Release – Ocugen To Host Conference Call on Tuesday, April 2 At 8:30 A.M. Et To Provide Business Update With Certain Financials For The Year Ending 2023

Research News and Market Data on OCGN

April 1, 2024

MALVERN, Pa., April 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ocugen, Inc. (Ocugen or the Company) (NASDAQ: OCGN), a biotechnology company focused on discovering, developing, and commercializing novel gene and cell therapies and vaccines, today announced that it will host a conference call and live webcast to provide a business update with certain financials for the year ending December 31, 2023 at 8:30 a.m. ET on Tuesday, April 2, 2024.

Ocugen will issue a pre-market earnings announcement on the same day. Attendees are invited to participate on the call using the following details:

Dial-in Numbers: (800) 715-9871 for U.S. callers and (646) 307-1963 for international callers
Conference ID: 4947142
Webcast: Available on the events section of the Ocugen investor site

A replay of the call and archived webcast will be available for approximately 45 days following the event on the Ocugen investor site.

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

Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which are subject to risks and uncertainties. We may, in some cases, use terms such as “predicts,” “believes,” “potential,” “proposed,” “continue,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “plans,” “intends,” “may,” “could,” “might,” “will,” “should,” or other words that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes to identify these forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to numerous important factors, risks, and uncertainties that may cause actual events or results to differ materially from our current expectations. These and other risks and uncertainties are more fully described in our periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including the risk factors described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the quarterly and annual reports that we file with the SEC. Any forward-looking statements that we make in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update forward-looking statements contained in this press release whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, after the date of this press release.

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

Release – Tonix Pharmaceuticals Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2023 Financial Results and Operational Highlights

Research News and Market Data on TNXP

April 01, 2024 4:15pm EDT

Positive results from confirmatory Phase 3 RESILIENT study reported in December 2023 position Tonmya™ for fibromyalgia for NDA submission second half of 2024; pre-NDA meeting with FDA scheduled for second quarter 2024

Commercial planning underway, including go-to-market, supply chain and manufacturing strategies, for U.S. launch of Tonmya, a potential new first-line, centrally-acting, non-opioid analgesic for the management of fibromyalgia

CHATHAM, N.J., April 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp. (Nasdaq: TNXP) (Tonix or the Company), a fully-integrated biopharmaceutical company with marketed products and a pipeline of development candidates, today announced financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2023, and provided an overview of recent operational highlights.

“Our near-term focus is seeking U.S. marketing approval for Tonmya (cyclobenzaprine HCl sublingual tablets) for the treatment of fibromyalgia from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA),” said Seth Lederman, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Tonix Pharmaceuticals. “Our pre-NDA meeting with the FDA is scheduled to take place this quarter and we plan to submit our New Drug Application (NDA) for Tonmya™ in the second half of 2024. We believe the positive Phase 3 RESILIENT results reported in December of 2023 together with the positive results from the first Phase 3 RELIEF study should satisfy the requirements for approval and, if so, would provide the opportunity for Tonix to launch the first FDA-approved drug for fibromyalgia in more than a decade. We believe the activity of Tonmya on improving pain, sleep quality, fatigue and brain fog in the RESILIENT study are indicative of the broad-spectrum of activity in fibromyalgia.”

Dr. Lederman added, “While Tonix is focusing its resources on progressing Tonmya toward NDA submission and potential FDA approval, we are seeking partnerships and collaborations on our pipeline programs from government agencies, non-profit organizations and other biotechnology or pharmaceuticals companies. Tonix has already shifted portions of our research and development (R&D) expenses to U.S. government agencies and other institutions through partnerships involving grants and in-kind contributions. These outside collaborations leverage our internal resources, and we believe they provide a capital efficient strategy for progress.”

Selected Product Candidates* — Recent Highlights

Central Nervous System (CNS) Pipeline

Tonmya (also known as TNX-102 SL; cyclobenzaprine HCl sublingual tablets): a centrally-acting, non-opioid, small molecule analgesic taken once-daily at bedtime for the management of fibromyalgia (FM).

  • The Company announced in December 2023 that the Phase 3 RESILIENT study, a registration-quality, double-blind, placebo-controlled study evaluating TNX-102 SL met its pre-specified primary endpoint in the second of two positive Phase 3 clinical trials, significantly reducing daily pain compared to placebo (p=0.00005) in participants with fibromyalgia. Statistically significant and clinically meaningful results were also seen in all key secondary endpoints related to improving sleep quality, reducing fatigue, and improving patient global ratings and overall fibromyalgia symptoms and function. Additionally, as it relates to improving daily pain, treatment with TNX-102 SL showed a robust and clinically meaningful analgesic Cohen’s d effect size of 0.38, with rapid onset of action, separating from placebo for every week of the study. TNX-102 SL was well tolerated with an adverse event profile comparable to prior studies and no new safety signals observed. Tonix plans to submit an NDA to the FDA in the second half of 2024 for TNX-102 SL for the management of fibromyalgia.
  • In January 2024, Tonix presented additional safety and tolerability data from the Phase 3 RESILIENT study that showed TNX-102 SL treatment was not associated with increases in systolic or diastolic blood pressure or body weight, nor were there any reported sexual side effects.
  • In January 2024, Tonix announced that the FDA has conditionally accepted the trade name, Tonmya, for the Company’s drug product candidate TNX-102 SL for the management of fibromyalgia.
  • In February 2024, Tonix announced positive results from its clinical pharmacokinetic (PK) bridging study of Tonmya in healthy adult male and female ethnic Japanese and Chinese volunteers. Results indicate that key PK parameters of cyclobenzaprine are comparable in ethnic Japanese and Chinese volunteers to Caucasian volunteers from a prior PK study. Tonmya was generally well tolerated in the ethnic Japanese and Chinese healthy volunteers. The company expects these data to fulfill the requirement for a bridging study, and enables Tonix to rely on Phase 3 studies RESILIENT and RELIEF results to support regulatory filings for clinical studies in Japan and China where cyclobenzaprine is a new chemical entity (NCE). Tonix holds issued patents for market exclusivity rights of Tonmya in Japan, China, Hong Kong and Taiwan.
  • In February 2024, Tonix selected Rho, Inc., a global contract research organization, to support Tonix’s preparation and planned submission of its NDA to the FDA for the approval of Tonmya for the management of fibromyalgia.
  • In March 2024, Tonix announced the selection of two CMOs, including Almac Pharma Services, as dual supply sources for the potential launch and commercialization of Tonmya in the U.S.
  • In March 2024, Tonix selected EVERSANA, a leading provider of commercialization services to the global life sciences industry, to support the launch strategy and commercial planning of Tonmya in the U.S.
  • Tonix presented additional efficacy data from RESILIENT at the 6th International Congress on Controversies in Fibromyalgia in Brussels, Belgium, March 7-8, 2024. The data showed that Tonmya treatment resulted in an improvement in cognitive dysfunction, or ‘brain fog’, measured by the change in the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire-Revised (FIQ-R) memory item. The FIQ-R cognitive item showed nominal improvement in Tonmya-treated patients vs placebo-treated patients with p-value=0.001 and effect size of 0.31.

TNX-102 SL for the treatment of acute stress reaction (ASR) and acute stress disorder (ASD), and prophylaxis against development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

  • In February 2024, the Company announced the FDA cleared the Investigational New Drug (IND) application for the Phase 2 investigator-initiated OASIS trial to evaluate TNX-102 SL in reducing the severity of ASR and the frequency of ASD and PTSD. The trial is sponsored by The UNC Institute for Trauma Recovery and supported by a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), which was awarded in September 2023. The proposed Phase 2, Optimizing Acute Stress Reaction Interventions with TNX-102 SL (OASIS) study will examine the safety and efficacy of TNX-102 SL to reduce adverse posttraumatic neuropsychiatric sequelae among patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) after a motor vehicle collision (MVC). The study will enroll approximately 180 trauma survivors at ED study sites in the U.S. Participants will be randomized in the ED to receive a two-week course of either TNX-102 SL 5.6 mg or placebo.
  • Tonix expects the Phase 2 OASIS trial will initiate in the second quarter of 2024.

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

  • In January 2024, the Company announced the online publication of a research paper in the Journal Pain. The article titled, “Chronic Overlapping Pain Conditions Increase the Risk of Long COVID Features, Regardless of Acute COVID Status,” by Bergmans, et al. 1, found that patients with pre-existing chronic overlapping pain conditions (COPCs) had an increased risk of being diagnosed with symptoms of Long COVID1. Faculty at the University of Michigan directed the research. Commentary on the article titled, “A step towards better understanding chronic overlapping pain conditions” by Fitzcharles, et al,2 is in the same issue of the journal. COPCs include fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, migraine headache, irritable bowel syndrome, endometriosis and low back pain. These results contribute to a growing body of evidence that common symptoms of Long COVID in many patients are at least partly driven by central nervous system mechanisms.
  • In September 2023, the Company reported topline results from its Phase 2 PREVAIL proof-of-concept study of TNX-102 SL for fibromyalgia-type Long COVID. TNX-102 SL showed a robust Cohen’s d effect size of 0.50 in improving fatigue relative to placebo; and it showed consistent activity across secondary measures of sleep quality, cognitive function, disability and Patient Global Impression of Change, but did not meet the primary endpoint of multi-site pain reduction at Week 14. TNX-102 SL was generally well tolerated and no new safety signals were observed. The Company intends to request an End-of-Phase 2 meeting with the FDA to discuss a potential Phase 3 program based on a proposed primary outcome measure using the PROMIS Fatigue scale.

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

  • Tonix expects to initiate a Phase 2 clinical study of TNX-1300 for the treatment of cocaine intoxication in emergency rooms in the second quarter of 2024. In 2022, Tonix was awarded a Cooperative Agreement grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH)’s National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) to support development of TNX-1300.
  • TNX-1300 has been granted Breakthrough Therapy designation by the FDA.

TNX-1900 (intranasal potentiated oxytocin): small peptide in development through investigator-initiated studies for bone health in autism, social anxiety disorder (SAD), adolescent obesity and binge eating disorder

  • In November 2023, Tonix announced that the first participant was enrolled in an investigator-initiated Phase 2 study of TNX-1900 for improving bone health in children with autism spectrum disorder, named the BOX study, at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). The aim of this DoD funded study is to investigate the efficacy and safety of TNX-1900 as a novel therapeutic agent to increase bone density and improve bone structure and strength in children with autism spectrum disorder. Tonix is providing active drug and placebo for the BOX study as part of a drug donation agreement with MGH. MGH is the sponsor of the trial, which is being conducted under an investigator-initiated IND application.
  • TNX-1900 is also being studied in three other ongoing investigator-initiated Phase 2 studies as follows:

    • MGH Phase 2 study for binge-eating disorder (BED)
    • University of Washington Phase 2 study for social anxiety disorder (SAD)
    • MGH Phase 2 study for adolescent obesity

Rare Disease Pipeline

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

  • In December 2023, Tonix announced that the FDA has cleared the IND application to support clinical development of TNX-2900 to treat PWS in children and adolescents. The Phase 2 study approved under the IND is a dose-finding study involving approximately 36 PWS patients divided into four groups with approximately nine per group. One group will receive placebo and three groups will receive different dosage regimens of TNX-2900. TNX-2900 for the treatment of PWS was granted Orphan Drug designation by the FDA in 2022.
  • In March 2024, Tonix announced that it received Rare Pediatric Disease designation from the FDA for TNX-2900 for the treatment of PWS.

