Pancreatic Cancer Action Network and CDISC Partnership Develops First Data Standards for World’s Toughest Cancer

On November 4, 2021 The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN) and CDISC reported the release of a new Therapeutic Area User Guide setting the first-ever global data standards specifically for pancreatic cancer (Press release, PanCAN, NOV 4, 2021, View Source [SID1234594631]). The project was funded through a two-year grant awarded to CDISC by PanCAN and is designed to lead to greater efficiencies and data sharing among the pancreatic cancer scientific community.

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The User Guide includes global, nonproprietary clinical metadata standards and core precision medicine-focused concepts designed for pancreatic cancer to enable global researchers to efficiently collect, organize and analyze data across studies, facilitating the development of treatments that make a difference in the lives of pancreatic cancer patients. It is intended to drive operational efficiencies, expedite the regulatory review process, enable data sharing and reduce the time it takes to bring safe and effective treatments to market.

"Through this partnership with CDISC to standardize data submissions to regulatory agencies, we are creating opportunities to streamline drug development in the pancreatic cancer space," said Sudheer Doss, PhD, PanCAN’s Chief Business Officer. "With a disease as difficult to treat as pancreatic cancer, patients can’t afford to wait. By accelerating clinical advancements through these efficiencies, we hope to improve patient outcomes and, ultimately, increase survival."

"We are grateful to PanCAN for partnering with CDISC to allow the development of these crucial standards," said Rhonda Facile, VP, Partnerships and Development, CDISC. "It is our hope that the research community will swiftly adopt this Therapeutic Area User Guide to conduct more powerful and meaningful research to enable the development of treatments and therapies to treat this devastating disease."

Two years in the making, the User Guide for pancreatic cancer is now freely available via the CDISC website. To date, CDISC has developed Therapeutic Area User Guides for over 40 disease areas.

Pancreatic cancer is currently the third leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S., with an overall five-year survival rate of just 10 percent. In 2021 more than 60,000 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and approximately 48,000 will die from the disease, underscoring the scientific collaboration to develop new and better treatment options for patients.

To learn more about pancreatic cancer, please visit pancan.org.

2seventy bio to Present Data from its Portfolio of Oncology Cell Therapies at the 63rd American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition

On November 4, 2021 2seventy bio, Inc. (NASDAQ: TSVT) reported that data from its pipeline of oncology cell therapies will be presented, including two oral presentations, at the 63rd American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) Annual Meeting and Exposition on December 11-14, 2021, in Atlanta, Georgia and virtually (Press release, 2seventy bio, NOV 4, 2021, View Source [SID1234594630]).

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New pre-clinical data on SC-DARIC33, an investigational, pharmacologically controlled CD33-targeted chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell product, being studied and developed in collaboration with Seattle Children’s Therapeutics for the potential treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), has been accepted for oral presentation. A second oral presentation, in partnership with Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), will feature updated results from the ongoing Phase I CRB-402 study of the B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-targeted CAR T cell therapy bb21217 in patients with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM).

In addition, a range of analyses will be presented from the pivotal KarMMa trial of idecabtagene vicleucel (ABECMA; ide-cel), a first-in-class BCMA-directed CAR T cell immunotherapy in relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma, in partnership with BMS. These analyses demonstrate that clinically meaningful improvements in quality of life are maintained with extended follow-up, with most patients reporting a positive treatment experience in the KarMMa study, and patients who relapse from ide-cel benefit from subsequent therapies, including anti-BCMA therapies.

Acute Myeloid Leukemia Data
Oral Presentation [#905]: Clinical Translation of SC-DARIC33: A Pharmacologically Controlled CD33-Targeted Anti-AML CAR T Cell Product Regulated by Low Nanomolar Concentrations of Rapamycin
Presenting Author: Jacob Appelbaum, MD, Acting Instructor, Division of Hematology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
Date/Time: Monday, December 13, 2021, 7:15 PM ET

Multiple Myeloma Data
Oral Presentation [#548]: Updated Clinical and Correlative Results from the Phase I CRB-402 Study of the BCMA-Targeted CAR T Cell Therapy bb21217 in Patients with Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma
Presenting Author: Noopur S. Raje, MD, Clinical Director of the Center for Multiple Myeloma, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
Date/Time: Sunday, December 12, 2021, 4:45 PM ET

Poster [#1739]: Baseline Correlates of Complete Response to Idecabtagene Vicleucel (ide-cel, bb2121), a BCMA-Directed CAR T Cell Therapy in Patients with Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma: Subanalysis of the KarMMa Trial
Presenting Author: Nina Shah, MD, Professor of Clinical Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
Date/Time: Saturday, December 11, 5:30 ‒ 7:30 pm ET

Poster [#1978]: Matching-Adjusted Indirect Comparisons of Efficacy Outcomes in Patients with Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma for Idecabtagene Vicleucel (KarMMa) vs. Selinexor Plus Dexamethasone (STORM Part 2) and Belantamab Mafodontin (DREAMM-2): Updated Analysis with Longer Follow-up
Presenting Author: Paula Rodriguez-Otero, MD, PhD, Consultant, Department of Hematology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
Date/Time: Saturday, December 11, 5:30 ‒ 7:30 pm ET

Poster [#2743]: Subsequent Anti-Myeloma Therapy after Idecabtagene Vicleucel (ide-cel, bb2121) Treatment in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma from the KarMMa Study
Presenting Author: Paula Rodriguez-Otero, MD, PhD, Consultant, Department of Hematology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
Date/Time: Sunday, December 12, 6:00 ‒ 8:00 PM ET

Poster [#2835]: Updated Health-Related Quality of Life Results from the KarMMa Clinical Study in Patients with Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma Treated with the B-Cell Maturation Antigen-Directed Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Therapy Idecabtagene Vicleucel (ide-cel, bb2121)
Presenting Author: Michel Delforge, MD, PhD, Chairman, Leuven Cancer Institute, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
Date/Time: Sunday, December 12, 6:00 – 8:00 PM ET

Poster [#3041]: Idecabtagene Vicleucel (ide-cel, bb2121), a B-Cell Maturation Antigen-Directed Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Therapy: Qualitative Analyses of Post-Treatment Interviews (Months 6–24) for Patients with Relapsed and Refractory Multiple Myeloma in the KarMMa Clinical Trial
Presenting Author: Nina Shah, MD, Professor of Clinical Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
Date/Time: Sunday, December 12, 6:00 – 8:00 PM ET

Abstracts outlining 2seventy bio’s accepted data at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) are available on the ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) conference website.

