On May 12, 2025 Hoth Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: HOTH), a patient-focused biopharmaceutical company developing innovative therapies for unmet medical needs, reported compelling preclinical data for HT-KIT, its proprietary antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) therapeutic designed to target and silence aberrant KIT gene expression—implicated in a variety of rare, treatment-resistant cancers (Press release, Hoth Therapeutics, MAY 12, 2025, View Source [SID1234652893]).

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HT-KIT is engineered to selectively bind to mutant KIT mRNA transcripts and block their translation, thereby preventing the production of the KIT protein, a critical driver of tumor growth in cancers such as gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), systemic mastocytosis, and certain acute leukemias.

Preclinical Milestones:

Over 80% reduction in KIT expression in vitro using cancer cell lines harboring activating KIT mutations.
Significant inhibition of tumor growth in GIST and mast cell tumor animal models following systemic administration of HT-KIT.
No observable off-target toxicity in liver, kidney, or bone marrow, suggesting a favorable safety profile.
"We believe HT-KIT represents a first-in-class approach to treating KIT-mutated cancers at the genetic level, offering hope for patients who have exhausted traditional therapies," said Robb Knie, CEO of Hoth Therapeutics. "The strength of our preclinical data positions HT-KIT as a powerful candidate for precision oncology. We are moving rapidly toward IND submission and are eager to begin human trials.

Current treatment options for KIT-driven cancers often rely on tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), which may lead to drug resistance or systemic side effects. HT-KIT offers a highly targeted alternative by attacking the disease at the mRNA level—upstream of protein expression—potentially avoiding the resistance mechanisms seen with small-molecule therapies.

Next Steps:

Hoth Therapeutics expects to file an Investigational New Drug (IND) application with the FDA in early 2026, with first-in-human Phase 1 trials planned shortly thereafter. The company is actively engaging regulatory advisors and contract research partners to accelerate clinical development.

About HT-KIT

HT-KIT is a synthetic antisense oligonucleotide developed using proprietary gene-silencing technology licensed exclusively by Hoth. It is designed to inhibit KIT gene expression in tumors where KIT mutations are known oncogenic drivers. Preclinical studies suggest HT-KIT has the potential to overcome resistance seen in patients previously treated with TKIs.

On May 12, 2025 Genentech, a member of the Roche Group (SIX: RO, ROG; OTCQX: RHHBY), the Breast International Group (BIG), Institut Jules Bordet Clinical Trials Support Unit and Frontier Science Foundation, reported statistically significant final overall survival (OS) results from the Phase III APHINITY study in people with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive early-stage breast cancer (Press release, Genentech, MAY 12, 2025, View Source [SID1234652892]). After ten years, the risk of death was reduced by 17% for people treated with Perjeta (pertuzumab), Herceptin (trastuzumab) and chemotherapy (the Perjeta-based regimen) for a year as post-surgery (adjuvant) treatment, compared with individuals who received Herceptin, chemotherapy, and placebo.

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"Early treatment of breast cancer can provide substantial patient benefit and also increases the chance for cure. For people with early-stage HER2-positive disease, the APHINITY results validate the sustained benefits of the Perjeta-based regimen," said Levi Garraway, M.D., Ph.D., Genentech’s chief medical officer and head of Global Product Development. "These long-term data reinforce the regimen’s value as a well-established standard-of-care treatment in the curative setting."

"After ten years, the APHINITY trial clearly shows a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement of the overall survival," said Prof. Sibylle Loibl, APHINITY study chair, chair of the German Breast Group (GBG) and the chief executive officer of the GBG Forschungs GmbH. "Adding Perjeta to a standard adjuvant treatment is most beneficial for people with HER2-positive breast cancer with lymph node-positive disease who are at high risk of recurrence."

After ten years, results show:

91.6% of people treated with the Perjeta-based regimen were alive at ten years versus 89.8% of those treated with Herceptin, chemotherapy, and placebo (hazard ratio [HR]=0.83, 95% CI: 0.69-1.00, p-value=0.044).
A 21% reduction in the risk of death was seen in the prespecified subgroup of people with lymph node-positive disease (HR=0.79, 95% CI: 0.64-0.97).
The previously reported invasive disease-free survival (primary endpoint) benefit was maintained (HR=0.79, 95% CI: 0.68-0.92), strengthening results from earlier APHINITY analyses. No benefit was seen in the node negative subgroup.
The safety profile, including cardiac safety, was consistent with previous studies and no new or unexpected safety signals were identified.

Full results will be presented as a late-breaking abstract on Thursday, May 15 at the 2025 European Society for Medical Oncology Breast Cancer Congress.