Immunology Pipeline

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

  • The first indication for TNX-1500 is prophylaxis of organ rejection in adult patients receiving a kidney transplant; but multiple additional indications are possible, including autoimmune diseases. Two peer reviewed publications described the work at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) on allogeneic transplants in animals were published.3,4
  • Preclinical studies have shown that TNX-1500 maintains the activity of first-generation monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), yet with reduced risk of thrombotic complications.3-5 Modeling studies from animal pharmacokinetic data3 predict a half-life of approximately three weeks for TNX-1500 in humans, which supports a monthly i.v. dosing regimen. This analysis together with TNX-1500’s activity and tolerability in animals, suggests that the protein engineering of TNX-1500’s Fc region has achieved its design goals.
  • In October 2023, the Company announced data from two oral presentations delivered at medical meetings in 2023. The oral presentations titled, “Pilot Evaluation of a Clinical Xeno Heart Transplant Regimen in a Preclinical Model” and “Extended Survival of 9- and 10-Gene Edited Pig Heart Xenografts with Ischemia Minimization and CD154 Costimulation Blockade-Based Immunosuppression” by Dr. Ikechukwu Ileka et al. include data demonstrating the use of TNX-1500 as maintenance therapy after xenogeneic heart transplant in non-human primates. In both studies, genetically engineered (GE) pigs in baboon transplants were treated with cold-perfused ischemia minimization and a novel costimulation-based immunosuppressive regimen that includes TNX-1500.
  • In October 2023, Tonix announced that a study published in the Journal Nature5 by faculty at the Center for Transplantation Sciences, MGH, in collaboration with biotechnology company, eGenesis, utilized TNX-1500 as part of the immune modulating regimen to prevent organ transplant rejection. The Nature article titled, “Design and testing of a humanized porcine donor for xenotransplantation” includes data that provide additional support for TNX-1500’s activity in preventing pig xenograft organ rejection and for its safety and tolerability in non-human primates.
  • In February 2024, Tonix announced the completion of the clinical stage of its Phase 1 single ascending dose study of TNX-1500 in healthy volunteers. The primary objectives of the study are to assess the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of intravenous TNX-1500. Topline results are expected in the third quarter of 2024. This first-in-human study is intended to support dosing in a planned Phase 2 trial in kidney transplant recipients.
  • In March of 2024, the MGH announced the first transplant of a genetically modified pig kidney into a living patent in collaboration with eGenesis, which produced the pig donors.6 Some of the pre-clinical work that supported this transplant was performed in collaboration with Tonix and used TNX-1500.5

Infectious Disease Pipeline

TNX-1800 (modified recombinant horsepox virus, live vaccine): potential vaccine to protect against COVID-19 designed to express the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein

  • Results from a study with our TNX-1800 vaccine that showed animals were protected from challenge with SARS-CoV-2 were published as an article in the peer reviewed journal, Viruses in 2023.7
  • In November 2023, Tonix announced that NIH and National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) will conduct a Phase 1 clinical trial with TNX-1800 as part of Project NextGen. NIAID will cover the full cost of the clinical trial, including operations and related analyses. Tonix will be responsible for providing clinical trial materials, and upon completion will have the right to rely on the findings in regulatory filings with the FDA to support the approval of its COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines based on the recombinant pox vaccine (RPV) platform.
  • We believe the TNX-1800 vaccine development plan addresses several priority vaccine attributes advanced by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy’s Pandemic Preparedness Plan,8 the National Biodefense Science Board9 and BARDA.10 Tonix believes its RPV platform can address a wide variety of disease targets of public health interest. 

TNX-801 (recombinant horsepox virus, live vaccine): potential vaccine to protect against mpox disease and smallpox.

  • Results from a study with our TNX-801 vaccine that showed animals were protected from mpox were reported at a meeting in the first quarter of 2020 and published as an article in the peer reviewed journal, Viruses in 2023.11
  • On December 14, 2023, Dr. Lederman participated in a panel discussion on Vaccine Research & Development at the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NAS) Committee on the Current State of Research, Development, and Stockpiling of Smallpox Medical Countermeasures public meeting. Discussions explored lessons learned from the recent COVID-19 pandemic and mpox multi-country outbreak to inform an evaluation of the current state of research, development, and stockpiling of smallpox readiness and response measures. The Consensus Study Report was issued on March 28, 2024.12 Some of the conclusions included recommendations for single dose vaccines, safer vaccines, vaccine platforms and attention to supply chain and manufacturing. Tonix believes TNX-801 has the potential to address some of the recommendations from the NAS Committee since it provides single dose protection to animals, and has the potential for favorable dose, manufacturing and cold chain requirements.
  • In August 2023, Tonix received the official written response from a Type B pre-IND meeting with the FDA to develop TNX-801 as a potential vaccine to protect against mpox disease (formerly known as monkeypox) and smallpox. Tonix believes the FDA feedback provides a path to agreement on the design of a Phase 1/2 study and the overall clinical development plan. The Phase 1/2 clinical trial will assess the safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity of TNX-801, following the submission and clearance of an IND.
  • Concerns about current state of new smallpox and mpox vaccines in development have been raised by the U.S. Bipartisan Commission on Biodefense13 and by an outbreak of mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.14
  • Results from a study with our TNX-801 vaccine that showed decreased virulence relative to traditional live vaccinia vaccine strains were posted on the website BioRxiv in 2023.15

Broad-spectrum anti-viral programs

Tonix is developing potential broad-spectrum antiviral drugs in three programs: CD45-targeted therapeutics (TNX-4200), cathepsin inhibitors (TNX-3900) and viral glycan-targeted engineered biologics (TNX-4000). In 2020, the DoD announced that they are seeking broad spectrum antiviral drugs since it would be hard to predict which or how many viruses may be deployed on the battlefield.16 Tonix hopes that one or more of our programs may help the DoD address that goal.

Marketed Products — Recent Highlights

  • Tonix completed the acquisition of Zembrace® SymTouch® (sumatriptan injection) 3 mg and Tosymra (sumatriptan nasal spray) 10 mg from Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC on June 30, 2023. Both products are indicated for the treatment of acute migraine with or without aura in adults.
  • Combined net product revenue of $7.8 million reported for the period July 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023 for Zembrace Symtouch and Tosymra.
  • As of April 1, 2024, Tonix completed the transition to becoming a fully integrated pharmaceutical company. Tonix Pharmaceuticals has implemented personnel, systems and contracts required to support a commercial organization and has assumed responsibility for distribution, selling and marketing of Zembrace SymTouch and Tosymra, as well as supply chain, regulatory and quality control of the two products.

Facilities — Recent Highlights

  • Tonix’s Advanced Development Center (ADC) located in the New Bedford business park in Dartmouth, Massachusetts, is an approximately 45,000 square foot BSL-2 facility and is intended to accelerate development and clinical scale manufacturing of live-virus vaccines and biologics to support clinical trials. Tonix has engaged CBRE, an international real estate brokerage firm, to find a strategic partner for, or buyer of, ADC.
  • Tonix’s Research and Development Center (RDC) in Frederick, Maryland, consisting of one building totaling approximately 48,000 square feet, conducts research on central nervous system, immunology, and infectious disease candidates. The RDC facility is mostly biosafety level 2 (BSL-2), with some components designated BSL-3.

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

1 Bergmans RS, et al. PAIN. 2023. DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003110.
2 Fitzcharles M-A, et al. PAIN. 2023. DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003129.
3 Lassiter G., et al. Am J Transplantation. 2023. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajt.2023.03.022
4 Miura S., et al. Am J Transplantation. 2023. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajt.2023.03.025
5 Anand, R.P., et al Nature. 622, 393–401 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06594-4
6 Massachusetts General Hospital press release. March 21, 2024. “World’s First Genetically Edited Pig Kidney Transplant into Living Recipient Performed at Massachusetts General Hospital.” www.massgeneral.org/news/press-release/worlds-first-genetically-edited-pig-kidney-transplant-into-living-recipient (accessed March 29, 2024)
7 Awasthi M, et al. 2023. Vaccines (Basel) 11(11):1682. https://doi:10.3390/vaccines11111682
8 Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). American Pandemic Preparedness: Transforming Our Capabilities. September 2021
9 National Biodefense Science Board (NBSB). Prioritization of Product Attribute Categories to Maximize Access for Next Generation COVID-19 Vaccines and Therapeutics. August 2023
10 BARDA Strategic Plan 2022-2026.
11 Noyce RS, et al. Viruses. 2023 26;15(2):356. doi: 10.3390/v15020356
12 U.S. National Academy of Sciences. March 28, 2024. “Consensus Study Report: Future State of Smallpox Medical Countermeasures.” https://nap.nationalacademies.org/catalog/27652/future-state-of-smallpox-medical-countermeasures
13 Bipartisan Commission on Biodefense. (2024). Box the Pox: Reducing the
Risk of Smallpox and Other Orthopoxviruses. Bipartisan Commission on
Biodefense: Washington, DC. https://biodefensecommission.org/reports/box-the-pox-reducing-the-risk-of-smallpox-and-other-orthopoxviruses/
14 Emanuel, G. NPR. March 27, 2024. “Why the mpox outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is worrying disease docs.” URL: www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2024/03/27/1239276957/mpox-outbreak-democratic-republic-of-congo-deadlier-strain
15 Trefry, SV et al., BioRxiv 2023.10.25.564033; doi: https://doi.org/10.1101/2023.10.25.564033
16 U.S. Department of Defense. Chemical and Biological Defense Program. 2022. “Approach for Research, Development, and Acquisition of Medical Countermeasure and Test Products.” U.S. Department of Defense. https://media.defense.gov/2023/Jan/10/2003142624/-1/-1/0/APPROACH-RDA-MCM-TEST-PRODUCTS.PDF (accessed March 5, 2024)

Recent Highlights — Financial

As of December 31, 2023, Tonix had approximately $24.9 million of cash and cash equivalents, compared to $120.2 million as of December 31, 2022. Additionally, Tonix had inventory totaling approximately $13.6 million as of December 31, 2023. Net cash used in operations was approximately $102.0 million for the full year ended December 31, 2023, compared to $98.1 million for the same period in 2022. Net cash used by investing activities for the full year ended December 31, 2023 was approximately $29.1 million compared to $48.1 million for the same period in 2022.

In August 2022, the Company announced that it received a Cooperative Agreement grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (“NIDA”), part of the National Institutes of Health, to support the development of its TNX-1300 product candidate for the treatment of cocaine intoxication. During the year ended December 31, 2023, Tonix received $2.7 million in funding as a reduction of related research and development expenses. Included in prepaid expense and other is an additional $0.2 million that was not received until January 2024.

On December 8, 2023, the Company executed a Loan and Guaranty Agreement (the “Loan Agreement”) to issue a 36-month term loan (the “Term Loan”) in the principal amount of $11.0 million with a maturity date of December 8, 2026 (the “Maturity Date”). The Term Loan was funded with an original issue discount of 9% of the principal amount of the Term Loan, or $1.0 million, which is being amortized over the term of the debt as an adjustment to the effective interest rate on the outstanding borrowings.

On December 20, 2023, the Company announced it had signed securities purchase agreements with existing healthcare-focused institutional investors for upfront gross proceeds of approximately $30 million through a registered direct offering.

On March 28, 2024, the Company announced it had signed securities purchase agreements with existing healthcare-focused institutional investors for upfront gross proceeds of approximately $4.4 million through a registered direct offering.

As of April 1, 2024, there were 84,490,862 shares of Tonix Pharmaceuticals common stock outstanding.

Fourth Quarter 2023 Financial Results

Net product revenue for the fourth quarter 2023 was approximately $3.8 million. Cost of Sales for the fourth quarter 2023 was approximately $2.4 million. Tonix completed the acquisition of two currently marketed products from Upsher-Smith Laboratories, LLC on June 30, 2023.

R&D expenses for the fourth quarter 2023 were approximately $17.1 million, compared to $24.7 million for the same period in 2022. This decrease is predominantly due to decreased non-clinical and manufacturing expenses.

SG&A expenses for the fourth quarter 2023 were $11.6 million, compared to $8.1 million for the same period in 2022. The increase was primarily due to sales and marketing and the transition services expenses associated with the Company’s recently acquired marketed products offset by a decrease in compensation-related expenses.

Net loss available to common stockholders was $27.3 million, or $0.86 per share, basic and diluted, for the fourth quarter 2023, compared to net loss available to common stockholders of $34.1 million, or $3.42 per share, basic and diluted, for the same period in 2022. The basic and diluted weighted average common shares outstanding for the fourth quarter 2023 was 31,756,759 compared to 9,952,780 shares for the same period in 2022.

Full Year 2023 Financial Results

Net product revenue for the full year 2023 was approximately $7.8 million. Cost of sales for the full year 2023 was approximately $4.7 million.

R&D expenses for the full year 2023 were approximately $86.7 million, compared to $81.9 million for the same period in 2022. This increase is predominantly due to decreased non-clinical and regulatory expenses, offset by an increase in clinical, manufacturing, employee-related and professional expenses.

SG&A expenses for the full year 2023 were $34.8 million, compared to $30.2 million for the same period in 2022. The increase was primarily due to sales and marketing associated with the Company’s recently acquired marketed products.

Net loss available to common stockholders was $116.7 million, or $6.85 per share, basic and diluted, for the full year 2023, compared to net loss available to common stockholders of $116.9 million, or $20.01 per share, basic and diluted, for the same period in 2022. The basic and diluted weighted average common shares outstanding for the full year 2023 was 17,039,309 compared to 5,841,447 shares for the same period in 2022.

Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp.*

Tonix is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing, licensing and commercializing therapeutics to treat and prevent human disease and alleviate suffering. Tonix’s development portfolio is focused on central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Tonix’s priority is to submit a New Drug Application (NDA) to the FDA in the second half of 2024 for Tonmya, a product candidate for which two positive Phase 3 studies have been completed for the management of fibromyalgia. TNX-102 SL is also being developed to treat acute stress reaction as well as fibromyalgia-type Long COVID. Tonix’s CNS portfolio includes TNX-1300 (cocaine esterase), a biologic designed to treat cocaine intoxication that has Breakthrough Therapy designation. Tonix’s immunology development portfolio consists of 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. Tonix also has product candidates in development in the areas of rare disease and infectious disease. Tonix Medicines, our commercial subsidiary, markets Zembrace® SymTouch® (sumatriptan injection) 3 mg and Tosymra® (sumatriptan nasal spray) 10 mg for the treatment of acute migraine with or without aura in adults.

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

Zembrace SymTouch and Tosymra are registered trademarks of Tonix Medicines. All other marks are property of their respective owners.

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

Forward Looking Statements

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

Release – Eledon Pharmaceuticals Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2023 Operating and Financial Results

Research News and Market Data on ELDN

March 28, 2024

Enrolled 12 participants in Phase 2 BESTOW trial evaluating tegoprubart for the prevention of kidney rejection

Tegoprubart used as a component of the immunosuppressive treatment regimen following the first-ever transplant of a kidney from a genetically modified pig to a human

Additional data from 11 participants in Phase 1b trial in kidney transplantation demonstrated that tegoprubart was generally safe and well tolerated, successfully prevented rejection and permitted above historical average post-transplant kidney function

IRVINE, Calif., March 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Eledon Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (“Eledon”) (Nasdaq: ELDN) today reported its fourth quarter and full year 2023 operating and financial results and reviewed recent business highlights.

“Eledon continues to execute on time and as promised towards our goal of extending the functional life of transplanted organs,” said David-Alexandre C. Gros, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Eledon. “Our latest Phase 1b data further support the potential of tegoprubart to significantly reduce the risk of rejection as well as harmful side effects associated with current standard of care in immunosuppression. In addition to our clinical development progress, tegoprubart was used for immunosuppression in historical kidney and heart pig-to-human xenotransplant procedures. As we advance our clinical program to assess the use of tegoprubart in kidney transplant procedures, we remain committed to supporting groundbreaking advancements that can lead to broader organ availability for patients around the world.”

“Looking ahead, we anticipate completing enrollment of our Phase 2 BESTOW study by the end of the year as we also continue to enroll participants in the second cohort of our Phase 1b study and open-label extension study designed to provide additional insights into tegoprubart’s long-term effectiveness,” continued Dr. Gros. “We look forward to providing updated interim clinical data from both the Phase 1b and open-label studies in the second quarter of this year.”

Fourth Quarter 2023 and Recent Corporate Developments

  • Announced the use of tegoprubart as a component of the immunosuppressive treatment regimen following the first-ever transplant of a kidney from a genetically modified pig to a human. The procedure was completed on March 16, 2024, at Massachusetts General Hospital on a 62-year-old man with end-stage kidney disease.
  • Announced 12th participant enrolled in the Phase 2 BESTOW trial assessing tegoprubart head-to-head with tacrolimus for the prevention of rejection in kidney transplantation.
  • Reported updated safety and efficacy data from the ongoing Phase 1b open-label trial evaluating tegoprubart for the prevention of rejection in patients undergoing kidney transplant. Data from 11 participants demonstrated that tegoprubart was generally safe and well-tolerated in patients undergoing kidney transplantation, with aggregate mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) above 70 mL/min/1.73m² at all reported time points after 90 days post-transplant. Results were presented at the American Society of Nephrology Kidney Week 2023 Annual Meeting held in Philadelphia, PA in November 2023.
  • Amended Phase 1b trial protocol to add a second cohort, now allowing enrollment of up to 24 trial participants who are undergoing kidney transplantation.
  • Enrolled first patient in a Phase 2 open-label extension (OLE) study, which will evaluate the long-term safety, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy of tegoprubart in participants who have completed one year of treatment in either the ongoing Phase 1b or Phase 2 BESTOW study. The participant completed the Phase 1b study with an eGFR of 91 at one year (day 374).
  • Partnered with the University of Chicago Transplantation Institute to secure financing from the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) and The Cure Alliance to fund an investigator sponsored study in pancreatic islet cell transplantation in participants with type 1 diabetes. Tegoprubart treatment will be evaluated for the prevention of transplant rejection.
  • Strengthened leadership team with appointment of Eliezer Katz, M.D., FACS as Chief Medical Officer and strengthened board of directors with appointment of Allan Kirk, M.D., Ph.D. and James Robinson.

Anticipated 2024 Milestones

  • Second quarter 2024: Report updated interim clinical data from the ongoing Phase 1b trial of tegoprubart in kidney transplantation.
  • End of 2024: Complete enrollment in the Phase 2 BESTOW trial of tegoprubart in kidney transplantation.
  • 2024: Dose the first islet cell transplant participant for the treatment of type 1 diabetes at the University of Chicago Transplantation Institute.

Fourth Quarter 2023 Financial Results

The Company reported a net loss of $9.6 million, or $0.32 per share, for the three months ended December 31, 2023, compared to a net loss of $58.4 million, or $4.09 per share, for the same period in 2022. The net loss for the three months ended December 31, 2022 includes a non-cash goodwill impairment charge totaling $48.6 million. Excluding the non-cash impairment charge, net loss would be $9.7 million, or $0.68 per share.

Research and development expenses were $7.1 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023, compared to $7.3 million for the comparable period in 2022, a decrease of $0.2 million.

General and administrative expenses were $3.3 million for the three months ended December 31, 2023, compared to $2.8 million for the comparable period in 2022, an increase of $0.5 million.

Full Year 2023 Financial Results

The Company reported a net loss of $40.3 million, or $1.64 per share, for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to a net loss of $88.0 million, or $6.16 per share, in 2022. The net loss for the year ended December 31, 2022 includes a non-cash goodwill impairment charge totaling $48.6 million. Excluding the non-cash impairment charge, net loss would be $39.3 million, or $2.75 per share.

Research and development expenses were $30.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to $27.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2022, an increase of $3.2 million.

General and administrative expenses were $12.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to $12.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2022.

The Company ended the year with approximately $51.1 million in cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments, compared to $56.4 million in cash and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2022.

About Eledon Pharmaceuticals and tegoprubart

Eledon Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a clinical stage biotechnology company that is developing immune-modulating therapies for the management and treatment of life-threatening conditions. The Company’s lead investigational product is tegoprubart, an anti-CD40L antibody with high affinity for CD40 Ligand, a well-validated biological target within the costimulatory CD40/CD40L cellular pathway. The central role of CD40L signaling in both adaptive and innate immune cell activation and function positions it as an attractive target for non-lymphocyte depleting, immunomodulatory therapeutic intervention. The Company is building upon a deep historical knowledge of anti-CD40 Ligand biology to conduct preclinical and clinical studies in kidney allograft transplantation, xenotransplantation, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Eledon is headquartered in Irvine, California. For more information, please visit the Company’s website at www.eledon.com.

Follow Eledon Pharmaceuticals on social media: LinkedInTwitter

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Any statements about the company’s future expectations, plans and prospects, including statements about planned clinical trials, the development of product candidates, expected timing for initiation of future clinical trials, expected timing for receipt of data from clinical trials, the company’s capital resources and ability to finance planned clinical trials, as well as other statements containing the words “believes,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “expects,” “estimates,” “intends,” “predicts,” “projects,” “targets,” “looks forward,” “could,” “may,” and similar expressions, constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including: risks relating to the safety and efficacy of our drug candidates; risks relating to clinical development timelines, including interactions with regulators and clinical sides, as well as patient enrollment; risks relating to costs of clinical trials and the sufficiency of the company’s capital resources to fund planned clinical trials; and risks associated with the impact of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. These risks and uncertainties, as well as other risks and uncertainties that could cause the company’s actual results to differ significantly from the forward-looking statements contained herein, are discussed in our quarterly 10-Qs, annual 10-K, and other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which can be found at www.sec.gov. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof and not of any future date, and the company expressly disclaims any intent to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Investor Contact:

Stephen Jasper
Gilmartin Group
(858) 525 2047
stephen@gilmartinir.com

Media Contact:

Jenna Urban
Berry & Company Public Relations
(212) 253 8881
jurban@berrypr.com

Source: Eledon Pharmaceuticals

Release – MAIA Biotechnology Announces Share Purchases By Directors Cristian Luput And Ramiro Guerrero

Research News and Market Data on MAIA

March 28, 2024 3:00pm EDT

  • Company recognizes significant support by board members in recent private placement

CHICAGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)– MAIA Biotechnology, Inc., (NYSE American: MAIA) (“MAIA”, the “Company”), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing targeted immunotherapies for cancer, today announced that independent directors Cristian Luput and Ramiro Guerrero, J.D, LL.M. made individual purchases of 69,282 and 6,928 shares of common stock, respectively, as part of the Company’s recent private placement of common stock and warrants.

Vlad Vitoc, M.D., MAIA’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented, “It’s rewarding to recognize Cristian and Ramiro, along with several additional board members, for their participation in our private funding round that closed on March 11th. We consider their support as strong votes of confidence in our advancing pipeline and regulatory pathways for MAIA’s novel anti-cancer immunotherapies.”

“I am a strong believer in the potential for MAIA’s new science for cancer therapy to transform the entire field of cancer research and discovery,” said Mr. Luput. “I believe MAIA is well positioned to create a great deal of value for its shareholders over time,” added Mr. Guerrero.

Additional board members that participated in the Company’s recent private placement include MAIA’s top investor, Ms. Adelina Louie Ngar Yee, and Dr. Stan Smith, investor in every funding round since MAIA’s inception.

Mr. Luput is the founder and CEO of Optimus Realty Inc, a full-service real estate company specializing in brokering, managing and developing residential properties in Chicago. Over the course of his career, Mr. Luput has successfully completed multiple multi-million dollar real estate partnerships, consolidations, mergers, and acquisitions.

Mr. Guerrero is the founder and CEO of IMPERIO, Inc., a Chicago-based real estate investment and brokerage organization. In addition to his 20+ years in real estate, Mr. Guerrero is a venture capitalist aiding entrepreneurs and small businesses in business startups.

About MAIA Biotechnology, Inc.

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.

Forward Looking Statements

MAIA cautions that all statements, other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our or our industry’s actual results, levels or activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those anticipated by such statements. The use of words such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “future,” “potential,” or “continue,” and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements. However, the absence of these words does not mean that statements are not forward-looking. For example, all statements we make regarding (i) the initiation, timing, cost, progress and results of our preclinical and clinical studies and our research and development programs, (ii) our ability to advance product candidates into, and successfully complete, clinical studies, (iii) the timing or likelihood of regulatory filings and approvals, (iv) our ability to develop, manufacture and commercialize our product candidates and to improve the manufacturing process, (v) the rate and degree of market acceptance of our product candidates, (vi) the size and growth potential of the markets for our product candidates and our ability to serve those markets, and (vii) our expectations regarding our ability to obtain and maintain intellectual property protection for our product candidates, are forward looking. All forward-looking statements are based on current estimates, assumptions and expectations by our management that, although we believe to be reasonable, are inherently uncertain. Any forward-looking statement expressing an expectation or belief as to future events is expressed in good faith and believed to be reasonable at the time such forward-looking statement is made. However, these statements are not guarantees of future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties and other factors beyond our control that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it was made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. In this release, unless the context requires otherwise, “MAIA,” “Company,” “we,” “our,” and “us” refers to MAIA Biotechnology, Inc. and its subsidiaries.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240328401062/en/

Investor Relations Contact
+1 (872) 270-3518
ir@maiabiotech.com

Source: MAIA Biotechnology, Inc.

Released March 28, 2024

Release – Tonix Pharmaceuticals Announces Pricing of $4.4 Million Registered Direct Offering

Research News and Market Data on TNXP

March 28, 2024 9:32am EDTDownload as PDF

CHATHAM, N.J., March 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp. (Nasdaq: TNXP) (“Tonix” or the “Company”), a biopharmaceutical company, today announced it has entered into a securities purchase agreement with existing healthcare focused institutional investors of the Company for the purchase and sale of 14,666,666 shares of its common stock (or common stock equivalents in lieu thereof) and warrants to purchase up to an aggregate of 14,666,666 shares of common stock in a registered direct offering at a combined offering price of $0.30 per share and accompanying warrant. The warrants have an exercise price of $0.33 per share, will be exercisable commencing six months from the date of issuance and will expire five and one-half years following the date of issuance. The closing of the offering is expected to take place on or about April 1, 2024, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

The gross proceeds of the offering will be approximately $4.4 million before deducting placement agent fees and other estimated offering expenses payable by the Company. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for working capital and general corporate purposes, as well as for the satisfaction of a portion of the Company’s debt.

A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners is acting as sole placement agent for the offering.

