Alpine Immune Sciences Presents Preclinical Data on Novel Immuno-Oncology Molecules at the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer’s 32nd Annual Meeting

On November 10, 2017 Alpine Immune Sciences, Inc. (NASDAQ:ALPN), a leading immunotherapy company focused on developing treatments for autoimmune/inflammatory diseases and cancer, reported immuno-oncology preclinical data characterizing the functional activity of molecules Alpine successfully generated from its variant immunoglobulin domain (vIgD) platform (Press release, Alpine Immune Sciences, NOV 10, 2017, View Source [SID1234521920]). Several novel immuno-oncology molecules were functionally active via multiple mechanisms of action, including the demonstration of tumor suppression in an animal model. The findings will be presented on Friday, November 10, in a poster session titled "Immune Modulation, Cytokines, and Antibodies" [#P343] at the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) (Free SITC Whitepaper)’s (SITC) (Free SITC Whitepaper) 32nd Annual Meeting in National Harbor, MD.

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"Our unique vIgD platform is capable of producing first-in-class immuno-oncology biologics with potentially unique mechanisms of action," said Stanford Peng, M.D., Ph.D., Executive Vice President of Research and Development and Chief Medical Officer of Alpine. "This promising data highlights the versatility of the platform, showing vIgDs may be implemented in multiple therapeutic formats and may be tailored to modulate multiple molecular pathways according to the desired therapeutic application."

Preclinical Study Design and Results

Alpine scientists used the vIgD directed evolution platform to engineer a number of vIgDs with unique binding profiles to proteins relevant to the immune synapse, including PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA-4, TIGIT, CD155, CD28, and/or ICOS. The poster describes the vIgD domains in multiple therapeutic formats, including tumor-localized Fc fusion proteins, multi-checkpoint inhibitors, and vIgDs fused with tumor-specific monoclonal antibodies (V-mAbs). Various in vitro and in vivo tests characterized the functional activity of these potentially novel therapeutics. Data include:

Tri-specific vIgDs for treating cancer with a single domain capable of interacting with three different B7 family members. Depending on formatting, tri-specific vIgDs are potentially capable of agonizing CD28, blocking PD-L1, blocking CTLA-4, and/or depleting tumor cells and/or regulatory T cells. Initial formats investigated in an animal model of cancer demonstrated activity with tumor growth suppression.
A dual ICOS/CD28 costimulatory vIgD fused with the HER2-targeting monoclonal antibody trastuzumab to provide immune stimulation in the tumor microenvironment. These V-mAbs demonstrated in vitro proof of principle for immune cell stimulation and proliferation in response to HER2-positive tumor cells.
Multiple vIgD Fc fusions capable of targeting TIGIT and PD-1 while sparing CD226. These multi-checkpoint inhibitory molecules blocked checkpoint activity and improved IFN-γ production by "exhausted" T cells.
"The SITC (Free SITC Whitepaper) data suggest the versatile vIgD platform has the potential to contribute to the next generation of immuno-oncology therapeutics. Based on these and other encouraging preclinical data, we are continuing to identify and develop appropriate candidates from our vIgD platform for clinical trials for both oncology and inflammation," said Mitchell H. Gold, M.D., Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Alpine.

BioSpecifics Technologies Corp. Reports Third Quarter 2017 Financial Results

On November 10, 2017 BioSpecifics Technologies Corp. (NASDAQ: BSTC), a biopharmaceutical company that originated and continues to develop collagenase based-therapies with a first in class collagenase-based product marketed as XIAFLEX in the U.S. and Xiapex in Europe, reported its financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2017 and provided a corporate update (Press release, BioSpecifics Technologies, NOV 10, 2017, View Source [SID1234521921]).

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"BioSpecifics continues to make important progress as we remain focused on further developing XIAFLEX for the treatment of serious medical conditions. We are excited about the potential of our ongoing Phase 1 trial of XIAFLEX for the treatment of uterine fibroids and look forward to reporting data in 2018," said Thomas L. Wegman, President of BioSpecifics. "Additionally, we look forward to our partner Endo initiating Phase 3 trials of XIAFLEX for the treatment of cellulite in the coming months."

Third Quarter 2017 Financial Results

BioSpecifics reported net income of $2.7 million for the third quarter ended September 30, 2017, or $0.38 per basic share and $0.37 per share on a fully diluted basis, compared to net income of $3.1 million, or $0.43 per basic share and $0.42 per share on a fully diluted basis, for the same period in 2016.

Total revenue for the third quarter ended September 30, 2017 was $6.5 million, compared to $6.9 million for the same period in 2016. Royalty revenue increased by $0.4 million for the 2017 quarter as compared to the 2016 quarter primarily due to increased sales of XIAFLEX for the treatment of Peyronie’s disease and Dupuytren’s contracture, whereas total revenue was lower due to the exercise of an opt-in right by Endo for the human lipoma indication of $750,000 in the 2016 period.

Research and development expenses for the third quarter ended September 30, 2017 were $0.4 million compared to $0.3 million for the same period in 2016.

General and administrative expenses for the third quarter ended September 30, 2017 were $2.2 million compared to $1.8 million for the same period in 2016.

Provision for income taxes for the third quarter ended September 30, 2017 were $1.5 million, compared to $1.8 million for the same period in 2016.