"The international collaborations in APHINITY have facilitated important insights about HER2-positive breast cancer and are continuing to yield promising findings," said Liz Frank, independent research advocate. "Scientists and clinicians are working together with the broader goal of improving our understanding of HER2-positive breast cancer, improving the quality of life for people living with the disease and ultimately, helping them to live longer with no disease occurring."

The collaborative efforts of Genentech, BIG, and study partners enabled the initiation of pivotal trials such as APHINITY and HERA. These studies led to Herceptin and Perjeta becoming standards of care and helped improve outcomes for people with early-stage HER2-positive breast cancer.

About the APHINITY study

APHINITY (Adjuvant Pertuzumab and Herceptin IN Initial TherapY in Breast Cancer, NCT01358877/ BO25126/ BIG 4-11) is a global, Phase III, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, two-arm study evaluating the efficacy and safety of Perjeta (pertuzumab) plus Herceptin (trastuzumab) and chemotherapy, compared with Herceptin and chemotherapy, as post-surgery (adjuvant) treatment in 4,804 people with operable human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive early-stage breast cancer.

The primary endpoint is invasive disease-free survival, which in this study is defined as the time a patient lives without recurrence of invasive breast cancer (when the cancer returns locally or spreads into the surrounding breast tissue and/or beyond) or death from any cause after post-surgery treatment. Secondary endpoints include cardiac and overall safety, overall survival and health-related quality of life.

What is Perjeta?

Perjeta (pertuzumab) is a prescription medicine approved for use in combination with Herceptin and chemotherapy for:

Use prior to surgery (neoadjuvant treatment) in adults with HER2-positive, locally advanced, inflammatory, or early stage breast cancer as part of a complete treatment regimen for early breast cancer
Use after surgery (adjuvant treatment) in adults with HER2-positive early breast cancer that has a high likelihood of coming back

Perjeta (pertuzumab) is a prescription medicine approved for use in combination with Herceptin and docetaxel in adults who have HER2-positive breast cancer that has spread to different parts of the body (metastatic) and who have not received prior anti-HER2 therapy or chemotherapy for metastatic breast cancer.

Important Safety Information

What are the possible side effects of Perjeta?

Perjeta may cause serious side effects, including:

Perjeta can cause heart problems, including those without symptoms (such as reduced heart function) and those with symptoms (such as congestive heart failure)
Your doctor will run tests to monitor your heart function before and during treatment
Based on these tests, your treatment may be interrupted or discontinued
Contact a health care professional immediately if you experience any of the following: new onset or worsening shortness of breath, cough, swelling of the ankles/legs, swelling of the face, palpitations, weight gain of more than 5 pounds in 24 hours, dizziness or loss of consciousness
Receiving Perjeta during pregnancy can result in the death of an unborn baby and birth defects.
Your doctor will verify your pregnancy status before treatment begins
Birth control should be used while receiving Perjeta and for 7 months after your last dose of Perjeta. If you are a mother who is breastfeeding, you should talk with your doctor about either stopping breastfeeding or stopping Perjeta
If you think you may be pregnant, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately
If you are exposed to Perjeta during pregnancy, or become pregnant while receiving Perjeta or within 7 months following the last dose of Perjeta with Herceptin, you are encouraged to report Perjeta exposure to Genentech at 1-888-835-2555

Who should not take Perjeta?

Perjeta should not be used in patients who are allergic to pertuzumab or to any of the ingredients in Perjeta.

What are other possible serious side effects of Perjeta?

Serious side effects of Perjeta may also include:

Infusion-related reactions: Perjeta is given as an infusion. Perjeta can cause serious infusion-related reactions, some fatal. When given alone, the most common infusion-related reactions were fever, chills, fatigue, headache, weakness, hypersensitivity, and vomiting. When given with Herceptin and docetaxel, the most common infusion-related reactions were fatigue, altered taste, hypersensitivity, muscle pain, and vomiting
Severe allergic reactions: Perjeta can cause hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis and fatal events. Contact a health care professional immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms: swelling of the face, lips or tongue, trouble breathing, or chest pains

The most common side effects of Perjeta include:

The most common side effects of Perjeta when given with Herceptin and chemotherapy prior to surgery for early breast cancer include:

Constipation
Damage to the nerves (numbness, tingling, pain in hands/feet)
Diarrhea
Fatigue
Hair loss
Headache
Decreased red blood cell counts, white blood cell counts, and platelet counts
Mouth sores or blisters
Nausea
Muscle pain
Vomiting
Weakness

The most common side effects of Perjeta when given with Herceptin and chemotherapy after surgery for early breast cancer include:

Diarrhea
Nausea
Hair loss
Fatigue
Damage to the nerves (numbness, tingling, pain in hands/feet)
Vomiting

The most common side effects of Perjeta when given with Herceptin and docetaxel for metastatic breast cancer include:

Diarrhea
Hair loss
Low levels of white blood cells with or without fever
Nausea
Fatigue
Rash
Damage to the nerves (numbness, tingling, pain in hands/feet)

Side effects may vary based on chemotherapy regimen. These are not all the possible side effects of Perjeta. Call your healthcare provider for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or View Source You may also report side effects to Genentech at 1-877-436-3683.

