Candel Therapeutics Reports Second Quarter 2026 Financial Results and Recent Corporate Highlights

On August 13, 2026 Candel Therapeutics, Inc. (Candel or the Company) (Nasdaq: CADL), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing multimodal immunotherapies to improve outcomes for patients with cancer, reported financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2026, and provided a corporate update.

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"This quarter reflects meaningful execution across the company as we advance aglatimagene toward a planned BLA submission in the fourth quarter of 2026 and continue to build the foundation for a potential U.S. commercial launch in localized prostate cancer," said Paul Peter Tak, M.D., Ph.D., FMedSci, President and CEO of Candel. "We believe the extended follow-up data presented at AUA, together with the publication of our pivotal phase 3 results in The Lancet Oncology, further reinforce the potential of aglatimagene to address an important unmet need for patients with intermediate- to high-risk localized prostate cancer. At the same time, the activation of the first trial site for the AURORA phase 3 clinical trial in patients with advanced NSCLC underscores the broader potential of our multimodal immunotherapy platform across solid tumors."

Dr. Tak continued, "We also made important progress in commercial readiness through our appointment of Mark Sims as Chief Commercial Officer, adding deep oncology commercialization and launch experience as we prepare for the next stage of Candel’s growth. With a strong balance sheet, we believe we are well-positioned to execute our operating plan into the first quarter of 2028, including activities intended to support a potential U.S. commercial launch of aglatimagene in 2027, if approved."

Second Quarter 2026 & Recent Highlights

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Aglatimagene besadenovec – Prostate Cancer
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The Company continues to advance its pre-BLA readiness initiative, including its Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls (CMC) activities, preparation of clinical study reports, and BLA modules.
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Process validation campaign for drug substance and drug product is being executed at our contract development and manufacturing organization. The campaign is progressing well and is a critical CMC activity to enable the anticipated BLA submission in Q4 2026.
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New clinical material has been produced and is intended to be used in the pivotal phase 3 clinical trial of aglatimagene in NSCLC.
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The Company published results from the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter pivotal phase 3 clinical trial of aglatimagene in patients with intermediate- to high-risk localized prostate cancer in The Lancet Oncology. These data were initially announced in December 2024 and presented as an oral presentation at ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) 2025.

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The Company presented clinical data from extended follow-up of its phase 3 trial of aglatimagene in prostate cancer in a plenary oral presentation at the AUA 2026 Annual Meeting, held in Washington, D.C. from May 15-18, 2026.
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Among the 745 patients enrolled in the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, the aglatimagene arm exhibited a 39% improvement in prostate cancer-specific disease-free survival (PCa-specific DFS) compared to placebo after a median follow-up of 58 months (data as of March 15, 2026).
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The Company observed consistently favorable trends in both the intent to treat and intermediate-risk subgroup populations across all secondary and exploratory endpoints, including time to biochemical failure, time to metastasis, rate of metastasis, and time to salvage anti-cancer therapy (time to new treatment), when comparing the aglatimagene arm with placebo, on top of standard-of-care radiotherapy.
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There were no new safety signals or additional toxicities observed.
For additional information, please refer to Candel’s May 15, 2026, press release.

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The Company will present an abstract delineating extended biomarker analysis from the phase 3 clinical trial of aglatimagene in patients with localized prostate cancer at the 2026 American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) Annual Meeting in Q3 2026.
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) previously granted Fast Track Designation and Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy Designation to aglatimagene for the treatment of localized prostate cancer. The phase 3 clinical trial of aglatimagene in localized prostate cancer was conducted under a Special Protocol Assessment with respect to certain aspects of the study design, agreed with the FDA.
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Aglatimagene besadenovec – Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
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In June 2026, the Company activated the first clinical trial site of the global pivotal phase 3 clinical trial (AURORA) (NCT07660094), which will evaluate aglatimagene plus valacyclovir in combination with continued pembrolizumab in patients with metastatic non-squamous NSCLC whose disease has progressed despite treatment with pembrolizumab and platinum-based chemotherapy.
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The randomized, open-label AURORA trial is expected to enroll patients with metastatic stage IV non-squamous NSCLC across approximately 150 sites worldwide, randomized 1:1 to receive either two courses of aglatimagene plus valacyclovir with continued pembrolizumab or standard-of-care docetaxel chemotherapy.
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The study’s primary endpoint is overall survival, with secondary endpoints including safety and quality-of-life assessments (NSCLC-SAQ and EORTC QLQ-30).
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The FDA previously granted Fast Track Designation to aglatimagene for the treatment of NSCLC.
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Linoserpaturev – Recurrent Glioblastoma (rGBM)
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Following FDA clearance of its Investigational New Drug application for linoserpaturev in Q1 2026, the Company is advancing next-stage development planning for rGBM.
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Enabling work is underway to support a potential randomized phase 2 dose-regimen-finding study.
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The clinical trial is expected to inform the optimal number of linoserpaturev administrations and a recommended regimen for future development.
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Recent Corporate Events
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In June 2026, the Company appointed Mark Sims as Chief Commercial Officer. Mr. Sims is a seasoned oncology commercial leader with more than 25 years of experience building and advancing Global and U.S. cancer franchises. He held key leadership roles at AstraZeneca PLC, Novartis AG, and Idenix Pharmaceuticals, Inc.. Mr. Sims’ appointment strengthens the Company’s efforts toward its planned BLA submission in the fourth quarter of 2026 and potential 2027 launch of aglatimagene in localized prostate cancer.
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In April 2026, the Company announced a commercialization agreement with EVERSANA to support the potential U.S. launch of aglatimagene in localized prostate cancer. This operating model gives Candel immediate access to leading commercial capabilities, while maintaining financial flexibility, capital efficiency, and scientific focus that has driven the Company’s progress to date.
Anticipated Milestones

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Abstract showcasing extended biomarker data from the phase 3 clinical trial of aglatimagene in patients with localized prostate cancer to be presented as a poster at the ASTRO Annual Meeting in Q3 2026.
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The Company expects to present potential long-term survival data from arm C of its phase 1b clinical trial of linoserpaturev in patients with recurrent high-grade glioma (rHGG) in Q4 2026.