About SC-DARIC33

2seventy bio is collaborating with Seattle Children’s Therapeutics to rapidly accelerate development of potential new therapies for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This research collaboration is investigating potential solutions to two challenges in treating AML: disease heterogeneity and toxicity due to shared expression of targets between tumor and normal tissue.

SC-DARIC33 is an investigational CD33-specific cell therapy that utilizes 2seventy bio’s proprietary Dimerizing Agent Regulated Immunoreceptor Complex (DARIC) T cell platform, a regulatable CAR T cell technology. DARIC T cells are intended to be switched from "OFF" to "ON" in the presence of rapamycin, such that while in the "ON" state the T cell is poised to be activated upon encounter with its target antigen.

The upcoming Phase I study of SC-DARIC33 in relapsed/refractory pediatric AML, led by Seattle Children’s Therapeutics, will couple 2seventy bio’s DARIC T cell platform with Seattle Children’s world-class bench-to-bedside expertise in oncology cell therapies. This study is a first-in-human investigation of the DARIC T cell platform.

SC-DARIC33 is not approved for any indication in any geography.

About bb21217

bb21217 is an investigational BCMA-directed CAR T cell therapy that uses the ide-cel CAR molecule and is cultured with the PI3 kinase inhibitor (bb007) to enrich for T cells displaying a memory-like phenotype with the intention to increase the in vivo persistence of CAR T cells. bb21217 is being studied for patients with multiple myeloma in partnership with Bristol Myers Squibb.

The clinical development program for bb21217 includes the ongoing Phase I CRB-402 study. CRB-402 is the first-in-human study of bb21217 in patients with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM), designed to assess safety, pharmacokinetics, efficacy and duration of effect. CRB-402 is a two-part (dose escalation and dose expansion), open-label, multi-site Phase I study of bb21217 in adults with RRMM. A total of 69 patients have been treated with bb21217 and the study has completed enrollment. For more information visit: clinicaltrials.gov using identifier NCT03274219.

bb21217 is not approved for any indication in any geography.

About ABECMA (idecabtagene vicleucel; ide-cel)

ABECMA is the first-in-class B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-directed chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell immunotherapy approved in the U.S. for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma after four or more prior lines of therapy, including and immunomodulatory agent, a proteasome inhibitor, and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody. ABECMA has also received approval in the European Union, Canada, and Switzerland. ABECMA recognizes and binds to BCMA on the surface of multiple myeloma cells leading to CAR T cell proliferation, cytokine secretion, and subsequent cytolytic killing of BCMA-expressing cells. ABECMA is being jointly developed and commercialized in the U.S. as part of a Co-Development, Co-Promotion, and Profit Share Agreement with 2seventy bio and Bristol Myers Squibb. Bristol Myers Squibb assumes sole responsibility for ABECMA drug product manufacturing and commercialization outside of the U.S.

2seventy bio and Bristol Myers Squibb’s broad clinical development program for ABECMA includes clinical studies (KarMMa-2, KarMMa-3, KarMMa-4, KarMMa-7) in earlier lines of treatment for patients with multiple myeloma, including newly diagnosed multiple myeloma. For more information visit clinicaltrials.gov.

Indication

ABECMA (idecabtagene vicleucel) is a B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA)-directed genetically modified autologous T cell immunotherapy indicated for the treatment of adult patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma after four or more prior lines of therapy, including an immunomodulatory agent, a proteasome inhibitor, and an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody.

Important Safety Information

BOXED WARNING: CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME, NEUROLOGIC TOXICITIES, HLH/MAS, AND PROLONGED CYTOPENIA

Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS), including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients following treatment with ABECMA. Do not administer ABECMA to patients with active infection or inflammatory disorders. Treat severe or life-threatening CRS with tocilizumab or tocilizumab and corticosteroids.
Neurologic Toxicities, which may be severe or life-threatening, occurred following treatment with ABECMA, including concurrently with CRS, after CRS resolution, or in the absence of CRS. Monitor for neurologic events after treatment with ABECMA. Provide supportive care and/or corticosteroids as needed.
Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis/Macrophage Activation Syndrome (HLH/MAS) including fatal and life-threatening reactions, occurred in patients following treatment with ABECMA. HLH/MAS can occur with CRS or neurologic toxicities.
Prolonged Cytopenia with bleeding and infection, including fatal outcomes following stem cell transplantation for hematopoietic recovery, occurred following treatment with ABECMA.
ABECMA is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the ABECMA REMS.
Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS): CRS, including fatal or life-threatening reactions, occurred following treatment with ABECMA. CRS occurred in 85% (108/127) of patients receiving ABECMA. Grade 3 or higher CRS (Lee grading system) occurred in 9% (12/127) of patients, with Grade 5 CRS reported in one (0.8%) patient. The median time to onset of CRS, any grade, was 1 day (range: 1 – 23 days) and the median duration of CRS was 7 days (range: 1 – 63 days) in all patients including the patient who died. The most common manifestations of CRS included pyrexia (98%), hypotension (41%), tachycardia (35%), chills (31%), hypoxia (20%), fatigue (12%), and headache (10%). Grade 3 or higher events that may be associated with CRS include hypotension, hypoxia, hyperbilirubinemia, hypofibrinogenemia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), atrial fibrillation, hepatocellular injury, metabolic acidosis, pulmonary edema, multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and HLH/MAS.

Identify CRS based on clinical presentation. Evaluate for and treat other causes of fever, hypoxia, and hypotension. CRS has been reported to be associated with findings of HLH/MAS, and the physiology of the syndromes may overlap. HLH/MAS is a potentially life-threatening condition. In patients with progressive symptoms of CRS or refractory CRS despite treatment, evaluate for evidence of HLH/MAS.

Fifty four percent (68/127) of patients received tocilizumab; 35% (45/127) received a single dose while 18% (23/127) received more than 1 dose of tocilizumab. Overall, across the dose levels, 15% (19/127) of patients received at least 1 dose of corticosteroids for treatment of CRS. All patients that received corticosteroids for CRS received tocilizumab.

