Tag: Biotechnology

Release – Nutriband Granted Patent in Macao for its AVERSA Abuse Deterrent Transdermal Technology

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on NTRB

Nutriband granted patent protecting its AVERSA abuse deterrent platform technology in Macao, a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China

April 11, 2025 07:00 ET 

ORLANDO, Fla., April 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nutriband Inc. (NASDAQ:NTRB)(NASDAQ:NTRBW), a company engaged in the development of prescription transdermal pharmaceutical products, today announced that it has received notification that its patent has been granted in Macao for its patent entitled, “Abuse and Misuse Deterrent Transdermal Systems,” which protects its AVERSA™ abuse deterrent transdermal technology.

The Macao Intellectual Property Office granted patent J/9010 on February 11, 2025 as recorded in Macao Official Bulletin No. 10 on March 5, 2025. Macao is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People’s Republic of China that has its own patent system and patent laws which are separate and distinct from those of mainland China.

The AVERSA™ abuse deterrent technology is now covered by a broad international intellectual property portfolio with patents issued in 46 countries including the United States, Europe, Japan, Korea, Russia, China, Canada, Mexico, and Australia as well as two regions of China: Hong Kong and Macao.

Nutriband’s AVERSA™ abuse-deterrent technology incorporates aversive agents into transdermal patches to prevent the abuse, diversion, misuse, and accidental exposure of drugs with abuse potential including opioids and stimulants. The AVERSA™ abuse-deterrent technology has the potential to improve the safety profile of transdermal drugs susceptible to abuse while making sure that these drugs remain accessible to those patients who really need them.

Nutriband is currently working with its partner Kindeva Drug Delivery, a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization focused on drug-device combination products, to develop its lead product, AVERSA™ Fentanyl, which incorporates Nutriband’s AVERSA™ abuse-deterrent transdermal technology into Kindeva’s FDA-approved transdermal fentanyl patch system.

AVERSA Fentanyl has the potential to be the world’s first abuse-deterrent opioid patch designed to deter the abuse and misuse and reduce the risk of accidental exposure of transdermal fentanyl patches. AVERSA Fentanyl has the potential to reach peak annual US sales of $80 million to $200 million.1

____________________________________________________
1 Health Advances AVERSA Fentanyl market analysis report 2022

About AVERSA™ Abuse-Deterrent Transdermal Technology

Nutriband’s AVERSA™ abuse-deterrent transdermal technology incorporates aversive agents into transdermal patches to prevent the abuse, diversion, misuse, and accidental exposure of drugs with abuse potential. The AVERSA™ abuse-deterrent technology has the potential to improve the safety profile of transdermal drugs susceptible to abuse, such as fentanyl, while making sure that these drugs remain accessible to those patients who really need them. The technology is covered by a broad intellectual property portfolio with patents granted in the United States, Europe, Japan, Korea, Russia, China, Canada, Mexico, and Australia.

About Nutriband Inc.

We are primarily engaged in the development of a portfolio of transdermal pharmaceutical products. Our lead product under development is an abuse-deterrent fentanyl patch incorporating our AVERSA™ abuse-deterrent technology. AVERSA™ technology can be incorporated into any transdermal patch to prevent the abuse, misuse, diversion, and accidental exposure of drugs with abuse potential.

The Company’s website is www.nutriband.com. Any material contained in or derived from the Company’s websites or any other website is not part of this press release.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this press release, including, without limitation, statements containing the words ‘’believes,” “anticipates,” “expects” and words of similar import, constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements involve both known and unknown risks and uncertainties. The Company’s actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in its forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including those including the Company’s ability to develop its proposed abuse-deterrent fentanyl transdermal system and other proposed products, its ability to obtain patent protection for its abuse technology, its ability to obtain the necessary financing to develop products and conduct the necessary clinical testing, its ability to obtain Federal Food and Drug Administration approval to market any product it may develop in the United States and to obtain any other regulatory approval necessary to market any product in other countries, including countries in Europe, its ability to market any product it may develop, its ability to create, sustain, manage or forecast its growth; its ability to attract and retain key personnel; changes in the Company’s business strategy or development plans; competition; business disruptions; adverse publicity and international, national and local general economic and market conditions and risks generally associated with an undercapitalized developing company, as well as the risks contained under “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in the Company’s Form S-1, Form 10-K for the year ended January 31, 2024, filed May 1, 2024, the Forms 10-Q’s filed subsequent to the Form 10-K in 2024, and the Company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Except as required by applicable law, we undertake no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements to reflect any event or circumstance that may arise after the date hereof.

Contact Information:

Nutriband Inc.
Phone: 407-377-6695
Email: Support@nutriband.com

SOURCE: Nutriband Inc.

Release – Unicycive Presents New Patient-Level Data Underscoring Challenges Faced with Current Phosphate Binders and Highlighting the Potential of Oxylanthanum Carbonate to Address Barriers to Adherence for Patients with Hyperphosphatemia on Dialysis

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on UNCY

April 10, 2025 8:00am EDT Download as PDF

– Patient-reported outcomes from Phase 2 trial of oxylanthanum carbonate (OLC) demonstrate high patient satisfaction with OLC compared to their prior phosphate lowering therapy –

– Findings from a patient survey conducted in partnership with the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) showed excessive number and large size of phosphate binder pills to be top barriers to consistent medication use –

– Results to be presented in poster sessions at the NKF Spring Clinical Meetings –

LOS ALTOS, Calif., April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Unicycive Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: UNCY), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing therapies for patients with kidney disease, today announced new patient-reported outcomes data from its pivotal Phase 2 study of OLC as well as from a new survey conducted by the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) with sponsorship from Unicycive. OLC is an investigational treatment for hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on dialysis. The findings will be presented today in poster sessions at the NKF Spring Clinical Meetings taking place in Boston.

OLC leverages proprietary nanoparticle technology to reduce the number and size of pills that patients must take. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) accepted the New Drug Application (NDA) for OLC for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia in patients with CKD on dialysis and set a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) Target Action Date of June 28, 2025.

