts provides recommendations to the FDA on whether to approve a drug or not. These meetings can provide insight into the FDA’s thinking and can influence the stock price.

A schedule of FDA Advisory Panel meetings can be found here.

Advisory committees make non-binding recommendations to the FDA, which generally follows the recommendations but is not legally bound to do so.

Other events that can impact the stock price include Complete Response Letters (CRLs), which are letters from the FDA that outline deficiencies in a drug application and can delay approval. Additionally, FDA inspections of manufacturing facilities can impact the stock price if there are concerns about quality control or manufacturing processes.

Take Away

Investors looking to grow their watch list to include biotech stocks that are in line to receive positive news that could drive the stock value way up or even disappointing news that would weigh on the price, could pay attention to the FDA approval process.

The process is an important tool for biotech and pharmaceutical companies, investors, and analysts. PDUFA dates represent the time when the FDA will make a decision about a new drug application, and can have a significant impact on the stock price. However, there are other FDA events that can also impact the stock price, such as advisory committee meetings, CRLs, and manufacturing facility inspections. It is helpful to stay informed about these events to make knowledgeable investment decisions in the biotech and pharmaceutical industry.

Paul Hoffman

Managing Editor, Channelchek

Sources

https://www.fda.gov/advisory-committees/advisory-committee-calendar/april-28-2023-meeting-oncologic-drugs-advisory-committee-meeting-announcement-04282023

https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-consumers-and-patients-drugs/fdas-drug-review-process-continued#:~:text=Phase%201%20studies%20(typically%20involve,application%20(NDA)%20is%20submitted.

https://www.fda.gov/about-fda/fda-track-agency-wide-program-performance/fda-track-pdufa-meeting-management#subscribe

Release – ZyVersa Therapeutics’ CEO, Stephen C. Glover, to Participate in A.G.P.’s Virtual Healthcare Conference

Research News and Market Data on ZVSA

May 11, 2023

ZyVersa is advancing a dynamic pipeline of drug candidates with multiple programs built around two proprietary technologies – Cholesterol Efflux Mediator™ VAR 200 for treatment of kidney diseases, and Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100 for treatment of multiple CNS and other inflammatory diseases

  • Mr. Glover welcomes one-on-one meetings with registered investors to discuss ZyVersa’s technology, pipeline assets, and key development milestones

WESTON, Fla., May 11, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ZyVersa Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: ZVSA, or “ZyVersa”), a clinical stage specialty biopharmaceutical company developing first-in-class drugs for the treatment of renal and inflammatory diseases with high unmet medical needs, announces that Stephen C. Glover, Co-Founder, Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, and President, will participate in A.G.P.’s Virtual Healthcare Conference being held May 23 – 24, 2023.

“We are pleased to have the opportunity to schedule virtual one-on-one meetings with registered investors during A.G.P.’s Virtual Healthcare Conference to discuss ZyVersa’s technology, pipeline assets, and key development milestones,” stated Mr. Glover. “ZyVersa is currently advancing two product candidates, Phase 2a-ready Cholesterol Efflux Mediator™ VAR 200 designed to ameliorate renal lipid accumulation that damages the kidneys’ filtration system in patients with glomerular diseases, and Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100 in development to block initiation and perpetuation of damaging inflammation associated with numerous inflammatory diseases.”

To learn more about ZyVersa and its differentiated product pipeline, please schedule a one-on-one meeting with Mr. Glover by contacting an A.G.P. representative or by emailing A.G.P. Events at [email protected].

About ZyVersa Therapeutics, Inc.

ZyVersa (Nasdaq: ZVSA) is a clinical stage specialty biopharmaceutical company leveraging advanced, proprietary technologies to develop first-in-class drugs for patients with renal and inflammatory diseases who have significant unmet medical needs. The Company is currently advancing a therapeutic development pipeline with multiple programs built around its two proprietary technologies – Cholesterol Efflux Mediator™ VAR 200 developed to ameliorate renal lipid accumulation that damages the kidneys’ filtration system in patients with glomerular kidney diseases, and Inflammasome ASC Inhibitor IC 100, targeting damaging inflammation associated with numerous CNS and other inflammatory diseases. For more information, please visit www.zyversa.com.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this press release regarding matters that are not historical facts, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These include statements regarding management’s intentions, plans, beliefs, expectations, or forecasts for the future, and, therefore, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on them. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed, and actual results may differ materially from those projected. ZyVersa Therapeutics, Inc (“ZyVersa”) uses words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “plans,” “expects,” “projects,” “future,” “intends,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” “continue,” “guidance,” and similar expressions to identify these forward-looking statements that are intended to be covered by the safe-harbor provisions. Such forward-looking statements are based on ZyVersa’s expectations and involve risks and uncertainties; consequently, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the statements due to a number of factors, including ZyVersa’s plans to develop and commercialize its product candidates, the timing of initiation of ZyVersa’s planned preclinical and clinical trials; the timing of the availability of data from ZyVersa’s preclinical and clinical trials; the timing of any planned investigational new drug application or new drug application; ZyVersa’s plans to research, develop, and commercialize its current and future product candidates; the clinical utility, potential benefits and market acceptance of ZyVersa’s product candidates; ZyVersa’s commercialization, marketing and manufacturing capabilities and strategy; ZyVersa’s ability to protect its intellectual property position; and ZyVersa’s estimates regarding future revenue, expenses, capital requirements and need for additional financing.

New factors emerge from time-to-time, and it is not possible for ZyVersa to predict all such factors, nor can ZyVersa assess the impact of each such factor on the business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements included in this press release are based on information available to ZyVersa as of the date of this press release. ZyVersa disclaims any obligation to update such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release, except as required by applicable law.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities.

Corporate and IR Contact:
Karen Cashmere
Chief Commercial Officer
[email protected]
786-251-9641        

Media Contacts
Tiberend Strategic Advisors, Inc.
Casey McDonald
[email protected]
646-577-8520

Dave Schemelia
[email protected]
609-468-9325

Release – Onconova Therapeutics Doses First Patient in Phase 1/2a Trial Of Narazaciclib Combined With Letrozole In Endometrial Cancer

Research News and Market Data on ONTX

May 11, 2023

Prior data provide clinical proof-of-concept for narazaciclib’s mechanism of action in endometrial cancer

Preliminary data from trial’s Phase 1 portion expected in 4Q 2023

NEWTOWN, Pa., May 11, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Onconova Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: ONTX), (“Onconova”), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing novel products for patients with cancer, today announced that the first patient has been dosed in the Company’s Phase 1/2a trial evaluating narazaciclib combined with letrozole in recurrent metastatic low-grade endometrioid endometrial cancer (LGEEC). Narazaciclib is a multi-kinase inhibitor targeting CDK 4, CDK 6, and other kinases important for cell proliferation and motility. Preliminary data from the trial’s Phase 1 portion are expected in 4Q 2023.

