Category: Healthcare

AbbVie and Xilio Therapeutics Collaborate to Develop Tumor-Activated Immunotherapies

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– AbbVie and Xilio Therapeutics announce a partnership to develop innovative tumor-activated immunotherapies, including masked T-cell engagers.
– Xilio will receive $52 million upfront and is eligible for up to $2.1 billion in milestone payments and royalties.
– The collaboration aims to enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapy while minimizing systemic side effects.

AbbVie and Xilio Therapeutics have entered a strategic collaboration to advance next-generation tumor-activated immunotherapies, a move that could significantly impact the oncology space. The partnership will focus on developing masked T-cell engagers (TCEs), a cutting-edge approach designed to precisely target tumors while reducing the systemic toxicity often associated with immunotherapies.

Under the terms of the agreement, Xilio will receive an upfront payment of $52 million, with the potential to earn up to $2.1 billion in milestone payments and royalties if the collaboration yields successful drug candidates. This deal highlights the growing interest in tumor-selective therapies as biopharmaceutical companies seek to refine cancer treatments for better efficacy and safety.

Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment over the past decade, with checkpoint inhibitors and CAR-T therapies offering promising results. However, many of these treatments come with serious side effects, such as cytokine release syndrome and immune-related toxicities, which can limit their widespread use. Tumor-activated therapies, like those being developed through the AbbVie-Xilio collaboration, aim to overcome these challenges by ensuring immune system activation occurs predominantly at the tumor site rather than throughout the body.

This strategy aligns with a broader industry trend where major pharmaceutical companies are investing heavily in precision oncology. Companies such as Bristol Myers Squibb, Merck, and Roche are also exploring targeted immune therapies, with some already advancing their own masked TCE platforms.

AbbVie’s decision to partner with Xilio follows similar collaborations between biotech startups and large pharmaceutical firms. Smaller biotech companies often bring innovative drug discovery capabilities, while established players like AbbVie provide the resources and expertise needed to navigate clinical development and regulatory approval.

The move also positions AbbVie competitively in the immuno-oncology space, where it faces increasing competition from global drugmakers. The company has been expanding its oncology pipeline following the success of Imbruvica and Venclexta, and this partnership could strengthen its position in the next generation of cancer therapeutics.

Meanwhile, Xilio Therapeutics, a biotech firm specializing in tumor-selective treatments, stands to gain significant financial backing and research support through this agreement. Its proprietary technology platform, which develops highly potent, tumor-activated biologics, has the potential to redefine immunotherapy approaches for solid tumors.

With oncology continuing to be one of the most lucrative and rapidly evolving fields in biotech, tumor-activated immunotherapies are poised to become a major focus of drug development. The potential to minimize toxicity while enhancing efficacy makes these therapies particularly appealing for both patients and healthcare providers.

If successful, the AbbVie-Xilio collaboration could lead to groundbreaking advancements in cancer treatment, opening doors for future partnerships and expanding the role of tumor-targeted biologics in oncology.

Take a moment to take a look at Noble Capital Markets Senior Research Analyst Robert LeBoyer’s life sciences and biotechnology coverage list.

Novartis to Acquire Anthos Therapeutics in $3.1 Billion Deal

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Novartis has agreed to acquire Anthos Therapeutics for up to $3.1 billion, expanding its presence in the cardiovascular space.
– Anthos’ lead drug candidate, abelacimab, has demonstrated significant potential in reducing bleeding risks compared to current anticoagulants.
– The acquisition highlights the success of Blackstone Life Sciences’ investment strategy in building and scaling innovative biopharmaceutical companies.

Novartis has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Anthos Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company specializing in innovative therapies for cardiometabolic diseases, for up to $3.1 billion. The deal, announced by Blackstone Life Sciences and Anthos, represents a major step forward in the development of abelacimab, a next-generation Factor XI inhibitor designed to prevent strokes and blood clots with superior safety benefits.

Anthos was founded in 2019 as a collaboration between Blackstone Life Sciences and Novartis, securing exclusive global rights from Novartis to develop, manufacture, and commercialize abelacimab. The acquisition reflects Novartis’ confidence in abelacimab’s potential to become a leader in the growing class of Factor XI anticoagulants, which aim to reduce the risk of major bleeding while maintaining strong stroke prevention efficacy.