“As many as two out of three of patients with end-stage kidney disease undergoing dialysis don’t consistently adhere to their phosphate binder treatment; common barriers are side effects, pill burden, and unpalatable formulations,” said Dr. Pablo Pergola, MD, PhD, Research Director, Clinical Advancement Center, Renal Associates, P.A., and principal investigator for the UNI-OLC-201 trial. “These new patient-reported outcomes underscore the potential of OLC to enhance adherence, reduce treatment burden and improve patient satisfaction. OLC could be a welcome new phosphate binder choice for patients with hyperphosphatemia due to its favorable tolerability, small, easy-to-swallow size and low pill burden.”

Patient-Reported Outcomes Data
Patient-reported outcomes from the open-label Phase 2 UNI-OLC-201 clinical trial compared patients’ satisfaction with their pre-trial phosphate binders versus OLC at the end of the study based on responses to a questionnaire completed by 80 patients. This research will be presented by Guru Reddy, PhD., in the poster titled “Patient-Reported Outcomes in a Pivotal Clinical Study of Hyperphosphatemia: Oxylanthanum Carbonate Reduces Pill Burden by Half and Improves Adherence” (Poster # G-018) on Thursday, April 10, from 5:15–7:30 p.m. ET.

Results:

  • OLC reduced pill burden by 50% – patients took a median of three tablets of OLC per day versus six tablets of phosphate binders prior to the trial.
  • OLC improved adherence – 70% of patients reported consistent adherence with OLC compared to 58% who reported adherence to their pre-trial phosphate binders.
  • OLC was preferred – 79% of patients indicated a preference for OLC versus 4% who preferred their pre-trial phosphate binder medications.
  • OLC improved patient satisfaction – 98% of patients agreed that OLC was easy to take versus 38% who said that about their pre-trial phosphate binder medication, and 89% reported they were satisfied with OLC treatment versus 49% who were satisfied with pre-trial phosphate binders.

Patient Survey Results
In partnership with Unicycive, NKF conducted an online survey of patients undergoing dialysis to assess the top barriers to phosphate binder adherence and to better understand what treatment characteristics could improve adherence. A total of 200 patients aged 40 and older completed the online survey from February 15 to May 16, 2024. This research will be presented by Dr. Hill Gallant, PhD, RD, Associate Professor of Nutrition in the Department of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, in a poster titled “Pill Burden and Large Tablet Size Are Key Barriers to Phosphate Binder Adherence in Dialysis Patients” (Poster # G-297) on Thursday, April 10, from 5:15-7:30 p.m. ET.

Results showed:

  • Forgetfulness (63%) was the primary barrier to consistent medication use followed by excessive pill number (47%) and large pill size (47%).
  • Additional barriers to adherence included difficulties carrying pills (45%), gastrointestinal side effects (29%), unpleasant taste (20%), social embarrassment when taking medication (13%), and cost (10%).
  • Patients were more likely to prefer medication regimens with fewer and smaller pills, underscoring the impact of pill burden on adherence.

About Oxylanthanum Carbonate (OLC)
Oxylanthanum carbonate is a next-generation lanthanum-based phosphate binding agent utilizing proprietary nanoparticle technology being developed for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). OLC has over forty issued and granted patents globally. Its potential best-in-class profile may have meaningful patient adherence benefits over currently available treatment options as it requires a lower pill burden for patients in terms of number and size of pills per dose that are swallowed instead of chewed. Based on a survey conducted in 2022, Nephrologists stated that the greatest unmet need in the treatment of hyperphosphatemia with phosphate binders is a lower pill burden and better patient compliance.1 The global market opportunity for treating hyperphosphatemia is projected to be in excess of $2.28 billion, with the North America accounting for more than $1 billion of that total.2 Despite the availability of several FDA-cleared medications, 75 percent of U.S. dialysis patients fail to achieve the target phosphorus levels recommended by published medical guidelines.3

Unicycive is seeking FDA approval of OLC via the 505(b)(2) regulatory pathway. The NDA submission package is based on data from three clinical studies (a Phase 1 study in healthy volunteers, a bioequivalence study in healthy volunteers, and a tolerability study of OLC in CKD patients on dialysis), multiple preclinical studies, and the chemistry, manufacturing and controls (CMC) data. OLC is protected by a strong global patent portfolio including issued patents on composition of matter with exclusivity until 2031, and with the potential for patent term extension until 2035.

About Hyperphosphatemia
Hyperphosphatemia is a serious medical condition that occurs in nearly all patients with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). If left untreated, hyperphosphatemia leads to secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT), which then results in renal osteodystrophy (a condition similar to osteoporosis and associated with significant bone disease, fractures and bone pain); cardiovascular disease with associated hardening of arteries and atherosclerosis (due to deposition of excess calcium-phosphorus complexes in soft tissue). Importantly, hyperphosphatemia is independently associated with increased mortality for patients with chronic kidney disease on dialysis. Based on available clinical data to date, over 80% of patients show signs of cardiovascular calcification by the time they become dependent on dialysis.4

Dialysis patients are already at an increased risk for cardiovascular disease (because of underlying diseases such as diabetes and hypertension), and hyperphosphatemia further exacerbates this. Treatment of hyperphosphatemia is aimed at lowering serum phosphate levels via two means: (1) restricting dietary phosphorus intake; and (2) using, on a daily basis, and with each meal, oral phosphate binding drugs that facilitate fecal elimination of dietary phosphate rather than its absorption from the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream.

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. Positive pivotal trial results were reported in June 2024 for OLC, and a New Drug Application (NDA) is under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) Target Action Date of June 28, 2025. OLC is protected by a strong global patent portfolio including an issued patent on composition of matter with exclusivity until 2031, and with the potential patent term extension until 2035 after OLC approval. Unicycive’s second asset, UNI-494, is a patent-protected new chemical entity in clinical development for the treatment of conditions related to acute kidney injury. UNI-494 has successfully completed a Phase 1 trial. For more information, please visit Unicycive.com and follow us on LinkedIn, X, 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, 2024, 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.