Overall rate of CRS was 79% and rate of Grade 2 CRS was 23% in patients treated in the 300 x 106 CAR+ T cell dose cohort. For patients treated in the 450 x 106 CAR+ T cell dose cohort, the overall rate of CRS was 96% and rate of Grade 2 CRS was 40%. Rate of Grade 3 or higher CRS was similar across the dose range. The median duration of CRS for the 450 x 106 CAR+ T cell dose cohort was 7 days (range: 1-63 days) and for the 300 x 106 CAR+ T cell dose cohort was 6 days (range: 2-28 days). In the 450 x 106 CAR+ T cell dose cohort, 68% (36/53) of patients received tocilizumab and 23% (12/53) received at least 1 dose of corticosteroids for treatment of CRS. In the 300 x 106 CAR+ T cell dose cohort, 44% (31/70) of patients received tocilizumab and 10% (7/70) received corticosteroids. All patients that received corticosteroids for CRS also received tocilizumab. Ensure that a minimum of 2 doses of tocilizumab are available prior to infusion of ABECMA.

Monitor patients at least daily for 7 days following ABECMA infusion at the REMS-certified healthcare facility for signs and symptoms of CRS. Monitor patients for signs or symptoms of CRS for at least 4 weeks after infusion. At the first sign of CRS, institute treatment with supportive care, tocilizumab and/or corticosteroids as indicated.

Counsel patients to seek immediate medical attention should signs or symptoms of CRS occur at any time.

Neurologic Toxicities: Neurologic toxicities, which may be severe or life-threatening, occurred following treatment with ABECMA, including concurrently with CRS, after CRS resolution, or in the absence of CRS. CAR T cell-associated neurotoxicity occurred in 28% (36/127) of patients receiving ABECMA, including Grade 3 in 4% (5/127) of patients. One patient had ongoing Grade 2 neurotoxicity at the time of death. Two patients had ongoing Grade 1 tremor at the time of data cutoff. The median time to onset of neurotoxicity was 2 days (range: 1 – 42 days). CAR T cell-associated neurotoxicity resolved in 92% (33/36) of patients with a median duration of neurotoxicity was 5 days (range: 1 – 61 days). The median duration of neurotoxicity was 6 days (range: 1 – 578) in all patients including those with ongoing neurotoxicity at the time of death or data cut off. Thirty-four patients with neurotoxicity had CRS. Neurotoxicity had onset in 3 patients before, 29 patients during, and 2 patients after CRS. The rate of Grade 3 neurotoxicity was 8% in the 450 x 106 CAR+ T cell dose cohort and 1.4% in the 300 x 106 CAR+ T cell dose cohort. The most frequently reported (greater than or equal to 5%) manifestations of CAR T cell-associated neurotoxicity include encephalopathy (20%), tremor (9%), aphasia (7%), and delirium (6%). Grade 4 neurotoxicity and cerebral edema in 1 patient has been reported with ABECMA in another study in multiple myeloma. Grade 3 myelitis and Grade 3 parkinsonism have been reported after treatment with ABECMA in another study in multiple myeloma.

Monitor patients at least daily for 7 days following ABECMA infusion at the REMS-certified healthcare facility for signs and symptoms of neurologic toxicities. Rule out other causes of neurologic symptoms. Monitor patients for signs or symptoms of neurologic toxicities for at least 4 weeks after infusion and treat promptly. Neurologic toxicity should be managed with supportive care and/or corticosteroids as needed.

Counsel patients to seek immediate medical attention should signs or symptoms of neurologic toxicity occur at any time.

Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH)/Macrophage Activation Syndrome (MAS): HLH/MAS occurred in 4% (5/127) of patients receiving ABECMA. One patient treated in the 300 x 106 CAR+ T cell dose cohort developed fatal multi-organ HLH/MAS with CRS. In another patient with fatal bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, HLH/MAS was contributory to the fatal outcome. Three cases of Grade 2 HLH/MAS resolved. The rate of HLH/MAS was 8% in the 450 x 106 CAR+ T cell dose cohort and 1% in the 300 x 106 CAR+ T cell dose cohort. All events of HLH/MAS had onset within 10 days of receiving ABECMA with a median onset of 7 days (range: 4-9 days) and occurred in the setting of ongoing or worsening CRS. Two patients with HLH/MAS had overlapping neurotoxicity. The manifestations of HLH/MAS include hypotension, hypoxia, multiple organ dysfunction, renal dysfunction, and cytopenia. HLH/MAS is a potentially life-threatening condition with a high mortality rate if not recognized early and treated. Treatment of HLH/MAS should be administered per institutional standards.

ABECMA REMS: Due to the risk of CRS and neurologic toxicities, ABECMA is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the ABECMA REMS. Further information is available at www.AbecmaREMS.com or 1‑888‑423‑5436.

Hypersensitivity Reactions: Allergic reactions may occur with the infusion of ABECMA. Serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, may be due to dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in ABECMA.

Infections: ABECMA should not be administered to patients with active infections or inflammatory disorders. Severe, life-threatening, or fatal infections occurred in patients after ABECMA infusion. Infections (all grades) occurred in 70% of patients. Grade 3 or 4 infections occurred in 23% of patients. Overall, 4 patients had Grade 5 infections (3%); 2 patients (1.6%) had Grade 5 events of pneumonia, 1 patient (0.8%) had Grade 5 bronchopulmonary aspergillosis, and 1 patient (0.8%) had cytomegalovirus (CMV) pneumonia associated with Pneumocystis jirovecii. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection before and after ABECMA infusion and treat appropriately. Administer prophylactic, preemptive, and/or therapeutic antimicrobials according to standard institutional guidelines. Febrile neutropenia was observed in 16% (20/127) of patients after ABECMA infusion and may be concurrent with CRS. In the event of febrile neutropenia, evaluate for infection and manage with broad spectrum antibiotics, fluids, and other supportive care as medically indicated.

