SEED Therapeutics (SEED) Enters into Strategic Research Collaboration with Eisai Co., Ltd. to Discover and Develop Novel Molecular Glue Degraders for Neurodegeneration and Oncology Indications

On August 6, 2024 SEED Therapeutics Inc. ("SEED"), a biotechnology company focused on harnessing and engineering Molecular Glues for targeted protein degradation (TPD) of disease-causing proteins, reported a strategic research collaboration with Eisai Co., Ltd. ("Eisai") to discover, develop, and commercialize novel molecular glue degraders for multiple undisclosed neurodegeneration and oncology targets (Press release, Seed Therapeutics, AUG 6, 2024, View Source [SID1234645408]). The collaboration is coupled with a Series A-3 financing led by Eisai.

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Key Aspects of the SEED – Eisai Collaboration:

Collaboration Roles: SEED will lead preclinical discovery activities for the selected targets, including E3 ligase selection and identification of the appropriate molecular glue degraders. Eisai will have exclusive rights to develop and commercialize compounds derived from this collaboration.
Financial Terms: SEED is entitled to receive upfront payment and preclinical, clinical, regulatory and sales milestone payments of up to $1.5 billion, plus tiered royalties upon Eisai’s exercise of their exclusive rights under the strategic research collaboration.
The SEED–Eisai collaboration follows a separate and on-going research collaboration between SEED and Eli Lilly to discover and develop Molecular Glue Degraders for undisclosed targets. (Click here for related press release.)

Series A-3 Financing:

SEED also announces a Series A-3 financing with a first close of $24 million from investors led by Eisai. A second close is targeted for Q4 2024.

The Series A-3 financing is expected to further accelerate SEED’s clinical development of internal proprietary programs in cancer and in neurodegeneration, expand its TPD platform and pipeline, and supplement prior investments from Eli Lilly and BeyondSpring.

SEED will advance its internal, potentially "best-in-class" oral RBM39 Degrader into Phase 1 safety/efficacy testing beginning in 2025 for rationally selected, biomarker-driven cancer indications. SEED’s program will build on Eisai’s pioneering discovery of a class of RBM39 degraders over three decades.
SEED will also progress its internal Tau degrader program (for Alzheimer’s disease) into in vivo efficacy in 2025, and IND in 2026.
SEED will scale its proprietary TPD platform development. With global neurodegeneration drug development leaders Eisai and Eli Lilly as investors and research collaborators, SEED will extend its research and thought leadership in the discovery and development of oral Molecular Glues for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Dr. Takashi Owa, Eisai’s Chief Scientific Officer stated: "SEED has a cutting-edge technology platform to discover a class of molecular-glue target protein degraders, one of the most highlighted modalities in the modern drug discovery. While the anti-myeloma drug lenalidomide from the molecular-glue class has been successful in the oncology field, our research collaboration will also focus on utilizing this modality in the neurology field. Our collaboration with SEED is unique and clearly differentiated, and I look forward to learning of the important progress being made by both companies to achieve Social Good."

Dr. Lan Huang, SEED’s Co-Founder, Chairman, and CEO added, "We are honored to collaborate with Eisai, a world-leading drug development powerhouse, to discover impactful medicines for undruggable targets. Looking ahead, SEED’s unique Molecular Glue discovery platform on neurodegenerative disease will be further strengthened through our collaborations with both Eli Lilly and Eisai (under separate collaboration agreements), two global pioneers in the timely development of treatments for neurodegeneration, including approved therapies for Alzheimer’s disease. Finally, having demonstrated the scalability and versatility of our TPD platform through the success of multiple pipeline programs across various key therapeutic indications, our Series A-3 financing and non-dilutive funding of R&D milestone payments from both Eli Lilly and Eisai, SEED is well-positioned to advance our internal high-profile programs into clinics, and to create great value for patients and our shareholders."

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

Beam Therapeutics Reports Pipeline Updates and Second Quarter 2024 Financial Results

On August 6, 2024 Beam Therapeutics Inc. (Nasdaq: BEAM), a biotechnology company developing precision genetic medicines through base editing, reported second quarter 2024 financial results and provided updates across the company’s hematology and genetic disease franchises (Press release, Beam Therapeutics, AUG 6, 2024, View Source [SID1234645407]).

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"This quarter we’ve made significant progress across our rapidly expanding clinical portfolio, where each program utilizes the power and precision of base editing technology to provide potential best-in-class genetic medicines for patients," said John Evans, chief executive officer of Beam. "In our genetic disease franchise, we’re pleased to announce the clearance of our U.S. investigational new drug (IND) application for BEAM-301, our first U.S. in vivoregulatory filing. We’re focused on initiating site activation activities for BEAM-301 as well as continuing to enroll our BEAM-302 Phase 1/2 clinical trial in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) following study initiation in June. We look forward to reporting the first data from the BEAM-302 trial next year. In addition, enrollment in the BEACON trial of BEAM-101 in sickle cell disease (SCD) has exceeded expectations, with more than 20 patients enrolled and six dosed, plus additional patients consented and in the screening process. Initial BEAM-101 clinical data have been submitted for presentation at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) Annual Meeting taking place in December, along with abstracts for the first clinical data for BEAM-201 as well as our first ESCAPE preclinical data in non-human primates."

Second Quarter 2024 and Recent Progress


To date, more than 20 patients have cleared screening and enrolled in the BEACON Phase 1/2 clinical trial of BEAM-101, an investigational genetically modified cell therapy for the treatment of SCD. Of these patients, six have been dosed with BEAM-101, with the other enrolled patients going through pre-transplant stages including mobilization and manufacturing.

In June, Beam reported data at the European Hematology Association (EHA) (Free EHA Whitepaper) Hybrid Congress highlighting its optimized, closed and automated manufacturing process for its base-edited CD34+ hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell genetic medicines, which is currently being deployed for the manufacturing of BEAM-101 in the BEACON Phase 1/2 clinical trial. The data, which include both preclinical and GMP clinical manufacturing experience to date, demonstrate that the use of base editing technology plus the advanced CD34+ manufacturing process employed by Beam are achieving reproducible and robust product yields and viability that meet high-quality standards.