Endometrial cancer arises in the uterine lining and is the most common cancer of the female reproductive organs. Endometrioid endometrial cancer is the most common subtype of endometrial cancer, accounting for approximately 75% of cases. Data from prior randomized and single-arm trials have demonstrated the anti-cancer activity of letrozole combined with CDK 4/6 inhibition in recurrent endometrial cancer1-3. Currently, there is no health authority-approved CDK 4/6 inhibitor for the treatment of endometrial cancer.

“Improved treatment options for recurrent LGEEC are urgently needed, as the CDK 4/6 inhibitors currently used off-label for this indication are marked by limitations related to safety, tolerability, and treatment resistance,” said Bhavana Pothuri, M.D., Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and Director, Gynecologic Oncology Research; Perlmutter Cancer Center and Principal Investigator of the trial. “Narazaciclib’s kinase inhibitory profile suggests it can overcome each of these limitations thanks to reduced activity against kinases whose inhibition is associated with bone marrow toxicity and diarrhea, and increased activity against those implicated in pro-tumor immune suppression and cancer cell survival. This hypothesis is supported by data from in vitro and murine cancer models, and I look forward to its continued evaluation in the ongoing Phase 1/2a trial.”

Steven M. Fruchtman, M.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Onconova, commented, “Our recurrent LGEEC program provides an opportunity to establish narazaciclib as a best-in-class therapy in an indication where clinical proof-of-concept for its mechanism of action has been demonstrated. We, therefore, view the program as a key avenue for value creation and look forward to our Phase 1/2a trial’s preliminary data readout expected later this year.”

About the Phase 1/2a Trial

The Phase 1/2a trial is an open-label, multicenter study evaluating narazaciclib in combination with letrozole as a second or third-line treatment for patients with recurrent metastatic LGEEC. Both narazaciclib and letrozole are administered orally with a continuous daily dosing schedule. The trial begins with a Phase 1 dose escalation phase before moving to a Phase 2 expansion cohort designed to enroll approximately 30 patients. The primary objective of the Phase 1 portion of the trial is to evaluate safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics in order to determine a recommended Phase 2 dose (RP2D) of the combination. The primary objective of the Phase 2 portion will be to evaluate the efficacy of the combination at the RP2D, as measured by progression-free survival at 24 weeks. The estrogen/progesterone receptor status of participants will be recorded as part of an exploratory objective. The trial will be conducted at sites including NYU Langone Health, the site of the Principal Investigator of the study, sites affiliated with MD Anderson Cancer Center, and U.S. Oncology Research sites.

References

1. Mirza MR. ESMO Virtual Congress 2020. Abstr. LBA28.

2. Konstantinopoulos PA, et al.; 2022 SGO Annual Meeting on Women’s Cancer; March 18-21, 2022. Phoenix, AZ

3. Colon-Otero G, Zanfagnin V, Hou X, et al. ESMO Open. 2020 Oct;5(5):e000926. doi: 10.1136/esmoopen-2020-000926.

About Onconova Therapeutics, Inc.

Onconova Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing novel products for patients with cancer. The Company has proprietary targeted anti-cancer agents designed to disrupt specific cellular pathways that are important for cancer cell proliferation.

Onconova’s novel, proprietary multi-kinase inhibitor narazaciclib (formerly ON 123300) is being evaluated in a combination trial with estrogen blockade in advanced endometrial cancer. Based on preclinical and clinical studies of CDK 4/6 inhibitors, Onconova is also evaluating opportunities for combination studies with narazaciclib in additional indications.

Onconova’s product candidate rigosertib is being studied in multiple investigator-sponsored studies, including a dose-escalation and expansion Phase 1/2a study of oral rigosertib in combination with nivolumab in patients with KRAS+ non-small cell lung cancer, and a Phase 2 program evaluating rigosertib monotherapy in advanced squamous cell carcinoma complicating recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa.

For more information, please visit www.onconova.com.

Forward Looking Statements

Some of the statements in this release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and involve risks and uncertainties. These statements relate to Onconova’s expectations regarding its clinical development and trials, its product candidates, its business and financial position. Onconova has attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including “believes,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “may,” “could,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “preliminary,” “encouraging,” “approximately” or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes. Although Onconova believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date made, expectations may prove to have been materially different from the results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, including the success and timing of Onconova’s clinical trials, investigator-initiated trials and regulatory agency and institutional review board approvals of protocols, Onconova’s collaborations, market conditions and those discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in Onconova’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Any forward-looking statements contained in this release speak only as of its date. Onconova undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release to reflect events or circumstances occurring after its date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Company Contact:
Mark Guerin
Onconova Therapeutics, Inc.
267-759-3680
[email protected]
https://www.onconova.com/contact/

Investor Contact:
Bruce Mackle
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
646-889-1200
[email protected]

Release – Schwazze Announces First Quarter 2023 Financial Results

Research News and Market Data on SHWZ

May 10, 2023

OTCQX: SHWZ
NEO: SHWZ

Revenue Increases 26% to $40.0M Compared to $31.8M in Q1 2022

Income From Operations Grew to $5.6M Compared to ($4.8M) in Q1 2022

Adjusted EBITDA (1) of $14.5M, or 36% of Revenue, Compared to $7.9M, or 25% in Q1 2022

Company Generates $2.7M in Free Cash Flow (2)

Continues to Deepen Foothold in Colorado & New Mexico with Newly Signed Asset Purchases

Conference Call & Webcast Scheduled for Today – 5:00 pm ET

DENVER, May 10, 2023 /CNW/ – Medicine Man Technologies Inc. operating as Schwazze, (OTCQX: SHWZ) (NEO: SHWZ) (“Schwazze” or the “Company”), today announced financial results for the first quarter (“Q1 2023”). 