Viral Reactivation: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection resulting in pneumonia and death has occurred following ABECMA administration. Monitor and treat for CMV reactivation in accordance with clinical guidelines. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation, in some cases resulting in fulminant hepatitis, hepatic failure, and death, can occur in patients treated with drugs directed against plasma cells. Perform screening for CMV, HBV, hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in accordance with clinical guidelines before collection of cells for manufacturing.

Prolonged Cytopenias: Patients may exhibit prolonged cytopenias following lymphodepleting chemotherapy and ABECMA infusion. In the KarMMa study, 41% of patients (52/127) experienced prolonged Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia and 49% (62/127) experienced prolonged Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia that had not resolved by Month 1 following ABECMA infusion. Rate of prolonged neutropenia was 49% in the 450 x 106 CAR+ T cell dose cohort and 34% in the 300 x 106 CAR+ T cell dose cohort. In 83% (43/52) of patients who recovered from Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia after Month 1, the median time to recovery from ABECMA infusion was 1.9 months. In 65% (40/62) of patients who recovered from Grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia, the median time to recovery was 2.1 months. Median time to cytopenia recovery was similar across the 300 and 450 x 106 dose cohort.

Three patients underwent stem cell therapy for hematopoietic reconstitution due to prolonged cytopenia. Two of the three patients died from complications of prolonged cytopenia. Monitor blood counts prior to and after ABECMA infusion. Manage cytopenia with myeloid growth factor and blood product transfusion support according to institutional guidelines.

Hypogammaglobulinemia: Plasma cell aplasia and hypogammaglobulinemia can occur in patients receiving treatment with ABECMA. Hypogammaglobulinemia was reported as an adverse event in 21% (27/127) of patients; laboratory IgG levels fell below 500 mg/dl after infusion in 25% (32/127) of patients treated with ABECMA.

Monitor immunoglobulin levels after treatment with ABECMA and administer IVIG for IgG <400 mg/dl. Manage per local institutional guidelines, including infection precautions and antibiotic or antiviral prophylaxis.

The safety of immunization with live viral vaccines during or following ABECMA treatment has not been studied. Vaccination with live virus vaccines is not recommended for at least 6 weeks prior to the start of lymphodepleting chemotherapy, during ABECMA treatment, and until immune recovery following treatment with ABECMA.

Secondary Malignancies: Patients treated with ABECMA may develop secondary malignancies. Monitor life-long for secondary malignancies. If a secondary malignancy occurs, contact Bristol Myers Squibb at 1-888-805-4555 to obtain instructions on patient samples to collect for testing of secondary malignancy of T cell origin.

Effects on Ability to Drive and Operate Machinery: Due to the potential for neurologic events, including altered mental status or seizures, patients receiving ABECMA are at risk for altered or decreased consciousness or coordination in the 8 weeks following ABECMA infusion. Advise patients to refrain from driving and engaging in hazardous occupations or activities, such as operating heavy or potentially dangerous machinery, during this initial period.

Adverse Reactions: The most common nonlaboratory adverse reactions (incidence greater than or equal to 20%) include CRS, infections – pathogen unspecified, fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, hypogammaglobulinemia, diarrhea, upper respiratory tract infection, nausea, viral infections, encephalopathy, edema, pyrexia, cough, headache, and decreased appetite.

Beyond Air® Announces Formation of Beyond Cancer™, a New Private Company Dedicated to Oncology Utilizing Ultra-High Concentration Nitric Oxide to Treat Solid Tumors

On November 4, 2021 Beyond Air, Inc. (NASDAQ: XAIR), a clinical-stage medical device and biopharmaceutical company focused on developing inhaled nitric oxide (NO) for the treatment of patients with respiratory conditions, including serious lung infections and pulmonary hypertension, and ultra-high concentration nitric oxide (UNO) for the treatment of solid tumors, reported the separation of its oncology business into a new and independently managed, private company called Beyond Cancer, Ltd (Press release, Beyond Air, NOV 4, 2021, View Source [SID1234594627]). Beyond Air retains its respiratory business and will continue to focus on advancing the LungFit platform of nitric oxide generators and delivery systems to the market. Beyond Air’s preclinical oncology team and the exclusive right to the intellectual property portfolio utilizing UNO for the treatment of solid tumors now reside with Beyond Cancer.

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"The decision to spin off our oncology business was made in close collaboration with the Board of Directors and Beyond Air leadership as part of our overall strategy to maximize efficiency and drive value creation to achieve our goals for both patients and shareholders. After a careful assessment of our active portfolio management strategy, it became clear that our oncology business would be more productive as a separate, independently managed entity with its own leadership team and investor base," said Steve Lisi, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Beyond Air. "Beyond Air was founded on the promise of NO in respiratory diseases, and this separation will enable a greater focus on the transformational LungFit platform technology. This will also allow for investment into other respiratory diseases where we can have a significant impact on our patients. I am confident that through an ongoing, collaborative partnership, the new Beyond Cancer leadership team will be able to leverage our knowledge of ultra-high concentration NO to treat solid tumors. We are excited and energized to enter this new era of transformation and innovation, as Beyond Cancer takes on its own mission of creating the next generation of immuNO-oncology treatments."

Strategic Rationale
Beyond Air believes the spin-off of the oncology business will create long-term value for shareholders through the following:

Beyond Air’s focus remains advancing the LungFit platform to treat respiratory diseases, and the oncology program does not use LungFit given the ultra-high concentrations and direct delivery to the site of the tumor
After this financing, Beyond Air will retain at least 80% equity ownership in Beyond Cancer
Beyond Cancer will pay Beyond Air a single digit royalty on all future revenues
Beyond Cancer will benefit from Beyond Air’s NO expertise, IP portfolio, preclinical oncology team, and regulatory progress
Beyond Cancer can initially utilize Beyond Air’s infrastructure while having its own investor base and dedicated leadership team with clinical oncology experience to accelerate and enhance its solid tumor pipeline
Leadership and Governance
Selena Chaisson, M.D., is joining Beyond Cancer as Chief Executive Officer. Previously, Dr. Chaisson was the Director of Healthcare Investments at Bailard, where she spent 16 years focusing on highly specialized, emerging healthcare opportunities with more than one-third of her portfolio dedicated to investments in oncology-related companies.