In June, Beam announced that the first patient was treated with BEAM-302, an investigational in vivo base editing medicine designed to precisely correct the underlying cause of severe AATD that is currently being evaluated in a Phase 1/2 clinical trial.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has cleared the IND application for BEAM-301, an investigational in vivo base editing medicine designed to directly correct the R83C mutation, one of the primary disease-causing mutations of glycogen storage disease type Ia (GSDIa).
Key Anticipated Milestones

Hematology Franchise


Initial data from the BEACON Phase 1/2 clinical trial have been submitted for presentation at the ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) Annual Meeting, taking place December 7-10, 2024. Pending acceptance, Beam anticipates presenting data on all patients from the sentinel cohort as well as multiple patients from the expansion cohort.

Beam continues to advance and invest in its Engineered Stem Cell Antibody Paired Evasion (ESCAPE) conditioning platform and anticipates initiating Phase 1-enabling preclinical studies for the program in 2024. Preclinical data for ESCAPE in non-human primates have been submitted for presentation at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper).
Genetic Disease Franchise


Beam continues to enroll the Phase 1/2 clinical trial of BEAM-302 in patients with AATD and expects to report initial clinical data in 2025.

The company is now initiating site activation activities for the Phase 1/2 clinical trial for BEAM-301 in GSDIa with patient dosing expected to commence in early 2025.
Oncology


Initial data from the Phase 1/2 clinical trial of BEAM-201, a multiplex-edited allogeneic CAR-T product candidate for the treatment of relapsed/refractory T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL)/T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma (T-LL), have been submitted for presentation at the ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) Annual Meeting.
Second Quarter 2024 Financial Results


Cash Position: Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities, were $1.0 billion as of June 30, 2024, compared to $1.2 billion as of December 31, 2023.

Research & Development (R&D) Expenses: R&D expenses were $87.0 million for the second quarter of 2024, compared to $97.6 million for the second quarter of 2023.

General & Administrative (G&A) Expenses: G&A expenses were $29.6 million for the first quarter of 2024, compared to $24.7 million for the second quarter of 2023.

Net Loss: Net loss was $91.1 million for the second quarter of 2024, or $1.11 per share, compared to $82.8 million for the second quarter of 2023, or $1.08 per share.
Cash Runway

Beam expects that its cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities as of June 30, 2024, will enable the company to fund its anticipated operating expenses and capital expenditure requirements into 2027. This expectation includes funding directed toward reaching each of the key anticipated milestones for BEAM-101, ESCAPE, BEAM-301 and BEAM-302 described above, as well as continued investments in platform advancements and manufacturing capabilities, and excludes commercial spend related to the potential launch of BEAM-101.

AMGEN REPORTS SECOND QUARTER 2024 FINANCIAL RESULTS

On August 6, 2024 Amgen (NASDAQ: AMGN) reported financial results for the second quarter 2024 (Press release, Amgen, AUG 6, 2024, View Source [SID1234645406]).

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"With a strong, balanced portfolio of in-market products and a rapidly advancing pipeline of innovative medicines, we are confident in our ability to deliver attractive long-term growth," said Robert A. Bradway, chairman and chief executive officer.

Key results include:

For the second quarter, total revenues increased 20% to $8.4 billion in comparison to the second quarter of 2023.
Product sales grew 20%, driven by 26% volume growth, partially offset by 3% lower net selling price. Excluding sales from our Horizon Therapeutics (Horizon) acquisition, product sales grew 5%, driven by volume growth of 10%.
Twelve products delivered at least double-digit sales growth in the second quarter, including Prolia (denosumab), EVENITY (romosozumab-aqqg), Repatha (evolocumab), TEZSPIRE (tezepelumab-ekko), BLINCYTO (blinatumomab), and TAVNEOS (avacopan).
Our performance included $1.1 billion of sales from our rare disease products, driven by several first-in-class, early-in-lifecycle medicines, including TEPEZZA (teprotumumab-trbw), KRYSTEXXA (pegloticase), UPLIZNA (inebilizumab-cdon), and TAVNEOS (avacopan).
GAAP earnings per share (EPS) decreased 46% from $2.57 to $1.38, driven by higher operating expenses, including amortization expense from Horizon-acquired assets and incremental expenses from Horizon, partially offset by higher revenues.
GAAP operating income decreased from $2.7 billion to $1.9 billion, and GAAP operating margin decreased 16.5 percentage points to 23.7%.
Non-GAAP EPS decreased 1% from $5.00 to $4.97, driven by higher operating expenses, including incremental expenses from Horizon, and interest expense, partially offset by higher revenues.
Non-GAAP operating income increased from $3.5 billion to $3.9 billion, and non-GAAP operating margin decreased 4.4 percentage points to 48.2%.
The Company generated $2.2 billion of free cash flow in the second quarter of 2024 versus $3.8 billion in the second quarter of 2023, driven by the timing of tax payments. In 2023, federal tax payments, including our repatriation tax, were made in Q4, whereas in 2024 these payments were made in Q2.
References in this release to "non-GAAP" measures, measures presented "on a non-GAAP basis" and "free cash flow" (computed by subtracting capital expenditures from operating cash flow) refer to non-GAAP financial measures. Adjustments to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measures and other items are presented on the attached reconciliations. Refer to Non-GAAP Financial Measures below for further discussion.

Product Sales Performance

General Medicine

Repatha (evolocumab) sales increased 25% year-over-year to $532 million in the second quarter, driven by 46% volume growth, partially offset by 20% lower net selling price. Repatha remains the global proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) segment leader.

EVENITY (romosozumab-aqqg) sales increased 39% year-over-year to $391 million in the second quarter, primarily driven by volume growth.