In connection with this offering, the Company has also agreed that certain existing warrants issued in August 2023 to purchase up to an aggregate of 6,950,000 shares at an exercise price of $1.00 per share and a termination date of August 2028, will be amended, so that the amended warrants will have a reduced exercise price of $0.33 per share and a termination date of April 2029. The company has further agreed that certain existing warrants issued in October 2023 to purchase up to an aggregate of approximately 17,800,000 shares with an exercise price of $0.50 per share and termination dates ranging from October 2024 to October 2028, will be amended, so that the amended warrants will have a reduced exercise price of $0.33 per share and a termination date of April 2025 and April 2029, respectively. The company has further agreed that certain existing Series C and Series D warrants issued in December 2023 to purchase up to an aggregate of 69,647,856 shares with respective exercise prices ranging from $0.55 to $0.85 per share and termination dates ranging from December 2025 to December 2028, will be amended, so that the amended warrants will have a reduced exercise price of $0.33 per share and a termination date equal to the earlier of April 2026 and 10 trading days following notice by the Company to the warrant holder of the Company’s public announcement of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s acknowledgement and acceptance of the Company’s new drug application relating to TNX-102 SL in patients with Fibromyalgia for the Series C warrants and April 2029 for the Series D warrants. All of the amendments to the August 2023, October 2023 and December 2023 warrants are subject to shareholder approval, if shareholder approval is not received on or before the six-month anniversary of the closing of this offering, such existing warrants will have an exercise price equal to the Nasdaq minimum price on the six-month anniversary of the closing of this offering. The other terms of such warrants will remain unchanged.

This offering is being made pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-266982) previously filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). A prospectus supplement describing the terms of the proposed Offering will be filed with the SEC and will be available on the SEC’s website located at http://www.sec.gov. Electronic copies of the prospectus supplement may be obtained, when available, from A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners, 590 Madison Avenue, 28th Floor, New York, NY 10022, or by telephone at (212) 624-2060, or by email at prospectus@allianceg.com.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.

Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp.*

Tonix is a biopharmaceutical company focused on developing, licensing and commercializing therapeutics to treat and prevent human disease and alleviate suffering. Tonix’s development portfolio is focused on central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Tonix’s priority is to submit a New Drug Application (NDA) to the FDA in the second half of 2024 for Tonmya, a product candidate for which two positive Phase 3 studies have been completed for the management of fibromyalgia. TNX-102 SL is also being developed to treat acute stress reaction as well as fibromyalgia-type Long COVID. Tonix’s CNS portfolio includes TNX-1300 (cocaine esterase) a biologic designed to treat cocaine intoxication with Breakthrough Therapy designation. Tonix’s immunology development portfolio consists of 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. Tonix also has product candidates in development in the areas of rare disease and infectious disease. Tonix Medicines, our commercial subsidiary, markets Zembrace® SymTouch® (sumatriptan injection) 3 mg and Tosymra® (sumatriptan nasal spray) 10 mg for the treatment of acute migraine with or without aura in adults.

*Tonix’s product development candidates are investigational new drugs or biologics and have not been approved for any indication. Tonmya™ is conditionally accepted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as the tradename for TNX-102 SL for the management of fibromyalgia.

Zembrace SymTouch and Tosymra are registered trademarks of Tonix Medicines. All other marks are property of their respective owners.

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

Forward Looking Statements

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

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

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

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

Source: Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp.

Released March 28, 2024

Release – Unicycive Therapeutics Announces Full Year 2023 Financial Results And Provides Business Update

Research News and Market Data on UNCY

March 28, 2024 4:15pm EDT

– Oxylanthanum Carbonate (OLC) Topline Data Expected in Q2 2024 –

– UNI-494 Granted Orphan Drug Designation in Delayed Graft Function of Acute Kidney Injury –

– UNI-494 Phase 1 Single Ascending Dose Portion of Clinical Trial Complete –

LOS ALTOS, Calif., March 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Unicycive Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: UNCY) (the “Company” or “Unicycive”), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing therapies for patients with kidney disease, today announced its financial results for the year ended December 31, 2023, and provided a business update.

“The last several months have been extremely productive for Unicycive as we advanced both of our clinical development programs and secured new funding from several leading healthcare institutional investors,” said Shalabh Gupta, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Unicycive. “The completion of enrollment in our pivotal OLC clinical trial was a critical achievement as we believe the novel characteristics of oxylanthanum carbonate (OLC) will show its potential as a best-in-class product to treat hyperphosphatemia for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on dialysis. Positive results from the trial will provide the basis to file a New Drug Application (NDA) with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and we remain on track with topline data expected from the trial towards the latter part of the second quarter of this year and plan to file the NDA shortly thereafter.”

Dr. Gupta added, “We also made meaningful progress with our second clinical development program, UNI-494, targeting prevention of delayed graft function (DGF) and other conditions related to acute kidney injury. Earlier this month, UNI-494 was granted orphan drug designation by the FDA for the prevention of DGF after kidney transplantation, and we presented new data showing statistically significant results for UNI-494 in a preclinical model of DGF. We successfully completed the single ascending dose (SAD) portion of our Phase 1 clinical trial, and the multiple ascending dose (MAD) portion of the study is currently ongoing. We expect to complete the Phase 1 trial and report the full results in the second half of this year.”

“As we close out National Kidney Awareness Month, we remain inspired to continue our research and development efforts to provide improved therapies for individuals living with kidney disease,” concluded Dr. Gupta.

Key Highlights

  • Completed enrollment in the open-label, single-arm, multicenter, multidose pivotal clinical trial with OLC, a next-generation lanthanum-based phosphate binding agent utilizing proprietary nanoparticle technology being developed to treat hyperphosphatemia in patients with CKD on dialysis.
  • Completed a private placement with new and existing healthcare institutional investors that generated $50 million in gross proceeds to Unicycive.
  • Granted orphan drug designation (ODD) by the FDA to UNI-494 for the prevention of DGF in kidney transplant patients. ODD may provide certain tax credits for qualified clinical trials, exemption of user fees, and the potential for seven years of market exclusivity after approval. UNI-494 is a cytoprotective agent that elicits an ischemic preconditioning effect by activating KATP channels in mitochondria to restore mitochondrial function.
  • Presented new data demonstrating statistically significant results for UNI-494 in a preclinical model of DGF at the 29th International Conference on Advances in Critical Care Nephrology AKI and CRRT 2024. The data provides additional evidence that UNI-494 may be a valuable asset for prevention of DGF and other conditions related to acute kidney injury.
  • Successfully completed the single ascending dose (SAD) portion of the Company’s ongoing Phase 1 clinical trial in UNI-494. UNI-494 was well-tolerated up to 160 mg administered as a single dose and was chosen as the go-forward dose based on promising safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetic data. In the multiple ascending dose (MAD) portion of the study, 80 mg is now being administered twice-a-day to trial participants.
  • Announced that two posters related to OLC will be presented at the National Kidney Foundation Spring Clinical Meeting taking place May 14-18, 2024, in Long Beach, California.
  • Announced that multiple presentations will be delivered on OLC and UNI-494 at the 61st European Renal Association (ERA) Congress taking place May 23-26, 2024, in Stockholm, Sweden.

Financial Results for the Year Ended December 31, 2023

Licensing Revenues: Licensing revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023 were $0.7 million compared to $1.0 million for the same period in 2022, due to an upfront payment for a licensing agreement entered into with Lotus International PTE Ltd in February 2023. We received an upfront payment of approximately $1.0 million associated with a licensing agreement entered into with Lee’s Pharmaceutical (HK) Limited in July 2022.

Research and Development (R&D) Expenses: R&D expenses for the full year were $12.9 million, compared to $12.4 million for the same period in 2022. The increase was primarily due to a $0.7 million increase in labor costs. Non-cash stock compensation increased $0.5 million. The increases were partially offset by a decrease in drug development costs of $0.7 million.

General and Administrative (G&A) Expenses: G&A expenses were $8.5 million, compared to $6.6 million for the same period in 2022. This increase was primarily due to an increase of $1.4 million in professional services costs. Labor costs increased $0.5 million, and other administrative costs increased $0.3 million. Non-cash stock compensation costs increased $0.3 million. The increases were partially offset by a decrease in insurance expense of $0.5 million.

Other Income (Expenses): Other income (expenses) increased $9.8 million due primarily to a $10.3 million change in fair value of our warrant liability. The Company earned interest income of $0.6 million on its cash balance during the year that was partially offset by a $0.1 million increase in interest expense.

Net Loss: Net loss attributable to common stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $31.4 million, or $1.28 per share of common stock, compared to a net loss of $18.1 million, or $1.20 per share of common stock, for the same period in 2022. This increase was attributable primarily to the $10.3 million change in fair value of our warrant liability.

Cash Position: As of December 31, 2023, cash and cash equivalents totaled $9.7 million. Subsequent to year end, in March 2024, Unicycive completed a private placement of preferred stock which generated $50 million in gross proceeds. The Company believes that with the inclusion of the net proceeds from this offering, it will have sufficient resources to fund planned operations into 2026.

About Unicycive Therapeutics

Unicycive Therapeutics is a biotechnology company developing novel treatments for kidney diseases. Unicycive’s lead drug candidate, oxylanthanum carbonate (OLC), is a novel investigational phosphate binding agent being developed for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia in chronic kidney disease patients on dialysis. UNI-494 is a patent-protected new chemical entity in clinical development for the treatment of conditions related to acute kidney injury. For more information, please visit Unicycive.com and follow us on LinkedIn and YouTube.

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 using words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “forecast,” “estimated” and “intend” or other similar terms or expressions that concern Unicycive’s expectations, strategy, plans or intentions. These forward-looking statements are based on Unicycive’s current expectations and actual results could differ materially. There are several 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, clinical trials involve a lengthy and expensive process with an uncertain outcome, and results of earlier studies and trials may not be predictive of future trial results; our clinical trials may be suspended or discontinued due to unexpected side effects or other safety risks that could preclude approval of our product candidates; risks related to business interruptions which could seriously harm our financial condition and increase our costs and expenses; dependence on key personnel; substantial competition; uncertainties of patent protection and litigation; dependence upon third parties; and risks related to failure to obtain FDA clearances or approvals and noncompliance with FDA regulations. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including: the uncertainties related to market conditions and other factors described more fully in the section entitled ‘Risk Factors’ in Unicycive’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, and other periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date hereof, and Unicycive specifically disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Investor Contact:

ir@unicycive.com
(650) 900-5470

SOURCE: Unicycive Therapeutics, Inc.

–Tables to Follow–

 
 
Unicycive Therapeutics, Inc.
       
Balance Sheets
(in thousands, except for share and per share amounts)
  As of As of
  December 31, December 31,
  2022 2023
      
Assets      
Current assets:      
Cash $455  $9,701 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets  2,189   3,698 
Total current assets  2,644   13,399 
Right of use asset, net  152   766 
Property, plant and equipment, net  22   26 
Total assets $2,818  $14,191 
       
Liabilities and stockholders’ deficit      
Current liabilities:      
Accounts payable $892  $839 
Accrued liabilities  2,237   3,234 
Warrant liability     13,134 
Operating lease liability – current  155   327 
Total current liabilities  3,284   17,534 
Operating lease liability – long term     466 
Total liabilities  3,284   18,000 
Commitments and contingencies      
Stockholders’ deficit:      
Series A-2 preferred stock, $0.001 par value per share – zero and 43,649 shares authorized at December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2023, respectively; zero and 43,649 shares outstanding at December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2023, respectively      
Preferred stock, $0.001 par value per share – 10,000,000 and 9,926,161 shares authorized at December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2023, respectively; no shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2022 and 2023      
Common stock, $0.001 par value per share – 200,000,000 shares authorized at December 31, 2022 and 2023; 15,231,655 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2022, and 34,756,049 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2023  15   35 
Additional paid-in capital  33,516   60,697 
Accumulated deficit  (33,997)  (64,541)
Total stockholders’ deficit  (466)  (3,809)
Total liabilities and stockholders’ deficit $2,818  $14,191 
 
Unicycive Therapeutics, Inc.
       
Statements of Operations
(in thousands, except for share and per share amounts)
 
  Year Ended Year Ended
  December 31, December 31,
2022 2023
     
Licensing revenues: $951  $675 
Operating expenses:      
Research and development  12,436   12,902 
General and administrative  6,567   8,547 
Total operating expenses  19,003   21,449 
Loss from operations  (18,052)  (20,774)
Other income (expenses):      
Interest income     615 
Interest expense  (6)  (82)
Change in fair value of warrant liability     (10,303)
Total other income (expenses)  (6)  (9,770)
Net loss  (18,058)  (30,544)
Deemed dividend to Series A-1 preferred stockholders     (867)
Net loss attributable to common stockholders $(18,058) $(31,411)
Net loss per share attributable to common stockholders, basic and diluted $(1.20) $(1.28)
Weighted-average shares outstanding used in computing net loss per share, basic and diluted  15,057,049   24,539,309 

Source: Unicycive Therapeutics, Inc.