"I am honored to lead Beyond Cancer as we move forward to unlock the possibilities of using ultra-high concentration NO as a new treatment modality for solid tumors," said Dr. Chaisson. "Immuno-oncology has been hailed as a breakthrough therapy for many cancer patients, especially those suffering from hematological malignancies, such as leukemia and lymphoma. However, solid tumors represent approximately 90% of human cancers, with metastatic disease causing the overwhelming majority of cancer-related deaths. Beyond Cancer’s goal is to be at the forefront of a completely novel approach in preventing metastatic disease by harnessing the power of ultra-high concentration NO. In preclinical studies, intra-tumoral delivery of UNO elicited an immunogenic response with potent antitumor activity in addition to the immediate cytotoxic effect of NO-mediated tumor ablation, while limiting off-target effects. As CEO, I am excited to have the opportunity to build a biotech company around such an innovative approach and bring on a seasoned leadership team to spearhead this effort. I will continue Beyond Air’s legacy of investing in NO and look forward to maintaining a close partnership."

Prior to Bailard, Dr. Chaisson held senior executive roles at RCM Capital Management and Tiger Management. RCM Capital Management was acquired and then merged with Allianz Global Investors U.S. in 2013. Dr. Chaisson received a BS in Microbiology in 1987 from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA, where she graduated summa cum laude. She earned her M.B.A. and M.D. from Stanford University in 1992 and 1993, respectively.

Hila Confino, Ph.D., is joining Beyond Cancer as Chief Scientific Officer from Beyond Air, where she served as Head of Research in Israel. At Beyond Air, Dr. Confino led the oncology preclinical team and conducted in vitro and in vivo studies for ultra-high concentration nitric oxide in solid tumors. Dr. Confino has over 12 years of experience in cancer immunology research in both the academic and industry settings. Her work has been featured in numerous scientific conferences and published in multiple peer-reviewed journals. She holds a Ph.D. and Master of Science in Cancer Immunology from Tel Aviv University. Dr. Confino received a BS in Biotechnology from Bar—Ilan University in Israel, where she graduated cum laude.

The complete Beyond Cancer Board of Directors, Scientific Advisory Board and headquarters will be announced as they are finalized. The Board of Directors is expected to consist of six members, four of whom include:

Steve Lisi, Chairman of the Board, and CEO and Chairman of the Board of Beyond Air
Selena Chaisson, M.D., Director, and CEO of Beyond Cancer
Amir Avniel, Executive Director, and President, COO and Co-Founder of Beyond Air
Robert Carey, Director, and Board Member of Beyond Air
Transaction Details
Beyond Cancer has secured commitments of $23.9 million in a concurrent private placement of common shares, not to exceed $30 million, providing the investors with up to 20% equity ownership. The funding is expected to be used to accelerate ongoing preclinical work including the completion of IND-enabling studies, completion of a Phase 1 study, expansion of preclinical programs for combination studies, hiring of additional Beyond Cancer team members, and optimization of the delivery system, as well as for general corporate purposes. The concurrent private placement is expected to close later in the fourth fiscal quarter.

The common shares to be sold in the private placement have been and are being offered only to certain institutional and/or accredited investors in reliance upon an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). The common shares have not been registered under the Securities Act or any state or other securities laws and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. The Securities and Exchange Commission has not passed upon the merits of or given its approval to the common shares, the terms of the private placement or the accuracy or completeness of any private placement materials. The common shares sold in the private placement are subject to legal and contractual restrictions on transfer.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification or otherwise under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

Hogan Lovells US LLP, Arthur Cox LLP and Conyers Dill & Pearman Limited serve as legal counsel to Beyond Air.

Upcoming Investor Events
Beyond Air management will provide more details on this news on Thursday, November 11, 2021, consistent with its scheduled time to report financial results for its second fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2021. Management will host a conference call and webcast at 4:30 pm Eastern Time the same day.

In addition, Steve Lisi, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Beyond Air, will participate in the Piper Sandler 33rd Annual Virtual Healthcare Conference being held from November 30 – December 2, 2021, and will be available for virtual one-on-one meetings.

Jazz Pharmaceuticals to Present Data Showcasing Clinical Advances Across Hematology/Oncology at ASH 2021 Annual Meeting

On November 4, 2021 Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc (Nasdaq: JAZZ) reported that 16 new data abstracts from across its hematology/oncology development program will be presented at the 63rd American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) Annual Meeting, which will be held December 11-14, 2021 (Press release, Jazz Pharmaceuticals, NOV 4, 2021, View Source [SID1234594622]). This includes five presentations from investigator-sponsored trials and three presentations from collaboration studies with The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (MD Anderson).

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"The data at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) demonstrates Jazz’s focus on making a difference for people living with rare forms of leukemias and blood cancers, both through the development of new treatment options as well as further evaluating our currently approved medicines," said Robert Iannone, M.D., M.S.C.E., executive vice president, research and development and chief medical officer of Jazz Pharmaceuticals. "Our support of several investigator-sponsored and collaboration trials exemplifies our commitment to working with experts to enable studies beyond our own company-sponsored trials, and to identifying new treatment options for patients through a variety of means."

Highlights at ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) include:

A poster presentation sharing, for the first time, data from the Phase 2/3 study of Rylaze in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)/lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL) who developed hypersensitivity or silent inactivation to a long-acting E. coli–derived asparaginase.
Results for Vyxeos (daunorubicin and cytarabine) in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) including an oral presentation from a real-world evidence study of Vyxeos use in newly diagnosed patients and a poster presentation from a Phase 1b study of lower-dose Vyxeos in combination with venetoclax in patients with AML who are unfit for intensive chemotherapy.
Data for Vyxeos use in new patient populations, including oral presentations of two studies of Vyxeos as treatment in higher risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS).
A poster presentation with final results from a real-world evidence study, DEFIFrance, of Defitelio (defibrotide sodium) treatment in adults with severe or very severe veno-occlusive disease/sinusoidal obstruction syndrome after hematopoietic cell transplantation.
The ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) abstracts are available online starting today, November 4 at View Source

ASH will be held as a hybrid conference virtually and in-person in Atlanta, GA at the Georgia World Congress Center. A full list of Jazz and investigator-sponsored presentations follows below:

Rylaze Presentations

Presentation Topic

Author

Date / Time (EST) / Session Title / Presentation Number

Initial Results from a Phase 2/3 Study of Recombinant Erwinia Asparaginase (JZP458) in Patients with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)/Lymphoblastic Lymphoma (LBL) Who are Allergic/Hypersensitive to E. Coli–Derived Asparaginases

Luke Maese et al.