Prolia (denosumab) sales increased 13% year-over-year to $1.2 billion in the second quarter, primarily driven by volume growth.
Oncology

BLINCYTO (blinatumomab) sales increased 28% year-over-year to $264 million in the second quarter, driven by broad prescribing across academic and community segments for patients with B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL).

Vectibix (panitumumab) sales increased 9% year-over-year to $270 million in the second quarter, driven by higher net selling price and volume growth, partially offset by unfavorable foreign exchange impact.

KYPROLIS (carfilzomib) sales increased 9% year-over-year to $377 million in the second quarter, primarily driven by volume growth outside the U.S.

LUMAKRAS/LUMYKRAS (sotorasib) sales increased 10% year-over-year to $85 million in the second quarter, primarily driven by volume growth.

XGEVA (denosumab) sales increased 6% year-over-year to $562 million in the second quarter, driven by higher net selling price.

Nplate (romiplostim) sales increased 12% year-over-year to $346 million in the second quarter.

IMDELLTRA (tarlatamab-dlle) generated $12 million of sales in the second quarter. IMDELLTRA is the first and only FDA-approved bispecific T-cell engager (BiTE) therapy for the treatment of extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC).

MVASI (bevacizumab-awwb) sales decreased 20% year-over-year to $157 million in the second quarter. Going forward, we expect continued sales erosion driven by competition.
Inflammation

TEZSPIRE (tezepelumab-ekko) sales increased 76% year-over-year to $234 million in the second quarter, primarily driven by volume growth. Healthcare providers recognize TEZSPIRE’s unique, differentiated profile and its broad potential to treat the 2.5 million patients worldwide with severe, uncontrolled asthma.

Otezla (apremilast) sales decreased 9% year-over-year to $544 million in the second quarter, primarily driven by 7% lower net selling price and 6% unfavorable changes to estimated sales deductions, partially offset by 2% volume growth.

Enbrel (etanercept) sales decreased 15% year-over-year to $909 million in the second quarter, primarily driven by lower net selling price. Going forward, we expect continued declining net selling price and relatively flat volumes.

AMJEVITA/AMGEVITA (adalimumab) sales decreased 11% year-over-year to $133 million in the second quarter. Ex-U.S. sales increased 8% year-over-year to $142 million, driven by volume growth. U.S. sales reflect lower net selling price and unfavorable changes to estimated sales deductions, partially offset by volume growth.
Rare Disease

Except for TAVNEOS, the products listed below were added through the acquisition of Horizon on Oct. 6, 2023.

TEPEZZA (teprotumumab-trbw) generated $479 million of sales in the second quarter. TEPEZZA is the first and only FDA-approved treatment for thyroid eye disease (TED).

KRYSTEXXA (pegloticase) generated $294 million of sales in the second quarter. KRYSTEXXA is the first and only FDA-approved treatment for chronic refractory gout.

UPLIZNA (inebilizumab-cdon) generated $92 million of sales in the second quarter. UPLIZNA is used to treat adults with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders.

TAVNEOS (avacopan) generated $71 million of sales in the second quarter. Sales increased 137% year-over-year, driven by volume growth. TAVNEOS is a first-in-class treatment for severe active anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic autoantibody-associated vasculitis (ANCA-associated vasculitis).

Ultra rare products, which consist of RAVICTI (glycerol phenylbutyrate), PROCYSBI (cysteamine bitartrate), ACTIMMUNE (interferon gamma-1b), BUPHENYL (sodium phenylbutyrate) and QUINSAIR (levofloxacin), generated $187 million of sales in the second quarter.
Established Products

Our established products, which consist of EPOGEN (epoetin alfa), Aranesp (darbepoetin alfa), Parsabiv (etelcalcetide) and Neulasta (pegfilgrastim), generated $591 million of sales. Sales decreased 21% year-over-year for the second quarter, driven by unfavorable changes to estimated sales deductions and volume declines. In the aggregate, we expect the year-over-year volume declines for this portfolio of products to continue.
Product Sales Detail by Product and Geographic Region

$Millions, except percentages


Q2 ’24


Q2 ’23


YOYΔ


U.S


ROW


TOTAL


TOTAL


TOTAL

Repatha


$ 270


$ 262


$ 532


$ 424


25 %

EVENITY


281


110


391


281


39 %

Prolia


770


395


1,165


1,028


13 %

BLINCYTO


165


99


264


206


28 %

Vectibix


133


137


270


248


9 %

KYPROLIS


240


137


377


346


9 %

LUMAKRAS/LUMYKRAS


55


30


85


77


10 %

XGEVA


399


163


562


530


6 %

Nplate


214


132


346


310


12 %

IMDELLTRA


12



12



N/A

MVASI


100


57


157


197


(20 %)

TEZSPIRE


234



234


133


76 %

Otezla


432


112


544


600


(9 %)

Enbrel


902


7


909


1,068


(15 %)

AMJEVITA/AMGEVITA(1)


(9)


142


133


150


(11 %)

TEPEZZA(2)


478


1


479



N/A

KRYSTEXXA(2)


294



294



N/A

UPLIZNA(2)


77


15


92



N/A

TAVNEOS


61


10


71


30


*

Ultra rare products(2)


175


12


187



N/A

EPOGEN


32



32


61


(48 %)

Aranesp


91


257


348


365


(5 %)

Parsabiv


67


39


106


87


22 %

Neulasta


75


30


105


236


(56 %)

Other products(3)


292


54


346


306


13 %

Total product sales


$ 5,840


$ 2,201


$ 8,041


$ 6,683


20 %


*Change in excess of 100%


N/A = not applicable


(1) U.S AMJEVITA product sales for the three months ended June 30, 2024, were impacted by unfavorable
changes to estimated sales deductions

(2) Horizon-acquired products, and the Ultra rare products consist of RAVICTI, PROCYSBI, ACTIMMUNE,
BUPHENYL and QUINSAIR