“Abelacimab has the potential to be an important treatment option for the millions of patients globally with atrial fibrillation at high risk of stroke, and we could not have more conviction in the potential of this asset,” said Bill Meury, Chief Executive Officer of Anthos. “With its deep roots in the cardiovascular space, Novartis is especially well positioned to advance abelacimab’s clinical development and bring this innovative product to healthcare providers and patients.”

The drug has already demonstrated promising results in the AZALEA-TIMI 71 trial, where abelacimab showed a 62% reduction in major bleeding or clinically relevant non-major bleeding compared to rivaroxaban (Xarelto), a 67% reduction in major bleeding, and an 89% reduction in gastrointestinal bleeding. These impressive findings prompted the Independent Data Monitoring Committee to discontinue the study early due to clear clinical benefits. The results were recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Anthos is currently conducting three phase 3 clinical trials for abelacimab: LILAC-TIMI 76 for patients with atrial fibrillation at high risk of stroke or systemic embolism, and ASTER and MAGNOLIA for patients with cancer-associated thrombosis. Data from these trials are expected in the second half of 2026, and Novartis is expected to continue these efforts to bring abelacimab to market.

Blackstone Life Sciences has played a crucial role in Anthos’ growth, investing in its development, assembling a world-class team, and designing the clinical plan. “This transaction is an affirmation of Blackstone Life Sciences’ ownership investment strategy, where we seek to find innovative products and build companies around them to meet unmet patient needs,” said Dr. Nicholas Galakatos, Global Head of Blackstone Life Sciences.

The acquisition deal includes an upfront payment of $925 million, with additional payments contingent on meeting regulatory and commercial milestones. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2025, pending regulatory approvals.

Eledon Pharmaceuticals (ELDN) – Tegoprubart Used In Pig Kidney Transplant Patient

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Monday, February 10, 2025

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.

Tegoprubart Used For Immunosuppression In Another Transplantation Surgery. A transplant patient that received a genetically engineered pig kidney has been given tegoprubart as part of their drug regimen to prevent organ rejection. The genetically engineered pig kidney was produced by Eledon’s partner, eGenesis, with the surgery performed at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). We see the continued use of tegoprubart instead of tacrolimus, the standard of care, as a positive sign from the transplant community.

Tegoprubart Was Chosen Over Tacrolimus. Tegoprubart is an anti-CD40 ligand antibody that modulates the immune system and avoids the long-term toxic side effects of tacrolimus. It is currently in two human clinical trials for kidney transplantation and has been used in several recent xenotransplantation procedures. We see this choice as a sign that doctors see its clinical data as an improvement over tacrolimus.


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Zomedica Corp. (ZOM) – New TRUFORMA Assay Improves Diagnostic Offering

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Friday, February 07, 2025

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.

Zomedica Launches New ACTH Assay For Equine PPID. Zomedica has launched an updated TRUFORMA assay for diagnosis of Equine PPID, Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction, an endocrine disorder in horses also known as Equine Cushing’s Disease. The new assay measures ACTH and one of its breakdown products, CLIP, then calculates a value that can be compared with established standard levels. The measures in this assay allow for better, faster diagnosis at the point-of-care.

PPID Is A Common Condition In Older Horses. An estimated 20% of the horses over 15 years of age are affected by PPID. Benign tumors or enlargement of the pituitary gland leads to overproduction of endocrine hormones and dysregulation of metabolism. ACTH is one of the hormones affected, causing a variety of symptoms that may lead to muscle wasting, thirst, urination, behavior, immune suppression, and metabolic changes. This affects the horse’s overall health, quality of life, and value to the owner.


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

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

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

Alumis and ACELYRIN Announce Definitive Merger Agreement in All-Stock Transaction

Posted on by cpatches
Key Points:
– Alumis and ACELYRIN have agreed to an all-stock merger, creating a well-capitalized biopharmaceutical company focused on advancing immunology treatments.
– The combined company will have approximately $737 million in cash and securities, supporting multiple clinical trial readouts and operations into 2027.
– Alumis will retain its name and leadership team, with an expanded board including two ACELYRIN members, and the merger is expected to close in Q2 2025.

Alumis Inc. (NASDAQ: ALMS) and ACELYRIN (NASDAQ: SLRN) have announced a definitive merger agreement, combining the two clinical-stage biopharmaceutical companies in an all-stock transaction aimed at advancing immunology treatments and optimizing clinical outcomes.

Strategic Rationale and Financial Position

The merger will create a strongly capitalized company with a combined cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities position of approximately $737 million as of year-end 2024. This financial strength is expected to support the advancement of the companies’ combined pipeline through multiple key clinical data readouts and fund operating expenses and capital expenditures into 2027.