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Submission of a BLA for aglatimagene in prostate cancer is planned for Q4 2026.

Financial Results for the Second Quarter Ended June 30, 2026

Research and Development Expenses: Research and development expenses were $19.8 million for the second quarter of 2026 compared to $7.0 million for the second quarter of 2025. The increase was primarily due to higher clinical trial and manufacturing costs, in support of the Company’s aglatimagene programs, and an increase in employee-related expenses. Research and development expenses included a non-cash stock compensation expense of $1.8 million for the second quarter of 2026, as compared to a non-cash stock compensation expense of $0.4 million for the second quarter of 2025.

General and Administrative Expenses: General and administrative expenses were $6.9 million for the second quarter of 2026, compared to $4.2 million for the second quarter of 2025. The increase was primarily due to higher commercial readiness costs and an increase in employee-related expenses. General and administrative expenses included non-cash stock compensation expense of $1.0 million for the second quarter of 2026, as compared to a non-cash stock compensation expense of $0.6 million for the second quarter of 2025.

Net Income/Loss: Net loss for the second quarter of 2026 was $38.9 million compared to net loss of $4.8 million for the second quarter of 2025 and included net other expense of $12.2 million and net other income of $6.4 million, respectively. The increase in net other expense was primarily related to the change in the fair value of the Company’s warrant liabilities.

Cash Position: Cash and cash equivalents, as of June 30, 2026, were $201.6 million compared to $119.7 million as of December 31, 2025. Based on current operating plans, the Company expects that its existing cash and cash equivalents, as of June 30, 2026, will be sufficient to fund operations into Q1 2028.

About aglatimagene besadenovec

Aglatimagene, Candel’s most advanced multimodal biological immunotherapy candidate, is an investigational, off-the-shelf, replication-defective adenovirus designed to deliver the herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase (HSV-tk) gene to a patient’s tumor. After intratumoral administration, HSV-tk enzyme activity results in conversion of prodrug (valacyclovir) into deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)-incorporating nucleotide analogs, leading to immunogenic cell death in cells exhibiting DNA damage and proliferating cells, with subsequent release of a variety of tumor (neo)antigens in the tumor microenvironment. At the same time, the adenoviral serotype 5 capsid proteins promote inflammation through the induction of expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules. Together, this regimen is designed to induce an individualized and specific CD8+ T cell-mediated response against the injected tumor and uninjected distant metastases for broad anti-tumor activity, based on in situ immunization against a varietyof tumor antigens. Aglatimagene has the potential to treat a broad range of solid tumors. Encouraging monotherapy activity as well as combination activity with standard of care radiotherapy, surgery, chemotherapy, and immune checkpoint inhibitors have previously been shown in several preclinical and clinical settings. More than 1,000 patients have been dosed with aglatimagene in clinical trials with a favorable tolerability profile to date, supporting the potential for use with standard of care, when indicated. Aglatimagene is currently not approved by the FDA or any other regulatory authority for any use.

About linoserpaturev

Linoserpaturev is a first-in-class, replication-competent, next-generation oncolytic herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) immunotherapy candidate designed for dual activity for oncolysis and immune activation in a single therapeutic. In October 2023, the Company announced that Nature published results from the ongoing clinical trial where linoserpaturev was reported to be generally well tolerated with no dose-limiting toxicity. In the clinical trial, the investigators observed improved median overall survival compared to historical controls after a single linoserpaturev injection in this therapy-resistant condition1. The Company and academic collaborators are currently supported by the Break Through Cancer foundation to evaluate the effects of repeated linoserpaturev injections in patients with recurrent glioblastoma in an expansion cohort from the phase 1b clinical trial. In October 2025, Science Translational Medicine presented findings from the comprehensive analysis of 97 serial tumor biopsies collected from two patients treated with repeated administrations of linoserpaturev in arm C. Linoserpaturev previously received Fast Track Designation and Orphan Drug Designation for the treatment of rHGG from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

(Press release, Candel Therapeutics, AUG 13, 2026, View Source [SID1234670061])

U.S. FDA Grants Accelerated Approval to Bristol Myers Squibb’s First CELMoD Therapy ZENBEXUS™, in Combination with Daratumumab and Hyaluronidase-fihj and Dexamethasone (ZDd) for Patients with Multiple Myeloma, as Early as First Relapse

On August 13, 2026 Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE: BMY) reported that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved ZENBEXUS (iberdomide) in combination with daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj and dexamethasone (ZDd) for the treatment of adult patients with multiple myeloma who have received at least one prior line of therapy including a proteasome inhibitor and an immunomodulatory agent.1 Full approval for this indication will be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trial(s). ZENBEXUS is the first FDA-approved CELMoD, belonging to a new class called cereblon-modulating protein degraders for the treatment of multiple myeloma.1 Please see the Important Safety Information section below, including Boxed WARNINGS for ZENBEXUS regarding embryo-fetal toxicity and venous and arterial thromboembolism. ZENBEXUS is contraindicated in females who are pregnant.