(3) Consists of (i) KANJINTI, Aimovig, RIABNI, Corlanor, NEUPOGEN, AVSOLA, IMLYGIC, BEKEMV,
WEZLANA/WEZENLA and Sensipar/Mimpara, where Biosimilars total $183 million in Q2 ’24 and $130
million in Q2 ’23; and (ii) Horizon-acquired products including RAYOS and PENNSAID

Operating Expense, Operating Margin and Tax Rate Analysis

On a GAAP basis for the second quarter:

Total Operating Expenses increased 51% year-over-year. Cost of Sales as a percentage of product sales increased 13.1 percentage points driven by higher amortization expense from Horizon acquisition-related assets and, to a lesser extent, higher royalties and profit share, partially offset by the Puerto Rico excise tax. Research & Development (R&D) expenses increased 30% due to higher spend in later-stage clinical programs and research and early pipeline, including Horizon-acquired programs. Selling, General & Administrative (SG&A) expenses increased 38% primarily driven by the addition of Horizon and investments in our commercial brands. Other operating expenses consisted primarily of changes in the fair values of contingent consideration liabilities related to our Teneobio, Inc. acquisition from 2021.
Operating Margin as a percentage of product sales decreased 16.5 percentage points year-over-year to 23.7%.
Tax Rate decreased 8.6 percentage points year-over-year primarily due to the change in earnings mix as a result of the inclusion of the Horizon business.
On a non-GAAP basis for the second quarter:

Total Operating Expenses increased 30% year-over-year. Cost of Sales as a percentage of product sales increased 0.4 percentage points primarily driven by higher royalties and profit share, partially offset by Puerto Rico excise tax. R&D expenses increased 30% due to higher spend in later-stage clinical programs and research and early pipeline, including Horizon-acquired programs. SG&A expenses increased 36%, primarily driven by the addition of Horizon and investments in our commercial brands.
Operating Margin as a percentage of product sales decreased 4.4 percentage points year-over-year to 48.2%.
Tax Rate decreased 1.5 percentage points year-over-year primarily due to the change in earnings mix as a result of the inclusion of the Horizon business and net favorable items.
$Millions, except percentages


GAAP


Non-GAAP


Q2 ’24


Q2 ’23


YOYΔ


Q2 ’24


Q2 ’23


YOYΔ

Cost of Sales


$ 3,236


$ 1,813


78 %


$ 1,406


$ 1,142


23 %

% of product sales


40.2 %


27.1 %


13.1 pts


17.5 %


17.1 %


0.4 pts

Research & Development


$ 1,447


$ 1,113


30 %


$ 1,423


$ 1,092


30 %

% of product sales


18.0 %


16.7 %


1.3 pts


17.7 %


16.3 %


1.4 pts

Selling, General & Administrative


$ 1,785


$ 1,294


38 %


$ 1,686


$ 1,237


36 %

% of product sales


22.2 %


19.4 %


2.8 pts


21.0 %


18.5 %


2.5 pts

Other


$ 11


$ 82


(87 %)


$ —


$ —


N/A

Total Operating Expenses


$ 6,479


$ 4,302


51 %


$ 4,515


$ 3,471


30 %


Operating Margin


operating income as % of product sales


23.7 %


40.2 %


(16.5) pts


48.2 %


52.6 %


(4.4) pts


Tax Rate


6.0 %


14.6 %


(8.6) pts


14.9 %


16.4 %


(1.5) pts


pts: percentage points


N/A = not applicable


Cash Flow and Balance Sheet

The Company generated $2.2 billion of free cash flow in the second quarter of 2024 versus $3.8 billion in the second quarter of 2023 driven by the timing of tax payments. In 2023, federal tax payments, including our repatriation tax, were made in Q4, whereas in 2024 these payments were made in Q2.
The Company’s second quarter 2024 dividend of $2.25 per share was declared on March 6, 2024, and was paid on June 7, 2024, to all stockholders of record as of May 17, 2024, representing a 6% increase from this same period in 2023.
During the second quarter, the Company reduced debt outstanding by $1.4 billion. Year to date, the Company has reduced debt outstanding by $2.0 billion and remains on- track to deleverage, including greater than $10 billion of debt reduction by the end of 2025.
Cash and investments totaled $9.3 billion and debt outstanding totaled $62.6 billion as of June 30, 2024.
$Billions, except shares


Q2 ’24


Q2 ’23


YOYΔ

Operating Cash Flow


$ 2.5


$ 4.1


$ (1.7)

Capital Expenditures


$ 0.2


$ 0.3


$ 0.0

Free Cash Flow


$ 2.2


$ 3.8


$ (1.6)

Dividends Paid


$ 1.2


$ 1.1


$ 0.1

Share Repurchases


$ 0.0


$ —


$ 0.0

Average Diluted Shares (millions)


541


537


4


Note: Numbers may not add due to rounding

$Billions


6/30/24


12/31/23


YTD Δ

Cash and Investments


$ 9.3


$ 10.9


$ (1.6)

Debt Outstanding


$ 62.6


$ 64.6


$ (2.0)


Note: Numbers may not add due to rounding


2024 Guidance

For the full year 2024, the Company now expects:

Total revenues in the range of $32.8 billion to $33.8 billion.
On a GAAP basis, EPS in the range of $6.57 to $7.62, and a tax rate in the range of 6.0% to 7.5%.
On a non-GAAP basis, EPS in the range of $19.10 to $20.10, and a tax rate in the range of 15.0% to 16.0%.
Capital expenditures to be approximately $1.3 billion.
Share repurchases not to exceed $500 million.
Second Quarter Product and Pipeline Update

The Company provided the following updates on selected product and pipeline programs:

General Medicine
MariTide (maridebart cafraglutide, AMG 133)

MariTide, is a multispecific molecule that inhibits the gastric inhibitory polypeptide receptor (GIPR) and activates the glucagon like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor.
A Phase 2 study of MariTide is ongoing in adults with overweight or obesity with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus. Topline data are anticipated in late 2024.
Planning for a broad Phase 3 program across multiple indications remains on track.
A Phase 2 trial investigating MariTide for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in patients with and without obesity is planned to initiate in late 2024.
Olpasiran (AMG 890)