The combined company will leverage its track record in research and development and a proprietary data and analytics platform to drive innovation in immune-mediated diseases.

Martin Babler, President, CEO, and Chairman of Alumis, stated: “Through this combination with ACELYRIN, Alumis will have the financial flexibility and runway to advance an expanded late-stage pipeline, now including lonigutamab, and build commercial capabilities. Since completing our IPO, Alumis has operated with speed and rigor, and the multiple development milestones expected in 2025 and 2026, coupled with potential additional indications for ESK-001, represent exciting breakthroughs for our patients and value-driving opportunities for the combined company’s stockholders. As we move forward together, we will maintain financial discipline and a flexible capital allocation strategy with the goal of maximizing the value of our highly differentiated portfolio.”

Pipeline Highlights

  • Alumis’ ESK-001: A next-generation, allosteric TYK2 inhibitor, currently in Phase 3 ONWARD trials for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis (PsO) and Phase 2b LUMUS trials for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Key Phase 2 52-week updates expected in 2025, with Phase 3 topline data in H1 2026.
  • Alumis’ A-005: A CNS-penetrant allosteric TYK2 inhibitor, targeting neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson’s Disease. A Phase 2 trial is set to begin in H2 2025.
  • ACELYRIN’s Lonigutamab: A subcutaneous anti-IGF-1R therapy with best-in-class potential for thyroid eye disease (TED), currently under Phase 2 evaluation.

Transaction Terms & Leadership Structure

  • Exchange Ratio: ACELYRIN stockholders will receive 0.4274 shares of Alumis common stock for each ACELYRIN share owned.
  • Ownership Breakdown: 55% Alumis stockholders, 45% ACELYRIN stockholders post-transaction.
  • Leadership: The combined company will operate under the Alumis name and be led by Alumis’ executive team, strengthened by key ACELYRIN professionals and medical experts.
  • Board Expansion: The board will grow to nine members, including two from ACELYRIN.
  • Closing Timeline: The transaction is expected to close in Q2 2025, subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals.

This merger brings together two companies dedicated to transforming immunology treatments, strengthening their pipeline, and delivering long-term value to patients and investors alike.

Zimmer Biomet to Acquire Paragon 28 in $1.2 Billion Deal, Expanding Foot and Ankle Portfolio

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: ZBH), a global leader in medical technology, has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Paragon 28, Inc. (NYSE: FNA), a specialized medical device company focused on foot and ankle orthopedics. This acquisition, valued at approximately $1.2 billion, underscores Zimmer Biomet’s commitment to expanding into higher-growth market segments within musculoskeletal care.

Under the agreement, Zimmer Biomet will acquire all outstanding shares of Paragon 28’s common stock for $13.00 per share in cash, equating to an equity value of approximately $1.1 billion. Additionally, Paragon 28 shareholders will receive a contingent value right (CVR), allowing them to earn up to $1.00 per share in cash if specific revenue milestones are met. The CVR payout will depend on Paragon 28’s net sales performance in Zimmer Biomet’s fiscal year 2026, with payments ranging from $0.00 to $1.00 per share for sales between $346 million and $361 million.

The transaction has been unanimously approved by the boards of both companies and is expected to close in the first half of 2025, pending regulatory approvals and shareholder consent.

Zimmer Biomet’s acquisition of Paragon 28 aligns with its strategy of diversifying beyond core orthopedics into high-growth specialized markets. The global foot and ankle orthopedic segment is valued at approximately $5 billion and is growing at a high-single-digit rate annually.

“This proposed transaction further diversifies Zimmer Biomet’s portfolio outside of core orthopedics and positions us well in one of the highest growth specialized segments in musculoskeletal care,” said Ivan Tornos, President and CEO of Zimmer Biomet. “Paragon 28’s innovative portfolio, strong pipeline, and specialized sales force, combined with Zimmer Biomet’s global scale, will allow us to better serve patients with foot and ankle conditions.”

Paragon 28, established in 2010, has built an extensive suite of surgical solutions for fractures, trauma, deformity correction, and joint replacement within the foot and ankle segment. This deal will enable Zimmer Biomet to integrate Paragon 28’s specialized expertise with its existing product portfolio, creating new cross-selling opportunities, particularly in the fast-growing ambulatory surgical center (ASC) sector.