Before you take Perjeta, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

Have a history of heart disease
Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Perjeta can harm your unborn baby
Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if Perjeta passes into your breastmilk
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Please see the full Prescribing Information for additional Important Safety Information, including most serious side effects.

What is Herceptin?

Herceptin is approved for the treatment of early stage breast cancer that is Human Epidermal growth factor Receptor 2-positive (HER2-positive) and has spread into the lymph nodes, or is HER2-positive and has not spread into the lymph nodes. If it has not spread into the lymph nodes, the cancer needs to be estrogen receptor/progesterone receptor (ER/PR)-negative or have one high-risk feature.* Herceptin can be used in several different ways:

As part of a treatment course including the chemotherapy drugs doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, and either paclitaxel or docetaxel. This treatment course is known as "AC→ TH."
With the chemotherapy drugs docetaxel and carboplatin. This treatment course is known as "TCH."
Alone after treatment with multiple other therapies, including an anthracycline (doxorubicin)-based therapy (a type of chemotherapy).

Patients are selected for therapy based on an FDA-approved test for Herceptin.

*High risk is defined as ER/PR-positive with one of the following features: tumor size greater than 2 cm, age less than 35 years, or tumor grade 2 or 3.

Important Safety Information

Possible serious side effects with Herceptin

Not all people have serious side effects, but side effects with Herceptin therapy are common.

Although some people may have a life-threatening side effect, most do not.

A patient’s doctor will stop treatment if any serious side effects occur.

Herceptin is not for everyone. A patient should be sure to contact their doctor if they are experiencing any of the following:

HEART PROBLEMS

These include heart problems—such as congestive heart failure or reduced heart function—with or without symptoms. The risk for and seriousness of these heart problems were highest in people who received both Herceptin and a certain type of chemotherapy (anthracycline). In a study of adjuvant (early) breast cancer, one patient died of significantly weakened heart muscle. A patient’s doctor will check for signs of heart problems before, during, and after treatment with Herceptin.

INFUSION REACTIONS, including:

Fever and chills
Feeling sick to your stomach (nausea)
Throwing up (vomiting)
Pain (in some cases at tumor sites)
Headache
Dizziness
Shortness of breath

These signs usually happen within 24 hours after receiving Herceptin.

A patient should be sure to contact their doctor if they:

Are a woman who could become pregnant, or may be pregnant

Herceptin may result in the death of an unborn baby or birth defects. Contraception should be used while receiving Herceptin and for 7 months after your last dose of Herceptin. If you are or become pregnant while receiving Herceptin or within 7 months after your last dose of Herceptin, you should immediately report HERCEPTIN exposure to Genentech at 1-888-835-2555.

Have any signs of SEVERE LUNG PROBLEMS, including:

Severe shortness of breath
Fluid in or around the lungs
Weakening of the valve between the heart and the lungs
Not enough oxygen in the body
Swelling of the lungs
Scarring of the lungs

A patient’s doctor may check for signs of severe lung problems when he or she examines the patient.

Have LOW WHITE BLOOD CELL COUNTS

Low white blood cell counts can be life threatening. Low white blood cell counts were seen more often in patients receiving Herceptin plus chemotherapy than in patients receiving chemotherapy alone.

A patient’s doctor may check for signs of low white blood cell counts when he or she examines the patient.

Side effects seen most often with Herceptin

Some patients receiving Herceptin for breast cancer had the following side effects:

Fever
Feeling sick to your stomach (nausea)
Throwing up (vomiting)
Infusion reactions
Diarrhea
Infections
Increased cough
Headache
Feeling tired
Shortness of breath
Rash
Low white and red blood cell counts
Muscle pain

A patient should contact their doctor immediately if they have any of the side effects listed above.

Patients are encouraged to report side effects to Genentech and the FDA. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or View Source You may also report side effects to Genentech at 1-877-436-3683.

Please see the full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNINGS and additional Important Safety Information, at View Source

On May 12, 2025 Biohaven Ltd. (NYSE: BHVN) (Biohaven or the Company), a global clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development and commercialization of life-changing therapies to treat a broad range of rare and common diseases, reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, and provided a review of recent accomplishments and anticipated upcoming developments (Press release, Biohaven Pharmaceutical, MAY 12, 2025, View Source [SID1234652891]).