Olpasiran is a potentially best-in-class small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA) molecule that reduces lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) synthesis in the liver.
The Ocean(a)-Outcomes trial, a Phase 3 cardiovascular outcomes study is ongoing in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and elevated Lp(a).
Repatha

EVOLVE-MI, a Phase 4 study of Repatha administered within 10 days of an acute myocardial infarction to reduce the risk of cardiovascular (CV) events, has completed enrollment.
VESALIUS-CV, a Phase 3 CV outcomes study of Repatha, is ongoing in patients at high CV risk without prior myocardial infarction or stroke.
Oncology
IMDELLTRA

In May, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted accelerated approval to IMDELLTRA, a first-in-class delta-like ligand 3 (DLL3) targeting BiTE (bispecific T-cell engager) molecule, for the treatment of adult patients with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC) with disease progression on or after platinum-based chemotherapy. Additional regulatory submissions are underway or complete in countries outside of the U.S.
In May, the FDA granted orphan drug exclusivity for IMDELLTRA for treatment of adult patients with ES-SCLC with disease progression on or after platinum-based chemotherapy.
IMDELLTRA was added to the SCLC National Comprehensive Cancer Network Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology1 (NCCN guidelines) as a treatment option after first-line therapy. It is listed as a "Preferred Option" for patients with chemotherapy-free interval ≤ 6 months and as a "Other Recommended Treatment Option" for patients with chemotherapy-free interval > 6 months.
Advancing a comprehensive global clinical development program:
DeLLphi-304, a Phase 3 study comparing tarlatamab with standard of care chemotherapy in second-line ES-SCLC, has completed enrollment.
DeLLphi-305, a Phase 3 study comparing tarlatamab and durvalumab with durvalumab alone, is enrolling patients with first-line ES-SCLC.
DeLLphi-306, a Phase 3 study comparing tarlatamab with placebo following concurrent chemoradiation therapy, is enrolling patients with limited-stage SCLC.
DeLLphi-300, a Phase 1 study of tarlatamab, is ongoing in patients with relapsed /refractory SCLC.
DeLLphi-302, a Phase 1b study of tarlatamab in combination with AMG 404, is ongoing in patients with second-line or later SCLC. AMG 404 is an anti-programmed cell death protein 1 (PD1) monoclonal antibody.
DeLLphi-303, a Phase 1b study of tarlatamab in combination with standard of care, continues to enroll patients with first-line ES-SCLC.
DeLLpro-300, a Phase 1b study of tarlatamab, is ongoing in patients with de novo or treatment-emergent neuroendocrine prostate cancer.
In June, initial data were presented from:
The DeLLpro-300 study highlighting IMDELLTRA safety results with encouraging anti-tumor activity in DLL3-expressing de novo or treatment-emergent neuroendocrine prostate cancer.
A subgroup analysis of the Phase 2 DeLLphi-301 study demonstrating durable anticancer activity in relapsed / refractory SCLC regardless of the presence of treated, stable brain metastases at baseline.
Long-term follow-up data from the Phase 2 DeLLphi 301 study in patients with ES-SCLC who had failed two or more prior lines of treatment will be presented at the 2024 World Conference on Lung Cancer (WCLC) this fall.
BLINCYTO

In June, the FDA approved BLINCYTO for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients one month or older with CD19-positive Philadelphia chromosome (Ph)-negative B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) in the consolidation phase, regardless of measurable residual disease (MRD) status. Additional regulatory submissions are underway or complete in countries outside of the U.S.
Data from the Phase 3 E1910 study were recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine. This study was in part the basis for the recent FDA approval and evaluated BLINCYTO in newly diagnosed B-ALL patients who were in remission and tested negative for MRD after an initial round of chemotherapy. At three years of follow-up, 85% of the patients who went on to receive additional standard consolidation chemotherapy plus BLINCYTO were alive, a significant improvement compared to 68% of patients who received chemotherapy only.
Golden Gate, a Phase 3 study of BLINCYTO alternating with low-intensity chemotherapy, continues to enroll older adult patients with newly diagnosed Ph-negative B-ALL.
A Phase 1/2 study of subcutaneous blinatumomab continues to enroll adult patients with relapsed or refractory Ph-negative B-ALL. The Company is planning to advance blinatumomab subcutaneous administration to a potentially registration-enabling Phase 2 portion of this study with initiation in H2 2025.
Xaluritamig (AMG 509)

Xaluritamig is a first-in-class bispecific T-cell engager targeting six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of prostate 1 (STEAP1).
A Phase 1 monotherapy dose-expansion study of xaluritamig is ongoing in patients with metastatic castrate resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) and continues to enroll patients to explore reduced monitoring after treatment administration. An outpatient treatment cohort has also been initiated to improve administration convenience.
A Phase 1 combination of xaluritamig with enzalutamide or abiraterone continues to enroll patients with mCRPC in dose escalation and dose expansion respectively.
Two additional Phase 1 studies of xaluritamig to evaluate preliminary efficacy and safety in patients with early prostate cancer are planned.
Updated results from the xaluritamig first-in-human trial, including longer follow-up and overall survival on the previously presented dose-escalation and initial results from dose optimization, will be presented at the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) (Free ESMO Whitepaper) Congress 2024 in September.
AMG 193