1Reason Research, LLC 2022 survey. Results here.
2 Fortune Business Insights™, Hyperphosphatemia Treatment Market, 2023-2030
3 US-DOPPS Practice Monitor, May 2021; http://www.dopps.org/DPM
4 Block GA, Klassen PS, Lazarus JM, Ofsthun N, Lowrie EG, Chertow GM. Mineral metabolism, mortality, and morbidity in maintenance hemodialysis. J Am Soc Nephrol. 2004 Aug;15(8):2208-18. doi: 10.1097/01.ASN.0000133041.27682.A2. PMID: 15284307.

Investor Contacts:
Kevin Gardner
LifeSci Advisors
kgardner@lifesciadvisors.com

Media Contact:
Rachel Visi
Real Chemistry
redery@realchemistry.com

Primary Logo

Source: Unicycive Therapeutics, Inc.

Released April 10, 2025

Release – GeoVax Receives USPTO Notice of Allowance for Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever Vaccine Patent

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on GOVX

 

  • Last updated: 09 April 2025
  • Created: 09 April 2025
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Continues to Strengthen its Pandemic Preparedness and Biodefense Vaccine Portfolio

ATLANTA, GA, April 9, 2025 – GeoVax Labs, Inc. (Nasdaq: GOVX), a biotechnology company developing immunotherapies and vaccines against cancers and infectious diseases, today announced that the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has issued a Notice of Allowance for Patent Application No. 18/394,555 titled “Replication-Deficient Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA) Expressing Marburg Virus Glycoprotein (GP) and Matrix Protein (VP40).” The allowed claims generally cover prevention of Marburg virus infection utilizing GeoVax’s proprietary MVA-based Marburg vaccine.

Previous presentations of data from nonhuman primate studies demonstrated that immunization with GeoVax’s vaccine candidate, GEO-MM01, conferred 80% survival in cynomolgus macaques following a lethal dose of Marburg virus. Vaccination protected from viremia, weight loss and death following challenge with a lethal Marburg virus dose. Evaluation of immune responses following vaccination demonstrated the presence of both neutralizing antibodies and functional T cells, indicating a breadth of responses that combine for optimal protection. GeoVax is currently evaluating study designs to assess the potential for administering different dose levels of the vaccine and different routes of vaccine delivery to optimize utility and efficacy.

David Dodd, GeoVax President and CEO, commented, “While our focus and development priorities continue to be our next-generation COVID-19 vaccine, our Mpox/smallpox vaccine and cancer immunotherapy programs, developing vaccines against lethal hemorrhagic fever viruses represents our commitment to addressing highly fatal endemic threats throughout the world. Such viruses have mortality rates between 50%-90% depending on the specific virus strain. Our team is committed to supporting the successful advancement of such a vaccine, as we recognize the critically important medical and biodefense need, reflected by the inclusion of Marburg virus in the FDA Priority Review Voucher program. Within the critically needed area of hemorrhagic fever viruses, GeoVax has successfully developed vaccine candidates addressing Ebola Zaire, Ebola Sudan and Marburg, all having demonstrated impressive results when evaluated in non-human primates. The USPTO’s recognition of our Marburg vaccine technology further validates our approach and underscores the growing value of our wholly owned, co-owned, and in-licensed intellectual property estate, now standing at over 135 granted or pending patent applications spread over 23 patent families.”

Dodd continued, “Our focus extends beyond individual product candidates—we are building a broad, durable defense platform against hemorrhagic fever viruses. We believe this strategy, supported by compelling preclinical data and prioritized by global health authorities, positions GeoVax to play a central role in pandemic preparedness and biodefense.”

About Marburg Virus

Marburg virus (MARV) is a hemorrhagic fever virus of the Filoviridae family, which also includes Ebola virus, and causes severe human disease with up to a 90% fatality rate. The Marburg virus is transmitted to people from fruit bats, and human-to-human transmission occurs through direct contact with bodily fluids, or contaminated surfaces and materials. MARV is rated by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a Risk Group 4 Pathogen. In the United States, the NIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases ranks it as a Category A Priority Pathogen and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists it as a Category A Bioterrorism Agent. MARV typically appears in sporadic outbreaks throughout Africa and the virus continues to pose potential public health and biodefense threats. There are currently no licensed vaccines or therapeutics against the diseases caused by MARV.

About the GeoVax MVA Platform

GeoVax’s vaccine platform utilizes modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA), a large virus capable of carrying several vaccine antigens, that expresses proteins that assemble into virus-like particles (VLP) immunogens in the person receiving the vaccine. The production of VLPs in the person being vaccinated can mimic the virus production that occurs in a natural infection, stimulating both the humoral and cellular arms of the immune system to recognize, prevent, and control the target infection. The MVA-VLP derived vaccines can elicit durable immune responses in the host similar to a live-attenuated virus, while providing the safety characteristics of a replication-defective vector.

About GeoVax

GeoVax Labs, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel vaccines for many of the world’s most threatening infectious diseases and therapies for solid tumor cancers. The company’s lead clinical program is GEO-CM04S1, a next-generation COVID-19 vaccine for which GeoVax was recently awarded a BARDA-funded contract to sponsor a 10,000-participant Phase 2b clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of GEO-CM04S1 versus an approved COVID-19 vaccine. In addition, GEO-CM04S1 is currently in three Phase 2 clinical trials, being evaluated as (1) 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, (2) a booster vaccine in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and (3) a more robust, durable COVID-19 booster among healthy patients who previously received the mRNA vaccines. In oncology the lead clinical program is evaluating a novel oncolytic solid tumor gene-directed therapy, Gedeptin®, having recently completed a multicenter Phase 1/2 clinical trial for advanced head and neck cancers. A Phase 2 clinical trial in first recurrent head and neck cancer, evaluating Gedeptin® combined with an immune checkpoint inhibitor is planned. GeoVax has a strong IP portfolio in support of its technologies and product candidates, holding worldwide rights for its technologies and products. The Company has a leadership team who have driven significant value creation across multiple life science companies over the past several decades. For more information about the current status of our clinical trials and other updates, 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:                           

info@geovax.com                           

678-384-7220

Investor Relations Contact:           

geovax@precisionaq.com 

212-698-8696

Release – MAIA Biotechnology CEO Details Anticipated Clinical Milestones for Novel Cancer Immunotherapy in 2025 Letter to Shareholders

