Denali Therapeutics (DNLI) 2025 Conference September 03, 2025 02:45 PM ET Company ParticipantsJosh Schimmer - Managing DirectorRyan Watts - Co-Founder, President, CEO & DirectorJosh SchimmerI think we're ready to get started. Welcome, everyone. I'm Josh Schimmer from the Cantor Biotech Equity Research team. Very pleased to introduce Ryan Watts, Chief Executive Officer of Denali Therapeutics. Ryan, welcome.Ryan WattsGreat to be here.Josh SchimmerYou've got a lot going on, but I think the most pressing update ...

Core Insights - Denali Therapeutics, Inc. (DNLI) has received FDA acceptance for its biologics license application (BLA) for tividenofusp alfa, aimed at treating Hunter syndrome, with a target action date set for January 5, 2026 [1][7] - The acceptance of the BLA marks a significant step for DNLI towards becoming a commercial-stage biotech company, especially as its shares have declined by 30.1% year to date [2] Drug Development and Clinical Trials - Tividenofusp alfa has received Breakthrough Therapy Designation from the FDA for Hunter syndrome, a rare genetic disorder caused by a deficiency in the iduronate 2-sulfatase (IDS) enzyme [3] - The drug is designed to cross the blood-brain barrier, addressing both cognitive and physical symptoms of MPS II, unlike traditional enzyme replacement therapies [4] - The BLA submission is supported by data from a phase I/II study involving 47 participants, and an ongoing phase II/III COMPASS study is expected to provide pivotal data for global regulatory filings [5] Pipeline and Collaborations - Denali is also evaluating DNL126 for Sanfilippo syndrome type A and has engaged in discussions with the FDA for an accelerated development path [9] - Another candidate, DNL593, is being co-developed with Takeda for frontotemporal dementia, with an ongoing phase I/II study [10] - Denali and Biogen are jointly developing a LRRK2 inhibitor for Parkinson's disease, with a global phase IIb study fully enrolled and results expected in 2026 [11] - Denali is also conducting a phase IIa study for LRRK2-associated Parkinson's disease and evaluating DNL343 for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), although a primary endpoint was not met in a recent trial [12] - The company has multiple early-stage clinical and preclinical programs and maintains a sound cash position to fund ongoing initiatives [13]

Summary of Denali Therapeutics Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Denali Therapeutics - **Industry**: Biotechnology - **Focus**: Development of therapies targeting the blood-brain barrier (BBB) for rare diseases, particularly enzyme replacement therapies (ERTs) for conditions like Hunter syndrome and Sanfilippo syndrome Key Points and Arguments Pipeline Progress and Upcoming Milestones - Denali is in the process of filing a Biologics License Application (BLA) for its lead program targeting Hunter syndrome, with a PDUFA date pending [4][18] - The company has developed a novel blood-brain barrier technology, which has garnered significant interest in the industry [5][4] - Denali has three transport vehicle molecules currently in clinical testing and plans to introduce at least three more within the next year [7][8] Commercial Strategy - The company is preparing for the launch of its lead product, DNL310, which is positioned as a next-generation ERT [21][22] - Denali is building a commercial team to ensure a successful launch and has engaged with all prescribers of existing treatments in the U.S. [22][23] - Education for healthcare providers and patients is a core focus, emphasizing the advantages of their therapy over standard care [25][23] Regulatory Engagement - Denali has had consistent and productive dialogue with the FDA regarding its BLA submission and the accelerated approval pathway for its programs [17][19] - The company is also engaging with European regulators to align on the approval process for its therapies [26][28] Manufacturing Capabilities - Denali is utilizing Lonza for the manufacturing of its lead product, with plans to transition to a U.S. facility for larger volumes [31][32] - The company has established its own manufacturing capabilities to enhance efficiency and reduce costs [8][31] Competitive Landscape - Denali is aware of the competitive dynamics with gene therapies and other ERTs in the market, particularly for Hunter and Sanfilippo syndromes [39][37] - The company believes that its therapies may complement existing gene therapies rather than compete directly [40][39] Strategic Prioritization - Denali is focusing on high-probability success programs within its enzyme replacement therapy portfolio, which has a multibillion-dollar market opportunity [45][46] - The company aims to balance its resources between smaller indications and larger opportunities, ensuring efficient capital allocation [42][44] Future Directions - Denali is exploring additional therapeutic areas beyond the brain, including potential applications in tumors and muscle diseases [59][58] - The company is committed to maintaining a strong business development strategy to partner its assets effectively while managing capital efficiency [60][61] Additional Important Insights - Denali's approach to the blood-brain barrier delivery is seen as a significant advancement in the field, with a growing number of companies now pursuing similar technologies [58][59] - The company is focused on reducing the cost of bringing programs from idea to clinical proof of concept, which is crucial given the high cost of capital in the biotech industry [59][58]