AMG 193 is a first-in-class small molecule methylthioadenosine (MTA)-cooperative protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) inhibitor.
In August, the FDA granted an orphan drug designation to AMG 193 for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
A Phase 1/1b/2 study of AMG 193 continues to enroll patients with advanced methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAP)-null solid tumors in the dose-expansion portion of the study.
A Phase 1b study of AMG 193 alone or in combination with other therapies is enrolling patients with advanced MTAP-null thoracic tumors.
A Phase 1b study of AMG 193 in combination with other therapies was initiated in patients with advanced MTAP-null gastrointestinal, biliary tract, or pancreatic cancers.
A Phase 1/2 study of AMG 193 in combination with IDE397, an investigational methionine adenosyltransferase 2A (MAT2A) inhibitor, continues to enroll patients with advanced MTAP-null solid tumors.
Additional data from the Phase 1 dose escalation and initial dose expansion study of AMG 193 in patients with MTAP-null solid tumors will be presented at ESMO (Free ESMO Whitepaper) in September.
Nplate

A Phase 3 study of Nplate as supportive care in chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia in gastrointestinal malignancies is complete. Data analysis is ongoing with readout anticipated in H2 2024.
LUMAKRAS/LUMYKRAS

CodeBreaK 202, a Phase 3 study of LUMAKRAS plus chemotherapy vs. pembrolizumab plus chemotherapy, is enrolling patients with first-line KRAS G12C–mutated and programmed cell death protein ligand-1 (PD-L1) negative advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Regulatory review by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) of the CodeBreaK 200 Phase 3 trial of adults with previously treated locally advanced or metastatic KRAS G12C–mutated NSCLC along with data from the Phase 2 dose-comparison substudy is ongoing.
A U.S. regulatory submission for the Phase 3 CodeBreaK 300 study of LUMAKRAS plus Vectibix vs. investigator’s choice of therapy in KRAS G12C–mutated metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) was accepted under Priority Review with a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) date of October 17, 2024.
CodeBreaK 301, a Phase 3 study of LUMAKRAS in combination with Vectibix and FOLFIRI, is enrolling patients with first-line KRAS G12C–mutated CRC.
Bemarituzumab

Bemarituzumab is a first-in-class fibroblast growth factor receptor 2b (FGFR2b) targeting monoclonal antibody.
FORTITUDE-101, a Phase 3 study of bemarituzumab plus chemotherapy, has completed enrollment in patients with first-line gastric cancer.
FORTITUDE-102, a Phase 1b/3 study of bemarituzumab plus chemotherapy and nivolumab in first-line gastric cancer, continues to enroll patients in the Phase 3 portion of the study.
FORTITUDE-103, a Phase 1b/2 study of bemarituzumab plus oral chemotherapy regimens with or without nivolumab continues to enroll patients in first-line gastric cancer.
FORTITUDE-301, a Phase 1b/2 basket study of bemarituzumab monotherapy, is ongoing in patients with solid tumors with FGFR2b overexpression.
Inflammation
TEZSPIRE

Data were presented from the COURSE Phase 2 study of TEZSPIRE in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) demonstrating that TEZSPIRE numerically reduced the annualized rate of moderate or severe COPD exacerbations vs. placebo by 17% (90% CI: −6, 36; p=0.1042). Of note, greater reductions were observed in a subgroup of patients with baseline BEC ≥ 150 cells/μL (37% [95% CI: 7, 57]). The trend in reduction was highest in subjects with BEC ≥ 300 cells/µL. Planning for Phase 3 in COPD remains on track.
Based on the COURSE Phase 2 results, the FDA granted TEZSPIRE Breakthrough Therapy Designation as an add-on maintenance treatment of patients with moderate to very severe COPD characterized by an eosinophilic phenotype.
The DIRECTION Phase 3 study of TEZSPIRE in patients in China with a history of uncontrolled asthma met the primary endpoint, demonstrating a statistically significant reduction in annual asthma exacerbation rate (AAER) over 52 weeks compared to placebo.
A Phase 3 study of TEZSPIRE is ongoing in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps. Data readout is anticipated in H2 2024.
A Phase 3 study of TEZSPIRE continues to enroll patients with eosinophilic esophagitis.
In severe asthma, the WAYFINDER Phase 3b study is fully enrolled. The PASSAGE Phase 4 real-world effectiveness study and the SUNRISE Phase 3 study continue to enroll patients.
Rocatinlimab (AMG 451/KHK4083)

Rocatinlimab is a first-in-class T-cell rebalancing monoclonal antibody targeting the OX40 receptor.
The eight study ROCKET Phase 3 program continues to enroll patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. To date, over 3,100 patients have been enrolled in the ROCKET program, with five studies having completed enrollment.
The Phase 3 HORIZON study (part of the ROCKET program), evaluating rocatinlimab monotherapy vs. placebo in adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, is ongoing. Data readout is anticipated in H2 2024.
A Phase 2 study of rocatinlimab is enrolling patients with moderate-to-severe asthma.
A Phase 3 study of rocatinlimab is enrolling patients with prurigo nodularis.
Otezla

In June data were presented:
Results from a real-world study comparing early vs. late Otezla treatment vs. topical therapy alone in mild-to-moderate psoriasis demonstrated that patients who initiated Otezla early were >50% more likely to achieve treatment goals of body surface area (BSA) ≤1% and BSA-75 at 6 months after treatment initiation compared with patients initiating a new topical treatment.
In the FOREMOST Phase 4 study, Otezla led to early improvement in clinical and patient reported outcomes in patients with oligoarticular psoriatic arthritis, which were sustained and further improved over 48 weeks with no new safety signals.
In the MOSAIC Phase 4 study in adults with active psoriatic arthritis, treatment with Otezla was associated with improvements in inflammation measured by MRI, clinical outcomes, and patient reported outcomes over 48 weeks of treatment.
Efavaleukin alfa (AMG 592)

Efavaleukin alfa is an interleukin 2 (IL 2) mutein Fc fusion protein.
A Phase 2b study of efavaleukin alfa continues to enroll patients with ulcerative colitis.
Ordesekimab (AMG 714/PRV-015)

Ordesekimab is a monoclonal antibody that binds interleukin-15.
A Phase 2b study of Ordesekimab is ongoing in nonresponsive celiac disease.
AMG 104 (AZD8630)