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"Today’s approval of ZENBEXUS represents meaningful progress for patients living with multiple myeloma and underscores the power of our targeted protein degradation platform, particularly our CELMoD programs," said Cristian Massacesi, MD, chief medical officer and head of development at Bristol Myers Squibb. "As the first approved CELMoD, ZENBEXUS marks the arrival of a new treatment class and is an important milestone in our efforts to expand what is possible for patients with multiple myeloma. And we believe this is only the beginning. This approval validates years of scientific research and strengthens our confidence in the potential of this approach as we continue to advance our innovative pipeline on behalf of patients with significant unmet needs."

Approval of ZENBEXUS is based on results from the Phase 3 EXCALIBER-RRMM trial evaluating ZENBEXUS, daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj and dexamethasone (ZDd; n=207) compared to daratumumab, bortezomib and dexamethasone (DVd; n=213) in patients with RRMM.1 At a median follow-up of 16 months, results showed treatment with ZDd demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in one of the dual primary endpoints of minimal residual disease (MRD)-negative complete response (CR) in 41% of patients (n=85; 95% CI: 34-48) vs. 21% of patients (n=44; 95% CI: 15-27) treated with DVd (p < 0.0001).1 MRD-negativity is among the deepest measures of response in multiple myeloma and is considered predictive of improved progression-free survival (PFS).2 This FDA decision marks the first approval in relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma based on MRD-negative CR.

"The FDA approval of iberdomide marks the anticipated arrival of a new therapeutic class for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma and has the potential to make a meaningful difference for patients," said Sagar Lonial, MD, FACP, FASCO, EXCALIBER-RRMM lead investigator and chief medical officer of the Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University. "The strong results observed with the CELMoD-based combination within a familiar triplet approach creates the potential for a new treatment foundation in multiple myeloma."

The combination of ZDd was observed to have a safety profile that is expected of the combination, with 7.8% of patients discontinuing ZDd due to adverse reactions.1 Among the key safety findings, ZDd can cause serious, life-threatening, or fatal infections and severe neutropenia.1 Neutropenia and infections in patients who received ZDd occurred at a rate of 90.2% and 78.9%, respectively, leading to few discontinuations (1% and 1.5%, respectively).1 The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) in the ZDd arm and DVd arm, respectively, were upper respiratory tract infection (54% and 52%), fatigue (36% and 33%), musculoskeletal pain (35% and 33%), pneumonia (34% and 17%), diarrhea (33% and 36%), motor dysfunction (26% and 17%), rash (26% and 15%), sleep disorder (25% and 28%), hypogammaglobulinemia (24% and 12%), COVID-19 (23% and 16%), and constipation (20% and 22%).1 Serious adverse reactions in ≥2% of patients included pneumonia (26%), upper respiratory tract infection (6.4%), second primary malignancy (5.9%), neutropenia (4.9%), febrile neutropenia (3.9%), COVID-19 (4.4%), and sepsis (2.9%).1 Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 10 patients (4.9%) who received ZENBEXUS.1 Sepsis (1.5%) was the only fatal drug reaction that occurred in more than 1 patient.1 The following fatal adverse reactions occurred in 1 patient each: listeria encephalitis, influenza, lung adenocarcinoma, cardiac arrest, large intestine perforation, metabolic acidosis, and respiratory failure.1

"The goal for every person living with multiple myeloma is not simply to live longer, but to live well," said Heather Cooper Ortner, president and chief executive officer of the International Myeloma Foundation. "That is why it is important to have access to effective therapeutic options, particularly in the community setting where the majority of myeloma care is delivered. This approval represents an important step forward by expanding treatment options for patients facing their first relapse. Every new option gives patients and their healthcare teams additional choices as treatment needs evolve, as well as renewed hope for the future."

ZENBEXUS was granted Breakthrough Therapy designation and accelerated approval based on MRD-negative CR at any time in the EXCALIBER-RRMM study.1 This review was conducted under the FDA’s Project Orbis initiative, which enables concurrent review by the health authorities in several other countries.

While ZENBEXUS is the first FDA approved CELMoD therapy, a New Drug Application for mezigdomide, an investigational CELMoD, in combination with carfilzomib and dexamethasone is also currently under review with the FDA with a Prescription Drug User Fee Act target date of May 13, 2027.

Bristol Myers Squibb offers various programs and resources to address the needs of patients and caregivers, and provides support that allows for access to therapies, including ZENBEXUS.

About EXCALIBER-RRMM
EXCALIBER-RRMM (NCT04975997) is a Phase 3, multicenter, two-stage, randomized, open-label study evaluating the efficacy and safety of ZENBEXUS (iberdomide) in combination with daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj and dexamethasone (ZDd) versus daratumumab, bortezomib, and dexamethasone (DVd) in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM).2 The study included a dose optimization stage and was designed to assess dual-primary endpoints of minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity and progression-free survival (PFS), with additional secondary endpoints including overall survival (OS), overall response rate (ORR), safety and sustained MRD negativity.2 The study remains ongoing to assess the primary endpoint of PFS. Eligible participants included adults with 1 to 2 prior lines of anti-myeloma therapy and progressive disease.2 A total of 939 patients were randomized.1 The primary efficacy population for MRD negativity included the first 420 patients randomized to the ZENBEXUS (1 mg) + Dd arm (n=207) or the comparator daratumumab, bortezomib, and dexamethasone (DVd) arm (n=213).1 Treatment in both arms was administered until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.1

This approval, the first in RRMM based on MRD-negative complete response (CR), marks the first public disclosure of MRD-negative CR data from the EXCALIBER-RRMM trial. The MRD data were first disclosed at the time of approval to preserve the integrity of the study while additional endpoints mature. The study remains ongoing, with patients continuing to be evaluated for PFS, one of the trial’s dual primary endpoints. Full data from EXCALIBER-RRMM are expected this year.