Paragon 28 reported an 18.4% year-over-year revenue increase in 2024, with full-year revenue ranging between $255.9 million and $256.2 million. Zimmer Biomet expects the acquisition to be immediately accretive to revenue growth. While it will be slightly dilutive to adjusted earnings per share (EPS) in 2025 and 2026, the deal is projected to become accretive within 24 months of closing.

Zimmer Biomet will finance the acquisition through a mix of cash on hand and available debt facilities. Despite the investment, the company aims to maintain a strong balance sheet and continue executing its capital allocation priorities.

The acquisition of Paragon 28 positions Zimmer Biomet as a major player in the foot and ankle segment, complementing its broader musculoskeletal product offerings. With regulatory approvals and shareholder consent expected in the coming months, the deal marks a strategic milestone for Zimmer Biomet’s growth trajectory in specialized orthopedic care.

Novo Nordisk Stock Soars After Groundbreaking Results for New Obesity Drug

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Novo Nordisk’s amycretin led to 22% average weight loss in a 36-week trial.
– Shares rose 7.13%, marking the best single-day gain since March 2024.
– Amycretin targets dual hormones to tackle hunger and appetite, showcasing groundbreaking innovation.

Novo Nordisk shares surged Friday after the pharmaceutical giant announced promising early-stage trial results for amycretin, a groundbreaking weight-loss drug administered through a once-weekly injection. The Danish company revealed that the treatment led to an average weight reduction of 22% in overweight and obese patients over a 36-week trial, marking a significant advancement in the fight against obesity. This compares to a 2% weight gain observed in patients receiving a placebo, showcasing the drug’s potential to reshape the treatment landscape for weight management.

The trial involved 125 participants and highlighted amycretin’s innovative mechanism of action. The drug targets GLP-1, a gut hormone that regulates appetite, and amylin, a hormone produced by the pancreas that influences hunger. This dual-action approach is a step forward from Novo Nordisk’s flagship products, Wegovy, which mimics GLP-1, and Ozempic, its well-known diabetes treatment. Amycretin’s ability to address weight loss through multiple pathways underscores its potential to provide life-changing results for patients struggling with obesity.

Novo Nordisk’s stock rose by 7.13% on Friday, reaching its best single-day performance since March 2024. The initial gains peaked at nearly 14% before settling, reflecting strong investor confidence in the company’s ability to expand its market dominance in obesity therapeutics. Fellow Danish drugmaker Zealand Pharma also benefited from the announcement, with shares climbing 4.7%, while rival Eli Lilly, the maker of obesity drug Zepbound, saw a slight dip in premarket trading.

The pharmaceutical industry has been increasingly focused on developing more effective weight-loss solutions, with obesity affecting millions worldwide and posing significant health risks. Novo Nordisk’s continued innovation in this space has made it a frontrunner, and the results from the amycretin trial further solidify its position. The company is already exploring oral formulations of the drug, which, in a separate early-stage trial announced last September, demonstrated a 13.1% weight reduction over 12 weeks.

Safety and tolerability are key considerations for any obesity treatment, and amycretin appears to meet these benchmarks. The most common side effects observed during the trial were gastrointestinal issues, but most were mild to moderate in severity. These findings align with patient tolerability seen in previous trials for similar drugs, making amycretin a promising addition to Novo Nordisk’s portfolio.

Martin Lange, executive vice president for development at Novo Nordisk, expressed optimism about the trial results. “We are very encouraged by the subcutaneous phase 1b/2a results for amycretin in people living with overweight or obesity,” Lange said in a statement. “The results seen in the trial support the weight-lowering potential of this novel unimolecular GLP-1 and amylin receptor agonist.”

As Novo Nordisk invests further in amycretin, the drug has the potential to transform the obesity treatment market, which is projected to grow substantially in the coming years. The company’s strategic focus on innovative, science-driven solutions positions it to maintain a competitive edge while addressing a critical global health challenge.

Beta Bionics Unveils $112.5 Million IPO Terms, Pioneers Autonomous Insulin Delivery Technology

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Beta Bionics’ iLet Bionic Pancreas is the first FDA-approved device to autonomously determine insulin doses using adaptive algorithms.
– The company plans to raise $112.5 million by offering 7.5 million shares at a price range of $14-$16, achieving a potential market cap of $577.35 million.
– Beta Bionics is part of a surge in biotech IPOs, reflecting investor confidence in transformative medical technologies.