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Vlad Coric, M.D., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Biohaven, commented, "In spite of a challenging macroeconomic climate and economic uncertainty, our team has remained more focused than ever on strategic execution and creating a strong financial balance sheet to create value across our broad portfolio of innovative product candidates. Enthusiasm for our rare disease and degrader programs has grown, as we eagerly await the completion of the NDA review for troriluzole and continued advancement of our MoDE and TRAP degraders into the clinic. We expect to complete three separate Phase 1 studies in 1H 2025 with three innovative compounds, including BHV-1300 (IgG degrader targeting with first target indication in Graves’ disease), BHV-1400 (Gd-IgA1 degrader for IgA nephropathy), and BHV-1600 (β1AR AAb degrader targeting PPCM), and are advancing four additional degrader molecules in parallel. We also look forward to delivering key clinical readouts, including pivotal topline data with troriluzole in obsessive compulsive disorder in 1H 2025 and with our selective Kv7 activator BHV-7000 in major depressive disorder ("MDD") in 2H 2025. In oncology, interim Phase 1 data remain on track for 2025 with our lead clinical Trop-2 antibody drug conjugate ("ADC") program, BHV-1510, and initiation of a Phase 1 study with the field’s first FGFR3 ADC, BHV-1530, for patients with urothelial cancer & other tumors. With taldefgrobep alfa, our anti-myostatin agent, we continue to pursue a potential path forward in spinal muscular atrophy, while we hasten to initiate our Phase 2 study in obesity; we are also extremely excited about BHV-8000, our TYK2/JAK1 inhibitor, and eagerly anticipate initiating our Phase 2/3 study in Parkinson’s disease in 1H 2025."

Dr. Coric continued, "Importantly, we remain steadfastly committed to the SCA community as we continue unwaveringly pursuing an approval in this indication and are now past the mid-cycle review. In addition, our recent $600 million financing agreement with Oberland Capital will provide financial flexibility to advance our troriluzole commercialization plans, accelerate clinical development and operational execution across our five platforms, and be ready to execute on strategic opportunities as they arise. We look forward to sharing further progress from all of our innovative discovery and clinical programs and future development plans at our annual R&D Day at the Yale Innovation Summit on May 28, 2025 in New Haven, CT."

First Quarter 2025 and Recent Business Highlights

Announced up to $600 Million non-dilutive capital agreement with Oberland Capital — In April 2025, the Company entered into an agreement with Oberland Capital for an investment of up to $600 million in the Company, with the first tranche of $250 million of gross proceeds being funded at closing on April 30, 2025. The investment from Oberland Capital takes the form of a Note Purchase Agreement ("NPA") that is non-dilutive to current investors under which Oberland may purchase up to $600 million of Biohaven’s senior secured notes. The second tranche of up to $150 million can be funded at the Company’s option contingent upon FDA approval of troriluzole, and subject to the satisfaction of certain additional conditions, and the third tranche of up to $200 million can be funded upon the mutual agreement of the parties for permitted strategic acquisitions and related costs and expenses. The purchases of the senior notes are subject to other terms and conditions as set forth in the NPA. Under the terms of the NPA, Oberland Capital will have a right to receive a regulatory approval milestone payment of 35% of the amount funded, payable quarterly through December 31, 2030, and for the first tranche, single-digit royalty payments on global net sales of troriluzole for up to a maximum of 10 years from the closing date. These payments are capped at a multiple of amounts funded by Oberland Capital.
Troriluzole NDA mid-cycle review meeting with FDA completed — The Company completed a mid-cycle review meeting with the FDA of the NDA for troriluzole for the treatment of SCA. The FDA has not conveyed any intention of holding an Advisory Committee Meeting. The NDA had previously been accepted and granted priority review by the FDA with a Prescription Drug User Fee Act ("PDUFA") date expected in the third quarter of 2025.
Oral and poster presentations at AAN showcased breadth of development work across the platform — In April 2025, the Company delivered 3 oral presentations and 10 posters at the AAN Annual Meeting, showcasing development programs including Kv7 ion channel modulation, MoDEs, TRPM3 antagonism, TYK2/JAK1 inhibition, and glutamate modulation.
Biohaven’s selective, brain-penetrant TYK2/JAK1 inhibitor, BHV-8000, was selected for an oral presentation at AAN, highlighting the efficacy demonstrated in a human alpha-synuclein overexpressing Parkinson’s disease mouse model.
Other oral presentations covered the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of BHV-2100, a first-in-class TRPM3 antagonist for pain and migraine, as well as the rapid, robust, and selective IgG reduction observed in preclinical models of BHV-1310, Biohaven’s novel IgG degrader.
Expected Upcoming Milestones:

We believe Biohaven is well positioned to achieve significant milestones in 2025 and 2026 across numerous programs:

MoDE Platform

IgG MoDE Degraders (1300/1310): BHV-1300 Phase 1 with the optimized subcutaneous formulation completing in 1H 2025. Expect to initiate Phase 1b study in Graves’ disease in mid-2025, and additional programs in rheumatoid arthritis and myasthenia gravis continue to be pursued.
Phase 1 studies with BHV-1400 and BHV-1600 expected to be completed in 1H 2025.
Four additional degrader molecules advancing including: IgG4 degrader, PLA2R autoantibody degrader, pro-insulin autoantibody degrader, and TSH receptor autoantibody degrader.
Kv7 Activator (BHV-7000):

Pivotal major depressive disorder topline results expected in 2H 2025.
Focal epilepsy study pivotal topline results expected in 1H 2026.
Glutamate Modulator (Troriluzole):

Preparing for commercial launch in all-genotype SCA in 2025, following NDA acceptance with Priority Review and 3Q 2025 PDUFA date.
Pivotal topline data from two Phase 3 OCD trials expected in 1H 2025 and 2H 2025, respectively.
Myostatin (Taldefgrobep alfa):

FDA interaction to discuss Spinal Muscular Atrophy ("SMA") registrational path planned in 1H 2025.
Initiate taldefgrobep Phase 2 study in obesity in 1H 2025.
TRPM3 Antagonist (BHV-2100):

Expect data from proof-of-concept trial with BHV-2100 in acute migraine in 1H 2025.
TYK2/JAK1 Inhibitor (BHV-8000):

Initiate BHV-8000 Phase 2/3 study in Parkinson’s disease in 1H 2025.
Advance Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis ("MS") and amyloid-related imaging abnormalities ("ARIA") programs.
Next Generation ADC Platform:

Preliminary Phase 1 data with BHV-1510 and dose optimization as monotherapy and combination therapy with Libtayo in epithelial tumors in 2025.
Initiate Phase 1 trial of BHV-1530 in 1H 2025.
Advance additional preclinical ADCs, including Merus and GeneQuantum collaborations (undisclosed targets) in 2025.
Capital Position:

Cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities and restricted cash as of March 31, 2025 totaled approximately $327 million. In addition, the Company received $250 million in gross proceeds in April 2025 from Oberland Capital under the NPA discussed above.

First Quarter 2024 Financial Highlights:

Research and Development (R&D) Expenses: R&D expenses, including non-cash share-based compensation costs, were $187.6 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to $156.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. The increase of $31.6 million was due to increased non-cash share-based compensation expense in 2025, as well as increased direct program spend for advancing clinical trials and preclinical research programs in 2025, as compared to the same period in the prior year. Preclinical research expense for the three months ended March 31, 2025 included an upfront share payment valued at $4.9 million and an accrual for an upfront cash payment of $5.0 million related to agreements entered into during the three months ended March 31, 2025. These increases were partially offset by decreased program expense for BHV-1510, primarily related to the acquisition of Pyramid Biosciences, Inc., which resulted in a $10.9 million non-cash upfront payment and $7.2 million in milestones which became due during the three months ended March 31, 2024. Non-cash share-based compensation expense was $35.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, an increase of $13.9 million as compared to the same period in 2024. Non-cash share-based compensation expense was higher in 2025 primarily due to our annual equity incentive awards granted in the first quarter of 2025.

General and Administrative (G&A) Expenses: G&A expenses, including non-cash share-based compensation costs, were $34.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to $27.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. The increase of $6.7 million was primarily due to increased non-cash share-based compensation expense and increased legal costs. Non-cash share-based compensation expense was $17.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, an increase of $4.2 million as compared to the same period in 2024. Non-cash share-based compensation expense was higher in 2025 primarily due to our annual equity incentive awards granted in the first quarter of 2025.

Other Income, Net: Other income, net was $0.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to other income, net of $4.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2024. The decrease of $3.8 million was primarily due to non-cash changes in the fair value of our forward contract and derivative liability recorded in connection with the amendment to our Membership Interest Purchase Agreement with Knopp Biosciences LLC in May 2024 (the Knopp Amendment).

Net Loss: Biohaven reported a net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2025 of $221.7 million, or $2.17 per share, compared to $179.5 million, or $2.20 per share, for the same period in 2024. Non-GAAP adjusted net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2025 was $166.8 million, or $1.64 per share, compared to $144.6 million, or $1.77 per share for the same period in 2024. These non-GAAP adjusted net loss and non-GAAP adjusted net loss per share measures, more fully described below under "Non-GAAP Financial Measures," exclude non-cash share-based compensation charges and losses from the change in fair value of derivatives. A reconciliation of the GAAP financial results to non-GAAP financial results is included in the tables below.