Type: Poster
Number: 2307
Session: 614. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemias: Therapies, Excluding Transplantation and Cellular Immunotherapies: Poster II
Date/Time: Sunday, December 12, 2021: 6:00 PM-8:00 PM
Location: Hall B5
Vyxeos Presentations

Presentation Topic

Author

Date / Time (EST) / Session Title / Presentation Number

A Pilot Study of CPX-351 (Vyxeos) for Transplant Eligible, Higher Risk Patients with Myelodysplastic Syndrome

Meagan A. Jacoby et al.

Type: Oral Presentation
Number: 540
Session: 637. Myelodysplastic Syndromes – Clinical and Epidemiological: Treatment of HIgh Risk and Relapsed/Refractory Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Date/Time: Sunday, December 12, 2021: 4:30 PM-6:00 PM
Location: B211-B212
Real-World Experience of CPX-351 As First-Line Treatment in 188 Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia

Christina Rautenberg et al.

Type: Oral Presentation
Number: 33
Session: 615. Acute Myeloid Leukemias: Commercially Available Therapies, Excluding Transplantation and Cellular Immunotherapies: Innovative induction regimens in AML: data from real life and clinical trials
Date/Time: Saturday, December 11, 2021: 9:30 AM-11:00 AM
Location: B405-B407
CPX 351 As First Line Treatment in Higher Risk MDS. a Phase II Trial By the GFM

Pierre Peterlin et al.

Type: Oral Presentation
Number: 243
Session: 637. Myelodysplastic Syndromes – Clinical and Epidemiological: Treatment of High Risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Date/Time: Saturday, December 11, 2021: 2:00 PM-3:30 PM
Location: B207-B208
Preliminary Results by Age Group of Treatment with CPX-351 Plus Venetoclax in Adults with Newly Diagnosed AML: Subgroup Analysis of the V-FAST Phase 1b Master Trial

Vinod Pullarkat et al.

Type: Poster
Number: 1268
Session: 615. Acute Myeloid Leukemias: Commercially Available Therapies, Excluding Transplantation and Cellular Immunotherapies: Poster I
Date/Time: Saturday, December 11, 2021: 5:30 PM-7:30 PM
Location: Hall B5
Phase 1b Study of Lower-dose CPX-351 Plus Venetoclax As First-line Treatment for Patients with AML Who Are Unfit for Intensive Chemotherapy: Preliminary Safety and Efficacy Results

Geoffrey L. Uy et al.

Type: Poster
Number: 2316
Session: 615. Acute Myeloid Leukemias: Commercially Available Therapies, Excluding Transplantation and Cellular Immunotherapies: Poster II
Date/Time: Sunday, December 12, 2021: 6:00 PM-8:00 PM
Location: Hall B5
Real-World Study of the Treatment Patterns of Patients Diagnosed with Therapy-Related AML or AML-MRC in England between 2013 and 2020 Using the Cancer Analysis System Database

Alex Legg et al.

Type: Poster
Number: 1248
Session: 615. Acute Myeloid Leukemias: Commercially Available Therapies, Excluding Transplantation and Cellular Immunotherapies: Poster I
Date/Time: Saturday, December 11, 2021: 5:30 PM-7:30 PM
Location: Hall B5
Real-World Study of CPX-351 Treatment Outcomes for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) in England

Alex Legg et al.

Type: Poster
Number: 2310
Session: 615. Acute Myeloid Leukemias: Commercially Available Therapies, Excluding Transplantation and Cellular Immunotherapies: Poster II
Date/Time: Sunday, December 12, 2021: 6:00 PM-8:00 PM
Location: Hall B5
Updated Results of a Phase 1/2 Study of Lower Dose CPX-351 for Patients with Int-2 or High Risk IPSS Myelodysplastic Syndromes and Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia after Failure to Hypomethylating Agents

Guillermo Montalban-Bravo et al.

Type: Poster
Number: 3674
Session: 637. Myelodysplastic Syndromes — Clinical and Epidemiological: Poster III
Date/Time: Monday, December 13, 2021: 6:00 PM-8:00 PM
Location: Hall B5
Liposomal Cytarabine and Daunorubicin (CPX-351) in Combination with Gemtuzumab Ozogamicin (GO) in Relapsed Refractory (R/R) Patients with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) and Post-Hypomethylating Agent (Post-HMA) Failure High-Risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome (HR-MDS)

Daniel Rivera et al.

Type: Poster
Number: 2323
Session: 615. Acute Myeloid Leukemias: Commercially Available Therapies, Excluding Transplantation and Cellular Immunotherapies: Poster II
Date/Time: Sunday, December 12, 2021: 6:00 PM-8:00 PM
Location: Hall B5
A Phase II Study of CPX-351 plus Venetoclax in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory (R/R) or Newly Diagnosed Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

Kunhwa Kim et al.

Type: Poster
Number: 1275
Session: 616. Acute Myeloid Leukemias: Investigational Therapies, Excluding Transplantation and Cellular Immunotherapies: Poster I
Date/Time: Saturday, December 11, 2021: 5:30 PM-7:30 PM
Location: Hall B5
Defitelio Presentations

Presentation Topic

Author

Date / Time (EST) / Session Title / Presentation Number

A Phase 3, Randomized, Adaptive Study of Defibrotide (DF) Vs Best Supportive Care (BSC) for the Prevention of Hepatic Veno-occlusive Disease/Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome (VOD/SOS) in Patients (pts) Undergoing Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation (HCT): Preliminary Results

Stephan A. Grupp et al.

Type: Oral Presentation
Number: 749
Session: 721. Allogeneic Transplantation: Conditioning Regimens, Engraftment and Acute Toxicities; Prevention and Management of Complications
Date/Time: Monday, December 13, 2021; 2:45 PM – 4:15 PM EST
Presentation Time: 3:45 PM EST
Location: Thomas Murphy Ballroom 3-4
Final Long-term Results from the DEFIFrance Registry Study: Efficacy and Safety of Defibrotide for the Treatment of Severe/Very Severe Veno-Occlusive Disease/Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome after Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation

Mohamad Mohty et al.

