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Aligos Therapeutics Strengthens Senior Leadership Team with the Appointment of James Hassard as Executive Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer
Globenewswire· 2026-01-13 13:00
Core Insights - Aligos Therapeutics has appointed James Hassard as Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer to enhance its global commercial capabilities [1][2] - The company is advancing the Phase 2 B-SUPREME study of pevifoscorvir sodium and is preparing for its commercial launch [2] - Aligos focuses on developing therapies for liver and viral diseases, with a strong emphasis on chronic hepatitis B virus infection and other high unmet medical needs [3] Company Overview - Aligos Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical stage biotechnology company dedicated to improving patient outcomes through innovative therapies for liver and viral diseases [3] - The company utilizes a science-driven approach and has a purpose-built pipeline targeting conditions such as chronic hepatitis B virus infection, obesity, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, and coronaviruses [3] Leadership Background - James Hassard brings extensive experience in building commercial organizations across various therapeutic areas, having previously served as Chief Commercial Officer at Crinetics Pharmaceuticals and Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals [2] - His career includes significant roles at Coherus Oncology, Amgen, and Merck, where he launched multiple pharmaceutical products in areas including hepatitis, oncology, and nephrology [2] - Hassard holds a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacology and an MBA, indicating a strong educational background relevant to his new role [2]
Vertex Pharmaceuticals (NasdaqGS:VRTX) FY Earnings Call Presentation
2026-01-12 22:15
Financial Performance & Growth - The company projects total revenue of $11.9-12 billion in 2026[37] - Approximately $1.9 billion was deployed through Q3 2025 for share repurchases, buying back around 4.5 million shares[37] - The company exceeded its goal with CASGEVY revenue reaching $100 million in FY 2025[18] Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Portfolio - The company's CF medicines have the potential to treat approximately 95% of people with CF[16] - CF population average annual growth rate is approximately 3% from 2020-2025[17] - The company's CF portfolio has patent protection through approximately 2040[13] Emerging Renal Franchise - The company completed engagement with over 60 payers representing approximately 190 million covered lives in 2025[30] - Povetacicept in IgAN targets a patient population of approximately 330,000 in the US and Europe, and over 1.5 million globally[31] - Inaxaplin targets approximately 250,000 patients with APOL1-mediated kidney disease (AMKD)[11] Pain Management - The company is targeting over 3x prescription growth for JOURNAVX compared to 2025[22] - JOURNAVX is part of multimodal therapy for acute pain following aesthetic and reconstructive procedures, 90.9% of patients were rescue opioid-free through end of treatment[24]
Incyte (NasdaqGS:INCY) FY Conference Transcript
2026-01-12 17:17
Summary of Incyte Conference Call Company Overview - Incyte is positioned as a biotech company with the innovation and growth potential typical of smaller firms, combined with the capabilities and resources of larger pharmaceutical companies, aiming for top-tier revenue growth and durable earnings [2][3] Strategic Focus - The company is transitioning from being primarily known for Jakafi to a broader focus on hematology, oncology, and immunology (I&I) [4][5] - Incyte's R&D investment for 2026 is projected to exceed $2 billion, with 80% allocated to seven priority compounds, emphasizing a focused approach to spending [4][6] Financial Performance - Total sales for 2024 are expected to be approximately $3.62 billion, with projections for 2025 to reach around $4.32 billion, indicating strong growth [9] - The core business, excluding Jakafi, is anticipated to grow over 40% in 2025 compared to 2024 [6][9] Product Pipeline and Growth Drivers - Incyte's pipeline includes seven assets supported by 14 pivotal trials in 2026, with the potential to significantly increase top-line growth [7][8] - Key product launches expected to drive growth include Jakafi XR, Opzelura, povocitinib, and Monjuvi, with the core business projected to match Jakafi's current size by 2030 [7][8] Specific Product Insights - **Opzelura**: Expected to double in sales over the next five years, driven by increased market penetration in the U.S. and a planned launch in Europe [11][46] - **Niktimvo**: Annualizing at over $200 million with a 60%-70% persistency rate among patients, indicating strong potential for revenue growth [12][48] - **Monjuvi**: Recent positive phase 3 trial data in frontline DLBCL, with expectations for sustained growth due to its dual indication [13][48] Pipeline Development - The pipeline includes novel and first-in-class agents, with six of the seven programs in phase three trials, indicating a strong potential for achieving top-tier growth [14][15] - The MPN portfolio focuses on targeted therapies that modify disease rather than merely managing symptoms, with significant market opportunities identified [16][19] Regulatory and Market Strategy - Incyte is actively engaging with the FDA to align on regulatory paths for its pipeline assets, particularly 989 for myelofibrosis (MF) and essential thrombocythemia (ET) [17][36] - The company is also exploring opportunities in China, viewing it as both a competitor and a potential partner for innovation [35] Financial Management and Cost Control - Incyte plans to manage operating expenses carefully, with a projected 5%-10% reduction in G&A expenses while increasing R&D spending by over 10% [25][26] - The focus is on creating a sustainable growth trajectory post-2029, balancing investment in core business and R&D [25][26] Market Position and Competitive Landscape - Incyte's strategy emphasizes building franchises in hematology and oncology, aiming for operational and financial advantages [5][6] - The company is not pursuing unrelated product configurations but is focused on creating a cohesive portfolio that provides clarity for employees and predictability for investors [5][6] Conclusion - Incyte is strategically positioned for significant growth through focused R&D investments, a robust pipeline, and a commitment to operational excellence, with a clear roadmap for achieving top-tier revenue growth and market leadership in hematology and oncology [8][9]
Lexicon Pharmaceuticals Provides a Business and Pipeline Update at the 44th Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference
Globenewswire· 2026-01-12 12:30
Core Insights - Lexicon Pharmaceuticals is advancing its pipeline with multiple potential catalysts expected in 2026, including the completion of the SONATA-HCM study and the resubmission of the NDA for Zynquista [2][3][4] Business and Pipeline Highlights - The SONATA-HCM pivotal Phase 3 study for sotagliflozin is on track, targeting enrollment of 500 patients, with completion expected in mid-2026 and topline results anticipated in Q1 2027 [3] - Zynquista (sotagliflozin) for Type 1 Diabetes is set for NDA resubmission in 2026, contingent on FDA feedback and additional clinical data from the STENO1 study [4][5] - Lexicon is pursuing international expansion for sotagliflozin, with regulatory approval already received in the UAE and applications submitted in other markets including Canada and Australia [4][6] Financial Updates - A $10 million milestone payment was triggered from a licensing agreement with Novo Nordisk for LX9851, with potential for an additional $20 million in milestone payments in 2026 [11] - Lexicon ended 2025 with cash, investments, and restricted cash totaling $125.2 million, which is sufficient to support operations into 2027 [11]
Idorsia to present at J.P. Morgan 2026 Healthcare Conference
Globenewswire· 2026-01-12 06:00
Core Viewpoint - Idorsia Ltd is positioned for profitability and growth with two products entering the value-acceleration phase and a promising pipeline of innovative medicines [2][3] Highlights in 2025 - Idorsia achieved strong operational progress, including the global expansion of QUVIVIQ, which is on track to meet sales guidance of approximately CHF 130 million [7] - The company completed debt restructuring and secured new financing, extending its cash runway into 2028 [7] - Clinical validation for its synthetic glycan vaccine technology and initiation of a proof-of-concept trial with a CCR6 antagonist were also notable achievements [7] Areas of Focus in 2026 - The company aims to make QUVIVIQ the standard of care for insomnia and maximize the value of TRYVIO/JERAYGO for uncontrolled hypertension [3][7] - Plans include advancing lucerastat for Fabry Disease registration and progressing the Phase 2 proof-of-concept immunology portfolio [7] - Idorsia will continue to explore partnerships and new sales models for QUVIVIQ, as well as support potential descheduling in the US [7]
Insmed Maps Aggressive 2026 As Newly Approved Lung Disease Drug Gains Traction, Pipeline Advances
Benzinga· 2026-01-09 15:58