Beta Bionics, the California-based innovator behind the iLet Bionic Pancreas, disclosed plans for a $112.5 million IPO, marking a pivotal moment in healthcare technology. The IPO terms, filed on January 22, 2025, outline the offering of 7.5 million shares priced between $14.00 and $16.00. At the midpoint of $15.00 per share, the company would achieve a market cap of approximately $577.35 million. Trading is set to commence on January 30, 2025, under the proposed ticker symbol “BBNX” on the NASDAQ.

The iLet Bionic Pancreas represents a groundbreaking advancement in diabetes management, being the first FDA-approved insulin delivery device to use adaptive closed-loop algorithms. This innovation enables the device to autonomously determine every insulin dose without requiring users to count carbohydrates, offering a significant improvement in the quality of life for individuals with Type 1 diabetes (T1D).

T1D affects approximately 1.8 million people in the U.S., all of whom rely on daily insulin replacement. The iLet system, cleared by the FDA for patients aged six and older in May 2023, targets this market with a vision to transform diabetes care. Despite its groundbreaking potential, Beta Bionics is currently unprofitable, reporting a net loss of $55.4 million on $53.1 million in revenue for the 12 months ending September 30, 2024.

The IPO, led by BofA Securities, Piper Sandler, Leerink, and Stifel, will provide the funding necessary for Beta Bionics to expand commercialization efforts and further develop its innovative technology. This initiative positions the company at the forefront of the intersection between healthcare and technology, emphasizing the growing demand for automated and personalized solutions in chronic disease management.

Beta Bionics’ IPO is part of a broader trend highlighting the growing prominence of biotech companies in public markets. With the rapid advancements in medical technology and increasing regulatory approvals, the biotech sector has emerged as a key driver of innovation. Biotech IPOs have gained momentum, reflecting strong investor interest in companies addressing critical healthcare needs with cutting-edge solutions.

In particular, biotech firms are increasingly leveraging public funding to accelerate the development and distribution of transformative therapies and devices. The promise of addressing unmet medical needs, coupled with advancements in artificial intelligence and biotechnology, has fueled optimism in the sector. Companies like Beta Bionics exemplify how public markets can empower medical innovation to scale, potentially improving millions of lives.

Investors are drawn to biotech IPOs not only for their market potential but also for their societal impact, as these companies strive to tackle some of the world’s most pressing healthcare challenges. Beta Bionics’ iLet device is a prime example of this trend, offering a glimpse into the future of automated, patient-centric care.

Take a moment to take a look at more emerging growth healthcare companies by taking a look at Noble Capital Markets’ Research Analyst Robert LeBoyer’s coverage list.

Biotech Merger: Salarius and Decoy Unite to Advance AI-Driven Peptide Therapeutics

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Combined company to focus on ML/AI-powered drug development platform
– Decoy shareholders to own 86% of merged entity
– Pipeline includes treatments for respiratory viruses and GI cancers

In a strategic move to accelerate the development of next-generation therapeutics, Salarius Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: SLRX) announced today its merger with privately-held Decoy Therapeutics in an all-stock transaction. The combined company, which will operate under the Decoy Therapeutics name, aims to leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning to revolutionize peptide conjugate drug development.

The merger brings together Decoy’s proprietary IMP3ACT™ platform, which has already attracted approximately $7 million in non-dilutive funding from prestigious organizations including The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, with Salarius’ clinical-stage pipeline and public market presence. Under the terms of the agreement, Decoy shareholders will own approximately 86% of the combined company, with Salarius stockholders retaining the remaining 14%.

“Peptide conjugates have become one of the most important drug classes as measured by prescription rates and revenue growth,” said Rick Pierce, Decoy’s Co-founder and CEO, who will lead the combined company. “Our highly experienced team is excited to be able to unlock significant shareholder value from our IMP3ACT platform, which can rapidly design new peptide conjugate drugs by applying ML and AI tools.”

The merged entity’s immediate focus includes advancing a pan-coronavirus antiviral toward an FDA Investigational New Drug (IND) application within the next 12 months. Additionally, the company plans to develop a broad-acting antiviral targeting flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), as well as a peptide drug conjugate for gastrointestinal cancers.

David Arthur, Salarius’ CEO, emphasized the strategic rationale: “The compelling science supporting Decoy’s peptide conjugate technology and the company’s management team are truly impressive. Based on our diligence, we believe Decoy is poised to advance multiple drug candidates that address significant unmet needs in numerous therapeutic areas.”