On May 12, 2025 Lantern Pharma Inc. (Nasdaq: LTRN), an artificial intelligence company developing targeted and transformative cancer therapies using its proprietary AI platform, RADR, reported that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared the amendment to its Investigational New Drug (IND) application to initiate a Phase 1b/2 clinical trial of LP-184 in a genomically defined patient population of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) where there is a need to improve patient outcomes (Press release, Lantern Pharma, MAY 12, 2025, View Source [SID1234652890]).

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"This study represents a potential therapeutic opportunity to improve outcomes for patients diagnosed with advanced non-small cell lung cancer with KEAP1, and STK11 alterations independent of KRAS status. Historically, these co-alterations may lead to worse outcomes for patients, due to resistance to treatments such as single agent immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or chemoimmunotherapy. Research to date suggests that dual immunotherapy is the best approach for this disease type, but many patients still progress on treatment, highlighting an area of unmet need that we can potentially improve on by the addition of LP-184 to this combination," said Misty Dawn Shields, M.D. Ph.D. — Division of Hematology/Oncology, Thoracic Oncology, Indiana University: Melvin & Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Lead Investigator for the planned Study.

Strategic Trial Design to Address Critical Treatment Gap in Advanced NSCLC

The biomarker focused Phase 1b/2 clinical trial is designed to target high-risk NSCLC subtypes by evaluating LP-184 in combination with the immune checkpoint inhibitors nivolumab and ipilimumab in patients with advanced NSCLC harboring KEAP1 and/or STK11 mutations and low PD-L1 expression—a population with limited response to existing first-line therapies. The study is designed to assess safety, preliminary efficacy, and biomarker correlations, potentially paving a path toward accelerated development in this genetically defined patient segment that is treatment resistant to many existing approved chemo and immunotherapies.1 Lantern Pharma expects to prepare an application for a Fast Track or Accelerated Approval Designation for this patient population based on data from the planned trial and ongoing analysis from existing models.

This unique trial is aimed at addressing a critical unmet clinical need in lung cancer care: the median overall survival in newly diagnosed, advanced NSCLC patients with KEAP1 and/or STK11 mutations treated with chemo-immunotherapy averages 15 months, substantially lower than outcomes in mutation negative populations. For patients that fail earlier lines of therapies the overall survival tends to skew even lower at approximately 6.3 months.2 This represents a market opportunity exceeding $2 billion annually, given the prevalence and poor prognosis for patients with these mutations.

Mechanistic Rationale for LP-184 in NSCLC

LP-184 is a next-generation, synthetically lethal small molecule that induces DNA double-strand breaks upon activation by prostaglandin-reductase 1 (PTGR1). This enzyme is notably overexpressed in KEAP1-mutant tumors. Preclinical studies demonstrate that LP-184’s cancer-killing potency directly correlates with PTGR1 expression levels in NSCLC cell lines. The company’s proprietary RADR platform-driven in silico analyses and preclinical studies suggest that LP-184 is particularly effective in DNA damage repair (DDR)-deficient cancers, including NSCLC with KEAP1 and STK11 alterations3. An additional advantage of LP-184 is its selective toxicity mechanism: PTGR1 enzymatically converts LP-184 from a prodrug to its bioactive, cytotoxic form specifically within tumor cells where PTGR1 is elevated, while normal tissues with low PTGR1 expression remain largely unaffected. This selective toxicity has been observed pre-clinically and in Lantern’s AI modeling. This tumor-selective activation creates a significant therapeutic window that may enable robust anti-tumor activity while minimizing systemic toxicities.

Another key competitive advantage of LP-184 is its mechanism, which in preclinical models has been demonstrated to remain effective regardless of TP53 status—a common co-mutation that contributes to resistance against current therapies2. Individual or co-occurring KEAP1, STK11, and TP53 mutations are found in approximately 20-30% of NSCLC patients and define molecular subsets unresponsive to standard immune checkpoint blockade4.

Targeting The Right Patients – Combining Potential Clinical Benefit & Likelihood of Response to LP-184 in a Combination Regimen

Clinical data analysis conducted by Lantern Pharma in 517 lung cancer patients from a major cancer database (TCGA) revealed a clear target population for LP-184. About 35% of these patients had high levels of PTGR1 – the enzyme that has been hypothesized to activate LP-184 inside the cancer cell. (Figure 1)

Among these PTGR1-high lung cancer patients, 40% also had KEAP1 mutations, which are linked to poor responses to current immunotherapies and chemotherapies. KEAP1 mutations actually cause higher PTGR1 expression, essentially making these difficult-to-treat tumors more vulnerable to LP-184 based on preclinical observations.