Type: Poster
Number: 1789
Session: 721. Allogeneic Transplantation: Conditioning Regimens, Engraftment and Acute Toxicities: Poster I
Date/Time: Saturday, December 11, 2021; 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM EST
Location: Hall B5
Veno-Occlusive Disease/Sinusoidal Obstruction Syndrome Without Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation in a Real-World Population in the United States: Patient Characteristics, Prior Treatment Patterns, and Time to Diagnosis

Xue Wang et al.

Type: Poster
Number: 1946
Session: 904. Outcomes Research—Non-Malignant Conditions: Poster I
Date/Time: Saturday, December 11, 2021; 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM EST
Location: Hall B5
Defibrotide Therapy for Sars CoV2 Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Gregory Yanik et al.

Type: Poster
Number: 3237
Session: 332. Anticoagulation and Antithrombotic Therapies: Poster III
Date/Time: Monday, December 13, 2021: 6:00 PM-8:00 PM
Location: Hall B5
Use of Defibrotide in Patients with COVID-19 Pneumonia; Results of the
Defi-VID19 Phase 2 Trial

Annalisa Ruggeri et al.

Type: Oral Presentation
Number: 672
Session: 332. Anticoagulation and Antithrombotic Therapies
Date/Time: Monday, December 13, 2021: 2:45 PM-4:15 PM
Location: B401-B402
About Rylaze (asparaginase erwinia chrysanthemi (recombinant)-rywn)
Rylaze, also known as JZP458, is approved in the U.S. for use as a component of a multi-agent chemotherapeutic regimen for the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) or lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL) in pediatric and adult patients one month and older who have developed hypersensitivity to E. coli-derived asparaginase. Rylaze has orphan drug designation for the treatment of ALL/LBL in the United States. Rylaze is a recombinant erwinia asparaginase that uses a novel Pseudomonas fluorescens expression platform. JZP458 was granted Fast Track designation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in October 2019 for the treatment of this patient population. Rylaze was approved as part of the Real-Time Oncology Review program, an initiative of the FDA’s Oncology Center of Excellence designed for efficient delivery of safe and effective cancer treatments to patients.

Important Safety Information

RYLAZE should not be given to people who have had:

Serious allergic reactions to RYLAZE
Serious swelling of the pancreas (stomach pain), serious blood clots, or serious bleeding during previous asparaginase treatment
RYLAZE may cause serious side effects, including:

Allergic reactions (a feeling of tightness in your throat, unusual swelling/redness in your throat and/or tongue, or trouble breathing), some of which may be life-threatening
Swelling of the pancreas (stomach pain)
Blood clots (may have a headache or pain in leg, arm, or chest)
Bleeding
Liver problems
Contact your doctor immediately if any of these side effects occur.

Some of the most common side effects with RYLAZE include: liver problems, nausea, bone and muscle pain, tiredness, infection, headache, fever, allergic reactions, fever with low white blood cell count, decreased appetite, mouth swelling (sometimes with sores), bleeding, and too much sugar in the blood.

RYLAZE can harm your unborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing. Females of reproductive potential should use effective contraception (other than oral contraceptives) during treatment and for 3 months following the final dose. Do not breastfeed while receiving RYLAZE and for 1 week after the final dose.

Tell your healthcare provider if there are any side effects that are bothersome or that do not go away.

These are not all the possible side effects of RYLAZE. For more information, ask your healthcare provider.

The full U.S. Prescribing Information for Rylaze is available at: View Source

About Vyxeos (daunorubicin and cytarabine)

Vyxeos is a liposomal combination of daunorubicin, an anthracycline topoisomerase inhibitor, and cytarabine, a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor, that is indicated for the treatment of newly-diagnosed therapy-related acute myeloid leukemia (t-AML) or AML with myelodysplasia-related changes (AML-MRC) in adults and pediatric patients 1 year and older. For more information about Vyxeos in the United States, please visit View Source

In Europe, Vyxeos Liposomal (daunorubicin/cytarabine) is indicated for the treatment of adults with newly diagnosed, therapy-related acute myeloid leukemia (t-AML) or AML with myelodysplasia-related changes (AML-MRC).

Important Safety Information for Vyxeos

WARNING: VYXEOS has different dosage recommendations from other medications that contain daunorubicin and/or cytarabine. Do not substitute VYXEOS for other daunorubicin and/or cytarabine-containing products.

VYXEOS should not be given to patients who have a history of serious allergic reaction to daunorubicin, cytarabine, or any of its ingredients.

VYXEOS can cause a severe decrease in blood cells (red and white blood cells and cells that prevent bleeding, called platelets) which can result in serious infection or bleeding and possibly lead to death. Your doctor will monitor your blood counts during treatment with VYXEOS. Patients should tell the doctor about new onset fever or symptoms of infection or if they notice signs of bruising or bleeding.

VYXEOS can cause heart-related side effects. Tell your doctor about any history of heart disease, radiation to the chest, or previous chemotherapy. Inform your doctor if you develop symptoms of heart failure such as:

shortness of breath or trouble breathing
swelling or fluid retention, especially in the feet, ankles, or legs
unusual tiredness
VYXEOS may cause allergic reactions including anaphylaxis. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis such as:

trouble breathing
severe itching
skin rash or hives
swelling of the face, lips, mouth, or tongue
VYXEOS contains copper and may cause copper overload in patients with Wilson’s disease or other copper-processing disorders.

VYXEOS can damage the skin if it leaks out of the vein. Tell your doctor right away if you experience symptoms of burning, stinging, or blisters and skin sores at the injection site.

VYXEOS can harm your unborn baby. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing. Do not breastfeed while receiving VYXEOS. Females and males of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months following the last dose of VYXEOS.

The most common side effects were bleeding events, fever, rash, swelling, nausea, sores in the mouth or throat, diarrhea, constipation, muscle pain, tiredness, stomach pain, difficulty breathing, headache, cough, decreased appetite, irregular heartbeat, pneumonia, blood infection, chills, sleep disorders, and vomiting.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. You may also report side effects to Jazz Pharmaceuticals at 1-800-520-5568.