The combined company will maintain Salarius’ ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical trial at MD Anderson Cancer Center while exploring strategic alternatives for its seclidemstat program. The merger has received unanimous approval from both companies’ boards of directors and is expected to close following customary closing conditions.

Quanterix’s Game-Changing $220M Merger with Akoya Sets New Path for Disease Detection

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– All-stock merger creates first integrated blood and tissue biomarker detection platform
– Combined company projects $40M in annual cost savings by 2026
– Post-merger entity to maintain $175M cash position with zero debt

In a groundbreaking move that promises to revolutionize disease detection and monitoring, Quanterix Corporation announced today its acquisition of Akoya Biosciences in an all-stock transaction. The merger unites Quanterix’s ultra-sensitive biomarker detection capabilities with Akoya’s spatial biology expertise, creating the first integrated platform for comprehensive blood- and tissue-based protein biomarker analysis.

The strategic combination positions the merged entity at the forefront of liquid biopsy innovation, a market that Quanterix CEO Masoud Toloue believes will eventually eclipse all other diagnostic testing segments combined. “This transaction accelerates our progress by creating the first platform that lets researchers and clinicians track disease progression from tissue to blood,” said Toloue, who will continue as CEO of the combined company.

The deal structure gives Akoya shareholders 0.318 shares of Quanterix common stock for each Akoya share, representing a 19% premium to Akoya’s unaffected stock price from November 14, 2024. Post-merger, current Quanterix shareholders will hold approximately 70% of the combined company, with Akoya shareholders owning the remaining 30%.

Looking ahead, the merged company projects annual cost synergies of $40 million by the end of 2026, with half that amount expected within the first year post-closing. These savings will come from streamlined operations, improved commercial infrastructure, and optimized facilities. The combined entity will maintain a strong financial position with approximately $175 million in cash and no debt at closing.

Akoya CEO Brian McKelligon emphasized the strategic importance of the merger: “We are thrilled to be part of an established leader in the life science tools and diagnostics market that not only strengthens our presence in critical markets but also accelerates our ability to scale, innovate and ultimately bring to market products that impact human health.”

The transaction, expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, will create a powerhouse in biomarker detection with a combined installed base of 2,300 instruments and trailing 12-month revenue of approximately $220 million. The merger has already secured support from shareholders owning more than 50% of Akoya’s common stock.

Healthcare Giants Unite: Transcarent’s $621M Accolade Acquisition Set to Revolutionize Patient Care Navigation

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Deal values Accolade at $7.03 per share, 110% premium over market price
– Combined platform will serve 1,400+ employer and payer clients
– Integration merges AI technology with 16 years of healthcare data expertise

In a landmark move that signals a major shift in digital healthcare delivery, Transcarent announced today its acquisition of healthcare advocacy leader Accolade in a $621 million all-cash deal. The strategic combination promises to transform how millions of Americans navigate and access their healthcare benefits.

The merger brings together Transcarent’s cutting-edge AI-powered WayFinding platform with Accolade’s established expertise in health advocacy and primary care services. This integration aims to address one of healthcare’s most persistent challenges: making quality care more accessible and understandable for consumers while reducing costs for employers and payers.

“Healthcare today is too confusing, too complex, and too costly,” stated Glen Tullman, Transcarent’s CEO. The company’s recent success is evident in its addition of over 500,000 new members in January 2025 alone, demonstrating strong market demand for integrated healthcare solutions.

The combined platform will leverage Accolade’s 16 years of healthcare data and expertise alongside Transcarent’s advanced AI capabilities to create what both companies describe as “One Place for Health and Care.” This unified approach will offer comprehensive services including cancer care, surgery care, weight health programs, and pharmacy benefits, all accessible through a single, intuitive interface.

Accolade CEO Rajeev Singh highlighted the shared vision driving the merger: “The two companies share a focus on embracing AI and advanced technology to change the way consumers experience the healthcare system.” This alignment extends to both companies’ commitment to improving healthcare outcomes while reducing costs.

The transaction, financed through equity funding led by General Catalyst and Glen Tullman’s 62 Ventures, represents a significant premium for Accolade shareholders at $7.03 per share. General Catalyst’s CEO Hemant Taneja will join Transcarent’s Board of Directors, bringing additional strategic oversight to the merged entity.