AMG 104 is an inhaled anti-thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) fragment antigen-binding (Fab).
Data were presented from the Phase 1 study of AMG 104 in healthy volunteers and patients with asthma. In this study AMG 104 demonstrated an acceptable safety profile and a significant reduction in fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) in patients with moderate-to-severe asthma and elevated FeNO.
The Company plans to initiate a Phase 2 study in patients with asthma in H2 2024.
Rare Disease
TAVNEOS

A Phase 3, open-label study of TAVNEOS in combination with Rituximab or a cyclophosphamide-containing regimen was initiated in children from 6 years to < 18 years of age with active ANCA-associated vasculitis (Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA) / Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA)).
In June a post hoc subgroup analysis of the Phase 3 ADVOCATE trial was presented comparing TAVNEOS with steroid taper in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis with ear, nose and throat (ENT) involvement at baseline. This analysis demonstrated that a higher proportion of patients receiving TAVNEOS had sustained remission at week 52 with the percentage of ENT manifestations also decreasing more rapidly with TAVNEOS treatment.
TEPEZZA

Regulatory review of the New Drug Application (NDA) for TEPEZZA in Japan and multiple additional geographies continues.
A Phase 3 study of TEPEZZA in Japan continues to enroll patients with chronic or low clinical activity score TED.
A Phase 3 study evaluating the subcutaneous route of administration of TEPEZZA is enrolling patients with TED.
UPLIZNA

In June, the Company announced positive topline results of a Phase 3 clinical trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of UPLIZNA for the treatment of Immunoglobulin G4-related disease (IgG4-RD). The trial met its primary endpoint, showing a statistically significant 87% reduction in the risk of IgG4-RD flare compared to placebo (Hazard Ratio 0.13, p<0.0001) during the 52-week placebo-controlled period. All key secondary endpoints were also met and no new safety signals were identified. Full data from the trial will be presented at a future medical meeting. Regulatory filing activities are underway.
MINT, a Phase 3 study of UPLIZNA in patients with myasthenia gravis is ongoing. Data readout is anticipated in H2 2024.
Dazodalibep

Dazodalibep is a fusion protein that inhibits CD40L.
Two Phase 3 studies of Dazodalibep in Sjögren’s disease are enrolling patients. The first study is in patients with moderate-to-severe systemic disease activity, and the second study is in patients with moderate-to-severe symptomatic burden and low systemic disease activity.
In June, a manuscript based on data from the Phase 2 study of Dazodalibep in Sjögren’s disease was published in Nature Medicine.
Daxdilimab

Daxdilimab is a fully human monoclonal antibody targeting immunoglobulin-like transcript 7 (ILT7).
A Phase 2 study of daxdilimab, is ongoing in patients with moderate-to-severe active primary discoid lupus erythematosus refractory to standard of care.
A Phase 2 study of daxdilimab is ongoing in patients with dermatomyositis and antisynthetase inflammatory myositis.
Fipaxalparant (formerly AMG 670/HZN 825)

Fipaxalparant is a lysophosphatidic acid receptor 1 (LPAR1) antagonist.
A Phase 2 study of fipaxalparant is ongoing in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Data readout is anticipated in H2 2024.
A Phase 2 study of fipaxalparant is enrolling patients with diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis.
Biosimilars

In May, the FDA approved BKEMV as the first interchangeable biosimilar to SOLIRIS (eculizumab).
The clinical comparative study portion of a randomized, double-blind pivotal study evaluating pharmacokinetic (PK) similarity of ABP 206 compared with OPDIVO (nivolumab) is enrolling patients with resected stage III or stage IV melanoma in the adjuvant setting.
A randomized, double-blind Phase 3 study to compare efficacy, pharmacokinetics, safety, and immunogenicity between ABP 234 and Keytruda (pembrolizumab) was initiated in patients with advanced or metastatic non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer.
TEZSPIRE is being developed in collaboration with AstraZeneca.
AMG 104 is being developed in collaboration with AstraZeneca
Rocatinlimab, formerly AMG 451/KHK4083, is being developed in collaboration with Kyowa Kirin.
Ordesekimab, formerly AMG 714 and also known as PRV-015, is being developed in collaboration with Provention Bio, a Sanofi Company. For the purposes of the collaboration, Provention Bio conducts a clinical trial and leads certain development and regulatory activities for the program.
Xaluritamig, formerly AMG 509, is being developed pursuant to a research collaboration with Xencor, Inc.
IDE397 is an investigational MAT2A inhibitor from IDEAYA Biosciences.
OPDIVO is a registered trademark of Bristol-Myers Squibb Company.
KEYTRUDA is a registered trademark of Merck & Co., Inc.
SOLIRIS is a registered trademark of ALEXION Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
1National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) makes no warranties of any kind whatsoever regarding their content, use or application and disclaims any responsibility for their application or use in any way.

Aligos Therapeutics Reports Recent Business Progress and Second Quarter 2024 Financial Results

On August 6, 2024 Aligos Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALGS, "Aligos"), a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing novel therapeutics to address unmet medical needs in liver and viral diseases, reported recent business progress and financial results for the second quarter 2024 (Press release, Aligos Therapeutics, AUG 6, 2024, View Source [SID1234645405]).

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"This quarter we continued to execute on our key clinical programs," stated Lawrence Blatt, Ph.D., MBA, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Aligos Therapeutics. "We completed enrollment ahead of schedule for the Phase 2a HERALD study of our THR-β agonist drug candidate, ALG-055009, and we expect topline data in early Q4 2024. In addition, we presented data from ALG-000184 at the EASL Congress 2024, including new data from the HBeAg-negative cohort, that demonstrated no viral breakthrough and unprecedented reductions in viral markers of CHB. We also received positive regulatory feedback from the FDA supporting subsequent studies of chronic suppressive therapy with sustained HBV DNA suppression as the primary approvable endpoint. We look forward to continuing to develop our drug candidates for patients in need of better outcomes."