About Minimal Residual Disease (MRD)
Minimal residual disease (MRD) refers to the small number of cancer cells that may remain in a patient’s body after treatment and are undetectable using conventional diagnostic methods.3 In multiple myeloma, MRD assessment has emerged as a highly sensitive and clinically meaningful tool for evaluating treatment response.3 MRD negativity does not necessarily mean all cancer cells are gone.3

Modern MRD detection methods, such as next-generation sequencing (NGS) and next-generation flow cytometry (NGF), can identify one malignant cell among 100,000 (threshold for MRD) to 1,000,000 normal cells, offering unprecedented precision in measuring disease burden.3 MRD is increasingly being used in clinical trials as a surrogate endpoint for progression-free survival (PFS) and is gaining recognition from regulatory authorities for its role in accelerating approval timelines.2

Indication
ZENBEXUS (iberdomide) in combination with daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj and dexamethasone is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with multiple myeloma who have received at least 1 prior line of therapy including a proteasome inhibitor and an immunomodulatory agent.

This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on minimal residual disease (MRD)-negative complete response (CR) at any time. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in a confirmatory trial(s).

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNING: EMBRYO-FETAL TOXICITY and SERIOUS VENOUS AND ARTERIAL THROMBOEMBOLISM

EMBRYO-FETAL TOXICITY

ZENBEXUS is contraindicated in pregnancy. ZENBEXUS is embryo-fetal toxic in animals and can cause birth defects or embryo-fetal death in humans. In females of reproductive potential, obtain 2 negative pregnancy tests before starting ZENBEXUS treatment.

Females of reproductive potential must use 2 effective forms of contraception or continuously abstain from heterosexual sex during and for 4 weeks after last dose of ZENBEXUS treatment.

Because of the risk of embryo-fetal toxicity, ZENBEXUS is only available through a restricted distribution program called ZENBEXUS REMS.

SERIOUS VENOUS AND ARTERIAL THROMBOEMBOLISM

Increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), myocardial infarction, and stroke in patients with multiple myeloma receiving ZENBEXUS with daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj and dexamethasone. Anti-thrombotic prophylaxis is recommended.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Based on the mechanism of action and findings in animal studies, ZENBEXUS can cause birth defects or embryo-fetal death in humans. ZENBEXUS is contraindicated in females who are pregnant. If this drug is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be informed of the potential hazard to a fetus.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

Females of Reproductive Potential: Must avoid pregnancy while taking ZENBEXUS and for at least 4 weeks after completing therapy. Advise females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus and to use 2 methods of effective contraception for at least 4 weeks before beginning ZENBEXUS therapy, during therapy, during dose interruptions and for at least 4 weeks after the last dose of ZENBEXUS therapy. Refer patients who can become pregnant to a qualified provider of contraceptive methods, if needed.

Two negative pregnancy tests with a sensitivity of at least 25 mIU/mL must be obtained prior to initiating therapy. Pregnancy testing should be performed weekly during the first 4 weeks of treatment. Thereafter, testing should occur every 4 weeks in patients with regular menstrual cycles, or every 2 weeks in patients with irregular menstrual cycles.

Females of reproductive potential taking ZENBEXUS must not donate eggs during treatment and for 4 weeks after completion.

Males: ZENBEXUS may pass into human semen. Advise patients who can impregnate partners to use effective contraception during treatment and for 4 weeks following the discontinuation of ZENBEXUS therapy. Male patients taking ZENBEXUS must not donate sperm during treatment and for 4 weeks after completion.

Blood Donation: Patients must not donate blood during treatment with ZENBEXUS and for 4 weeks following discontinuation of ZENBEXUS therapy.

ZENBEXUS REMS

ZENBEXUS is available only through a restricted program called ZENBEXUS REMS, because of the risk of embryo-fetal toxicity. Prescribers must be certified with and patients must be enrolled in the ZENBEXUS REMS Program and comply with ongoing monitoring and contraception requirements. Further information about ZENBEXUS REMS, including information for pharmacies, wholesalers, and distributors, is available at www.ZENBEXUSREMS.com or by telephone at 1-888-423-5436.

Serious Venous and Arterial Thromboembolism

ZENBEXUS can cause serious and life-threatening venous thromboembolic events (DVT and PE) and arterial thromboembolic events (myocardial infarction and stroke). In the EXCALIBER-RRMM study (N=204), venous thromboembolic events occurred in 6.4% of patients treated with ZENBEXUS combined with daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj and dexamethasone (IberDd) despite mandatory thromboembolism prophylaxis. The incidence of DVT was 3.4% and the incidence of PE was 1.5%.

Arterial thromboembolic events occurred in 3.4% of patients. The incidence of myocardial infarction was 2.0%, and the incidence of stroke (CVA) was 1.5%.

Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of thromboembolic events during treatment with ZENBEXUS. Patients with known risk factors, including prior thrombosis, may be at greater risk, and actions should be taken to try to minimize all modifiable factors (e.g., hyperlipidemia, hypertension, smoking). Thromboprophylaxis is recommended, and the choice of regimen should be based on assessment of the patient’s underlying risk factors. In patients who develop a thromboembolism, interrupt ZENBEXUS and initiate anticoagulant therapy according to guidelines.

Neutropenia

ZENBEXUS can cause severe neutropenia. In the EXCALIBER-RRMM study, all-grade neutropenia was reported in 90.2%, Grade 3 in 30.9%, and Grade 4 in 53.4% of patients in the IberDd arm. Febrile neutropenia occurred in 5.4% of patients.

Monitor complete blood count throughout treatment with ZENBEXUS. Interrupt, reduce dosage, or discontinue ZENBEXUS, as necessary. Initiate granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF) as appropriate per guidelines.