Released March 28, 2024

Release – GeoVax to Present Data on GEO-CM04S1, a Next Generation Covid-19 Vaccine, at the World Vaccine Congress

Research News and Market Data on GOVX

 

Atlanta, GA, March 28, 2024 – GeoVax Labs, Inc. (Nasdaq: GOVX), a biotechnology company developing immunotherapies and vaccines against cancers and infectious diseases, today announced that its Chief Scientific Officer, Mark Newman, PhD, will present data on GEO-CM04S1, the Company’s next-generation Covid-19 vaccine candidate, during the upcoming 24th Annual World Vaccine Congress taking place in Washington, DC on April 1-4, 2024.

Presentation Details:

Presenter:                  Mark Newman, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer

Date/Time:                Thursday, April 4, 2024, 12:00 pm ET

Location:                    Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington, DC

Presentation Title:    Vaccine Induction of Broadly-Specific Antibody and T Cell Responses to Combat SARS-CoV-2 Variation

Dr. Newman’s presentation will focus on results delineating the unique immune system driven mechanisms that contribute to the broad efficacy of GeoVax’s next-generation Covid-19 vaccine, GEO-CM04S1.

About GEO-CM04S1

GEO-CM04S1 is based on GeoVax’s MVA viral vector platform, which supports the presentation of multiple vaccine antigens to the immune system in a single dose. GEO-CM04S1 encodes for both the spike (S) and nucleocapsid (N) antigens of SARS-CoV-2 and is specifically designed to induce both antibody and T cell responses to those parts of the virus less likely to mutate over time. The more broadly functional engagement of the immune system is designed to protect against severe disease caused by continually emerging variants of Covid-19. Vaccines of this format should not require frequent and repeated modification or updating.

GEO-CM04S1 is currently being evaluated in three ongoing Phase 2 clinical trials:

  • As a primary vaccine in immunocompromised patients (with hematologic cancers receiving cell transplants or CAR-T therapy). ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04977024. A recent presentation of unpublished data from the open-label portion of the trial indicates that GEO-CM04S1 is highly immunogenic in these patients, inducing both antibody responses, including neutralizing antibodies, and T cell responses.
  • As a booster vaccine in immunocompromised patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), a recognized high-risk group for whom current mRNA vaccines and monoclonal antibody (MAb) therapies appear inadequate relative to providing protective immunity. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05672355.
  • As a booster vaccine for healthy patients who have previously received the Pfizer or Moderna mRNA vaccine. This trial was fully enrolled in September 2023 and final results are expected in Fourth Quarter 2024, reflecting a 12-month tracking of study patients. gov Identifier: NCT04639466.

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 three Phase 2 clinical trials, GEO-CM04S1 is being evaluated as a primary 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, and as a booster vaccine in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). 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.

Forward-Looking Statements

This release contains forward-looking statements regarding GeoVax’s business plans. The words “believe,” “look forward to,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “will,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Actual results may differ materially from those included in these statements due to a variety of factors, including whether: GeoVax is able to obtain acceptable results from ongoing or future clinical trials of its investigational products, GeoVax’s immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines can provoke the desired responses, and those products or vaccines can be used effectively, GeoVax’s viral vector technology adequately amplifies immune responses to cancer antigens, GeoVax can develop and manufacture its immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines with the desired characteristics in a timely manner, GeoVax’s immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines will be safe for human use, GeoVax’s vaccines will effectively prevent targeted infections in humans, GeoVax’s immuno-oncology products and preventative vaccines will receive regulatory approvals necessary to be licensed and marketed, GeoVax raises required capital to complete development, there is development of competitive products that may be more effective or easier to use than GeoVax’s products, GeoVax will be able to enter into favorable manufacturing and distribution agreements, and other factors, over which GeoVax has no control.

Further information on our risk factors is contained in our periodic reports on Form 10-Q and Form 10-K that we have filed and will file with the SEC. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law. 

Company Contact:                     Investor Relations Contact: Media Contact:
info@geovax.com paige.kelly@sternir.com                     sr@roberts-communications.com 
678-384-7220 212-698-8699 202-779-0929

Release – Cocrystal Pharma Reports 2023 Financial Results and Provides Updates on its Antiviral Drug-Development Programs

Research News and Market Data on COCP

MARCH 28, 2024

FDA feedback following the Company’s submission of a Pre-IND briefing package improves clarity on regulatory requirements for Phase 2b influenza A clinical trial with oral CC-42344, a broad-spectrum PB2 inhibitor

  • Topline data expected in 2024 from Phase 2a influenza A human challenge study and Phase 1 study with oral CDI-988, the first potential dual coronavirus-norovirus oral antiviral
  • Initiation of Phase 1 study expected in 2024 with inhaled CC-42344, a potential influenza treatment and post-exposure prophylactic

BOTHELL, Wash., March 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cocrystal Pharma, Inc. (Nasdaq: COCP) (Cocrystal or the Company) reports financial results for the 12 months ended December 31, 2023, and provides updates on its antiviral product pipeline, upcoming milestones and business activities.

“We are highly encouraged by the FDA’s feedback to our Pre-Investigational New Drug (Pre-IND) package, which provides greater clarity on the regulatory requirements for a planned Phase 2b clinical trial with our novel broad-spectrum oral PB2 inhibitor CC-42344 for pandemic and seasonal influenza A,” said Sam Lee, Ph.D., President and co-CEO of Cocrystal. “This is a major step in the clinical and regulatory process for this program. We plan to file an IND for late-stage clinical development of oral CC-42344 that includes data from our ongoing Phase 2a human challenge study, which are expected later this year.

“During 2024 we also expect to initiate a Phase 1 study in healthy volunteers with inhaled CC-42344 as a potential prophylactic and therapeutic for influenza A. Our inhaled formulation of CC-42344 has shown the ability to directly target influenza-infected respiratory epithelial cells in lung, allowing for higher accumulation of drug in the pulmonary system and potentially producing a rapid clinical response while reducing potential systemic side effects,” he added. “Also during the coming year we expect topline data from the ongoing first-in-human study with our pan-coronavirus and pan-norovirus oral protease inhibitor CDI-988, which is expected to serve as a Phase 1 study for both indications.”

“All our programs target high-value unmet indications with novel, broad-spectrum, best-in-class antiviral candidates whose design and development uses our proprietary structure-based drug discovery platform technology,” said James Martin, CFO and co-CEO. “I’m pleased to report that under our cost-efficient business model, we believe our cash position is sufficient to fund current operations including planned clinical studies beyond the next 12 months.”

Antiviral Product Pipeline Overview

We are developing therapeutics that inhibit the viral replication function of RNA viruses that cause acute and chronic diseases. Our drug-discovery process focuses on the highly conserved regions of the viral enzymes and inhibitor-enzyme interactions at the atomic level. By designing and selecting antiviral drug candidates that interrupt the viral replication process and have specific binding characteristics, we seek to develop drugs that are effective against the virus and mutations of the virus, and also have reduced off-target interactions that may cause undesirable side effects. Our drug discovery process differs from traditional, empirical medicinal chemistry approaches that often require iterative high-throughput compound screening and lengthy hit-to-lead processes.

Influenza Programs
Influenza is a severe respiratory illness that is caused by the influenza A or B virus and results in disease outbreaks mainly during the winter months. Influenza is a major global health threat that may become more challenging to treat in the future due to the emergence of highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses and resistance to approved influenza antivirals.

Each year there are approximately 1 billion cases of seasonal influenza worldwide, 3-5 million severe illnesses and up to 650,000 deaths, according to the World Health Organization. On average, about 8% of the U.S. population contracts influenza each season. In addition to the health risk, influenza is responsible for approximately $10.4 billion in direct costs for hospitalizations and outpatient visits for adults in the U.S. annually.

  • Pandemic and Seasonal Influenza A
    • Our novel PB2 inhibitor CC-42344 has shown excellent in vitro antiviral activity against influenza A strains including pandemic and seasonal strains, as well as strains that are resistant to Tamiflu® and Xofluza®.
    • In March 2022 we initiated enrollment in a randomized, double-blind, dose-escalating Phase 1 study to evaluate the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics (PK) of oral CC-42344 in healthy adults.
    • In July 2022 we reported PK results from the single-ascending dose portion of the study that support once-daily dosing.
    • In December 2022 we reported favorable safety and tolerability results from the oral CC-42344 Phase 1 study.
    • In October 2023 we announced authorization from the United Kingdom Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency to conduct a Phase 2a human challenge study.
    • In December 2023 we began treating influenza-infected subjects in the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 2a human challenge study to evaluate the safety, tolerability, viral and clinical measurements of influenza A infection in subjects treated with oral CC-42344.
    • In March 2024 we received feedback from the FDA on a Pre-IND package improving clarity on clinical trial design, drug manufacturing and nonclinical studies necessary to file a Phase 2b trial design.
    • Preclinical development is underway with inhaled CC-42344 as a potential therapeutic and post-exposure prophylaxis for influenza A. CC-42344 has exhibited superior pulmonary exposure in preclinical testing. We expect to begin a Phase 1 clinical study with inhaled CC-42344 in Australia in 2024.
  • Influenza A/B Program


    • Preclinical lead optimization of replication inhibitor antiviral candidates is underway.

COVID-19 and Other Coronavirus Programs
By targeting viral replication enzymes and protease, we believe it is possible to develop effective treatments for all diseases caused by coronaviruses including COVID-19, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). Our main SARS-CoV-2 protease inhibitors showed potent in vitro pan-viral activity against common human coronaviruses, rhinoviruses and respiratory enteroviruses that cause the common cold, as well as against noroviruses that can cause symptoms of acute gastroenteritis. Driven by the anticipated emergence of new COVID-19 variants, the global COVID-19 therapeutics market is estimated to exceed $16 billion by the end of 2031.

  • Oral Protease Inhibitor CDI-988
    • In October 2022 we announced the selection of CDI-988 as our lead candidate for development as a potential oral treatment for SARS-CoV-2. CDI-988 exhibited superior in vitro potency against SARS-CoV-2 with activity maintained against variants of concern, and demonstrated a safety profile and PK properties that support once-daily dosing.
    • In May 2023 we announced approval of our application to the Australian regulatory agency for a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 1 study to evaluate the safety, tolerability and PK of oral CDI-988 in healthy volunteers.
    • In August 2023 we announced the selection of CDI-988 as our lead oral candidate for norovirus, in addition to coronavirus.
    • In September 2023 we dosed the first subject in our dual norovirus-coronavirus oral CDI-988 study, which is expected to serve as a Phase 1 study for both indications.
    • We expect topline data from the Phase 1 study with CDI-988 in 2024.

Norovirus Program
Norovirus is a highly contagious infection and is the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis, accounting for nearly one in five cases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 685 million cases and an estimated 200,000 deaths are attributed to norovirus each year worldwide, with an estimated societal cost of $60 billion.

3CL inhibitor CDI-988 has shown pan-viral activity against multiple norovirus strains, including the genogroup II, genotype 4 (GII.4) norovirus strain that is responsible for major norovirus outbreaks. By targeting viral replication, we believe it is possible to develop an effective treatment or short-term prophylactic for closed environments for all genogroups of norovirus.

  • In August 2023 we announced our selection of the novel broad-spectrum oral 3CL protease inhibitor CDI-988 as our lead potential oral treatment for norovirus, in addition to coronavirus.
  • In September 2023 we began subject dosing in a first-in-human study in healthy volunteers in Australia. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the safety, tolerability and PK of oral CDI-988 in healthy volunteers is expected to serve as a Phase 1 study for both indications.
  • We expect topline data from the Phase 1 study with CDI-988 in 2024.

2023 Financial Results

Research and development (R&D) expenses for 2023 were $15.2 million, compared with $12.4 million for 2022. The increase was primarily due to advancing influenza candidate CC-42344 into a Phase 2a study and advancing the dual norovirus-coronavirus candidate CDI-988 into a Phase 1 study. General and administrative (G&A) expenses for 2023 were $6.0 million, compared with $5.7 million for 2022.

During 2023 the Company received $2.6 million related to litigation with an insurer, which included a $1.6 million refund from the registry of the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, reflecting the recovery of funds following a successful appeal, and $1.0 million in a settlement agreement with the insurer.

Interest income for 2023 was $640,000, compared with interest expense of $2,000 for 2022. The interest income in 2023 was related to interest earned from cash held in banks and deposits with the court registry, and the interest expense in 2022 was related to finance lease agreements.