Looking ahead, the combined company faces the challenge of integrating two distinct technological platforms while maintaining service quality for their existing client base. However, the potential benefits – including reduced healthcare costs, improved access to care, and a more streamlined user experience – could set new standards for digital healthcare delivery.

The deal is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, subject to regulatory approvals and Accolade stockholder approval. Upon completion, Accolade will transition to private ownership and delist from Nasdaq, marking the end of its public company chapter but the beginning of a potentially transformative era in healthcare technology.

MAIA Biotechnology (MAIA) – MAIA Announces Supply Agreement For Second Phase 2 Trial With Three New Indications

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Wednesday, January 08, 2025

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

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

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

Agreement With BeiGene Covers THIO-102 In 3 Indications. MAIA announced a clinical supply agreement with BeiGene to use its checkpoint inhibitor, Tevimbra (tislelizumab) in combination with THIO in the upcoming Phase 2 THIO-102 trial. The trial will test THIO with tislelizumab in three tumor types. MAIA will avoid the expense of the drug while BeiGene will see clinical data from its PD-1 inhibitor, a recent entry to the market.

The Phase 2 THIO-101 Is On Schedule As THIO-101 Preparations Begin. The Phase 2 THIO-101 trial testing the combination of THIO with Libtayo (cemiplimab, an anti-PD-1 checkpoint inhibitor from Regeneron) in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is in its final stages. Interim results over the past year have shown meaningful improvements in overall survival (OS) and several other clinical measures of efficacy. Long term patient data is expected in 2H25.


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Release – Zomedica Announces License & Supply Agreement with Cresilon Inc. to Market and Sell Vetigel(R) Hemostatic Gel in the Animal Health Market

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on ZOM

License Agreement Expands Zomedica’s Portfolio with Revolutionary Hemostatic Technology

ANN ARBOR, MI / ACCESSWIRE / January 7, 2025 / Zomedica Corp. (NYSE American:ZOM) (“Zomedica” or the “Company”), a veterinary health company offering point-of-care diagnostics and therapeutic products for equine and companion animals, today announced that it had entered into a license and supply agreement with Cresilon, Inc. to market and sell the Vetigel® hemostatic gel product line on an exclusive basis in the United States and on a non-exclusive basis outside the United States.

Under the terms of the agreement, Zomedica will assume responsibility for supplying U.S. customers and will collaborate with Cresilon to support customers outside the U.S. This partnership enables Zomedica to further its mission of delivering innovative solutions that enhance patient care and operational efficiency for veterinary practitioners.

Vetigel is a groundbreaking, plant-based formula designed to stop bleeding rapidly when applied directly to the source. Unlike traditional methods, Vetigel halts bleeding in seconds without becoming incorporated into the clot. The product has been validated in clinical studies reported in white papers, demonstrating its ability to save time during surgical procedures and significantly reduce blood loss in patients. Key applications include:

  • Surgical Procedures: Effective in controlling bleeding during soft organ biopsies and excisions;
  • Dental Applications: Successfully used to manage bleeding in routine and advanced dental procedures;
  • Emergency Care: Proven efficacy in treating venous and arterial bleeds; and
  • Liver Biopsy: Demonstrated to stop bleeding faster than competitive hemostatic agents.

“We are excited to add Vetigel® to Zomedica’s portfolio of innovative veterinary products,” said Kevin Klass, Senior Vice President of Sales at Zomedica. “Vetigel’s ability to rapidly stop bleeding across a variety of procedures makes it an invaluable tool for veterinarians, enabling them to enhance patient outcomes while improving surgical efficiency. This partnership with Cresilon allows us to bring cutting-edge solutions to veterinary professionals in the U.S. and beyond.”

Greg Blair, Zomedica’s Senior Vice President, Business Development & Strategic Planning, added, “This new venture with Cresilon is another way Zomedica stays true to our mission of enhancing the quality of care for pets, increasing pet parent satisfaction, and improving the workflow, cash flow, and profitability of veterinary practices. By bringing innovative solutions like Vetigel to market, we are empowering veterinarians to deliver better outcomes and experiences for their patients and clients.”

“This partnership with Zomedica is ideal for the future of Vetigel,” said Joe Landolina, CEO of Cresilon. “Zomedica’s established reputation, robust field sales team, and commitment to veterinary excellence make them the perfect match for expanding the reach of this revolutionary product. Together, we look forward to making Vetigel an essential tool for veterinary practices worldwide.”