Q1 2023 Financial Summary:

  • Revenues of $40.0M, an increase of 26% compared to $31.8M in Q1 2022
  • Gross Profit of $23.0M, an increase of 111% compared to $10.9M in Q1 2022
  • Operating Income of $5.6M, an increase of $10.4M compared to ($4.8M) in Q1 2022
  • Adjusted EBITDA (1) of $14.5M was 36.3% of revenue, compared to $7.9M and 24.7% of revenue for Q1 2022
  • Net Income of $1.7M, an increase of $28.5M compared to net loss of ($26.8M) in Q1 2022
  • Free Cash Flow (2) of $2.7M, a decrease of $3.0M compared to $5.7M in Q1 2022
  • Retail sales of $35.8M, an increase of 35% compared to $26.5M in Q1 2022

Accomplishments for Q1 2023

During the first quarter of 2023, Schwazze continued its expansion plans into Colorado and New Mexico. In Colorado, the Company entered into definitive agreements to acquire two Smokey’s retail dispensaries in Fort Collins and Garden City, as well as Standing Akimbo, the largest medical dispensary in Colorado.  In New Mexico, the Company entered into a definitive agreement to acquire 14 retail dispensaries, one manufacturing and one cultivation facility from Everest.  These acquisitions continue to deepen Company’s foothold in Colorado and New Mexico with a total dispensary count to-date of 60, as well as three manufacturing facilities and six operating cultivation facilities.

Recent 2023 Developments

  • In January, we announced new Chief Financial Officer, Forrest Hoffmaster
  • In February, we announced new Chief Legal Officer, Christine Jones
  • In March, we opened two new R.Greenleaf locations in New Mexico – Albuquerque and Carlsbad
  • In March, we launched an enhanced customer ecommerce platform in New Mexico for the R.Greenleaf retail banner
  • In April, we launched the expansion of our in-house product portfolio with a new pre-ground, ready-to-roll flower brand, EDW or Every Day Weed
  • In May, we announced new Executive Vice President of Commercial Sales, Chris Driessen
  • In May, we launched an enhanced custom e-commerce platform in Colorado for the Emerald Fields retail banner

“To date, we have opened, acquired, or announced pending acquisitions of 60 dispensaries with six operating cultivations and three manufacturing facilities across Colorado and New Mexico,” stated Justin Dye, CEO of Schwazze. “We believe our growing variety of retail brands resonate strongly with our cannabis customers, and the team is well-positioned to play offense as we continue to strengthen our position for shareholders.”

“Schwazze continues to gain significant momentum in its performance year-over-year despite a continued challenging environment, particularly in Colorado,” said Nirup Krishnamurthy, President of Schwazze. “We are excited about the pending acquisitions in our portfolio and the forthcoming retail banners of Standing Akimbo and Everest. In addition, the expansion of our in-house product portfolio with the launch of our pre-ground, ready-to-roll flower brand, EDW, provides our consumers with more variety in product selection.

Q1 2023 Results of Operations
Consolidated First Quarter revenues of $40 million dollars increased $8.2 million dollars or 26% compared to $31.8 million dollars for the same quarter last year. Quarter over quarter revenues remain flat as is seasonally typical for the industry.

Income from operations was $5.6 million dollars and improved $10.4 million dollars over the ($4.8) million dollar loss from operations in the first quarter of 2022. Adjusted EBITDA for Q1 2023 was $14.5 million dollars or 36.3% of revenue compared to $7.9 million dollars or 24.7% of revenue for the same period last year. We ended the quarter with $35 million in cash.

Total cost of goods and services was $17.0 million dollars compared to $20.8 million for the same period last year, representing a $3.8 million dollar decrease or 18.6%. This was primarily due to overall cost improvements due to vertical integration in New Mexico.

As a result, gross profit increased to $23.0 million dollars or 58% of total revenue compared to $10.9 million dollars or 34% for the same quarter last year with quarter over quarter improvement as compared to $23 million or 57% of total revenue in Q4 2022.

Total Operating Expenses totaled $17.4 million dollars for Q1 2023 as compared to $15.7 million for Q1 2022, representing an increase of $1.7 million dollars driven by payroll tax refunds offset by intangible asset amortization related to non-cash purchase price accounting adjustments from 2022 acquisitions reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses.

Other income for Q1 2023 was $758 thousand dollars, compared to other expense of $20.7 million dollars for the same quarter last year. The year-over-year change in other income/expense was driven by the accounting revaluation of the derivative liability related to the convertible note.

As a result, Schwazze generated Net Income of $1.7 million dollars compared to a Net Loss of ($26.8) million dollars for Q1 2023.

Forrest Hoffmaster, CFO for Schwazze commented, “While weathering tough macro economic and industry specific conditions, our team continues to deliver disciplined improvements to the core business infrastructure with smart, accretive acquisitions within two highly competitively markets. We are pleased with our start to 2023, our ability to produce strong results, a desirable cash position, and free cash flow.”

(1)Adjusted EBITDA represents earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization, adjusted for other income, non-cash share-based compensation, one-time transaction related expenses, or other non-operating costs.  The Company uses adjusted EBITDA as it believes it better explains the results of its core business.
(2)Free Cash Flow, a non-GAAP measure, represents cash flow from operations, adding back cash interest expense for the period, less capital expenditures for the period.


Webcast – Wednesday, May 10 – 5:00 pm ET
Investors and stakeholders may participate in the conference call by dialing 416-764-8650 or by dialing North American toll free 1-888-664-6383 or listen to the webcast from the Company’s website at https://ir.schwazze.com The webcast will be available on the Company’s website and on replay until May 17, 2023, and may be accessed by dialing 1-416-764-8677 or North American toll free 1-888-390-0541 / 592815 #.

Following their prepared remarks, Company management will answer investor questions. Investors may submit questions in advance or during the conference call itself through the weblink: https://app.webinar.net/x0q6rpnP84n  This weblink has been posted to the Company’s website and will be archived on the website. All Company SEC filings can also be accessed on the Company website at https://ir.schwazze.com/sec-filings.

About Schwazze
Schwazze (OTCQX: SHWZ) (NEO: SHWZ) is building a premier vertically integrated regional cannabis company with assets in Colorado and New Mexico and will continue to take its operating system to other states where it can develop a differentiated regional leadership position. Schwazze is the parent company of a portfolio of leading cannabis businesses and brands spanning seed to sale. The Company is committed to unlocking the full potential of the cannabis plant to improve the human condition, deriving its name from the pruning technique of a cannabis plant to enhance plant structure and promote healthy growth.

Since April 2020, Schwazze has acquired, opened, or announced the planned acquisition of 60 cannabis retail dispensaries (bannered as Star Buds, Emerald Fields, R. Greenleaf, Standing Akimbo, and Everest) as well as six operating cultivation facilities and three manufacturing plants across Colorado and New Mexico. In May 2021, Schwazze announced its Biosciences division, and in August 2021, it commenced home delivery services in Colorado.

