Cocrystal(US:COCP)2022-03-12 16:03Pipeline Programs - Cocrystal Pharma is advancing programs targeting high-value antiviral drug targets, including SARS-CoV-2 and its variants, pandemic and seasonal influenza A, and norovirus gastroenteritis[5] - The company plans to initiate Phase 1 trials for a COVID-19 oral protease inhibitor and CDI-45205 lead molecule in 2022[7] - Phase 1 subject enrollment for Influenza A CC-42344 (oral administration) is expected to begin in 1Q22[7] - Preclinical lead selection for the norovirus program is planned for 2022-2023[8] Technology and Collaboration - Cocrystal's proprietary drug discovery platform technology aims to develop first- and best-in-class broad-spectrum antiviral drugs[4] - The Merck collaboration for influenza A/B therapeutic has the potential for up to $156 million in milestone payments plus royalties[7, 28] Market and Financials - The company is targeting large, global markets for the treatment of acute and pandemic viral diseases[7, 45] - As of September 30, 2021, Cocrystal Pharma had approximately $616 million in cash and equivalents[44] - The company's market capitalization is approximately $52 million, with 975 million common shares outstanding[44] Disease Burden - Worldwide, influenza causes 1 billion cases, 3-5 million severe illnesses, and up to 650,000 deaths annually[24] - Norovirus is responsible for approximately 685 million infections annually worldwide, costing an estimated $60 billion[31] - An estimated 58 million people worldwide have chronic hepatitis C virus infection, with about 15 million new infections occurring per year[36]