Infections

ZENBEXUS can cause serious infections, including life-threatening or fatal infections. Patients with active or uncontrolled infection should not start ZENBEXUS treatment until the infection is controlled. In the EXCALIBER-RRMM study, infections, including opportunistic infections, were reported in 78.9%, Grade 3 in 35.8%, Grade 4 in 3.4%, and fatal infections in 2% of patients receiving IberDd. Serious infections occurred in 40% of patients. Discontinuations due to infections occurred in 1.5% of patients.

Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection prior to and during treatment with ZENBEXUS and treat appropriately. Withhold or reduce the dose based on severity.

Consider prophylactic anti-infective medications according to current practice guidelines.

Second Primary Malignancies

In the EXCALIBER-RRMM study, at a median follow-up time of 16 months, second primary malignancies (SPM) occurred in 6.9% of patients in the IberDd arm and 4.9% of patients in the daratumumab and hyaluronidase-fihj, bortezomib, and dexamethasone (DVd) arm.

Monitor patients for the development of SPM.

ADVERSE REACTIONS

Serious adverse reactions occurred in 58.3% of patients receiving ZENBEXUS. Serious adverse reactions in ≥2% of patients included pneumonia (26%), upper respiratory tract infection (6.4%), SPM (5.9%), neutropenia (4.9%), febrile neutropenia (3.9%), COVID-19 (4.4%), and sepsis (2.9%). Fatal adverse reactions occurred in 10 patients (4.9%) who received ZENBEXUS. Sepsis (1.5%) was the only fatal drug reaction that occurred in more than 1 patient. The following fatal adverse reactions occurred in 1 patient each: listeria encephalitis, influenza, lung adenocarcinoma, cardiac arrest, large intestine perforation, metabolic acidosis, and respiratory failure.

The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) in the IberDd arm and DVd arm, respectively, were upper respiratory tract infection (54% and 52%), fatigue (36% and 33%), musculoskeletal pain (35% and 33%), pneumonia (34% and 17%), diarrhea (33% and 36%), motor dysfunction (26% and 17%), rash (26% and 15%), sleep disorder (25% and 28%), hypogammaglobulinemia (24% and 12%), COVID-19 (23% and 16%), and constipation (20% and 22%).

The most common Grade 3 to 4 laboratory abnormalities (≥30%) in the IberDd arm and DVd arm, respectively, were neutropenia (77% and 11%), leukopenia (69% and 18%), and lymphopenia (62% and 51%).

DRUG INTERACTIONS

Effects of Other Drugs on ZENBEXUS

Strong or Moderate CYP3A Inhibitors: Coadministration of ZENBEXUS with strong or moderate CYP3A inhibitors should be avoided. If a strong or moderate CYP3A inhibitor must be used in combination with ZENBEXUS, reduce the ZENBEXUS dose. Concomitant use with strong or moderate CYP3A inhibitors may increase the risk of adverse reactions.

Strong or Moderate CYP3A Inducers: Coadministration of ZENBEXUS with strong or moderate CYP3A inducers should be avoided. Concomitant use with a strong or moderate CYP3A inducer may decrease the efficacy of ZENBEXUS.

SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

Pregnancy (See the BOXED WARNINGS)

There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors outcomes in patients exposed to ZENBEXUS during pregnancy. See the ZENBEXUS REMS WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS section.

Lactation

Advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with ZENBEXUS. Refer to the Prescribing Information for daratumumab hyaluronidase-fihj or dexamethasone for additional information.

Females and Males of Reproductive Potential

ZENBEXUS can cause fetal harm when administered during pregnancy.

Pregnancy Testing, Females of Reproductive Potential, and Males: See the Embryo-Fetal Toxicity WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS section.

Geriatric Use

In patients treated with IberDd, the incidence of serious adverse reactions was 53%, 56%, and 74% in adult patients younger than 65 years of age, 65 years of age to younger than 75 years of age, and 75 years of age and older, respectively.

Renal Impairment

Reduce the ZENBEXUS dose in patients with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) less than 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 not on dialysis. If dose modification is needed due to adverse events, reduce the ZENBEXUS dose to 1 mg every other day on Days 1 to 21 of a 28-day cycle.

Please see full Prescribing Information for ZENBEXUS including Boxed WARNINGS.

About Targeted Protein Degradation and CELMoD
Targeted protein degradation (TPD) is a differentiated research platform at Bristol Myers Squibb built on more than two decades of scientific expertise, providing new avenues to degrade therapeutically relevant proteins that were previously considered difficult to address. BMS is the only company that has successfully developed and commercialized protein degrader agents for the treatment of multiple myeloma. These agents, known as immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs), helped establish the current standard of care in the treatment of this disease, which remains without a cure. BMS is building on this foundation with several investigational protein degraders in clinical trials, leveraging three different modalities including cereblon E3 ligase modulators (CELMoDs), ligand-directed degraders (LDDs), and degrader antibody conjugates (DACs). This three-pronged approach enables matching the right therapeutic modality to a molecular mechanism of action to modulate targets most effectively and ultimately provides more opportunities for potential breakthroughs that may offer meaningful new options for patients across a broad range of diseases, in and beyond hematology and oncology. Learn more about the science behind TPD at Bristol Myers Squibb here.

About Ongoing Trials
ZENBEXUS is also being evaluated in the EXCALIBER Maintenance study.