Schwazze is anchored by a high-performance culture that combines customer-centric thinking and data science to test, measure, and drive decisions and outcomes. The Company’s leadership team has deep expertise in retailing, wholesaling, and building consumer brands at Fortune 500 companies as well as in the cannabis sector. Schwazze is passionate about making a difference in our communities, promoting diversity and inclusion, and doing its part to incorporate climate-conscious best practices.

Medicine Man Technologies, Inc. was Schwazze’s former operating trade name. The corporate entity continues to be named Medicine Man Technologies, Inc.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements.” Such statements may be preceded by the words “may,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “intends,” “plans,” “strategy,” “prospects,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “approximately,” “estimate,” “predict,” “project,” “potential,” “continue,” “ongoing,” or the negative of these terms or other words of similar meaning in connection with a discussion of future events or future operating or financial performance, although the absence of these words does not necessarily mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future events or performance, are based on certain assumptions, and are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company’s control and cannot be predicted or quantified. Consequently, actual events and results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks and uncertainties associated with (i) regulatory limitations on our products and services and the uncertainty in the application of federal, state, and local laws to our business, and any changes in such laws; (ii) our ability to manufacture our products and product candidates on a commercial scale on our own or in collaboration with third parties; (iii) our ability to identify, consummate, and integrate anticipated acquisitions; (iv) general industry and economic conditions; (v) our ability to access adequate capital upon terms and conditions that are acceptable to us; (vi) our ability to pay interest and principal on outstanding debt when due; (vii) volatility in credit and market conditions; (viii) the loss of one or more key executives or other key employees; and (ix) other risks and uncertainties related to the cannabis market and our business strategy. More detailed information about the Company and the risk factors that may affect the realization of forward-looking statements is set forth in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and its Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Investors and security holders are urged to read these documents free of charge on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. The Company assumes no obligation to publicly update or revise its forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events or otherwise except as required by law.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/schwazze-announces-first-quarter-2023-financial-results-301821090.html

SOURCE Medicine Man Technologies, Inc.

Release – Tonix Pharmaceuticals Announces 1-for-6.25 Reverse Stock Split

Research News and Market Data on TNXP

May 09, 2023 1:00pm EDTDownload as PDF

CHATHAM, N.J., May 09, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp. (Nasdaq: TNXP) (Tonix or the Company), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, today announced that it will effect a 1-for-6.25 reverse stock split of its outstanding common stock. This will be effective for trading purposes as of the commencement of trading on May 10, 2023.

The reverse stock split was previously approved by the Board of Directors of Tonix in accordance with Nevada law, under which no stockholder approval is required, and is intended to increase the per share trading price of Tonix’s common stock to satisfy the $1.00 minimum bid price requirement for continued listing on The NASDAQ Capital Market (Rule 5550(a)(1)). Tonix’s common stock will continue to trade on the NASDAQ Capital Market under the symbol “TNXP” and under a new CUSIP number, 890260854. As a result of the reverse stock split, every six and one-quarter pre-split shares of common stock outstanding will become one share of common stock. The reverse stock split will also proportionately reduce the number of shares of authorized common stock from 1 billion to 160 million shares. The reverse split will also apply to common stock issuable upon the exercise of Tonix’s outstanding warrants and stock options.

Tonix’s transfer agent, VStock Transfer LLC, which is also acting as the exchange agent for the reverse split, will provide instructions to shareholders regarding the process for exchanging share certificates. Any fractional shares of common stock resulting from the reverse stock split will be rounded up to the nearest whole post-split share and no shareholders will receive cash in lieu of fractional shares.

Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp.*

Tonix is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, licensing, acquiring and developing therapeutics to treat and prevent human disease and alleviate suffering. Tonix’s portfolio is composed of central nervous system (CNS), rare disease, immunology and infectious disease product candidates. Tonix’s CNS portfolio includes both small molecules and biologics to treat pain, neurologic, psychiatric and addiction conditions. Tonix’s lead CNS candidate, TNX-102 SL (cyclobenzaprine HCl sublingual tablet), is in mid-Phase 3 development for the management of fibromyalgia with topline data expected in the fourth quarter of 2023. TNX-102 SL is also being developed to treat Long COVID, a chronic post-acute COVID-19 condition. Enrollment in a Phase 2 study has been completed, and topline results are expected in the third quarter of 2023. TNX-1900 (intranasal potentiated oxytocin), in development for chronic migraine, is currently enrolling with topline data expected in the fourth quarter of 2023. TNX-601 ER (tianeptine hemioxalate extended-release tablets), a once-daily formulation being developed as a treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD), is also currently enrolling with interim data expected in the fourth quarter of 2023. 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 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 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 is expected to be initiated in the third quarter of 2023. Tonix’s infectious disease pipeline includes TNX-801, a vaccine in development to prevent smallpox and mpox, for which a Phase 1 study is expected to be initiated in the second half of 2023. TNX-801 also serves as the live virus vaccine platform or recombinant pox vaccine platform for other infectious diseases. The infectious disease portfolio also includes TNX-3900 and TNX-4000, classes of broad-spectrum small molecule oral antivirals.

*All of Tonix’s product candidates are investigational new drugs or biologics and none has been approved for any indication.

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; delays and uncertainties caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic; 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.

Contacts

Jessica Morris (corporate)
Tonix Pharmaceuticals
[email protected]
(862) 904-8182

Maddie Stabinski (media)
Russo Partners
[email protected]
(212) 845-4273

Peter Vozzo (investors)
ICR Westwicke
[email protected]
(443) 213-0505

Source: Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp.

Released May 9, 2023

Release – GeoVax Labs to Participate in A.G.P.’s Virtual Healthcare Conference

Research News and Market Data on GOVX

Atlanta, GA, May 9, 2023 – GeoVax Labs, Inc. (Nasdaq: GOVX), a biotechnology company developing immunotherapies and vaccines against cancers and infectious diseases, today announced that it will participate in the Alliance Global Partners’ Virtual Healthcare Conference being held May 23-24, 2023.

During the event, the GeoVax management team will be conducting one-on-one investor meetings. To request a meeting with management please contact your appropriate A.G.P. representative or the conference management team at [email protected].

