Core Viewpoint - Disc Medicine, Inc. announced that the FDA issued a Complete Response Letter (CRL) for the New Drug Application (NDA) for bitopertin, delaying its potential approval for treating erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) [1] Group 1: FDA Review and Approval Process - The FDA acknowledged that previous trials (AURORA and BEACON) provided sufficient evidence that bitopertin significantly lowers whole blood metal-free PPIX [2][6] - However, the FDA concluded that the trials did not demonstrate a clear association between the change in PPIX levels and clinical benefits related to sunlight exposure, necessitating further evidence from the ongoing APOLLO study for traditional approval [2][6] - The APOLLO study is expected to provide topline data in Q4 2026, which could serve as a basis for traditional approval [6] Group 2: Company Response and Future Plans - The company remains committed to delivering bitopertin to the EPP community and plans to pursue all avenues for FDA approval despite the CRL [3] - Disc Medicine is confident in the ongoing APOLLO trial, which has seen significant enthusiasm from patients and physicians, leading to early completion of trial enrollment in March 2026 [3] - Following the completion of the APOLLO study, the company plans to respond to the CRL and anticipates an updated FDA decision by mid-2027 [3] Group 3: Financial Position - As of December 31, 2025, Disc Medicine reported approximately $791 million in cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities, providing a financial runway into 2029 [3]