(Press release, Bristol-Myers Squibb, AUG 13, 2026, View Source;FDA-Grants-Accelerated-Approval-to-Bristol-Myers-Squibbs-First-CELMoD-Therapy-ZENBEXUS-in-Combination-with-Daratumumab-and-Hyaluronidase-fihj-and-Dexamethasone-ZDd-for-Patients-with-Multiple-Myeloma-as-Early-as-First-Relapse/default.aspx [SID1234670060])

Akari Therapeutics Reports Second Quarter 2026 Financial Results and Highlights Progress of AKTX-101 Towards Phase 1 and Strategic Collaboration for Its ADC Payload Platform

On August 13, 2026 Akari Therapeutics, Plc (Nasdaq: AKTX), an oncology biotechnology company developing antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) with a novel payload targeting RNA splicing, reported financial results for the second quarter ending June 30, 2026 and provided an update on the continued advancement of its lead ADC candidate, AKTX-101, towards Phase 1 clinical trials.

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"Akari entered the second half of 2026 with increasing momentum across the business and a clear focus on advancing AKTX-101 towards the clinic," said Abizer Gaslightwala, Chief Executive Officer of Akari Therapeutics. "We are executing the IND-enabling work required to support our planned Phase 1 trial in mid-2027, while continuing to generate data that strengthen the scientific rationale for AKTX-101 and further differentiate our novel PH1 spliceosome-modulating payload."

Mr. Gaslightwala continued, "The compelling data presented at ASCO (Free ASCO Whitepaper) demonstrated synergistic anti-tumor activity when our PH1 payload was combined with an approved KRAS inhibitor in KRAS-mutated pancreatic cancer models, adding to a growing body of preclinical evidence supporting PH1’s differentiated mechanism and potential utility across difficult-to-treat cancers. At the same time, our collaboration with Whitehawk expands the opportunity for PH1 into dual-payload ADCs and provides another avenue to explore the potential advantages of combining PH1’s unique mechanism with established ADC payload technologies. Importantly, receipt of approximately $8 million of financing during the quarter, led by long-term strategic investors, strengthened our balance sheet and enhances our ability to continue executing against these development priorities."

Second Quarter 2026 Highlights

Strengthened the balance sheet through private placement with $5.5 million in gross proceeds, and warrant exercises worth $3.1 million in gross proceeds for a total of approximately $8.6 million in gross proceeds from financing in the quarter, resulting in approximately $8.0 million of net proceeds to the Company.
Continued advancing AKTX-101 through IND-enabling activities by progressing manufacturing and development work to enable the Phase 1 clinical trial. The Company remains focused on initiating AKTX-101 for clinical development in mid-2027.
Expanded the Company’s strategic position in novel ADC payloads through a research collaboration on dual ADC payloads with Whitehawk Therapeutics to evaluate Akari’s proprietary PH1 spliceosome modulating payload platform in combination with Whitehawk’s topoisomerase I payload platform. The collaboration is designed to investigate the potential of combining complementary ADC payload technologies to synergize and enhance anti-tumor activity. This collaboration further demonstrates the unique potential of the PH1 payload and continued strong interest in ADC payload innovation across biotech/pharma.
Presented breakthrough preclinical data at the 2026 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) (Free ASCO Whitepaper) Annual Meeting demonstrating synergistic anti-tumor activity of the Company’s PH1 spliceosome modulating payload combined with an approved KRAS inhibitor in KRAS-mutated pancreatic cancer models. These data support the potential of using ADCs with the PH1 payload as a way to attack KRAS mutant tumors, still one of the greatest unmet needs.
Expanded the Company’s intellectual property portfolio through newly issued international patents for its proprietary PH1 spliceosome modulating payload technology, further strengthening long-term protection of the platform and supporting future ADC pipeline expansion.
Second Quarter 2026 Financial Results

Research and development expenses were $2.1 million for the second quarter of 2026, compared with $0.7 million for the second quarter of 2025. The increase primarily reflects expanded development and manufacturing activities supporting the advancement of AKTX-101 through critical IND enabling activities.

General and administrative expenses were $2.5 million for the second quarter of 2026, comparable with $2.5 million for the same period in 2025.

Net loss for the second quarter of 2026 was $4.8 million, compared with $1.9 million for the second quarter of 2025.

Cash totaled $7.7 million as of June 30, 2026, compared with $5.2 million as of December 31, 2025.

(Press release, Akari Therapeutics, AUG 13, 2026, View Source [SID1234670059])

Abeona Therapeutics® Reports Second Quarter 2026 Results and Provides Business Update

On August 13, 2026 Abeona Therapeutics Inc. (Nasdaq: ABEO) reported financial results for the second quarter of 2026 and provided an update on commercial execution for ZEVASKYN (prademagene zamikeracel).

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Commercial Update

Steady launch-year growth for ZEVASKYN. Commercial execution continued to strengthen during the second quarter of 2026 with five patients treated with ZEVASKYN. In the third quarter of 2026 to-date, three patients have completed treatments. Since launch, 12 patient treatments have been completed. Revenue was not recognized for two patients due to low manufacturing yield or not meeting lot release specifications.

Expanded qualified treatment center (QTC) network and increased patient onboarding. Abeona continues to expand the ZEVASKYN QTC network, and the number of QTCs that have treated patients with ZEVASKYN has increased. Key recent milestones include:

NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) were activated as QTCs during the second quarter of 2026.
CHOP and University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) have commenced collection of patient biopsies, and CHOP has treated its first patient with ZEVASKYN.
In the third quarter of 2026, Abeona announced the activation of Cincinnati Children’s as the newest ZEVASKYN QTC. Cincinnati Children’s is one of the largest epidermolysis bullosa treatment centers in the U.S.
Secured CMS New Technology Add-On Payment (NTAP) status for ZEVASKYN. Effective October 1, 2026, ZEVASKYN will have NTAP status under the fiscal year 2027 Hospital Inpatient Prospective Payment System Final Rule from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). NTAP provides a pathway for eligible hospitals to receive a supplemental payment from CMS, in addition to the base diagnosis-related group (DRG) payment, when treating Medicare beneficiaries with ZEVASKYN. This designation is expected to support hospital adoption and help facilitate access for Medicare patients, who represent approximately 10 percent of RDEB patients.