Vetigel’s versatility and proven efficacy make it a game-changer for veterinary practices, addressing critical needs in both routine and emergency settings. Zomedica looks forward to expanding access to this exciting technology to more customers leveraging our existing field sales team, frequent trade show programs, and weekly continuing education programs.

For more information about Vetigel hemostatic gel, please visit https://zomedica.com/vetigel.

About Zomedica
Zomedica is a leading equine and companion animal healthcare company dedicated to improving animal health by providing veterinarians innovative therapeutic and diagnostic solutions. Our gold standard PulseVet® shock wave system, which accelerates healing in musculoskeletal conditions, has transformed veterinary therapeutics. Our suite of products also includes the Assisi® Loop line of therapeutic devices and the TRUFORMA® diagnostic platform, the TRUVIEW® digital cytology system, and the VetGuardian® no-touch monitoring system, all designed to empower veterinarians to provide top-tier care. In the aggregate, their total addressable market in the U.S. exceeds $2 billion. Headquartered in Michigan, Zomedica employs approximately 150 people and manufactures and distributes its products from its world-class facilities in Georgia and Minnesota. An NYSE American company, Zomedica grew revenue 33% in 2023 to $25 million and maintains a strong balance sheet with approximately $78 million in liquidity as of September 30, 2024. Zomedica is advancing its product offerings, leveraging strategic acquisitions, and expanding internationally as we work to enhance the quality of care for pets, increase pet parent satisfaction, and improve the workflow, cash flow and profitability of veterinary practices. For more information about Zomedica and our full range of products visit www.zomedica.com.

About Cresilon
Cresilon® is a Brooklyn-based biotechnology company that develops, manufactures, and markets hemostatic medical devices utilizing the company’s proprietary hydrogel technology. The company’s plant-based technology has revolutionized the current standard by stopping bleeding in seconds. The company’s current and future product lines target trauma care, biosurgery, and animal health. Cresilon’s mission is to save lives. For more information about Cresilon, which was named to Fast Company’s annual list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies of 2024, ranking No. 1 in the medical devices category, visit www.cresilon.com.

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Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Except for statements of historical fact, this news release contains certain “forward-looking information” or “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) within the meaning of applicable securities law. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as “plan”, “expect”, “project”, “intend”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “estimate” and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions “may” or “will” occur and include statements relating to our expectations regarding future results. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. We cannot guarantee future results, performance, or achievements. Consequently, there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking information.

Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the statements are made, including assumptions with respect to economic growth, demand for the Company’s products, the Company’s ability to produce and sell its products, sufficiency of our budgeted capital and operating expenditures, the satisfaction by our strategic partners of their obligations under our commercial agreements, our ability to realize upon our business plans and cost control efforts and the impact of COVID-19 on our business, results and financial condition.

Our forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking information. Some of the risks and other factors that could cause the results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking information include, but are not limited to: the outcome of clinical studies, the application of generally accepted accounting principles, which are highly complex and involve many subjective assumptions, estimates, and judgments, uncertainty as to whether our strategies and business plans will yield the expected benefits; uncertainty as to the timing and results of development work and verification and validation studies; uncertainty as to the timing and results of commercialization efforts, as well as the cost of commercialization efforts, including the cost to develop an internal sales force and manage our growth; uncertainty as to our ability to successfully integrate acquisitions; uncertainty as to Cresilon’s ability to supply products in response to customer demand; uncertainty as to the likelihood and timing of any required regulatory approvals, and the availability and cost of capital; the ability to identify and develop and achieve commercial success for new products and technologies; veterinary acceptance of our products, including acceptance of the Vetigel® hemostatic gel line; competition from related products; the level of expenditures necessary to maintain and improve the quality of products and services; changes in technology and changes in laws and regulations; our ability to secure and maintain strategic relationships; performance by our strategic partners of their obligations under our commercial agreements, including meeting distribution obligations; risks pertaining to permits and licensing, intellectual property infringement risks, risks relating to any required clinical trials and regulatory approvals, risks relating to the safety and efficacy of our products, the use of our products, intellectual property protection, risks related to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact upon our business operations generally, including our ability to develop and commercialize our products, and the other risk factors disclosed in our filings with the SEC and under our profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com. Readers are cautioned that this list of risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive.

The forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. We undertake no duty to update any of the forward-looking information to conform such information to actual results or to changes in our expectations except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

Investor Relations Contact:
Zomedica Investor Relations
investors@zomedica.com
1-734-369-2555

SOURCE: Zomedica Corp.