Core Insights - Insmed Inc has outlined a commercial and clinical roadmap for 2026, emphasizing strong momentum from its respiratory portfolio and upcoming trial readouts and launches that could significantly impact growth over the next 18 months [1] Financial Performance - Insmed reported preliminary revenues of $172.7 million for Brinsupri in full-year 2025, with approximately $144.6 million generated in the first full quarter post-FDA approval in August 2025 [2] - The company forecasts global sales for Arikayce to be between $450 million and $470 million in 2026, with preliminary sales of approximately $433.8 million for 2025 [4] Product Launches and Approvals - Brinsupri, a treatment for non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis, received European Commission approval in November 2025 and is set for launch in the EU in the first half of 2026, with additional launches planned in the U.K. and Japan [3][4] - Insmed is advancing brensocatib in hidradenitis suppurativa, with Phase 2b CEDAR study data expected in Q2 2026 [6] Upcoming Catalysts - The company anticipates topline results from the Phase 3 ENCORE trial of Arikayce by March or April 2026, with plans to submit a supplemental NDA to the FDA if successful [5] - Insmed initiated a Phase 3 trial in PH-ILD in late 2025 and plans to start a Phase 3 PAH study in early 2026 [6] Pipeline Developments - The neuro pipeline includes a Phase 1 ASCEND trial for Duchenne muscular dystrophy and a Phase 1 ARMOR study for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, with an IND filing planned for Stargardt disease in 2026 [7] - Insmed's preclinical engine consists of over 30 programs, with expectations to file one to two INDs annually while maintaining preclinical spending below 20% of total expenditures [7] Recent Study Results - The Phase 2b BiRCh study of brensocatib in chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps did not meet its primary or secondary efficacy endpoints [8]
Athira Pharma Announces Name Change to LeonaBio, Inc. with New Ticker "LONA" - Athira Pharma (NASDAQ:ATHA)
Benzinga· 2026-01-09 12:00
Core Viewpoint - Athira Pharma, Inc. has rebranded as LeonaBio, Inc. to reflect its strategic focus on developing lasofoxifene for metastatic breast cancer treatment, currently in Phase 3 trials [1][2] Company Overview - LeonaBio is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on innovative therapeutics for diseases with high unmet medical needs, including metastatic breast cancer and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) [10] - The company aims to advance a pipeline of late-stage assets to maximize clinical and commercial impact [2] Name and Ticker Change - The name change to LeonaBio symbolizes strength and resilience, aligning with the company's mission to support patients facing serious diseases [2] - The new ticker symbol "LONA" will be effective on January 12, 2026, on The Nasdaq Capital Market [1] Lead Drug Candidates - Lasofoxifene and ATH-1105 are the lead drug candidates, targeting treatment-resistant metastatic breast cancer and ALS, respectively [3][10] - Lasofoxifene is in a Phase 3 trial (ELAINE-3) with over 50% enrollment, and data is expected in mid-2027 [3][6] Licensing and Financing - LeonaBio secured an exclusive global license for lasofoxifene from Sermonix Pharmaceuticals, excluding Asia and certain Middle Eastern countries [4] - The company raised $90 million through a private placement, with potential additional funding of up to $146 million from warrants, to support lasofoxifene's development [4] Drug Candidate Details - Lasofoxifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) designed to target both wild-type and mutant estrogen receptors, addressing a critical unmet need in metastatic breast cancer [5] - ATH-1105 is a next-generation small molecule aimed at treating neurodegenerative diseases, currently in Phase 1 trials with plans for a Phase 2 trial in ALS patients in early 2026 [7][8]
Athira Pharma Announces Name Change to LeonaBio, Inc. with New Ticker “LONA”
Globenewswire· 2026-01-09 12:00
