Unity Biotechnology Unveils Mixed Data From Study For Diabetes-Related Blindness, Stock Falls

Core Insights - Unity Biotechnology's stock (UBX) experienced a significant decline of 34.8%, closing at $1.19, following the release of results from its Phase 2b ASPIRE clinical trial for UBX1325 [4] Group 1: Clinical Trial Results - The Phase 2b ASPIRE clinical trial involved patients with diabetic macular edema (DME) who had poor vision despite prior anti-VEGF treatment, with data collected through 24 weeks for all patients and most through 36 weeks [1] - UBX1325 treatment resulted in visual acuity gains of over 5 letters from baseline at both 24 and 36 weeks, demonstrating non-inferiority to Regeneron Pharmaceuticals' Eylea (aflibercept) at 9 out of 10 time points through 36 weeks [2][6] - At 24 weeks, UBX1325-treated patients had a mean change in Best Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) of +5.2 ETDRS letters, which was +0.4 letters better than the aflibercept arm; at 36 weeks, the mean change was +5.5 ETDRS letters, with a +0.2 letter difference compared to aflibercept [6] Group 2: Safety and Financials - UBX1325 continues to show a favorable safety and tolerability profile, with complete 36-week data results expected in the second quarter of 2025 [4] - As of December 31, 2024, Unity had cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities totaling $23.2 million, which is projected to fund operations into the fourth quarter of 2025 [4] Group 3: Patient Outcomes - Patients treated with UBX1325 generally outperformed those on aflibercept, particularly those with moderate disease severity (baseline Central Subfield Thickness < 400 microns, representing approximately 60% of study patients) [6] - Patients who switched from aflibercept to UBX1325 before study enrollment exhibited the most consistent and durable vision gains [6]