"This clinical trial and the FDA clearance represents a pivotal milestone in our mission to develop precise, data-driven cancer therapies for patients with limited treatment options," said Panna Sharma, President and CEO of Lantern Pharma. "The STK11 and KEAP1 mutant NSCLC population represents an important market opportunity and, a group of patients desperately awaiting better treatment options. By combining our AI-driven approach with a deep understanding of cancer biology, we’ve identified LP-184 as a potential breakthrough for these patients. The clearance of this trial advances our precision oncology strategy while demonstrating the power of our RADR platform to accelerate development timelines and reduce costs, as part of our mission to create value for both patients and shareholders as we work to transform oncology drug development."

On May 12, 2025 UroGen Pharma Ltd. (Nasdaq: URGN), a biotech company dedicated to developing and commercializing innovative solutions that treat urothelial and specialty cancers, reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025, and provided an overview of recent developments (Press release, UroGen Pharma, MAY 12, 2025, View Source [SID1234652889]).

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"We are entering a pivotal and exciting period for UroGen as we approach the anticipated FDA approval of our lead pipeline product, UGN-102, in June for recurrent low-grade intermediate-risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer," said Liz Barrett, President and Chief Executive Officer of UroGen. "This milestone has the potential to mark the first major advancement in treatment for this patient population in decades, delivering a much-needed novel and innovative treatment option that may offer meaningful disease and treatment-free intervals. With momentum building across the organization, we are entering the final phase of launch readiness. If approved, UGN-102 represents a significant commercial opportunity, with a total addressable market of over $5 billion. Backed by a strong balance sheet and a growing pipeline, we are well-positioned to build a long-term, sustainable growth company. We remain steadfast in our mission to transform the treatment paradigm in uro-oncology and see a great opportunity to advance patient care and deliver value for shareholders."

Q1 2025 and Recent Business Highlights:

UGN-102 (mitomycin) for intravesical solution

UroGen’s New Drug Application (NDA) for investigational drug UGN-102 (mitomycin) for intravesical solution as a treatment for recurrent low-grade intermediate risk non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (LG-IR-NMIBC), is currently under review at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA granted a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) target action date of June 13, 2025. The FDA has scheduled an Oncologic Drugs Advisory Committee (ODAC) meeting on May 21, 2025 to discuss the UGN-102 NDA.
Updated 18-month Duration of Response (DOR) data from the Phase 3 ENVISION trial evaluating UGN-102 in patients with recurrent LG-IR-NMIBC were featured in a podium presentation by Dr. Sandip Prasad at the American Urological Association (AUA) 2025 Annual Meeting on April 26 in Las Vegas. The data are consistent with prior Kaplan-Meier estimates, with the probability of remaining in complete response (CR) of 80.6% (95% CI: 74.0, 85.7) at 18-months after achieving CR at 3 months (N=101) compared to 82.5% (95% CI: 76.1, 87.3) at 12-months after 3-month CR (N=146). Median follow-up time at 18 months was 18.7 months after the three-month CR.
The results of a patient reported outcomes analysis from three UGN-102 studies (OPTIMA II, ATLAS and ENVISION) were presented in a poster at the AUA meeting. The results showed that UGN-102 did not have a negative impact on symptom burden, patient function, or quality of life.
Long-term outcomes of the OPTIMA II LT study of UGN-102 were also presented at the meeting and demonstrated median DOR of 24.2 months (95% CI 9.72, 47.18) with a median follow-up time of 33.6 months (95% CI 10.78, 42.94) in the 41 patients who achieved a CR in the parent study.
Results from a post-hoc sub-analysis of the ENVISION trial, showing that tumor burden and the number of tumors did not significantly affect the CR rate or durability of response for patients treated with UGN-102, were presented at the ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Genitourinary Cancers Symposium (ASCO-GU 2025) in February 2025.
Results from the ENVISION trial were published in the February 2025 issue of The Journal of Urology.
JELMYTO (mitomycin) for pyelocalyceal solution in low-grade upper tract urothelial cancer (LG-UTUC)

Generated net product revenue of $20.3 million in the quarter ended March 31, 2025, an increase of 8% over the $18.8 million reported for the same quarter in 2024. Underlying demand grew by 12% year-over-year.
A poster featuring long-term outcomes of patients with recurrent and new-onset LG-UTUC who achieved CR in the Phase 3 trial of JELMYTO was presented at AUA 2025. As previously reported, the median DOR of all patients achieving CR in the JELMYTO Phase 3 study was 47.8 months, irrespective of whether their cancer was new onset or recurrent.
A long-term study on JELMYTO titled, "Durability of Response of UGN-101: Longitudinal Follow-Up of Multicenter Study," was published online in Urologic Oncology: Seminars and Investigations in January 2025. The results showed 68% recurrence-free survival rate at three years across a broad patient population with LG-UTUC.
UGN-301 (zalifrelimab) intravesical solution, an anti-CTLA4 antibody for use in high-grade non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC)