Recent Business Progress

Aligos Portfolio of Drug Candidates

ALG-055009: Potential best-in-class small molecule THR-β agonist for MASH

The Phase 2a HERALD study completed enrollment in May 2024
Topline HERALD data are anticipated in early Q4 2024
ALG-000184: Potential first-/best-in-class small molecule CAM-E for CHB

Interim data from Parts 3 and 4 of Study ALG-000184-201 were presented at the European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) Congress 2024 and showed consistent, potent antiviral activity across multiple cohorts of untreated chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients
Data from ≤ 72 weeks following an oral daily dose of 300 mg ALG-000184 monotherapy demonstrated sustained HBV DNA suppression (Reported for the first time were the antiviral and safety data in HBeAg-negative CHB subjects who received a daily oral dose of 300 mg ALG-000184 monotherapy for ≤60 weeks. In all 11 (100%) subjects, complete suppression of HBV DNA (Dosing continues in this ongoing Phase 1a/1b study, with subjects planning to dose for up to 96 weeks. Additional interim data readouts are planned to be presented this year at the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) conference
Received positive feedback from the FDA regarding future studies with sustained HBV DNA suppression as the primary efficacy endpoint, leading to the potential registration of ALG-000184 for the treatment of hepatitis B infection
Phase 2 enabling activities, including drug supply manufacturing, are underway
ALG-097558: Potential best-in-class small molecule pan-coronavirus protease inhibitor

Topline data presented at the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID) Annual Meeting demonstrated single (up to 2000 mg) and multiple (up to 800 mg Q12 for 7 days) doses of ALG-097558 were well tolerated in healthy volunteers with a pharmacokinetic (PK) profile supporting twice daily, ritonavir-free dosing without a food effect
Phase 2 enabling activities, including nonclinical and clinical studies, are underway with financial support from the NIH
Financial Results for the Second Quarter 2024

Cash, cash equivalents and investments totaled $94.5 million as of June 30, 2024, compared with $135.7 million as of December 31, 2023. We continue to believe our cash balance provides sufficient cash to fund planned operations through the end of 2025.

Net income for the three months ended June 30, 2024 was $5.1 million or basic and diluted net income per common share of $0.03, compared to net losses of $18.8 million or basic and diluted net loss per common share of $(0.43) for the three months ended June 30, 2023. Net income for the three months ended June 30, 2024 was primarily due to a decrease in the fair value of the Company’s warrant liability, which resulted in non-cash income of $30.5 million, or $0.19 per share, associated with the warrants issued in October 2023 as part of the private investment in public equity (PIPE) offering.

Research and development (R&D) expenses for the three months ended June 30, 2024 were $21.1 million, compared with $16.8 million for the same period of 2023. The increase was primarily due to an increase in third party expenses for clinical trials. Total R&D stock-based compensation expense incurred for the three months ended June 30, 2024 was $1.2 million, compared with $1.6 million for the same period in 2023.

General and administrative (G&A) expenses for the three months ended June 30, 2024 were $6.4 million, compared with $9.2 million for the same period of 2023. The decrease in G&A expenses for this comparative period is primarily due to a decrease in third party expenses including legal expenses. Total G&A stock-based compensation expense incurred for the three months ended June 30, 2024 was $0.9 million, compared with $1.6 million for the same period of 2023.

Interest and other income, net, for the three months ended June 30, 2024 was income of $31.7 million compared with income of $1.1 million for the same period of 2023. The change in interest and other income, net, is primarily due to a decrease of $30.5 million in the fair value of the company’s warrant liability, which resulted in non-cash income.

Agios to Receive $1.1 Billion in Milestone Payments Following FDA Approval of Vorasidenib

On August 6, 2024 Agios Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: AGIO), a leader in cellular metabolism and pyruvate kinase (PK) activation pioneering therapies for rare diseases, reported that the Company will receive a total of $1.1 billion in milestone payments following the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of vorasidenib for adult and pediatric patients 12 years and older with Grade 2 astrocytoma or oligodendroglioma with a susceptible IDH1 or IDH2 mutation following surgery, including biopsy, sub-total resection or gross total resection (Press release, Agios Pharmaceuticals, AUG 6, 2024, View Source [SID1234645404]). These payments include a $905 million payment from Royalty Pharma in connection with the vorasidenib royalty purchase agreement Agios announced in May 2024 and a $200 million payment from Servier in connection with Agios’ divestiture of its oncology business in 2021.

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"Today’s FDA approval of vorasidenib is the first approval for a Grade 2 glioma in over 20 years and highlights both the executional excellence of the Servier team and Agios’ expertise in discovering novel therapies for disease areas of high unmet need," said Cecilia Jones, chief financial officer at Agios. "The $1.1 billion in milestone payments triggered by today’s approval further strengthens our cash position, which we expect will provide us with the financial independence to prepare for potential PYRUKYND (mitapivat) launches in thalassemia in 2025 and sickle cell disease in 2026, as well as drive pipeline progress as we aim to build a multi-billion-dollar franchise."

Agios completed the sale of its oncology business to Servier on March 31, 2021. Under the terms of the agreement, Agios received $1.8 billion in upfront cash, an additional $200 million milestone payment upon FDA approval of vorasidenib, and 15% royalties on potential U.S. net sales of vorasidenib from the first commercial sale through loss of exclusivity. Agios had also retained rights to 5% royalties on U.S. net sales of Servier’s TIBSOVO (ivosidenib tablets), which it sold for a one-time payment of $131.8 million in 2022.

On May 28, 2024, Agios announced that the company agreed to sell its rights to its 15% royalty on potential U.S. net sales of vorasidenib to Royalty Pharma. Under the terms of the agreement, Agios receives an upfront payment of $905 million upon FDA approval of vorasidenib, and Royalty Pharma will receive the entirety of the 15% royalty on annual U.S. net sales of vorasidenib up to $1 billion and a 12% royalty on annual U.S. net sales greater than $1 billion. Agios will retain a 3% royalty on annual U.S. net sales greater than $1 billion.