Continued engagement raising RDEB community awareness. The Company presented 5-year long-term follow-up data after ZEVASKYN application from the VIITAL Phase 3 clinical study and a case report from the longest follow-up of 12 years from the Phase 1/2a study. Presentations were made at key medical congresses, including the Society for Investigative Dermatology (SID) and Society for Pediatric Dermatology (SPD) annual meetings, as well as the debra Care Conference, to drive physician awareness, patient identification, and enable patient referral to the expanding QTC network.

"Our confidence in ZEVASKYN’s substantial opportunity is reinforced by our launch progress and experience to date as we engage with a growing number of patients and expand our QTC network," said Vish Seshadri, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Abeona Therapeutics. "As early real-world experience with ZEVASKYN matures across activated sites, we expect to drive broader adoption and long-term growth."

Second Quarter 2026 Financial Results

Net ZEVASKYN revenue for the quarter ended June 30, 2026 increased 31% quarter-over-quarter to $11.4 million, compared to $8.7 million in the first quarter of 2026. While five patients were treated with ZEVASKYN during the second quarter of 2026, revenue was recognized for four treatments as one batch yielded fewer than the threshold number of sheets for revenue recognition.

Research and development (R&D) expenses were $5.0 million for the second quarter of 2026 compared to $9.6 million in the first quarter of 2026, which included the one-time, up-front cost of $7.0 million for in-licensing ABO-701.

Selling, general and administrative expenses were $15.8 million for the second quarter of 2026, compared to $19.5 million for the first quarter of 2026. The decrease primarily reflects fewer engineering runs and less manufacturing training costs in the second quarter of 2026.

Net loss was $(20.2) million, or $(0.35) per basic and diluted common share, for the quarter ended June 30, 2026. Net loss for the first quarter of 2026 was $(17.1) million, or $(0.30) per basic and diluted common share.

Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments totaled $146.8 million as of June 30, 2026, compared to $191.4 million as of December 31, 2025.

Conference Call Details

The Company will host a conference call and webcast on August 13, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. ET to discuss its financial results and corporate progress. To access the call, dial 888-506-0062 (U.S. toll-free) or 973-528-0011 (international) and Entry Code: 245916 five minutes prior to the start of the call. A live, listen-only webcast can be accessed on the Investors & Media section of Abeona’s website at View Source An archived webcast replay will be available for 30 days following the call.

(Press release, Abeona Therapeutics, AUG 13, 2026, View Source [SID1234670058])

Kura Oncology Reports Second Quarter 2026 Financial Results

On August 12, 2026 Kura Oncology, Inc. (Nasdaq: KURA), a biopharmaceutical company focused on precision medicines for cancer, reported second quarter 2026 financial results and provided a corporate update.

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"In only its second full quarter of launch, KOMZIFTI established early leadership in relapsed or refractory NPM1-mutant AML, achieving a majority share of new patient starts in the menin inhibitor class," said Troy Wilson, Ph.D., J.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Kura Oncology. "Increasing physician preference for KOMZIFTI, combined with outstanding commercial execution and encouraging frontline data, establish a strong foundation for ziftomenib as a potential market leader throughout the AML treatment continuum. In parallel, darlifarnib is emerging as a differentiated precision combination platform across multiple targeted therapies in major solid tumor indications. Together, these programs position Kura to build long-term value while advancing innovative therapies for patients with significant unmet need."

Recent Developments

KOMZIFTI Commercial Launch

Commercial highlights for the quarter included:

$9.1 million in net product revenue, a 57% increase from 1Q 2026

Approximately 115 new patient starts (NPS), a 35% increase from 1Q 2026

More than 250 total prescriptions (TRx) in 2Q 2026, including repeat prescriptions, a 59% increase from 1Q 2026

In its second full quarter on the market, KOMZIFTI achieved a majority share of new patient starts in the R/R NPM1-m AML menin inhibitor class

New patient starts are a key indicator of physician preference, future prescription growth, and overall market leadership. Additional indicators of KOMZIFTI’s commercial momentum included broader adoption across academic and community treatment centers, increasing repeat prescribing, and physician-directed use of KOMZIFTI in combination with established standards of care.

Advancing Ziftomenib Across the Broader AML Treatment Landscape

EHA 2026

Long-term KOMET-007 data demonstrated high and durable clinical activity with 600 mg ziftomenib plus intensive chemotherapy (7+3) in 99 patients with newly diagnosed NPM1-m or KMT2A-r AML, including:
CRc rates of 96% and 90%, respectively
12-month OS rates of 94% and 71%, respectively
Deep MRD negativity, no new safety signals, and median overall survival not reached in either molecular subgroup

Blood Publication (June 2026)

Updated KOMET-007 results demonstrated deep and durable responses with 600 mg ziftomenib plus venetoclax and azacitidine in R/R NPM1-m AML. Venetoclax-naïve patients achieved an 87% ORR and 70% CRc rate, with 75% of composite complete responders achieving central MRD negativity. Median duration of CRc was 9.2 months. Median OS in these patients was not reached after 10.7 months of follow-up. The regimen was generally well tolerated, with low rates of differentiation syndrome and QTc prolongation.
Together, these results support the potential of ziftomenib in combination with standard-of-care regimens, increasing confidence in the ongoing KOMET-017 frontline program.