About GeoVax

GeoVax Labs, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel therapies and vaccines for solid tumor cancers and many of the world’s most threatening infectious diseases. The company’s lead program in oncology is a novel oncolytic solid tumor gene-directed therapy, Gedeptin®, presently in a multicenter Phase 1/2 clinical trial for advanced head and neck cancers. GeoVax’s lead infectious disease candidate is GEO-CM04S1, a next-generation COVID-19 vaccine targeting high-risk immunocompromised patient populations. Currently in two Phase 2 clinical trials, GEO-CM04S1 is being evaluated as a COVID-19 vaccine for immunocompromised patients such as those suffering from hematologic cancers and other patient populations for whom the current authorized COVID-19 vaccines are insufficient. In addition, GEO-CM04S1 is in a Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating the vaccine as a more robust, durable COVID-19 booster among healthy patients who previously received the mRNA vaccines. GeoVax has a leadership team who have driven significant value creation across multiple life science companies over the past several decades. For more information, visit our website: www.geovax.com.

Investor Relations Contact:

Rich Cockrell

CG Capital

404-736-3838

[email protected]

Tonix Pharmaceuticals (TNXP) – Looking Forward To Late-Stage Data Presentations


Tuesday, May 09, 2023

Tonix is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, licensing, acquiring and developing therapeutics and diagnostics to treat and prevent human disease and alleviate suffering. Tonix’s portfolio is composed of immunology, rare disease, infectious disease, and central nervous system (CNS) product candidates. Tonix’s immunology portfolio includes biologics to address organ transplant rejection, autoimmunity and cancer, including TNX-15001 which is a humanized monoclonal antibody targeting CD40-ligand being developed for the prevention of allograft and xenograft rejection and for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. A Phase 1 study of TNX-1500 is expected to be initiated in the second half of 2022. Tonix’s rare disease portfolio includes TNX-29002 for the treatment of Prader-Willi syndrome. TNX-2900 has been granted Orphan-Drug Designation by the FDA. Tonix’s infectious disease pipeline includes a vaccine in development to prevent smallpox and monkeypox called TNX-8013, next-generation vaccines to prevent COVID-19, and an antiviral to treat COVID-19. Tonix’s lead vaccine candidates for COVID-19 are TNX-1840 and TNX-18504, which are live virus vaccines based on Tonix’s recombinant pox vaccine (RPV) platform. TNX-35005 (sangivamycin, i.v. solution) is a small molecule antiviral drug to treat acute COVID-19 and is in the pre-IND stage of development. TNX-102 SL6, (cyclobenzaprine HCl sublingual tablets), is a small molecule drug being developed to treat Long COVID, a chronic post-acute COVID-19 condition. Tonix expects to initiate a Phase 2 study in Long COVID in the second quarter of 2022. The Company’s CNS portfolio includes both small molecules and biologics to treat pain, neurologic, psychiatric and addiction conditions. Tonix’s lead CNS candidate, TNX-102 SL, is in mid-Phase 3 development for the management of fibromyalgia with a new Phase 3 study launched in the second quarter of 2022. Finally, TNX-13007 is a biologic designed to treat cocaine intoxication that is expected to start a Phase 2 trial in the second quarter of 2022. TNX-1300 has been granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation by the FDA.

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.

1Q23 Reported Within Expectations. Tonix reported a 1Q23 loss of $33.0 million or $(0.52) per share, consistent with our expectations of a loss of $34.8 million or $(0.57) per share. During the quarter, the company reported a shift in pipeline priorities toward its CNS programs and discontinuation of some early-stage programs. There are several clinical data presentations expected during 2H23 that we see as potential drivers of the stock in 2H23. The company ended the quarter with $72.0 million in cash.

Looking Forward To Phase 3 Results In Fibromyalgia. Data was presented for the completed RELIEF Phase 3, the first of the two studies needed for an NDA. The interim analysis for the Phase 3 RESILIANT trial has been cancelled, avoiding the “statistical penalty” for the early analysis as well as saving time and money. The RESILIANT data announcement is expected in 4Q23.


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Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

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. 

MAIA Biotechnology (MAIA) – 1Q23 Reported As Trial Progress Continues


Tuesday, May 09, 2023

MAIA is a targeted therapy, immuno-oncology company focused on the development and commercialization of potential first-in-class drugs with novel mechanisms of action that are intended to meaningfully improve and extend the lives of people with cancer. Our lead program is THIO, a potential first-in-class cancer telomere targeting agent in clinical development for the treatment of NSCLC patients with telomerase-positive cancer cells. For more information, please visit www.maiabiotech.com.

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.

1Q23 Loss Reported With Progress Review. Maia Biotechnology announced a 1Q23 loss of $4.1 million or $(0.38) per share. Progress during the quarter included announcement of preliminary safety data from its lead trial in non-small cell lung cancer, THIO-101, and patient enrollment in Part B. Preclinical data was presented on THIO in liver cancer, an indication planned for the THIO-102 trial later in 2H23. Cash on March 31 was $7.6 million, excluding $5.75 million raised in a public offering completed in late April.

THIO-101 Part A Safety Results Were Presented. THIO-101 is the first trial testing THIO in combination with Libtayo, an anti-PD-1 checkpoint inhibitor from Regeneron. The data was from the Part A safety lead-in stage that tested a dose of 360 mg in 6 patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer. There were no dose-limiting toxicities or safety issues reported. As of April 2023, the first two patients enrolled in Part A were still alive and reached survival endpoints of 10 and 9 months. Both patients have advanced Stage IV metastatic disease and had failed third and fourth line of therapy, with life expectancy of about 6 months.


Get the Full Report

Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

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. 

Release – Onconova Therapeutics To Present At The ISID International Epidermolysis Bullosa Symposium

Research News and Market Data on ONTX

May 08, 2023

NEWTOWN, Pa., May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Onconova Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: ONTX), (“Onconova” or “the Company”), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing novel products for patients with cancer, today announced an upcoming presentation at the International Society of Investigative Dermatology (ISID) International Epidermolysis Bullosa Symposium, which is being held in Osaka, Japan through May 9, 2023.

The presentation will take place on May 9, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. Japan Standard Time. During the presentation, Onconova and the principal investigators will provide an overview of its investigator-sponsored clinical program evaluating rigosertib monotherapy in squamous cell carcinoma complicating recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB-associated SCC). The Company previously announced that both of the program’s evaluable participants achieved a complete clinical response of all cancerous skin lesions. Onconova plans to review these findings with regulators to determine the most expeditious path toward approval for rigosertib in RDEB-associated SCC.

Steven M. Fruchtman, M.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Onconova, commented, “RDEB-associated SCC is an ultra-rare disease with a tragically poor prognosis. The most common cause of death for patients with RDEB is the development of metastatic SCC, driven by the overexpression of PLK-1. Our investigator-sponsored clinical program has produced very promising results based on the complete resolution of the SCCs in patients with RDEB treated to date, suggesting rigosertib can address a pressing unmet need in this indication and may have therapeutic potential in other more common SCCs driven by PLK-1. We look forward to discussing these results with the clinical and scientific community at the upcoming ISID symposium.”