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on MAIA

April 01, 2025 8:30am EDT Download as PDF

  • Lead compound THIO (ateganosine) is the only clinical-stage telomere-targeting anticancer agent throughout the field of cancer discovery
  • Potential FDA filings in 2026 for accelerated approval from THIO-101 and early full approval from THIO-104
  • Full Shareholder Letter available in Investors section of MAIA’s corporate website

CHICAGO–(BUSINESS WIRE)– MAIA Biotechnology, Inc., (NYSE American: MAIA) (“MAIA” or the “Company”), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing targeted immunotherapies for cancer, today published a 2025 Shareholder Letter by CEO Vlad Vitoc, M.D. detailing the Company’s key milestones for 2025 including several clinical trials and regulatory pathways.

“MAIA continues to bring innovation to the biotech industry as one of the earliest pioneers of telomere targeting as a strategy for cancer treatment. Our lead candidate is THIO (ateganosine), the only clinical-stage telomere-targeting anticancer agent throughout the field of cancer discovery,” states Dr. Vitoc at the opening of his shareholder letter. “We are working on multiple potential regulatory pathways that could provide accelerated approval and robust exclusivity for THIO in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Multiple milestones this year are expected to pave the path toward a potential FDA decision as early as next year.”

Letter Highlights

  • Phase 2 trial THIO-101 expansion underway; potential filing in 2026 for accelerated approval.
  • Phase 3 THIO-104 set to begin in mid-2025; potential filing in 2026 for early full approval.
  • Lead asset THIO shows exceptional efficacy in advanced NSCLC.
  • Multiple THIO trials planned in additional cancer indications.
  • Significant market opportunity in hard-to-treat cancers with unmet medical needs.

MAIA’s letter to shareholders is available at ir.maiabiotech.com.

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 ateganosine (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.

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

Source: MAIA Biotechnology, Inc.

Released April 1, 2025

Unicycive Therapeutics (UNCY) – FY2024 Reported As The Countdown To OLC PDUDFA Date Begins

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Tuesday, April 01, 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.

FY2025 Made Significant Progress. Unicycive reported a 4Q loss of $21.7 million or $(0.20) per share and a loss of $37.8 million or $(0.56) per share for FY2024. Cash on December 31, 2024 was $26.1 million. The most significant development, in our opinion, is the June 28, 2025, PFUFA date by which the FDA is required to answer to the Oxylanthanum (OLC) NDA.

OLC Launch is expected in Late 2025. The PDUFA date of June 28, 2025, is the statutory date by which the FDA is required to answer the NDA application. We expect OLC to be approved, based on its clinical trial data showing equivalence to lanthanum (Fosrenol, from Shire) with easier dosing, better patient compliance, and more patients reaching the target range for phosphate levels. An estimated 70% of the renal dialysis patients do not have adequate phosphate control. We believe its lower pill burden and improved patient compliance will lead to better outcomes with fewer morbidity events, leading to a strong market share.


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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. 

Cocrystal Pharma (COCP) – FY2024 Reported With Clinical Trials On Schedule

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Tuesday, April 01, 2025

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), hepatitis C viruses and noroviruses. 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.

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.

Fourth Quarter and FY2024 Reported. Cocrystal reported a 4Q24 loss of $3.1 million or $(0.31) per share and a FY2024 loss of $17.5 million or $(1.72) per share. The company reviewed the progress it has made in 4Q24 and YTD with CC-988 for norovirus/coronavirus and with CPI-42344 for influenza. The cash balance on December 31, 2024, was $9.9 million.

Human Challenge Study Planned For CC-988 In Norovirus. Cocrystal is planning a human challenge study to test CC-988, its protease inhibitor for norovirus and coronaviruses. The new trial follows the results of the Phase 1 ascending dose studies announced in December 2024, showing safety and tolerability. Results from an additional high-dose cohort are expected in 2Q25. The Phase 2a human challenge study is expected to begin later in 2025.


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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. 

Release – Unicycive Therapeutics Announces Full Year 2024 Financial Results and Provides Business Update

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on UNCY

March 31, 2025 7:00am EDT Download as PDF

      – Oxylanthanum carbonate (OLC) New Drug Application for hyperphosphatemia in chronic kidney disease patients on dialysis under review by the FDA with a PDUFA target action date of June 28, 2025

– Commercial planning in preparation for anticipated commercial launch of OLC in late 2025

LOS ALTOS, Calif., March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Unicycive Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: UNCY), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing therapies for patients with kidney disease, today announced its financial results for the full year ended December 31, 2024, and provided a business update.

“2025 is positioned to be a transformational year for Unicycive, with the near-term potential for FDA approval and commercial launch of oxylanthanum carbonate (OLC),” said Shalabh Gupta, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Unicycive. “For approximately 75% of people in the U.S. with chronic kidney disease (CKD) on dialysis, hyperphosphatemia remains uncontrolled because of challenges with currently available phosphate binders, potentially increasing their risk of hospitalization and mortality. If approved, we believe OLC is positioned to be an important new option for these patients, distinguished by its high potency and a low pill burden. We continue to actively prepare to launch OLC, including educating key stakeholders on existing OLC data and preparing our commercial infrastructure to rapidly make OLC available to patients upon approval.”