The net loss for 2023 was $18.0 million, or $1.87 per share, compared with the net loss for 2022 of $38.8 million, or $4.77 per share, which included a $19.1 million non-cash impairment-loss of goodwill.

Cocrystal reported unrestricted cash as of December 31, 2023 of $26.4 million, compared with $37.1 million as of December 31, 2022. Net cash used in operating activities for 2023 was $14.7 million, compared with $21.4 million for 2022. The Company had working capital of $25.0 million and 10.2 million common shares outstanding as of December 31, 2023.

About Cocrystal Pharma, Inc.

Cocrystal Pharma, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company discovering and developing novel antiviral therapeutics that target the replication process of influenza viruses, coronaviruses (including SARS-CoV-2), noroviruses and hepatitis C viruses. Cocrystal employs unique structure-based technologies and Nobel Prize-winning expertise to create first- and best-in-class antiviral drugs. For further information about Cocrystal, please visit www.cocrystalpharma.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding our plans for the future development of preclinical and clinical drug candidates, our expectations regarding future characteristics of the product candidates we develop, the expected time of achieving certain value-driving milestones in our programs, including preparation, commencement and advancement of clinical studies for certain product candidates in 2024, the viability and efficacy of potential treatments for diseases our product candidates are designed to treat, expectations for the markets for certain therapeutics, our ability to execute our clinical and regulatory goals and deploy regulatory guidance towards future studies, the expected sufficiency of our cash balance to advance our programs and fund our planned operations, and our liquidity. The words “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “will,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events. Some or all of the events anticipated by these forward-looking statements may not occur. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the risks and uncertainties arising from the high interest rates in response to inflation, uncertainty in the financial markets, the possibility of a recession and geopolitical conflict in Ukraine and Israel on our Company, our collaboration partners, and on the U.S., UK, Australia and global economies, including manufacturing and research delays arising from raw materials and labor shortages, supply chain disruptions and other business interruptions on our ability to proceed with studies as well as similar problems with our vendors and our current and any future clinical research organization (CROs) and contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs), the ability of our CROs to recruit volunteers for, and to proceed with, clinical studies, our and our collaboration partners’ technology and software performing as expected, financial difficulties experienced by certain partners, the results of any current and future preclinical and clinical studies, general risks arising from clinical studies, receipt of regulatory approvals, regulatory changes, and potential development of effective treatments and/or vaccines by competitors, including as part of the programs financed by the U.S. government, potential mutations in a virus we are targeting that may result in variants that are resistant to a product candidate we develop. Further information on our risk factors is contained in our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

Investor Contact:
LHA Investor Relations
Jody Cain
310-691-7100
jcain@lhai.com

Media Contact:
JQA Partners
Jules Abraham
917-885-7378
Jabraham@jqapartners.com

PDS Biotechnology (PDSB) – FY2023 Results Included Changes In Development Strategy


Thursday, March 28, 2024

PDS Biotech is a clinical-stage immunotherapy company developing a growing pipeline of molecularly targeted cancer and infectious disease immunotherapies based on the Company’s proprietary Versamune® and Infectimune™ T-cell activating technology platforms. Our Versamune®-based products have demonstrated the potential to overcome the limitations of current immunotherapy by inducing in vivo, large quantities of high-quality, highly potent polyfunctional tumor specific CD4+ helper and CD8+ killer T-cells. PDS Biotech has developed multiple therapies, based on combinations of Versamune® and disease-specific antigens, designed to train the immune system to better recognize diseased cells and effectively attack and destroy them. The Company’s pipeline products address various cancers including HPV16-associated cancers (anal, cervical, head and neck, penile, vaginal, vulvar) and breast, colon, lung, prostate and ovarian cancers.

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.

FY2023 Financial Results Included Updated Clinical Trial Strategy. PDS Reported a FY2023 loss of $44.3 million or $(1.43) per share, with cash on December 31, 2023, of $42.9 million. Importantly, the company changed its clinical development plan for PDS1010 and PDS01ADC. The Phase 3 VERSAMUNE-003 will not begin as we expected in 1H24. A Phase 3 trial testing the Triple-Therapy combination will be conducted instead. 

Decision Was Driven By Data From Two Trials. PDS has completed two Phase 2 trials, its VERSATILE-002 trial and the Triple Combination Study conducted by the National Cancer Institute (NCI). VERSATILE-002 trial tested the combination of PDS0101 with Keytruda (pembrolizumab, a PD-1 checkpoint inhibitor), while the Triple Therapy Trial tested PDS0101, a checkpoint inhibitor, and PDS01ADC, a proprietary IL-12-derived molecule.

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*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. 

Boundless Bio $100M IPO to Advance Novel Cancer Therapies

Boundless Bio, a biotech company pioneering a new approach to treating cancer, made its public debut on the Nasdaq stock exchange today in a $100 million initial public offering. The Cambridge, Massachusetts company is the latest biotech firm to go public in 2024 after last year’s IPO drought, pricing its shares at $16 each under the ticker symbol “BOLD.”

The $100 million capital raise will provide a major boost to Boundless Bio’s pipeline of experimental cancer therapies that target extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA), double-stranded DNA molecules that exist outside of chromosomes and can contain amplified oncogenes driving tumor growth.

“EcDNA represents an exciting new frontier in cancer biology and a promising opportunity for therapeutic intervention,” said Zachary Hartman, CEO of Boundless Bio. “With this successful IPO, we are now well-capitalized to advance our novel ecDNA-targeted candidates through clinical trials and hopefully translate this cutting-edge science into meaningful treatments for patients.”

Leading the way for Boundless is BBI-355, the company’s most advanced program that inhibits checkpoint kinase 1, an enzyme involved in ecDNA replication and transcription. BBI-355 is currently being evaluated in the Phase 1/2 POTENTIATE study, with initial data from up to 90 patients expected in the second half of this year.

Not far behind is BBI-825, an oral ribonucleotide reductase inhibitor that targets a different mechanism related to ecDNA biology. This second clinical candidate entered Phase 1/2 testing just last month in the STARMAP trial, with early results anticipated in late 2025.

In addition to developing therapeutics, a portion of the $100 million IPO proceeds will fund Boundless Bio’s efforts to create a diagnostic test called ECHO to detect ecDNA levels in cancer patients’ tumors. The company believes this could enable more precise treatment by identifying patients most likely to respond to ecDNA-targeted therapies.

The successful Nasdaq listing bucks the trend of a biotech IPO market that was essentially frozen in 2023 amid volatile market conditions. But investor sentiment appears to have rebounded in 2024, with Boundless Bio becoming the seventh biotech to go public so far this year.

“This is an incredibly promising time for Boundless Bio and for companies working on novel modalities that could reshape cancer treatment,” said Tricia Lorida, a biotech analyst at SVB Securities. “While ecDNA therapies are still at an early stage, there is certainly excitement around targeting these unique DNA drivers of tumor growth and genomic instability.”

Boundless Bio’s IPO was led by Goldman Sachs, Guggenheim Securities, Piper Sandler, and Leerink Partners as joint book-running managers. The company granted underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 937,500 shares at the IPO price, which could raise the total deal proceeds to $115 million if exercised in full.

With the $100 million-plus capital infusion, Boundless Bio is well-positioned to advance its pioneering work in the emerging field of ecDNA biology as the company aims to unlock new therapeutic options for cancer patients. The successful IPO marks an ambitious first step, but much will ride on the clinical data readouts expected over the next couple of years.

The successful $100 million IPO by Boundless Bio could pave the way for more biotech companies to tap the public markets in 2024 as investor appetite appears to be returning. After a dismal 2023 that saw very few biotechs go public, the new year has brought a flurry of IPO activity, with Boundless Bio becoming the seventh biotech to debut on the Nasdaq. Other drug developers waiting in the wings may seize the opportunity to join the IPO queue if market conditions remain favorable. An opening of the IPO window would provide a crucial capital infusion for biotech firms to continue advancing their R&D programs amid a challenging funding environment. While clinical data will ultimately determine the fates of these newly public companies, a reinvigorated IPO market bodes well for biotech innovation lingering in the pipeline.

Release – Schwazze Announces Fourth Quarter And Full Year 2023 Financial Results

Research News and Market Data on SHWZ

March 27, 2024

PDF Version

 FY 2023 Revenue of $172.4 Million; Income from Operations of $3.3 Million; Adjusted EBITDA of $53.4 Million or 31% of Revenue

 Generated $12.2 Million of Operating Cash Flow in FY 2023

DENVER, March 27, 2024 /CNW/ – Medicine Man Technologies, Inc., operating as Schwazze, (OTCQX: SHWZ) (Cboe: SHWZ) (“Schwazze” or the “Company”), today announced financial and operational results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2023.

“This past year, the Schwazze team delivered solid top-line growth in two highly competitive markets with 31% adjusted EBITDA margins and improved operating cash flow,” said Forrest Hoffmaster, Interim CEO of Schwazze. “We continued to sharpen our retail strategy while expanding our store footprint by more than 50% to 63 dispensaries across our two markets. Although the Colorado and New Mexico markets were pressured in 2023, we have built a solid foundation with best-in-class service for our patients and customers. Internally, we are also relentlessly focused on maximizing the operating efficiencies of our manufacturing and cultivation facilities to drive higher yields, improved flower quality, and greater output.”

“With strong demand and over 680 recreational retail stores at year-end, the competitive landscape in Colorado is fierce, underscoring the importance of our investments in and attention to elevating the customer experience. We significantly outpaced the market in Q4 on a sequential and year-over-year basis and expect to bolster our growth through improvements in customer acquisition, retention, and loyalty, as well as in the overall retail experience. Additionally, we are beginning to see wholesale pricing stabilize, which we anticipate will continue based on plant counts and ongoing retail pricing pressure.”

“In New Mexico, the proliferation of new licenses has led to increased competition and aggressive pricing strategies from certain players. Cannabis sales in the state were up 18% across a store base that was over 50% higher year-over-year in Q4, leading to lower average revenue per store. While we are beginning to see a slow-down in net new store openings, we anticipate a challenging market ahead. We remain focused on cost optimization and asset utilization while implementing a balanced pricing and promotional strategy to drive traffic into our stores, where we believe we excel in delivering an elevated retail experience. We are committed to fulfilling our promise of being the retailer of choice in New Mexico.”

“Looking ahead, we are optimistic about the regulatory momentum in the industry at large. In the meantime, we will continue to elevate the customer experience, improve our loyalty program, increase our cost efficiencies, and enhance our retail assets. Our team has a demonstrated track record of executing in competitive markets like Colorado and New Mexico where we remain one of the largest operators. We look forward to driving growth and profitability across each of our markets in 2024.”

Fourth Quarter 2023 Financial Summary

$ in Thousands USDQ4 2023Q3 2023Q4 2022
Total Revenue$43,325$46,747$40,147
Gross Profit$7,034$21,438$21,719
Adjusted Gross Profit[1]$20,180$21,438$21,719
Operating Expenses$23,276$12,514$24,224
Income (Loss) from Operations$(16,242)$8,924$(2,505)
Adjusted EBITDA[2]$10,953$14,119$13,285
Operating Cash Flow$3,452$6,946$6,260

Full Year 2023 Financial Summary

$ in Thousands USDFY 2023FY 2022
Total Revenue$172,448$159,379
Gross Profit$76,024$80,289
Adjusted Gross Profit1$89,170$86,830
Operating Expenses$72,735$67,434
Income from Operations$3,289$12,855
Adjusted EBITDA2$53,412$52,010
Operating Cash Flow$12,201$6,694
___________________________
1  Adjusted Gross Profit is a non-GAAP measure as defined by the SEC and represents gross profit excluding non-cash inventory adjustments. The Company uses Adjusted Gross Profit as it believes it better explains the results of its core business. See “ADJUSTED GROSS PROFIT RECONCILIATION (NON-GAAP)” section herein for an explanation and reconciliations of non-GAAP measure used throughout this release.
2  Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP measure as defined by the SEC, and 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. See “ADJUSTED EBITDA RECONCILIATION (NON-GAAP)” section herein for an explanation and reconciliations of non-GAAP measure used throughout this release.

Full Year 2023 Operational Highlights

  • Expanded the Company’s retail footprint by more than 50% in New Mexico and Colorado to 63 dispensaries.
  • Completed the acquisition of Everest Apothecary, adding 14 dispensaries, one cultivation facility, and one manufacturing plant to the Company’s New Mexico operations.
  • Acquired Standing Akimbo, the largest medical cannabis dispensary in Colorado, and opened the Company’s first medical dispensary in Colorado Springs under the Standing Akimbo banner.
  • Acquired two Colorado retail dispensaries in Fort Collins and Garden City from Smokey’s.
  • Unveiled an enhanced, custom ecommerce platform in New Mexico under the R. Greenleaf banner.
  • Increased wholesale penetration in Colorado and New Mexico by over 3x year-over-year to more than 27% total door penetration in both states.
  • Grew Lowell Farms pre-roll sales by over 250% in Colorado where it is now the #1 pre-roll in the state. In addition, Lowell is in six of the largest Colorado accounts and will be available for wholesale in New Mexico starting April 1st, 2024.
  • Grew sales with Wana, our fan-favorite gummies brand, by 48% in New Mexico where it is now in 130 doors with eight of the top ten accounts in the state.

