Silence Therapeutics PLC(SLN) - 2024 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - For the year ended December 31, 2024, the company recorded revenues of $43.3 million, an increase from$ 31.6 million in 2023, representing a growth of $11.7 million largely due to collaboration arrangements for siRNA platform development [20][21] - The company's net operating loss for 2024 was approximately$ 63.3 million, a slight decrease from $64.4 million in 2023, attributed to increased revenue offset by rising R&D costs [26] - The net loss for 2024 was approximately$ 45.3 million compared to $54.2 million in 2023, reflecting improved financial performance [27] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The Phase 2 study of zerlasiran showed positive results with Lp(a) reductions exceeding 90%, supporting its competitive profile for further development [5][6] - Divesiran's Phase 1 study eliminated the need for phlebotomy in all well-controlled patients, indicating strong efficacy and safety [8][44] - The company plans to prioritize investment in programs targeting rare conditions, with divesiran for polycythemia vera (PV) remaining a top priority [10][29] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company anticipates full enrollment in the SANRECO Phase 2 study for divesiran by the end of 2024, indicating strong market interest and potential for future growth [15][30] - The collaboration with AstraZeneca continues to advance, with expectations for additional milestones [20][21] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company will only initiate the Phase 3 outcomes study for zerlasiran once a partner is secured, extending its cash runway into 2027 [12][28] - The focus remains on developing innovative siRNA therapies for rare conditions, leveraging the company's proprietary pipeline [10][29] - The company is evaluating multiple undisclosed programs from its GOLD platform for potential development or partnership [17] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the potential of zerlasiran and divesiran, highlighting the unique market opportunities for both products [12][60] - The company is actively engaged in partnership discussions for zerlasiran, with a focus on securing the right partner for development and commercialization [61] Other Important Information - Silence has transitioned to a U.S. domestic issuer effective January 1, 2025, requiring compliance with U.S. GAAP and SEC reporting [19] - The company recorded approximately$ 4.5 million in other income, primarily from U.S. treasury bill accretion, compared to $1.8 million in 2023 [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide some color on partnership discussions for zerlasiran? - Management refrained from commenting specifically on ongoing partnership discussions but noted increased funding for Lp(a) studies from companies like Novartis [59][61] Question: How ready is the company for the Phase 3 trial of zerlasiran? - The company is wrapping up Phase 3 readiness activities and is prepared to make adjustments with a partner if needed [67] Question: What are the goals for divesiran regarding differentiation? - The company aims to be the first siRNA to market for PV, focusing on infrequent dosing and symptomatic improvement as key differentiators [75][76] Question: What are the biggest hurdles for partnering zerlasiran? - Hurdles vary by party, often revolving around business strategy and recognition of the large market opportunity [79][80] Question: What is the status of the candidates developed for Hansoh? - The company is interested in the programs developed in partnership with Hansoh and plans to evaluate them for potential internal development or partnership [84][86]