Key Highlights & Upcoming Milestones

  • Announced the acceptance of the New Drug Application (NDA) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for OLC for the treatment of hyperphosphatemia in patients with CKD on dialysis. The FDA set a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) target action date of June 28, 2025.
  • Unicycive’s partner in the Republic of Korea, Lotus Pharmaceutical, submitted an NDA for OLC with the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety and anticipates an application decision in June of 2026. Unicycive has an exclusive license agreement with Lotus Pharmaceutical for the development, registration, and commercialization of OLC in the Republic of Korea and has the potential to receive up to $3.7 million in milestone payments and tiered royalties based on regulatory and commercial achievements.
  • Continued efforts to establish an efficient commercial infrastructure, including building key functions, engaging directly with prescribers and other stakeholders and preparing to support market access are ongoing. Expanded awareness of OLC and its potential to address significant needs for CKD patients through publication of data, including in the peer-reviewed journals Clinical Therapeutics, Clinical and Translational Science, and Journal of Nephrological Science; and late-breaker presentation at the American Society of Nephrology (ASN) Kidney Week 2024. These data included clinical, preclinical and patient survey/literature review data that highlighted OLC’s favorable safety and tolerability profile, efficacy in controlling serum phosphate levels, and the need for new options to overcome the current limitations of phosphate binders and their effects on patients’ quality of life. The data also demonstrated OLC’s bioequivalence to approved lanthanum carbonate chewable tablets, and the potential benefits of combination treatment of OLC and tenapanor on phosphate management.
  • Successfully completed Phase 1 study of UNI-494 in healthy volunteers, which demonstrated favorable tolerability, with fast absorption and rapid metabolization. Data from the Phase 1 study and supportive preclinical data were presented at ASN 2024 and published in EC Pharmacology and Toxicology.

Financial Results for the Year Ended December 31, 2024

Licensing revenues decreased approximately $0.7 million, from the year ended December 31, 2023 due to an upfront payment of approximately $0.7 million associated with a licensing agreement entered into with Lotus International Pte Ltd. in February 2023. There was no comparable revenue earned in the current period.

Research and Development (R&D) expenses were $20.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $12.9 million for the same period in 2023. The increase in research and development expenses was primarily due to an increase in drug development and labor costs.

General and Administrative (G&A) expenses were $12.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $8.5 million for the same period in 2023. The increase was primarily due to an increase in labor, consulting and professional services costs.

Other Income was $4.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to $9.8 million in the same period in 2023 due primarily to a decrease in the fair value of our warrant liability.

Net loss attributable to common stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $37.8 million, or $0.56 per share of common stock, compared to a net loss attributable to common stockholders of $31.4 million, or $1.28 per share of common stock for the same period in 2023. The increased net loss for the year ended December 31, 2024 was attributable primarily to an increase in drug development costs.

As of December 31, 2024, cash and cash equivalents totaled $26.1 million. The Company believes that it has 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. Positive pivotal trial results were reported in June 2024 for OLC, and a New Drug Application (NDA) is under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) Target Action Date of June 28, 2025. OLC is protected by a strong global patent portfolio including an issued patent on composition of matter with exclusivity until 2031, and with the potential patent term extension until 2035 after OLC approval. Unicycive’s second asset, UNI-494, is a patent-protected new chemical entity in clinical development for the treatment of conditions related to acute kidney injury. UNI-494 has successfully completed a Phase 1 trial. For more information, please visit Unicycive.com and follow us on LinkedIn, X, 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; our dependence on third parties for manufacturing; 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; market acceptance of our products; 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, 2024, 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 Contacts:

Kevin Gardner
LifeSci Advisors
kgardner@lifesciadvisors.com

Media Contact:

Rachel Visi
Real Chemistry
redery@realchemistry.com

SOURCE: Unicycive Therapeutics, Inc.

Release – Gyre Therapeutics Announces NMPA Approval for Clinical Trial Evaluating Pirfenidone Capsules in Oncology-Related Pulmonary Complications

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on GYRE

March 31, 2025

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SAN DIEGO, March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gyre Therapeutics (“Gyre”) (Nasdaq: GYRE), an innovative, commercial-stage biotechnology company focused on organ fibrosis, today announced that the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of the People’s Republic of China (“PRC”) has approved its clinical trial application for a potential new indication for pirfenidone in oncology-related pulmonary complications. The trial will evaluate pirfenidone capsules for the treatment of radiation-induced lung injury (RILI), with or without immune-related pneumonitis (CIP).

This regulatory milestone marks the expansion of pirfenidone beyond its established role in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) into the oncology supportive care space, offering a novel lung-protective strategy for cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy or immunotherapy.

In accordance with the NMPA approval, Gyre intends to pursue an adaptive Phase 2/3 clinical trial design, combining dose exploration with efficacy confirmation, to efficiently evaluate pirfenidone’s potential in this new indication.

Radiation-Induced Lung Injury (RILI): Radiation therapy is a cornerstone of lung cancer treatment. However, 5%–25% of patients experience lung damage due to radiation exposure, limiting the ability to escalate doses and thereby compromising treatment efficacy.

Checkpoint Inhibitor Pneumonitis (CIP): Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized cancer treatment, but 13%–19% of patients develop CIP. This condition accounts for approximately 35% of immune-related adverse event (irAE) deaths and often necessitates treatment discontinuation.

Currently, no targeted therapies exist for lung injuries caused by radiation or immunotherapy. Distinguishing between RILI and CIP is challenging, particularly when both occur concurrently. Corticosteroids remain the standard of care despite significant long-term side effects. By targeting and inhibiting fibrotic pathways, pirfenidone may address the root cause of lung injury progression, offering a new treatment option for patients receiving radiation or immunotherapy.

Gyre anticipates initiating the trial in the second half of 2025 at leading academic and oncology centers across the PRC.

About Pirfenidone
Pirfenidone is an orally administered small molecule approved for the treatment of IPF. It works by inhibiting TGF-β signaling and fibroblast proliferation. The drug has demonstrated clinical benefit in slowing lung function decline in IPF and is now being evaluated for oncology-related pulmonary complications. Gyre has held first-in-class status for pirfenidone in the PRC since its original approval in 2011, underscoring its pioneering role in treating fibrotic lung diseases.