A copy of the slides from the oral presentation will be available on the “Scientific Presentations” section of the Onconova website following the conclusion of the symposium.

About RDEB-associated SCC

RDEB is caused by insufficient expression of type VII collagen protein, which is responsible for anchoring the skin’s inner layer to its outer layer. This leads to extreme skin fragility as well as chronic blistering and wound formation with recurrent infections in RDEB patients, many of whom go on to develop metastatic squamous cell carcinoma driven by overexpression of polo like kinase 1 (PLK-1). RDEB-associated SCC tumors show a highly aggressive and early metastasizing course that makes them the primary cause of death for these patients, with a cumulative risk of death of 70% and 78.7% by ages 45 and 55, respectively1,2. RDEB-associated SCC can appear in pediatric patients or in young adults. Currently available treatments such as targeted therapies and conventional chemo- and/or radiotherapy have demonstrated limited response rates and poor durability in RDEB-associated SCC1,3.

About Onconova Therapeutics, Inc.

Onconova Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing novel products for patients with cancer. The Company has proprietary targeted anti-cancer agents designed to disrupt specific cellular pathways that are important for cancer cell proliferation.

Onconova’s novel, proprietary multi-kinase inhibitor narazaciclib (formerly ON 123300) is being evaluated in two separate and complementary Phase 1 dose escalation and expansion studies. These trials are currently underway in the United States and China. Based on preclinical and clinical studies of CDK 4/6 inhibitors, Onconova is also planning a combination trial of narazaciclib with estrogen blockade in advanced endometrial cancer, as well as evaluating opportunities for potential clinical studies in additional indications.

Onconova’s product candidate rigosertib is being studied in multiple investigator-sponsored studies, including a dose-escalation and expansion Phase 1/2a study of oral rigosertib in combination with nivolumab in patients with KRAS+ non-small cell lung cancer, and a Phase 2 program evaluating rigosertib monotherapy in advanced squamous cell carcinoma complicating recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB-associated SCC).

For more information, please visit www.onconova.com.

References

  1. Mellerio et al. Br J Dermatol. 2016 Jan; 174(1):56-67. doi: 10.1111/bjd.14104.
  2. Fine et al. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2009 Feb; 60(2):203-11. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2008.09.035.
  3. Stratigos et al. Eur J Cancer. 2020 Mar;128:83-102. doi: 10.1016/j.ejca.2020.01.008.

Forward Looking Statements

Some of the statements in this release are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and involve risks and uncertainties. These statements relate to Onconova’s expectations regarding its clinical development and trials, its product candidates, its business and financial position. Onconova has attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including “believes,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “may,” “could,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “preliminary,” “encouraging,” “approximately” or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes. Although Onconova believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable as of the date made, expectations may prove to have been materially different from the results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These statements are only predictions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, including the success and timing of Onconova’s clinical trials, investigator-initiated trials and regulatory agency and institutional review board approvals of protocols, Onconova’s collaborations, market conditions and those discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in Onconova’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q. Any forward-looking statements contained in this release speak only as of its date. Onconova undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release to reflect events or circumstances occurring after its date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Company Contact:
Mark Guerin
Onconova Therapeutics, Inc.
267-759-3680
[email protected]
https://www.onconova.com/contact/

Investor Contact:
Bruce Mackle
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
646-889-1200
[email protected]

Release – Tonix Pharmaceuticals Reports First Quarter 2023 Financial Results and Operational Highlights

Research News and Market Data on TNXP

May 08, 2023 7:00am EDT

Related Documents

Prioritizing Late-Stage Clinical CNS Programs in Fibromyalgia, Depression, Migraine, and Cocaine Intoxication

Topline Results Expected in Fourth Quarter 2023 for Potentially Confirmatory Phase 3 Trial of TNX-102 SL for Fibromyalgia

Potentially Pivotal Phase 2 Trial of TNX-601 ER for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) Enrolling; TNX-601 ER Represents an Innovative Approach for MDD through Restoration of Neuroplasticity and Neurogenesis

Cash and Cash Equivalents of Approximately $72.0 Million at March 31, 2023

CHATHAM, N.J., May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp. (Nasdaq: TNXP) (Tonix or the Company), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, today announced financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2023, and provided an overview of recent operational highlights.

“With much achieved already, we expect 2023 will continue to serve as an important milestone year for Tonix,” said Seth Lederman, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Tonix. “The prioritization of key programs in our pipeline highlights our commitment to helping bring relief and value to patients suffering from diseases with limited or insufficient therapeutic options. We are pleased with the enrollment in our current RESILIENT Phase 3 study for TNX-102 SL (cyclobenzaprine HCl sublingual tablets) in fibromyalgia. We are looking forward to topline results from the trial in the fourth quarter of this year. If successful, we believe it will be the second and final adequate and well-controlled efficacy trial required for filing a New Drug Application (NDA) for approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Moreover, we believe we have satisfied all the other clinical and non-clinical requirements for an NDA submission. In addition, we are excited to have initiated enrollment in the potentially pivotal UPLIFT Phase 2 study of TNX-601 ER (tianeptine hemioxalate extended release tablets) for major depressive disorder (MDD). TNX-601 ER represents a novel approach to treating depression in the U.S., since the active ingredient tianeptine restores neuroplasticity and neurogenesis rather than modulating neurotransmitter levels and activity.”

Recent Highlights—Key Product Candidates*

Central Nervous System (CNS) Pipeline

TNX-102 SL: small molecule for the management of fibromyalgia (FM)

  • In March 2023 at the 5th International Congress on Controversies in Fibromyalgia, the Company presented positive efficacy and safety data from Phase 3 RELIEF Study of TNX-102 SL for the management of fibromyalgia. Titled “Efficacy and Safety of TNX-102 SL (Sublingual Cyclobenzaprine) for the Treatment of Fibromyalgia: Results from the Randomized, Placebo Controlled RELIEF Trial”, the presentation displayed the data that TNX-102 SL met its pre-specified primary endpoint in the Phase 3 RELIEF trial, significantly reducing daily pain compared to placebo (p=0.01) in participants with fibromyalgia. In addition, TNX-102 SL was well tolerated with the most common adverse event associated with active treatment being oral numbness or hypoaesthesia, an administration site reaction that is typically transient, was never rated as severe, and led to only one discontinuation.
  • The Company recently announced new plans to eliminate the interim analysis to streamline the ongoing Phase 3 RESILIENT trial and to provide topline data in the fourth quarter of 2023. Target enrollment for the TNX-102 SL fibromyalgia study remains approximately 470 participants.