Core Viewpoint - Athira Pharma, Inc. has rebranded as LeonaBio, Inc. following the acquisition of rights to develop and commercialize lasofoxifene for metastatic breast cancer, reflecting the company's commitment to innovation and leadership in addressing unmet medical needs [1][2] Group 1: Company Name Change and Strategy - The name change to LeonaBio symbolizes strength and resilience, aligning with the company's mission to deliver transformative therapies for serious diseases [2] - The new ticker symbol "LONA" will be used on The Nasdaq Capital Market starting January 12, 2026, without affecting the company's legal structure or operations [1][2] Group 2: Drug Development Focus - LeonaBio's lead drug candidates include lasofoxifene and ATH-1105, targeting treatment-resistant metastatic breast cancer and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) [3][9] - Lasofoxifene is currently in a Phase 3 clinical trial (ELAINE-3), with over 50% enrollment and data expected in mid-2027 [3][6] Group 3: Licensing and Financing - The company secured an exclusive global license for lasofoxifene from Sermonix Pharmaceuticals, with an upfront financing of $90 million and potential additional funding of up to $146 million through warrants [4] - This financing is expected to support lasofoxifene's development through key clinical and regulatory milestones, with sufficient capital for operations into 2028 [4] Group 4: Drug Candidate Details - Lasofoxifene is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) designed to target both wild-type and mutant estrogen receptors, addressing critical unmet needs in metastatic breast cancer [5] - ATH-1105 is a next-generation small molecule drug candidate aimed at treating neurodegenerative diseases, currently in clinical development for ALS [7][8]
Eupraxia Pharmaceuticals Reports Positive Tissue Health Data from its Ongoing RESOLVE Trial in Eosinophilic Esophagitis Demonstrating Near-Complete Improvement on Biopsy
Globenewswire· 2026-01-08 12:34
Core Insights - Eupraxia Pharmaceuticals announced positive results from the RESOLVE trial, showing significant improvements in tissue health and symptom management for patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) after treatment with EP-104GI [1][2] Group 1: Clinical Trial Results - The RESOLVE trial is a Phase 1b/2a study evaluating EP-104GI, which has shown compelling evidence of addressing the underlying pathology of EoE at the tissue level [2][9] - At week 12, patients receiving the highest dose of EP-104GI demonstrated a near-complete normalization of tissue health, with an EoEHSS Grade improvement of -0.57 (94% improvement) and Stage improvement of -0.63 (97% improvement) [6] - Clinical remission was achieved by 58% of patients at week 12, 79% at week 24, and 67% at week 52, indicating sustained efficacy [7] Group 2: Safety and Tolerability - Over 200 patient-months of follow-up have been reported with no serious adverse events (SAEs) and no cases of oral candidiasis, indicating a favorable safety profile for EP-104GI [5][15] - The treatment has been well tolerated across all dose levels, including the highest dose of 8mg/site [15] Group 3: Future Developments - Eupraxia plans to disclose additional data from the RESOLVE trial in the coming months, with the Phase 2b part of the trial currently recruiting participants [9][10] - The top-line data from the Phase 2b trial is expected in Q3 2026, which will further assess the efficacy and safety of EP-104GI [10]
Denali Therapeutics Unveils Portfolio Goals for 2026, Stock Up
ZACKS· 2026-01-07 19:06
Core Insights - Denali Therapeutics Inc. (DNLI) has outlined its roadmap for 2026, focusing on investigational therapies for neurodegenerative diseases and lysosomal storage disorders, with an emphasis on the anticipated FDA approval and commercial launch of tividenofusp alfa for Hunter syndrome [1][9] Regulatory Developments - The company submitted a biologics license application (BLA) for tividenofusp alfa under the FDA's accelerated approval pathway, based on phase I/II study data [4] - The FDA extended the review timeline for the BLA to April 5, 2026, due to the submission of updated clinical pharmacology information, not related to efficacy or safety [5][6] Clinical Trials and Studies - Denali is conducting a phase II/III COMPASS study for tividenofusp alfa, with data expected to support global regulatory submissions [6] - The company is also evaluating DNL126 for Sanfilippo syndrome type A, with initial data set to be presented at the 2026 WORLDSymposium [7] - Ongoing studies include DNL593 for frontotemporal dementia in partnership with Takeda, and BIIB122 for early-stage Parkinson's disease in collaboration with Biogen, with readouts expected in 2026 [8][11] Financial Position - As of September 30, 2025, Denali held approximately $872.9 million in cash and marketable securities, and raised an additional $200 million through equity financing [14] - The company secured a royalty funding agreement worth up to $275 million based on future sales of tividenofusp alfa, providing necessary capital for regulatory activities and clinical trials [14] Future Outlook - The potential FDA approval of tividenofusp alfa in 2026 could transform Denali into a commercial-stage biotech, with positive data from ongoing studies likely to boost stock performance [15]