About Gyre Therapeutics
Gyre Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company headquartered in San Diego, CA, primarily focused on the development and commercialization of F351 (Hydronidone) for MASH-associated fibrosis in the U.S. Gyre’s strategy builds on its experience in mechanistic studies using MASH rodent models and clinical studies in CHB-induced liver fibrosis. In the PRC, Gyre is advancing a broad pipeline through its indirect controlling interest in Gyre Pharmaceuticals, including therapeutic expansions of ETUARY, and development programs for F573, F528, and F230.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which statements are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties and are based on estimates and assumptions. All statements, other than statements of historical facts included in this press release, are forward-looking statements, including statements concerning: the expectations regarding Gyre’s research and development efforts and timing of expected clinical trials, including timing of a clinical trial initiation in the second half of 2025. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “objective,” “intend,” “should,” “could,” “can,” “would,” “expect,” “believe,” “design,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “plan” or the negative of these terms, and similar expressions intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect our plans, estimates, and expectations, as of the date of this press release. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements expressed or implied in this press release. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties, which include, without limitation: Gyre’s ability to execute on its clinical development strategies; positive results from a clinical trial may not necessarily be predictive of the results of future or ongoing clinical trials; the timing or likelihood of regulatory filings and approvals; competition from competing products; the impact of general economic, health, industrial or political conditions in the United States or internationally; the sufficiency of Gyre’s capital resources and its ability to raise additional capital. Additional risks and factors are identified under “Risk Factors” in Gyre’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 filed on March 17, 2025 and in other filings the Company may make with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Gyre expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

For Investors:
Stephen Jasper
stephen@gilmartinir.com

Release – Cocrystal Pharma Reports 2024 Financial Results and Provides Updates on its Antiviral Drug-Development Programs

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on COCP

March 31, 2025

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BOTHELL, Wash., March 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cocrystal Pharma, Inc. (Nasdaq: COCP) (“Cocrystal” or the “Company”) reports financial results for the 12 months ended December 31, 2024, and provides updates on its antiviral product pipeline, upcoming milestones and business activities.

“Our novel, potent antiviral compounds for norovirus, influenza and coronavirus address critical gaps in global health where effective treatments or vaccines are currently lacking,” said Sam Lee, Ph.D., President and co-CEO of Cocrystal. “We plan to initiate a norovirus human challenge study in the U.S. later this year to evaluate our pan-viral protease inhibitor CDI-988 for the potential treatment and prevention of norovirus infection. The big surge in reported norovirus outbreaks is possibly due to norovirus variants switching from GII.4 to GII.17, as well as increased social gathering after the COVID-19 pandemic. Norovirus is the most common cause of acute gastroenteritis and there are no approved therapeutics or vaccines, making it a compelling target.

“We are optimistic that our oral PB2 inhibitor CC-42344 will have potential as a treatment for seasonal influenza A infection and pandemic avian influenza,” he added. “Following the unexpected low infection rate from the Phase 2a challenge study that precluded us from obtaining meaningful human efficacy data, we plan to continue the influenza challenge study.”

“News coverage in recent months of norovirus and avian flu outbreaks underscore the urgent need for new antiviral solutions,” said James Martin, CFO and co-CEO of Cocrystal. “We are advancing our first- and best-in-class antiviral drug compounds that were designed using our Nobel Prize-winning structure-based technologies for these high-value viral targets that address multibillion-dollar markets.”

Antiviral Product Pipeline Overview

We apply our proprietary structure-based drug discovery platform technology for developing broad-spectrum antivirals that inhibit viral replication. By designing and selecting candidates that target highly conserved regions of the viral enzymes, we seek to develop drugs that are effective against the virus and mutations of the virus, while reducing 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 major global health threat that may become more challenging to treat 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. On average, about 8% of the U.S. population contracts influenza each season. In addition to the health risk, influenza is responsible for an estimated $11.2 billion in direct and indirect costs in the U.S. annually.

  • Oral CC-42344 for the treatment of pandemic and seasonal influenza A
    • Our novel PB2 inhibitor CC-42344 showed excellent in vitro antiviral activity against pandemic and seasonal influenza A strains, as well as strains that are resistant to Tamiflu® and Xofluza®.
    • In December 2022 we reported favorable safety and tolerability results from the oral CC-42344 Phase 1 study.
    • In December 2023 we began a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase 2a human challenge study to evaluate the safety, tolerability, viral and clinical measurements of CC-42344 in influenza A-infected subjects in the United Kingdom, following authorization from the UK Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
    • In May 2024 we completed enrollment in the Phase 2a human challenge study.
    • In June 2024 we reported that in vitro studies demonstrated CC-42344 inhibits the activity of the highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5N1) PB2 protein identified in humans exposed to infected dairy cows.
    • In December 2024 we announced a plan to extend the CC-42344 human challenge study due to unexpectedly low influenza infection among study participants.
  • Inhaled CC-42344 as prophylaxis and treatment for pandemic and seasonal influenza A
    • Our preclinical testing showed superior pulmonary pharmacology with CC-42344 including high exposure to drug and a long half-life.
    • We have completed CC-42344 inhalation formulation development and GLP toxicology studies.
  • Influenza A/B program
    • Our efforts to develop a preclinical lead of novel influenza replication inhibitors are ongoing.

Norovirus Program

Norovirus symptoms can include severe nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. An estimated 685 million cases and an estimated 50,000 child deaths worldwide are attributed to norovirus each year, with an estimated societal cost of $60 billion. By targeting viral replication, we believe it is possible to develop an effective treatment and/or prophylaxis for closed environments for all genogroups of norovirus.