TNX-102 SL for the treatment of Fibromyalgia-Type Long COVID, also known as Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC)

  • In April 2023, enrollment of 63 participants was completed in the PREVAIL study, a Phase 2 study of TNX-102 SL for fibromyalgia-type Long COVID.
  • Topline results from the PREVAIL Phase 2 trial are expected in the third quarter of 2023.
  • In February 2023 at a virtual event co-hosted by BIO and Solve M.E. titled, “Long COVID: What Will it Take to Accelerate Therapeutic Progress?”, the Company presented its analysis that the majority of Long COVID patients present with a constellation of symptoms including multisite pain, fatigue, sleep disorders and cognitive dysfunction or brain fog. These symptoms overlap with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME). Fibromyalgia-type Long COVID, like fibromyalgia and CFS/ME, appears to be one of several chronic overlapping pain conditions that have in common the neurological process called central sensitization.

TNX-601 ER: a once-daily orally-administered small molecule for the treatment of MDD, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), neurocognitive dysfunction associated with corticosteroid use and potentially Alzheimer’s disease

  • In March 2023, enrollment was initiated in the potentially pivotal Phase 2 ‘UPLIFT’ Study for the treatment of MDD. Results from a planned interim analysis are expected to be released in the fourth quarter of 2023.
  • TNX-601 ER represents a novel approach to treating depression in the U.S., since the active ingredient tianeptine induces a neuroprotective and resilient phenotype in both neurons and microglia under conditions of stress. The Phase 2 UPLIFT study is a double-blind, randomized, multicenter, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TNX-601 ER taken orally once-daily for 6 weeks to treat MDD. It is a parallel design study with two arms, a TNX-601 ER 39.4 mg arm and a placebo arm. A total of 300 participants will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio into the two arms across approximately 30 U.S. sites, enrolling adult patients 18-65 years old. The primary efficacy endpoint is mean change from baseline in the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) total score at Week 6.

TNX-1900 (intranasal potentiated oxytocin): small peptide for migraine, craniofacial pain, insulin resistance and related disorders, and obesity-associated binge eating disorder

  • In February 2023, enrollment began in the Phase 2 PREVENTION study of TNX-1900 for the prevention of migraine headache in chronic migraineurs. The double-blind, placebo-controlled study has a target enrollment of 150 participants at approximately 25 sites across the U.S, with topline results expected in the fourth quarter of 2023.
  • In January 2023, data from clinical and nonclinical studies were presented at the 16th Annual Headache Cooperative of the Pacific (HCOP) Winter Conference by collaborator Professor David Yeomans. The oral presentation titled, “Primary vs Secondary Sex Hormones and Migraine,” includes research sponsored and licensed by Tonix. Preliminary results from a positron emission tomography study in humans showed that intranasal delivery of a radioisotope of magnesium-potentiated oxytocin is delivered to the trigeminal ganglia, which have known roles in migraine headaches. In addition, preliminary results of data collected from isolated human trigeminal ganglia neurons in vitro show co-expression of oxytocin receptors and calcitonin gene-related peptide, which are believed to represent the first observation of oxytocin receptors in human trigeminal ganglia. Furthermore, the presentation highlights data which suggest a sex difference in oxytocin potency.

TNX-1300 (recombinant double mutant cocaine esterase): biologic for life-threatening cocaine intoxication

  • Tonix expects to initiate a potentially pivotal, Phase 2 clinical study of TNX-1300 for the treatment of cocaine intoxication in the third quarter of 2023.
  • As previously disclosed, in 2022, Tonix received a Cooperative Agreement grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), to support development of TNX-1300.
  • TNX-1300 has been granted Breakthrough Therapy designation by the FDA.

Rare Disease Pipeline

TNX-2900 (intranasal potentiated oxytocin): small peptide for the treatment of Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS)

  • TNX-2900 has been granted Orphan Drug designation from the FDA for the treatment of PWS.
  • In March 2023, Tonix delivered a presentation titled, “TNX-2900 (Intranasal Oxytocin + Magnesium) in Development for the Treatment of Hyperphagia in Adolescents and Young Adults with Prader-Willi Syndrome” at the Rare Disease Innovation and Partnership Summit. The presentation displayed data showing the enhancing effects of magnesium (Mg2+) on the activation of oxytocin receptors. The Mg2+ enhanced formulation of intranasal oxytocin is the basis for TNX-2900, in development to treat hyperphagia, or pathological over-eating, in children and young adult patients with PWS.

Immunology Pipeline

TNX-1500 (anti-CD40L monoclonal antibody): third generation anti-CD40L monoclonal antibody for prophylaxis of organ transplant rejection and treatment of autoimmune disorders.

  • In May 2023, the IND for prevention of organ rejection in patients receiving a kidney transplant was cleared by FDA. A First-in-Human Phase 1 study is expected to initiate in the third quarter of 2023.The first indication for TNX-1500 will be prophylaxis of organ rejection in adult patients receiving a kidney transplant, but multiple additional indications are possible, including autoimmune diseases.
  • Tonix announced a research agreement with Boston Children’s Hospital to study TNX-1500 for the prevention of graft-versus-host diseases (GvHD) after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) in animals. HCT from unrelated donors is a component of the treatment protocol for several hematologic malignancies, but GvHD complicates treatment and limits the success of engraftment after HCT. In April 2023, the Company announced the online publication of two papers in the American Journal of Transplantation by faculty at the Center for Transplantation Sciences, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in collaboration with Tonix Pharmaceuticals1,2. The publications include data demonstrating that TNX-1500 showed activity in preventing organ rejection and was well tolerated in non-human primates. To date, there has not been a humanized anti-CD40L antibody that can effectively prevent transplant rejections with an acceptable level of safety.

Infectious Disease Pipeline

TNX-801 (live horsepox virus vaccine for percutaneous administration): vaccine to protect against smallpox and monkeypox (mpox) designed as a single-administration vaccine to elicit T cell immunity.

  • As previously announced, a Phase 1 study is expected to start in the second half of 2023.
  • In January 2023, the Company appointed Zeil Rosenberg, M.D., M.P.H., as Executive Vice President, Medical for Infectious Disease programs. Dr. Rosenberg is responsible for leading the Company’s clinical development efforts for vaccines, including TNX-801.
  • A publication describing the activity of TNX-801 to protect non-human primates against a lethal challenge with intra-tracheal monkeypox was published in the peer-reviewed journal, Viruses3.