About Defitelio (defibrotide sodium)
In the U.S., Defitelio (defibrotide sodium) injection 80mg/mL received U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) marketing approval on March 30, 2016, and it is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients with hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD), also known as sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS), with renal or pulmonary dysfunction following hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT) and is the first and only FDA-approved therapy for patients with this rare, potentially fatal complication. Defitelio is not approved for the prevention of VOD.

Please see full Prescribing Information for Defitelio in the United States.

In Europe, defibrotide is marketed under the name Defitelio ▼ (defibrotide). In October 2013, the European Commission granted marketing authorization to Defitelio under exceptional circumstances for the treatment of severe VOD in patients after HSCT therapy. In Europe, Defitelio is indicated in patients over one month of age. It is not indicated in patients with hypersensitivity to defibrotide or any of its excipients or with concomitant use of thrombolytic therapy.

∇ This medicinal product is subject to additional monitoring. This will allow quick identification of new safety information. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the national reporting system found under section 4.8 of the SmPC.

(View Source)

The full Summary of Product Characteristics of Defitelio in Europe is available here.

Important Safety Information for Defitelio

Defitelio should not be given to patients who are:

Currently taking anticoagulants or fibrinolytics
Allergic to Defitelio or any of its ingredients
Defitelio may increase the risk of bleeding in patients with VOD and should not be given to patients with active bleeding. During treatment with Defitelio, patients should be monitored for signs of bleeding. In the event that bleeding occurs during treatment with Defitelio, treatment should be temporarily or permanently stopped.

Patients should tell the doctor right away about any signs or symptoms of hemorrhage such as unusual bleeding, easy bruising, blood in urine or stool, headache, confusion, slurred speech, or altered vision.

Defitelio may cause allergic reactions including anaphylaxis. Patients who develop signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis such as trouble breathing, severe itching, skin rash or hives, or swelling of the face, lips, mouth or tongue should seek medical attention immediately.

The most common side effects of Defitelio are decreased blood pressure, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and nose bleeds.

Eiger BioPharmaceuticals Reports Third Quarter 2021 Financial Results and Provides Business Update

On November 4, 2021 Eiger BioPharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq:EIGR), a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of innovative therapies to treat and cure Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV) and other serious rare diseases, reported its third quarter 2021 financial results and provided a business update (Press release, Eiger Biopharmaceuticals, NOV 4, 2021, View Source [SID1234594620]).

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"The recent completion of enrollment in our Phase 3 HDV D-LIVR study of Lonafarnib-based regimens sets up pivotal topline data by the end of 2022," said David Cory, President and CEO. "Additionally, our Phase 3 HDV LIMT-2 study of Peginterferon Lambda is now activating sites and screening patients. Eiger is focused on the development of treatments and a cure for HDV. We are positioned to be a leader in this space with two first-in-class therapies for HDV, offering hope for the over 12 million patients around the globe with this devastating disease."

Program Updates and Upcoming Milestones

HDV Platform

Lonafarnib for HDV

First-in-class prenylation inhibitor and only oral agent in development
D-LIVR, largest Phase 3 global study conducted in HDV
Fully enrolled with over 400 patients
Opportunity for approval of two Lonafarnib-based regimens:
All-oral and combination with peginterferon alfa
Pivotal topline data planned by end of 2022
Peginterferon Lambda for HDV

Well-tolerated interferon administered as a weekly subcutaneous injection
LIMT-2 (N=150), pivotal study of Peginterferon Lambda monotherapy
Now activating sites and screening patients
Avexitide for Rare Metabolic Disorders

Phase 3 studies for post-bariatric hypoglycemia and congenital hyperinsulinism could begin as early as 2022
Zokinvy for Progeria and Processing-Deficient Progeroid Laminopathies

MAA is under EMA review, with an opinion from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) expected around end of 2021
Cohort ATU program (Temporary Use Authorization) approved in France
First ATU shipment completed
Peginterferon Lambda for COVID-19

Phase 3 TOGETHER study enrolling patients across clinical sites in Brazil
DSMB interim futility analysis (n=453) recommended study continuation
Next interim futility data analysis by end of 2021
Positive data could support emergency use authorization package
Corporate

Appointed Erik Atkisson General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer
Cash and investments of $120.4 million at the end of third quarter 2021 expected to fund planned operations into fourth quarter 2023
Third Quarter Financial Results

Net revenues from Zokinvy product sales were $3.0 million for third quarter 2021, as compared to $2.1 million for second quarter 2021. The increase was primarily driven by modestly higher inventory on-hand at the specialty pharmacy. The company commercially launched Zokinvy in the U.S. in January 2021 and has reported September year-to-date net sales of $8.8 million.

Cost of Sales were $0.3 million for third quarter 2021 and is related to certain costs associated with Zokinvy that were incurred after FDA approval.

Research and Development expenses were $18.1 million for third quarter 2021, as compared to $9.8 million for the same period in 2020. The increase was primarily due to clinical trial related expenses, including contract manufacturing and headcount related expenses, including stock-based compensation expense.

Selling, General and Administrative expenses were $6.5 million for the third quarter of 2021, as compared to $5.0 million for the same period in 2020. The increase was primarily due to outside consulting and advisory services and headcount related expenses, including stock-based compensation expense.

Total operating expenses include non-cash expenses of $3.0 million for the third quarter of 2021, as compared to $1.9 million for the same period in 2020.

Eiger reported a third quarter 2021 net loss of $22.2 million, or $0.65 on a per share basis. This compares to a net loss of $15.7 million, or $0.52 on a per share basis, for the third quarter of 2020.

Cash, cash equivalents, and investments as of September 30, 2021, totaled $120.4 million compared to $139.8 million as of June 30, 2021.

As of September 30, 2021, the company had 33,975,800 common shares outstanding.

Conference Call
At 4:30 PM Eastern Time today, November 4, 2021, Eiger will host a conference call to discuss its financial results and provide a business update. The live and replayed webcast of the call will be available through the company’s website at www.eigerbio.com. To participate in the live call by phone, dial (844) 743-2495 (U.S.) or (661) 378-9529 (International) and enter conference ID 9874006. The webcast will be archived and available for replay for at least 90 days after the event.