  • Oral pan-viral protease inhibitor CDI-988 for the treatment of noroviruses and coronaviruses
    • Our novel, broad-spectrum protease inhibitor CDI-988 is being evaluated as a potential oral treatment for noroviruses and coronaviruses.
    • CDI-988 has shown in vitro pan-viral activity against multiple norovirus strains.
    • 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 pharmacokinetics (PK) of oral CDI-988 in healthy volunteers.
    • In August 2023 we announced our selection of CDI-988 as our lead compound for the oral treatment for noroviruses, in addition to coronaviruses.
    • In July 2024 we reported favorable safety and tolerability results from the single-ascending dose cohorts in the Phase 1 study.
    • In December 2024 we reported favorable safety and tolerability results from the multiple-ascending dose cohorts of the Phase 1 study and the addition of a higher-dose cohort.
    • We expect to report topline results from the high-dose healthy volunteer cohort with CDI-988 in the second quarter of 2025.
    • We plan to initiate a human challenge study in the U.S. in 2025 to evaluate CDI-988 as a norovirus treatment and prophylaxis.

SARS-CoV-2 and Other Coronavirus Programs

By targeting viral replication enzymes and proteases, we believe it is possible to develop effective treatments for all diseases caused by coronaviruses including SARS-CoV-2 and its variants, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). CDI-988 showed potent in vitro pan-viral activity against common human coronaviruses, rhinoviruses and respiratory enteroviruses, as well as against noroviruses. The global COVID-19 therapeutics market is estimated to exceed $16 billion annually by the end of 2031.

  • Oral pan-viral protease inhibitor CDI-988 for the treatment of coronaviruses and noroviruses
    • CDI-988 exhibited superior in vitro potency against SARS-CoV-2 and demonstrated a favorable safety profile and PK properties.
    • In September 2023 we dosed the first healthy subject in our dual pan-norovirus/pan-coronavirus oral CDI-988 study, which is expected to serve as a Phase 1 study for both indications.
    • In July 2024 we reported favorable safety and tolerability results from the single-ascending dose cohort in the Phase 1 study.
    • In December 2024 we reported favorable safety and tolerability results from the multiple-ascending dose cohorts of the Phase 1 study and the addition of a higher-dose cohort.
    • We expect to report topline results from the higher dose cohort in the CDI-988 Phase 1 study in the second quarter of 2025.

2024 Financial Results

Research and development (R&D) expenses for 2024 were $12.5 million, compared with $15.2 million for 2023. The decrease was primarily due to the timing of clinical study costs. General and administrative (G&A) expenses for 2024 were $5.3 million, compared with $6.0 million for 2023, with the $0.7 million decrease primarily due to a reduction of insurance costs and other expenses.

During 2023 the Company received $2.6 million related to litigation with an insurer.

The net loss for 2024 was $17.5 million, or $1.72 per share, compared with the net loss for 2023 of $18.0 million, or $1.87 per share. For 2024 the year over-year-net loss was reduced by $3.1 million exclusive of the $2.6 million received in 2023 noted above.

Cocrystal reported unrestricted cash as of December 31, 2024 of $9.9 million, compared with $26.4 million as of December 31, 2023. Net cash used in operating activities for 2024 was $16.5 million, compared with $14.7 million for 2023. The Company had working capital of $9.2 million and 10.2 million common shares outstanding as of December 31, 2024.

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. 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 product 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 2025, our plans regarding further clinical development of such product candidates, and the viability and efficacy of potential treatments for diseases our product candidates are designed to treat, and expectations for the markets for certain therapeutics. 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 our need for additional capital to fund our operations over the next 12 months, inflation, the possibility of a recession, interest rate increases, imposed and threated tariffs, and geopolitical conflicts including those 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 including any adverse impacts on our ability to obtain raw materials for and otherwise 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 progress and results of the studies for CC-42344 and CDI-988 including the delay of the Phase 2a study for CC-42344 which may require us to incur substantial additional costs, the ability of us and our CROs to recruit volunteers for, and to otherwise 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 including potential downward pressure on government spending on the biopharmaceutical and healthcare industry based on policies and actions taken by the Trump Administration in the U.S., the impact of the Trump Administration’s policies and actions on regulation affecting the FDA and other healthcare agencies and potential staffing issues resulting therefrom, potential mutations in a virus we are targeting that may result in variants that are resistant to a product candidate we develop, and the potential for the development of effective treatments by competitors which could reduce or eliminate a prospective future market share commercializing any product candidates we may develop in the future. Further information on our risk factors is contained in our filings with the SEC, including the “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024. 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:
Alliance Advisors IR
Jody Cain
310-691-7100
jcain@allianceadvisors.com

View Full Release Here.

GeoVax Labs (GOVX) – 4Q24 Reported With Updates On Upcoming Clinical Trials

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Friday, March 28, 2025

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.

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.

4Q24 Meets Expectations As Pipeline Advances. GeoVax reported 4Q24 loss of $8.3 million or $(0.88) per share and a loss of $25.0 million or $(4.82) per share for FY2024. The company updated its three clinical programs with CM04S1, the Gedeptin Phase 2, and the MVA program, which continue to make progress as expected. On December 31, 2024, cash on hand was $5.5 million, excluding the proceeds of a $4.5 million offering completed in March 2025.

Clinical Supplies Were Made for the CM04S1 Phase 2b BARDA Trial. Geovax has manufactured clinical supplies for the Phase 2b trial, testing CM04S1 as a booster for healthy adults who have received an mRNA vaccine against COVID-19. This trial is sponsored by a BARDA grant, with estimated revenues of $25 to $45 million for the company, plus about $350 million allocated for direct clinical trial expenses. The trial is now expected to begin late in 2025 to early 2026.


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Release – MAIA Biotechnology Announces Poster Presentation at ESMO’s European Lung Cancer Congress 2025

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on MAIA

March 25, 2025 8:46am EDT Download as PDF

  • Poster highlights potential predictive biomarker for therapeutic response in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

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 an abstract detailing a potential predictive biomarker for THIO treatment was selected for poster presentation at the European Lung Cancer Congress 2025 (ELCC 2025) taking place, March 26-29, in Paris, France. ELCC is a program of the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO).

“We are proud to join ELCC 2025, a premier conference focused directly on the science of thoracic oncology,” said Vlad Vitoc, M.D., CEO of MAIA. “Our poster features our latest findings on cytokine Interleukin-6 (IL-6) as a potential predictive immune response biomarker for THIO sequenced with a checkpoint inhibitor. Predictive biomarkers can further illuminate THIO’s unique mechanisms of action which have shown exceptional efficacy in our Phase 2 clinical trial.”