Registrational and Combination Programs

Site activation and patient enrollment across KOMET-017 frontline registrational studies for intensive and non-intensive chemotherapy eligible patients ongoing
Enrollment in KOMET-008 evaluating ziftomenib plus gilteritinib in patients with R/R FLT3-ITD/NPM1 co-mutated AML continues
Enrollment in the KOMET-007 cohort evaluating ziftomenib plus quizartinib and intensive chemotherapy in patients with newly diagnosed FLT3/NPM1 co-mutated AML ongoing

Advancing Darlifarnib as a Precision Combination Platform Across Solid Tumors

KRAS G12C-mutated Solid Tumors (ASCO 2026)

First-in-human Phase 1 FIT-001 data evaluating darlifarnib plus adagrasib provided clinical proof of mechanism, including tumor shrinkage in 77% of response-evaluable patients and confirmed ORRs of:
67% in pancreatic cancer
50% in non-small cell lung cancer
29% in KRAS inhibitor-naïve colorectal cancer

Cabozantinib-naïve Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (KCRS 2026)

Updated Phase 1 FIT-001 results demonstrated encouraging and durable clinical activity with darlifarnib plus cabozantinib, with ORRs of up to 50% across dose levels and an mPFS of 13 months.
Cabozantinib-exposed Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (IKCS 2026)

Phase 1 FIT-001 data demonstrated darlifarnib’s potential to overcome resistance to VEGFR-targeted therapy. Despite prior cabozantinib exposure, patients on the combination of darlifarnib plus cabozantinib, across multiple dose levels of each, achieved a:
44% ORR
94% disease control rate (DCR)
Tumor shrinkage in 75% of patients
Collectively, these data continue to support darlifarnib’s potential as a precision combination platform capable of enhancing multiple targeted therapy classes while creating opportunities for future development opportunities, potential strategic collaborations, and multiple registrational paths.

FIT-001 Phase 1b Dose Expansion

Enrollment continues in the global, randomized FIT-001 Phase 1b study evaluating darlifarnib plus cabozantinib versus cabozantinib alone to establish the recommended Phase 3 dose in patients with cabozantinib-naïve ccRCC.
Anticipated Milestones: Commercial and Development Priorities

Kura expects multiple commercial and clinical catalysts over the next 12 to 18 months.

KOMZIFTI 2026 Commercial Execution

Expand physician adoption across academic and community treatment centers
Increase repeat prescribing and broaden physician adoption
Deliver sustained quarter-over-quarter growth
Strengthen leadership within R/R NPM1-m AML menin inhibitor market

Building on Emerging Leadership Across the AML Treatment Continuum

Kura’s strategy is to build on KOMZIFTI’s early commercial success by moving ziftomenib into earlier lines of therapy, combining it with multiple standards of care and expanding its use across genetically defined AML populations.

Key near-term milestones include anticipated presentation of:

Updated long-term KOMET-007 Phase 1b data evaluating ziftomenib with venetoclax and azacitidine in newly diagnosed, intensive chemotherapy-ineligible NPM1-m AML patients, including durability, survival, and MRD outcomes – 2H 2026
Initial data from the KOMET-007 Phase 1b study evaluating ziftomenib with 7+3 intensive chemotherapy and quizartinib in patients with newly diagnosed NPM1-m/FLT3-ITD AML – 2H 2026
Initial KOMET-008 data evaluating ziftomenib with gilteritinib in patients with R/R NPM1-m/FLT3-m AML, including activity in patients previously treated with FLT3 inhibitors – 2H 2026
An exploratory analysis from the KOMET-001 study evaluating ziftomenib monotherapy activity in molecularly defined, MEIS1-associated AML subtypes beyond NPM1-m and KMT2A-r disease – 2H 2026

Ziftomenib and Menin Inhibition – Expansion Beyond AML

Continue enrollment of KOMET-015 study evaluating ziftomenib plus imatinib in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors
Progress preclinical development of next-generation menin inhibitor for use in other solid tumors

KO-7246 (Next-Generation Menin Inhibitor)

Advance KO-7246, a next-generation menin inhibitor specifically designed for use in diabetes and cardiometabolic disease, into IND-enabling studies
Present additional scientific data characterizing menin inhibitors in preclinical models of diabetes

Darlifarnib – Precision Combination Platform in Solid Tumors

Complete enrollment in the randomized FIT-001 Phase 1b study evaluating darlifarnib plus cabozantinib in cabozantinib-naïve ccRCC in 1H 2027 and report initial clinical data in 2H 2027
Initiate a platform study of darlifarnib plus daraxonrasib in patients with KRAS-mutant 2L+ PDAC in 1H 2027
Advance darlifarnib as a precision combination platform across additional targeted therapy classes

Second Quarter 2026 Financial Results

Net product revenue: $9.1 million, compared to none for 2Q 2025
Collaboration revenue: $11.8 million, compared to $15.3 million for 2Q 2025
R&D expenses: $61.9 million, compared to $62.8 million for 2Q 2025
SG&A expenses: $31.8 million, compared to $25.2 million for 2Q 2025
Net loss: $68.3 million, compared to $66.1 million for 2Q 2025. Net loss includes $8.2 million in non-cash, share-based compensation expense compared to $6.9 million for the same period in 2025.

As of June 30, 2026, Kura had $519.0 million in cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments, compared to $667.2 million as of December 31, 2025. Combined with $180 million in anticipated collaboration payments from Kyowa Kirin, the Company believes its current cash resources will be sufficient to fund the ziftomenib AML program through the topline results from the first pivotal Phase 3 KOMET-017 trial, anticipated in 2028.

(Press release, Kura Oncology, AUG 12, 2026, View Source [SID1234673185])