      *All of Tonix’s product candidates are investigational new drugs or biologics and none has been approved for any indication.

      1Lassiter, G., et al. (2023). TNX-1500, a crystallizable fragment–modified anti-CD154 antibody, prolongs non-human primate renal allograft survival. American Journal of Transplantation. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajt.2023.03.022

      2Miura, S., et al. (2023). TNX-1500, a crystallizable fragment–modified anti-CD154 antibody, prolongs non-human primate cardiac allograft survival. American Journal of Transplantation. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajt.2023.03.025

      3Noyce RS, et al. (2023). Single Dose of Recombinant Chimeric Horsepox Virus (TNX-801) Vaccination Protects Macaques from Lethal Monkeypox Challenge. Viruses. 15(2):356. doi: 10.3390/v15020356

Recent Highlights—Corporate and Other

  • In April 2023, Tonix announced it is reallocating resources and cash to streamline its pipeline and focus on its mid- and late-stage clinical programs within its core CNS portfolio. The pipeline realignment prioritizes key near-term value drivers, reduces investment in several longer-term programs, particularly COVID-19-related studies, and delays the start of a PTSD study in Kenya.

Recent Highlights—Financial

As of March 31, 2023, Tonix had $72.0 million of cash and cash equivalents, compared to $120.2 million as of December 31, 2022. Net cash used by financing activities was approximately $11.5 million for first quarter 2023, compared to net cash provided by financing activities of $13.1 million for the same period in 2022.

On April 8, 2020, the Company entered into a sales agreement (the “Sales Agreement”) with AGP of up to $320.0 million in at-the-market offerings (“ATM”) sales. During the quarter ended March 31, 2023, the Company sold approximately 3.2 million shares of common stock under the Sales Agreement, for net proceeds of approximately $2.0 million. Subsequent to March 31, 2023, the Company has sold 0.9 million shares of common stock under the Sales Agreement, for net proceeds of approximately $0.5 million.

In January 1, 2023, the Company repurchased 16,700,269 shares of common stock under its share repurchase programs at an average price per share of $0.82 for a gross aggregate cost of approximately $13.6 million. 

Cash used in operations was approximately $32.9 million for the first quarter ended March 31, 2023, compared to $31.0 million for the first quarter ended March 31, 2022.

Cash used by investing activities for the first quarter ended March 31, 2023, and 2022 was approximately $3.8 million and $20.2 million, respectively, related to the purchase of property and equipment.

First Quarter 2023 Financial Results

R&D expenses for the first quarter 2023 were $26.5 million, compared to $18.4 million for the same period in 2022. As planned, R&D expenses will be increasing during 2023 as we move our clinical development programs forward and invest in our development pipeline.

G&A expenses for the first quarter 2023 were $7.4 million, compared to $8.0 million for the same period in 2022. The decrease is primarily due to decreased employee-related and financial reporting expenses.

Net loss was $33.0 million, or $0.52 per share, basic and diluted, for the first quarter 2023, compared to net loss of $26.4 million, or $1.61 per share, basic and diluted, for the same period in 2022. The basic and diluted weighted average common shares outstanding for the first quarter 2023 was 63,352,898 compared to 16,445,010 shares for the same period in 2022.

Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp.*

Tonix is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, licensing, acquiring and developing therapeutics to treat and prevent human disease and alleviate suffering. Tonix’s portfolio is composed of central nervous system (CNS), rare disease, immunology and infectious disease product candidates. Tonix’s CNS portfolio includes both small molecules and biologics to treat pain, neurologic, psychiatric and addiction conditions. Tonix’s lead CNS candidate, TNX-102 SL (cyclobenzaprine HCl sublingual tablet), is in mid-Phase 3 development for the management of fibromyalgia with topline data expected in the fourth quarter of 2023. TNX-102 SL is also being developed to treat Long COVID, a chronic post-acute COVID-19 condition. Enrollment in a Phase 2 study has been completed, and topline results are expected in the third quarter of 2023. TNX-1900 (intranasal potentiated oxytocin), in development for chronic migraine, is currently enrolling with topline data expected in the fourth quarter of 2023. TNX-601 ER (tianeptine hemioxalate extended-release tablets), a once-daily formulation being developed as a treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD), is also currently enrolling with interim data expected in the fourth quarter of 2023. 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 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 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 is expected to be initiated in the third quarter of 2023. Tonix’s infectious disease pipeline includes TNX-801, a vaccine in development to prevent smallpox and mpox, for which a Phase 1 study is expected to be initiated in the second half of 2023. TNX-801 also serves as the live virus vaccine platform or recombinant pox vaccine platform for other infectious diseases. The infectious disease portfolio also includes TNX-3900 and TNX-4000, classes of broad-spectrum small molecule oral antivirals.

*All of Tonix’s product candidates are investigational new drugs or biologics and none has been approved for any indication.

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; delays and uncertainties caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic; 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.

TONIX PHARMACEUTICALS HOLDING CORP. 
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(In Thousands, Except Share and Per Share Amounts)
(unaudited)

  Three Months Ended March 31, 
  2023  2022 
COSTS AND EXPENSES:        
Research and development $26,511  $18,422 
General and administrative  7,391   8,014 
   33,902   26,436 
         
Operating loss  (33,902)  (26,436)
         
Interest income  897   19 
         
Net loss $(33,005) $(26,417)
         
Net loss per common share, basic and diluted $(0.52) $(1.61)
         
Weighted average common shares outstanding, basic and diluted  63,352,898   16,445,010 

See the accompanying notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements


TONIX PHARMACEUTICALS HOLDING CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In Thousands)
(Unaudited)

 March 31, 2023 December 31, 20221
Assets  
Cash and cash equivalents$71,975 $120,229
Prepaid expenses and other 11,751  10,548
Total current assets 83,726  130,777
Other non-current assets 95,362  94,913
Total assets$179,088 $225,690
   
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity  
Total liabilities$13,661 $18,508
Stockholders’ equity 165,427  207,182
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$179,088 $225,690

1The condensed consolidated balance sheet for the year ended December 31, 2022 has been derived from the audited financial statements but do not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for complete financial statements.

Contacts

Jessica Morris (corporate)
Tonix Pharmaceuticals
[email protected]
(862) 904-8182

Maddie Stabinski (media)
Russo Partners
[email protected]
(212) 845-4273

Peter Vozzo (investors)
ICR Westwicke
[email protected]
(443) 213-0505

Source: Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp.

Released May 8, 2023