Fourth Quarter 2023 Financial Results

Total revenue in the fourth quarter of 2023 increased 8% to $43.3 million compared to $40.1 million for the same quarter last year. The increase was primarily due to growth from new stores compared to the prior year period and increased wholesale revenue, partially offset by pricing pressure from the proliferation of new licenses in New Mexico.

Gross profit for the fourth quarter of 2023 was $7.0 million or 16.2% of total revenue, compared to $21.7 million or 54.1% of total revenue for the same quarter last year. The decrease in gross margin was primarily driven by one-time, non-cash inventory adjustments of approximately $13.1 million comprised of $3.1 million of product consolidation, obsolescence, and shrinkage expenses, $4.3 million of net realizable value adjustments, and $5.8 million of fair value adjustments on acquired inventory in New Mexico in 2023. Adjusted gross profit, which excludes non-cash inventory adjustments, for the fourth quarter of 2023 was $20.2 million or 46.6% of revenue.

Operating expenses for the fourth quarter of 2023 were $23.3 million compared to $24.2 million for the same quarter last year. The decrease was primarily due to a lower impairment charge in the fourth quarter of 2023. This was partially offset by an increase in four-wall SG&A expenses associated with the 22 additional stores in Colorado and New Mexico that are still ramping, as well as greater salaries and stock-based compensation.

Loss from operations for the fourth quarter of 2023 was $16.2 million compared to $2.5 million in the same quarter last year. The decrease was driven by the aforementioned lower gross profit, primarily related to the non-cash inventory adjustment. Net loss was $33.9 million for the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to $27.3 million for the same quarter last year.

Adjusted EBITDA for the fourth quarter of 2023 was $11.0 million or 25.3% of revenue, compared to $13.3 million or 33.1% of revenue for the same quarter last year. The decrease in Adjusted EBITDA margin was primarily driven by higher operating expenses associated with the 22 additional stores that are still ramping.

As of December 31, 2023, cash and cash equivalents were $19.2 million compared to $38.9 million on December 31, 2022. Total debt as of December 31, 2023, was $156.8 million compared to $127.8 million on December 31, 2022.

Conference Call

The Company will conduct a conference call today, March 27, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern time to discuss its results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2023.

Schwazze management will host the conference call, followed by a question-and-answer period. Interested parties may submit questions to the Company prior to the call by emailing ir@schwazze.com.

Date: Wednesday, March 27, 2024
Time: 5:00 p.m. Eastern time
Toll-free dial-in: (888) 664-6383
International dial-in: (416) 764-8650
Conference ID: 38840334
Webcast: SHWZ Q4 & FY 2023 Earnings Call

The conference call will also be broadcast live and available for replay on the investor relations section of the Company’s website at https://ir.schwazze.com.

Toll-free replay number: (888) 390-0541
International replay number: (416) 764-8677
Replay ID: 840334

If you have any difficulty registering or connecting with the conference call, please contact Elevate IR at (720) 330-2829.

About Schwazze

Schwazze (OTCQX: SHWZ) (Cboe: SHWZ) is building a premier vertically integrated regional cannabis company with assets in Colorado and New Mexico and will continue to explore taking 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.

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.

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 https://schwazze.com/.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements include financial outlooks; any projections of net sales, earnings, or other financial items; any statements of the strategies, plans and objectives of our management team for future operations; expectations in connection with the Company’s previously announced business plans; any statements regarding future economic conditions or performance; and statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of our management team. 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. We have based our forward-looking statements on management’s current expectations and assumptions about future events and trends affecting our business and industry. Although we do not make forward-looking statements unless we believe we have a reasonable basis for doing so, we cannot guarantee their accuracy. Therefore, 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.

Investor Relations Contact
Sean Mansouri, CFA or Aaron D’Souza
Elevate IR
(720) 330-2829
ir@schwazze.com

MEDICINE MAN TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME AND (LOSS)
For the Periods Ended December 31, 2023 and 2022
Expressed in U.S. Dollars

For the Three Months EndedFor the Twelve Months Ended
December 31,December 31,
2023202220232022
(Unaudited)(Unaudited)(Audited)(Audited)
Operating Revenues
Retail$39,592,779$36,868,429$155,463,816$141,254,893
Wholesale3,730,7493,158,67016,765,42517,819,938
Other1,287120,188218,545304,388
Total Revenue43,324,81540,147,287172,447,786159,379,219
Total Cost of Goods & Services36,291,05918,428,52896,424,15079,090,461
Gross Profit7,033,75621,718,75976,023,63680,288,758
Operating Expenses
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses10,848,0298,922,62739,916,51829,036,962
Professional Services1,115,4571,112,9753,558,5016,722,554
Loss on Impairment1,810,8908,011,4051,801,7408,011,405
Salaries6,561,8005,292,99623,883,35420,990,290
Stock Based Compensation2,952,669883,8903,574,8312,672,713
Total Operating Expenses23,288,84524,223,89372,734,94467,433,924
Income from Operations(16,255,089)(2,505,134)3,288,69212,854,834
Other Income (Expense)
Interest Expense, net(8,112,391)(6,827,557)(32,069,082)(30,139,645)
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Liabilities1,384,228(9,690,200)15,870,23318,414,760
Other Loss68,4003,73668,40024,136
Loss on Business Disposition(1,968,807)(4,684,366)(1,968,807)(4,684,366)
Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments3,0831,816(39,270)
Total Other Income (Expense)(8,628,570)(21,195,304)(18,097,441)(16,424,385)
Pre-Tax Net Income (Loss)(24,883,659)(23,700,438)(14,808,749)(3,569,551)
Provision for Income Taxes4,494,0493,638,69519,740,59514,898,064
Net Income (Loss)$(29,377,708)$(27,339,133)$(34,549,344)$(18,467,615)
Less: Accumulated Preferred Stock Dividends for the Period(1,541,341)(2,508,677)(8,154,993)(7,802,809)
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Common Stockholders$(30,919,049)$(29,847,810)$(42,704,337)$(26,270,424)
Earnings (Loss) per Share Attributable to Common Stockholders
Basic Earnings (Loss) per Share$(0.43)$(0.57)$(0.66)$(0.49)
Diluted Earnings (Loss) per Share$(0.43)$(0.57)$(0.66)$(0.49)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding – Basic71,680,20053,637,00364,535,24553,637,003
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding – Diluted71,680,20053,637,00364,535,24553,637,003
Comprehensive Income (Loss)$(29,377,708)$(27,339,133)$(34,549,344)$(18,467,615)

MEDICINE MAN TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
For the Periods Ended December 31, 2023 and 2022
Expressed in U.S. Dollars

For the Twelve Months Ended
December 31,
20232022
(Audited)(Audited)
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
Net Income (Loss) for the Period$(34,549,344)$(18,467,615)
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash for Operating Activities
Depreciation & Amortization20,933,54110,660,172
Non-Cash Interest Expense4,024,6044,118,391
Impairment of Goodwill1,801,7408,011,405
Non-Cash Lease Expense7,648,5313,910,679
Deferred Taxes(2,090,967)502,070
Loss on Disposition of Business Units1,968,8074,684,369
Change in Derivative Liabilities(15,870,233)(18,414,760)
Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs1,686,0491,686,048
Amortization of Debt Discount8,523,4937,484,613
(Gain) Loss on Investments, net(1,816)39,270
Stock Based Compensation3,590,473812,073
Changes in Operating Assets & Liabilities (net of Acquired Amounts):
Accounts Receivable927,259(105,185)
Inventory4,571,069789,399
Prepaid Expenses & Other Current Assets1,579,349(2,770,179)
Other Assets263,419(248,682)
Change in Operating Lease Liabilities(7,498,128)(13,113,041)
Accounts Payable & Other Liabilities(3,241,850)11,845,245
Income Taxes Payable17,934,9675,270,074
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities12,200,9636,694,346
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
Collection of Notes Receivable11,944
Cash Consideration for Acquisition of Business, net of Cash Acquired(15,834,378)(58,981,226)
Purchase of Fixed Assets(7,865,654)(14,007,892)
Purchase of Intangible Assets(2,750,000)
Investment in Private Entity(2,000,000)
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities(26,438,088)(74,989,118)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
Payment on Notes Payable(5,354,218)(134,498)
Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock978,308
Payment for Statutory Withholdings on RSU(108,978)
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities(5,463,196)843,810
Net (Decrease) in Cash & Cash Equivalents(19,700,321)(67,450,962)
Cash & Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period38,949,253106,400,216
Cash & Cash Equivalents at End of Period$19,248,932$38,949,253
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information:
Cash Paid for Interest$17,896,954$15,243,990
Cash Paid for Income Taxes5,000,00012,340,000

MEDICINE MAN TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
ADJUSTED EBITDA RECONCILIATION (NON-GAAP)
For the Periods Ended December 31, 2023 and 2022
Expressed in U.S. Dollars

For the Three Months EndedFor the Twelve Months Ended
December 31,December 31,
2023202220232022
Net Income (Loss)$(29,364,680)$(27,339,133)$(34,549,344)$(18,467,615)
Interest Expense, net8,112,3916,827,55732,069,08230,139,645
Provision for Income Taxes4,494,0493,638,69519,740,59514,898,064
Other (Income) Expense, net of Interest Expense516,18014,367,747(13,971,641)(13,715,260)
Depreciation & Amortization3,162,4253,701,12818,970,96012,524,677
Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and
Amortization (EBITDA) (non-GAAP)$(13,079,635)$1,195,994$22,259,652$25,379,511
Non-Cash Stock Compensation1,597,157883,8902,219,3192,672,713
Deal Related Expenses2,196,7331,914,8205,528,0486,822,111
Capital Raise Related Expenses1,779(257,271)38,559533,958
Inventory Adjustment to Fair Market Value for
Purchase Accounting5,792,4885,792,4886,541,651
One-Time Inventory Impairment7,353,9727,353,972
One-Time Goodwill Impairment1,801,7408,011,4051,801,7408,011,405
Severance111,752263,374537,584334,910
Retention Program Expenses505,655
Employee Relocation Expenses5,065(3,750)70,10715,360
Pre-Operating & Dark Carry Expenses2,663,8241,027,7382,663,8241,027,738
One-Time Legal Settlements1,204,058440,0001,204,058440,000
Other Non-Recurring Items1,304,501(191,674)3,436,773230,858
Adjusted EBITDA (non-GAAP)$10,953,434$13,284,526$53,411,779$52,010,215
Revenue43,324,81540,147,287172,447,786159,379,219
Adjusted EBITDA Percent25.3 %33.1 %31.0 %32.6 %

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SOURCE Schwazze

Release – PDS Biotech Announces Clinical Strategy Update and Reports Full Year 2023 Financial Results

Research News and Market Data on PDSB

Unique mechanism of action of the combination of PDS01ADC and Versamune® results in 3-year survival of 75% and 75% overall response rate in advanced head and neck cancer trial

As a result, Company to focus late-stage clinical strategy on triple combination of PDS01ADC, PDS0101 (Versamune® HPV) and KEYTRUDA® in advanced head and neck cancer

Strong safety profile of IL-12 fused antibody drug conjugate (PDS01ADC) demonstrated to date with data generated in >300 cancer patients; Versamune® HPV tested in >110 HNSCC patients

Successful recent meeting with FDA provided clear guidance on trial design and regulatory pathway for pivotal randomized trial of triple combination in recurrent metastatic HPV-positive HNSCC

Company to host conference call and webcast today at 8:00 AM ET

PRINCETON, N.J., March 27, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — PDS Biotechnology Corporation (Nasdaq: PDSB) (PDS Biotech or the Company), a late-stage immunotherapy company focused on transforming how the immune system targets and kills cancers and the development of infectious disease vaccines, today announced an update to its clinical development strategy and reported its financial results for the year ended December 31, 2023.

“We have obtained compelling data from several Phase 2 trials in the fourth quarter of 2023, including long-term survival data from the National Cancer Institute (NCI)-led triple combination trial of PDS01ADC in combination with Versamune® HPV (PDS0101) and an investigational immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI), as well as our VERSATILE-002 study,” said Frank Bedu-Addo, PhD, President and Chief Executive Officer of PDS Biotech. “We now have a better understanding of how our drug platform technology works in advanced cancer, and we have therefore made the strategic, data-driven decision to add our novel, investigational IL-12 fused antibody drug conjugate, PDS01ADC, to the promising combination of Versamune® HPV and KEYTRUDA® to advance the triple combination as our top clinical development priority.”