Presentation details: 
Title:Phase 2 Study of Telomere-Targeting Agent THIO Sequenced by Cemiplimab in Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor-Resistant Advanced NSCLC: Interleukin-6 as a Potential Predictive Biomarker
Abstract number:997
Date:March 28, 2025
Time:12:00 p.m. CET
Presenter:Tomasz Jankowski, M.D., Ph.D. – Lead investigator for THIO-101 Phase 2 clinical trial
Poster access:MAIA’s poster will be available at maiabiotech.com/publications on March 28, 2025

The European Lung Cancer Congress is a collaborative effort of the most important multidisciplinary societies representing thoracic oncology specialists, working together to advance science, disseminate education and improve the practice of lung cancer specialists worldwide.

About Ateganosine

Ateganosine (THIO, 6-thio-dG or 6-thio-2’-deoxyguanosine) is a first-in-class investigational telomere-targeting agent currently in clinical development to evaluate its activity in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). Telomeres, along with the enzyme telomerase, play a fundamental role in the survival of cancer cells and their resistance to current therapies. The modified nucleotide 6-thio-2’-deoxyguanosine induces telomerase-dependent telomeric DNA modification, DNA damage responses, and selective cancer cell death. Ateganosine-damaged telomeric fragments accumulate in cytosolic micronuclei and activates both innate (cGAS/STING) and adaptive (T-cell) immune responses. The sequential treatment with ateganosine followed by PD-(L)1 inhibitors resulted in profound and persistent tumor regression in advanced, in vivo cancer models by induction of cancer type–specific immune memory. Ateganosine is presently developed as a second or later line of treatment for NSCLC for patients that have progressed beyond the standard-of-care regimen of existing checkpoint inhibitors.

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 ateganosine, 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.

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

Source: MAIA Biotechnology, Inc.

Released March 25, 2025

Tonix Pharmaceuticals (TNXP) – FDA Sends Positive Signal For Tonmya Approval With No Advisory Committee Meeting Needed

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Tuesday, March 25, 2025

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

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

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

No Advisory Panel Required. Tonix has been informed that the FDA will not require an Advisory Committee Meeting to determine approvability of the NDA for Tonmya (TNX-102 SL). We see this as a sign that the NDA review has not raised questions about the clinical trial data, potential patient use, or other factors that would be answered by an Advisory Committee. Since the trial met its primary endpoint and all six secondary endpoints with high statistical significance, we interpret this to be a positive sign.

FDA Advisory Panel Hearings Evaluate and Provide Insight To Trial Data. As part of its NDA review process, the FDA may schedule an Advisory Committee hearing. The committee members each bring expertise in aspects of clinical practice, research, or statistical analysis. At a hearing, the company presents its analysis of the trial and the data, followed by the FDA’s analysis. The Committee members then ask questions to make recommendations for or against NDA approval and/or product labeling. We see the review without an Advisory Committee as a sign that the FDA does not need additional information on efficacy or safety.


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Release – GeoVax Labs Announces $4.5 Million Registered Direct Offering Priced At-the-Market Under Nasdaq Rules

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on GOVX

ATLANTA, GA, March 24, 2025 – GeoVax Labs, Inc. (Nasdaq: GOVX), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing immunotherapies and vaccines against cancer and infectious diseases, today announced that it has entered into a securities purchase agreement with a single healthcare-focused institutional investor for the purchase and sale of 3,435,115 shares of its common stock (or common stock equivalents in lieu thereof) and warrants to purchase up to an aggregate of 3,435,115 shares of common stock in a registered direct offering (the “Offering”) at a combined purchase price of $1.31 per share and accompanying warrant, priced at-the-market under Nasdaq rules. The warrants will have an exercise price of $1.31 per share, will be exercisable upon shareholder approval and will expire 5 years from shareholder approval.

The closing of the Offering is expected to occur on or about March 25, 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions. The gross proceeds from the Offering are expected to be approximately $4.5 million, before deducting placement agent fees and other estimated offering expenses. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering for working capital and general corporate purposes.

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

The Offering is being made pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (File No. 333-277585) 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.

In connection with the offering, the Company also agreed to amend existing warrants to purchase up to 2,675,610 shares of the Company’s common stock, with an exercise price of $5.00 per share, that were previously issued to the investor participating in this offering. Effective upon closing of this Offering, such existing warrants will be amended to reduce the exercise price to $1.31 per share and the term of such existing warrants will be amended to 5 years from the closing date of the offering.

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.

About GeoVax

GeoVax Labs, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel vaccines for many of the world’s most threatening infectious diseases and therapies for solid tumor cancers. The company’s lead clinical program is GEO-CM04S1, a next-generation COVID-19 vaccine for which GeoVax was recently awarded a BARDA-funded contract to sponsor a 10,000-participant Phase 2b clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of GEO-CM04S1 versus an approved COVID-19 vaccine. In addition, GEO-CM04S1 is currently in three Phase 2 clinical trials, being evaluated as (1) 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, (2) a booster vaccine in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and (3) a more robust, durable COVID-19 booster among healthy patients who previously received the mRNA vaccines. In oncology the lead clinical program is evaluating a novel oncolytic solid tumor gene-directed therapy, Gedeptin®, having recently completed a multicenter Phase 1/2 clinical trial for advanced head and neck cancers. A Phase 2 clinical trial in first recurrent head and neck cancer, evaluating Gedeptin® combined with an immune checkpoint inhibitor is planned. GeoVax has a strong IP portfolio in support of its technologies and product candidates, holding worldwide rights for its technologies and products. The Company has a leadership team who have driven significant value creation across multiple life science companies over the past several decades. For more information about the current status of our clinical trials and other updates, 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:

info@geovax.com

678-384-7220

Investor Relations Contact:

geovax@precisionaq.com

212-698-8696

Media Contact:

sr@roberts-communications.com

202-779-0929