Enrollment is complete in the multi-arm dose escalation Phase 1 clinical study of UGN-301 in patients with high-grade NMIBC, alone and in combination with fixed dose UGN-201 or gemcitabine. The investigational treatments demonstrated an acceptable safety profile and were generally well tolerated across dose levels. Responses were observed in both monotherapy and combination therapy arms, and patient follow-up is ongoing to further assess the durability of these responses.
Next-generation investigational oncolytic virus UGN-501 (ICVB-1042)

In February 2025, UroGen expanded its nonclinical oncology portfolio with the purchase of product candidate UGN-501 from IconOVir Bio, Inc (IconOVir). UGN-501 is a potent and fast-replicating investigational next generation oncolytic virus therapy, being developed as a locally administered treatment for bladder cancer and other specialty cancers. UroGen hosted a webinar to discuss UGN-501 (ICVB-1042) on February 20, 2025, and a replay can be accessed on the Company’s website here.
Next-generation novel mitomycin-based formulation for urothelial cancers

Enrollment is ongoing in the Phase 3 UTOPIA clinical trial of investigational drug UGN-103 (mitomycin) for intravesical solution in patients with LG-IR-NMIBC and enrollment is expected to be completed by mid-2025. UGN-103 is a next generation product that combines UroGen’s RTGel technology with a novel mitomycin formulation licensed from medac GmbH. UGN-103 is planned to follow the potential FDA approval and launch of UGN-102 for recurrent LG-IR-NMIBC. To learn more about the UTOPIA trial, refer to clinicaltrials.gov/NCT06331299.
UroGen plans to initiate a Phase 3 trial to explore the safety and efficacy of UGN-104 by mid-2025. UGN-104 is a next generation investigational product for LG-UTUC.
First quarter 2025 Financial Results

JELMYTO Revenue: JELMYTO net product revenues were $20.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared with $18.8 million for the same quarter of 2024. Year-over-year revenue growth of 8% was driven by underlying demand growth of 12%, partially offset by higher 340B chargebacks.

R&D Expenses: R&D expenses for the first quarter of 2025 were $19.9 million, including non-cash share-based compensation expense of $0.6 million as compared to $15.5 million, including non-cash share-based compensation expense of $0.5 million, for the same period in 2024. The increase in R&D expenses of $4.4 million was primarily driven by the equity consideration issued to IconOVir for the acquisition of UGN-501 (ICVB-1042) which was expensed in the first quarter of 2025, higher manufacturing costs, and costs associated with the Phase 3 UTOPIA trial for UGN-103, partially offset by lower clinical trial costs and regulatory expenses in connection with UGN-102.

SG&A Expenses: SG&A expenses for the first quarter of 2025 were $35.0 million, including non-cash share-based compensation expense of $2.5 million. This compares to $27.3 million, including non-cash share-based compensation expense of $2.2 million, for the same period in 2024. The increase in SG&A expenses of $7.7 million was primarily driven by UGN-102 commercial preparation activities.

Financing on Prepaid Forward Obligation: UroGen reported non-cash financing expense related to the prepaid forward obligation to RTW Investments of $4.6 million in the first quarter of 2025, compared to $5.7 million in the same period in 2024. The decrease was primarily driven by changes in underlying assumptions for remeasuring the effective rate.

Interest Expense on Long-Term Debt: Interest expense related to the $125 million term loan facility with funds managed by Pharmakon Advisors was $4.1 million in the first quarter of 2025, compared to $2.4 million in the same period in 2024. The increase was primarily attributable to the interest expense on the third tranche of the loan that was funded in September 2024.

Net Loss: UroGen reported a net loss of $43.8 million or ($0.92) per basic and diluted share in the first quarter of 2025 compared with a net loss of $32.3 million or ($0.87) per basic and diluted share in the same period in 2024.

Cash and Equivalents: As of March 31, 2025, cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities totaled $200.4 million.

For further details on the Company’s financials, refer to Form 10-Q, filed with the SEC.

2025 JELMYTO Revenue and Company Operating Expense Guidance: Guidance for full-year 2025 net product revenues for JELMYTO remains unchanged and is expected to be in the range of $94 to $98 million. This implies a year-over-year growth rate of approximately 8% to 12% over the $87.4 million in demand driven JELMYTO sales in 2024, which excludes the $3.0 million in CREATES Act sales reported in 2024. Continue to expect full-year 2025 operating expenses to be in the range of $215 to $225 million, including non-cash share-based compensation expense of $11 million to $14 million.

Conference Call & Webcast Information: Members of UroGen’s management team will host a live conference call and webcast today at 10:00 AM Eastern Time to review UroGen’s financial results and provide a general business update.

The live webcast can be accessed by visiting the Investors section of the Company’s website at View Source Please connect at least 15 minutes prior to the live webcast to ensure adequate time for any software download that may be needed to access the webcast.