“By initially addressing the rapidly growing unmet medical need in recurrent metastatic HPV+ head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC), we strongly believe this approach may rapidly establish our proprietary combination of PDS01ADC and Versamune® HPV as a transformative oncology treatment. The data suggest that the triple combination may result in a significant improvement in overall survival rates for patients who currently lack an effective treatment option. It may also significantly increase the rates of durable tumor shrinkage or overall responses,” said Dr. Bedu-Addo. “We are grateful to the patients and physicians who participated in the clinical trials which have helped inform our understanding of how the drug therapies may be used most effectively to safely address advanced cancer, and our decision to prioritize the triple combination.”

With the recent long-term survival Phase 2 data from the NCI-led triple combination trial, together with favorable safety and extended survival results seen in both ICI naïve and resistant patients in our VERSATILE-002 trial, PDS Biotech has decided to prioritize the triple combination in place of the VERSATILE-003 trial. This decision enables PDS Biotech to focus its resources on the drug regimen it believes has the highest potential to benefit patients with HNSCC and to drive shareholder value.

“We have had several discussions with key opinion leaders in HNSCC regarding the use of the triple combination in HNSCC. A clear unmet need is seen in HPV+ HNSCC with few agents being studied in this population due to the difficulty in treating advanced HNSCC,” said Kirk V. Shepard, M.D., Chief Medical Officer of PDS Biotech. “These discussions with expert HNSCC oncologists have guided our decision to prioritize the triple combination in our efforts to address the growing incidence of advanced HPV+ HNSCC.”

“Despite good outcomes in many patients with HPV-related HNSCC, approximately 20% of patients will develop recurrent, incurable disease, often in young individuals in the prime of their lives. HPV-related HNSCC that progresses after standard first-line chemotherapy is a devastating, hard-to-treat cancer with no HPV-related treatment currently approved. The NCI clinical trial data show significant promise in the use of PDS01ADC in combination with Versamune® HPV,” said Katharine A. Price, M.D., Associate Professor of Oncology, Head and Neck Disease Group, Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center and Principal Investigator of PDS Biotech’s upcoming triple combination trial. “A controlled randomized clinical trial that builds upon the current data is warranted, and I am intrigued by the potential of this unique combination to treat HNSCC.”

Clinical Strategy Update

Triple Combination Clinical Trial (PDS01ADC, Versamune® HPV and KEYTRUDA®)

  • Company in discussions with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on the design of potentially pivotal clinical trial to treat HPV+ HNSCC, with the trial expected to start in 2024.
  • Previously announced data from Phase 2 NCI-led triple combination clinical trial for the treatment of recurrent/metastatic ICI naïve and ICI resistant HPV16-positive cancers including head and neck, anal, cervical, vaginal and vulvar cancers support rationale:
    • ICI naïve group: 75% of patients remain alive at 36 months. The median overall survival (OS) was not reached. Published results show a 36-month survival rate of approximately 20% with ICIs. An overall response rate (ORR) of 75% and complete response of 38% were seen in patients treated with the triple combination. Published ORR of <40% seen with immunotherapeutic agents.
    • ICI resistant group: 12-month OS rate of 72%, and 63% ORR in patients with optimal dose of PDS01ADC. Median OS approximately 20 months; published 12-month OS rate in HPV-positive ICI-resistant cancer is ~30%; published median OS in HPV-positive ICI-resistant cancer is 3.4 months.
    • Responses were seen in all HPV-positive tumor types.

Leadership Appointments

  • In January 2024, announced the appointment of Dr. Shepard as Chief Medical Officer.
  • In November 2023, announced the appointment of Lars Boesgaard as Chief Financial Officer.

Full Year 2023 Financial Results

Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2023, was approximately $42.9 million, or $1.39 per basic and diluted share, compared to a net loss of $40.9 million, or $1.43 per basic share and diluted share, for the year ended December 31, 2022. The higher net loss was primarily the result of increased operating loss and increased net interest expense.

Research and development expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023, decreased to $27.8 million, compared to $29.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. The decrease of $1.7 million was primarily attributable to the $10 million purchase of the rights to PDS01ADC in 2022, partially offset by an increase in clinical costs of $6.1 million and an increase in personnel costs of $2.1 million.

General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023, increased to $15.3 million compared to $12.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. The $3.1 million increase was primarily attributable to an increase in personnel costs of $1.5 million and an increase in professional fees of $1.6 million.

Total operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023, were $43.0 million, an increase of approximately 3.3% compared to $41.7 million total operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2022.

Net interest expense increased to $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to $0.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. The change was due to higher interest expense related to the Company’s notes payable, partially offset by higher interest income on bank deposits.

During the fourth quarter of 2023, the Company raised approximately $10.5 million in net proceeds from its “at-the-market” sales agreement.

The Company’s cash balance as of December 31, 2023, was $56.6 million.

Conference Call and Webcast
The conference call is scheduled to begin at 8:00 AM ET today, March 27, 2024. Participants should dial 877-704-4453 (United States) or 201-389-0920 (International) and reference conference ID 13745320. To access the webcast, please use the following link. The event will be archived on the Investor Relations section of PDS Biotech’s website for six months.

About PDS Biotechnology
PDS Biotechnology is a late-stage immunotherapy company focused on transforming how the immune system targets and kills cancers and the development of infectious disease vaccines. The Company plans to initiate a pivotal clinical trial in 2024 to advance its lead program in advanced head and neck squamous cell cancers (HNSCC). PDS Biotech’s lead program is a proprietary dual-acting combination of antibody drug conjugate (ADC) PDS01ADC and T-cell activator Versamune® HPV in regimen with a standard-of-care immune checkpoint inhibitor. Proof-of-concept long-term data have shown positive survival results and tumor shrinkage with this combination and indicate favorable tolerability.

With a novel investigational “inside-out” mechanism, the dual immunotherapy has shown compelling results with potential to successfully disrupt a tumor’s inside defenses, while also generating potent, targeted killer T-cells to attack the tumor from the outside. Robust data from more than 350 patients, as well as ongoing clinical trials across multiple tumor types and standard treatment regimens, have validated the platforms and point to potential broad utility.

Our Infectimune® based vaccines have demonstrated the potential to induce not only robust and durable neutralizing antibody responses, but also powerful T-cell responses, including long-lasting memory T-cell responses in pre-clinical studies to date. For more information, please visit www.pdsbiotech.com.

Forward Looking Statements
This communication contains forward-looking statements (including within the meaning of Section 21E of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 27A of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended) concerning PDS Biotechnology Corporation (the “Company”) and other matters. These statements may discuss goals, intentions and expectations as to future plans, trends, events, results of operations or financial condition, or otherwise, based on current beliefs of the Company’s management, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, management. Forward-looking statements generally include statements that are predictive in nature and depend upon or refer to future events or conditions, and include words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “likely,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “forecast,” “guidance”, “outlook” and other similar expressions among others. Forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors, including, without limitation: the Company’s ability to protect its intellectual property rights; the Company’s anticipated capital requirements, including the Company’s anticipated cash runway and the Company’s current expectations regarding its plans for future equity financings; the Company’s dependence on additional financing to fund its operations and complete the development and commercialization of its product candidates, and the risks that raising such additional capital may restrict the Company’s operations or require the Company to relinquish rights to the Company’s technologies or product candidates; the Company’s limited operating history in the Company’s current line of business, which makes it difficult to evaluate the Company’s prospects, the Company’s business plan or the likelihood of the Company’s successful implementation of such business plan; the timing for the Company or its partners to initiate the planned clinical trials for PDS01ADC, PDS0101, PDS0203 and other Versamune® and Infectimune® based product candidates; the future success of such trials; the successful implementation of the Company’s research and development programs and collaborations, including any collaboration studies concerning PDS01ADC, PDS0101, PDS0203 and other Versamune® and Infectimune® based product candidates and the Company’s interpretation of the results and findings of such programs and collaborations and whether such results are sufficient to support the future success of the Company’s product candidates; the success, timing and cost of the Company’s ongoing clinical trials and anticipated clinical trials for the Company’s current product candidates, including statements regarding the timing of initiation, pace of enrollment and completion of the trials (including the Company’s ability to fully fund its disclosed clinical trials, which assumes no material changes to the Company’s currently projected expenses), futility analyses, presentations at conferences and data reported in an abstract, and receipt of interim or preliminary results (including, without limitation, any preclinical results or data), which are not necessarily indicative of the final results of the Company’s ongoing clinical trials; any Company statements about its understanding of product candidates mechanisms of action and interpretation of preclinical and early clinical results from its clinical development programs and any collaboration studies; the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern; and other factors, including legislative, regulatory, political and economic developments not within the Company’s control. The foregoing review of important factors that could cause actual events to differ from expectations should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with statements that are included herein and elsewhere, including the other risks, uncertainties, and other factors described under “Risk Factors,” “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and elsewhere in the documents we file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements are made only as of the date of this press release and, except as required by applicable law, the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statement, or to make any other forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.  

Versamune® and Infectimune® are registered trademarks of PDS Biotechnology Corporation.

KEYTRUDA® is a registered trademark of Merck Sharp and Dohme LLC, a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, N.J., USA.

Investor Contact:
Mike Moyer
LifeSci Advisors
Phone +1 (617) 308-4306
Email: mmoyer@lifesciadvisors.com

Media Contact:
Gina Mangiaracina
6 Degrees
Phone +1 (917) 797-7904
Email: gmangiaracina@6degreespr.com

View full release here.

Release – MAIA Biotechnology Announces $1.33 Million Private Placement

Research News and Market Data on MAIA

March 26, 2024 8:01am EDT

CHICAGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)– MAIA Biotechnology, Inc., (NYSE American: MAIA) (“MAIA”, the “Company”), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing targeted immunotherapies for cancer, today announced that it has entered into definitive agreements for the purchase and sale of an aggregate of 578,643 shares of common stock at a purchase price of $2.295 per share, in a private placement to accredited investors. Each share of common stock is being offered together with a warrant to purchase one share of common stock at an exercise price of $2.55 per share, which price represents the greater of the book or market value of the stock on the date the definitive agreements were executed (subject to customary adjustments as set forth in the warrants). The warrants are exercisable commencing six months following issuance and have a term of five years from the initial exercise date. The private placement is expected to close on or about March 28, 2024, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.

The gross proceeds from the offering are expected to be approximately $1.33 million, prior to offering expenses payable by the Company. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering for to fund research and development activities, such as to fund the first third of the pivotal accelerated approval Part C of the THIO-101 trial in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

The securities described above are being offered in a private placement under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and/or Regulation D promulgated thereunder and, along with the shares of common stock underlying the warrants, have not been registered under the Securities Act, or applicable state securities laws. Accordingly, the warrants and underlying shares of common stock may not be offered or sold in the United States except pursuant to an effective registration statement or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act and such applicable state securities laws.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy these securities, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to the registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or other jurisdiction.

About MAIA Biotechnology, Inc.

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.

Forward Looking Statements

MAIA cautions that all statements, other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause our or our industry’s actual results, levels or activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from those anticipated by such statements. The use of words such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “future,” “potential,” or “continue,” and other similar expressions are intended to identify forward looking statements. However, the absence of these words does not mean that statements are not forward-looking. For example, all statements we make regarding (i) the initiation, timing, cost, progress and results of our preclinical and clinical studies and our research and development programs, (ii) our ability to advance product candidates into, and successfully complete, clinical studies, (iii) the timing or likelihood of regulatory filings and approvals, (iv) our ability to develop, manufacture and commercialize our product candidates and to improve the manufacturing process, (v) the rate and degree of market acceptance of our product candidates, (vi) the size and growth potential of the markets for our product candidates and our ability to serve those markets, and (vii) our expectations regarding our ability to obtain and maintain intellectual property protection for our product candidates, are forward looking. All forward-looking statements are based on current estimates, assumptions and expectations by our management that, although we believe to be reasonable, are inherently uncertain. Any forward-looking statement expressing an expectation or belief as to future events is expressed in good faith and believed to be reasonable at the time such forward-looking statement is made. However, these statements are not guarantees of future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties and other factors beyond our control that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statement. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it was made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. In this release, unless the context requires otherwise, “MAIA,” “Company,” “we,” “our,” and “us” refers to MAIA Biotechnology, Inc. and its subsidiaries.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240326325996/en/

Investor Relations Contact
+1 (872) 270-3518
ir@maiabiotech.com

Source: MAIA Biotechnology, Inc.

Released March 26, 2024