As of September 30, 2017, BioSpecifics had cash and cash equivalents and investments of $61.3 million, compared to $52.8 million as of December 31, 2016.

XIAFLEX Commercial Highlights

On November 9, 2017, Endo reported commercial highlights for XIAFLEX for the third quarter of 2017 (Endo’s third quarter 2017 financials are reported in BioSpecifics’ fourth quarter 2017 financials). For the third quarter of 2017, total revenues were $52.5 million compared to $47.7 million in the third quarter of 2016, an 10 percent growth. Endo continues to expect high-single to low-double digit revenue growth for sales of XIAFLEX in 2017.

Endo announced a partnership with Tim Herron, a four-time PGA Tour winner, and Damon Adamany, MD, of the CORE Institute, launched Facts on Hand, an unbranded campaign to raise awareness of Dupuytren’s Contracture, a progressive, potentially disfiguring hand condition. Endo also recently launched several direct-to-consumer initiatives intended to increase patient awareness of XIAFLEX as a possible treatment option for Dupuytren’s Contracture and Peyronie’s Disease.

XIAFLEX Pipeline Updates and Anticipated Upcoming Milestones

BioSpecifics manages the development of XIAFLEX for the treatment of uterine fibroids. The Phase 1 clinical trial is currently enrolling. BioSpecifics has the right to initiate the development of any new potential indication not licensed by Endo. Endo’s licensed indications include Dupuytren’s Contracture and Peyronie’s Disease, both approved and marketed; in addition to cellulite, adhesive capsulitis, human and canine lipoma, lateral hip fat and plantar fibromatosis.

The Phase 1 clinical trial of XIAFLEX for the treatment of uterine fibroids is ongoing and BioSpecifics plans to announce results in 2018. The study, being conducted at the Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics at Johns Hopkins University, is designed to enroll 15 subjects administered XIAFLEX prior to hysterectomy. The primary endpoint of the study will assess the safety and tolerability of a single injection of XIAFLEX directly into the uterine fibroid under transvaginal ultrasound guidance. The secondary endpoints will assess symptoms of pain and bleeding, quality of life throughout the study as well as size, collagen content and rate of apoptosis of XIAFLEX treated fibroids.
Endo plans to initiate Phase 3 clinical trials of XIAFLEX for the treatment of cellulite in the coming months following discussions with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Endo continues its commercial review of additional indications.

Encouraging Response Observed with Opdivo (nivolumab) Plus Investigational IDO1 Inhibitor, BMS-986205, in Heavily Pre-Treated Patients with Advanced Cancers in Phase 1/2a Study CA017-003

On November 10, 2017 Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY) reported updated results for Opdivo (nivolumab) plus BMS-986205, a selective, once-daily oral indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) inhibitor from the ongoing Phase 1/2a dose escalation and expansion study, CA017-003. In the dose escalation phase, the maximum tolerated dose (primary endpoint) of BMS-986205 in combination with Opdivo was 200 mg (Press release, Bristol-Myers Squibb, NOV 10, 2017, View Source [SID1234521922]). Based on safety and pharmacodynamic data, the recommended dose for further study was determined to be 100 mg. In the dose expansion phase, findings for anti-tumor activity (primary endpoint) were reported in two cohorts – heavily pre-treated bladder (n=25) and cervical cancer patients (n=22). In the bladder cancer cohort, the objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) were 32% and 44%, respectively. In the cervical cancer cohort, the ORR was 14% and DCR was 64%. The study also measured ORR by PD-L1 expression levels; in patients who express PD-L1 ≥1%, ORR was 46% and 25% in the bladder (n=13) and cervical cancer cohorts (n=12), respectively. In patients who express PD-L1 <1%, ORR was 22% in the bladder cancer cohort (n=9); no response was observed in cervical cancer patients (n=7). Response was observed regardless of prior lines of therapy.

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These data will be presented Saturday, November 11 at the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) (Free SITC Whitepaper) 32nd Annual Meeting in National Harbor, Maryland, in an oral presentation during Late-Breaking Abstract Session II in the Maryland Ballroom from 12:00 – 12:15 p.m. ET (Abstract #O41).

Jason Luke, M.D., study investigator and assistant professor of medicine at the University of Chicago, commented, "The preliminary response observed with BMS-986205 plus nivolumab in this study adds to our understanding of this combination, and together with the increases in tumor CD8 positive T cells and decreases in kynurenine, suggests a potent effect, which warrants further investigation across advanced cancers."

IDO1 is an enzyme that breaks down tryptophan, an essential amino acid which fuels cytotoxic T cells, to help regulate the immune system and avoid an over-response to threats. Some tumors express excessive amounts of IDO1 and deplete tryptophan, resulting in kynurenine production, which starves T cells of their fuel and prevents the immune system from responding appropriately to the cancer. Preclinical studies evaluating BMS-986205 suggest that targeting the IDO1 pathway in combination with other possible complementary immune pathways has the potential to more effectively activate the anti-tumor response. Early clinical data also show anti–PD-1 therapy may upregulate IDO1 expression in patients.

Mark Rutstein, development lead, IDO, Bristol-Myers Squibb, commented, "We are urgently pursuing transformative research to better understand tumor evasion mechanisms to help inform potential new treatment options for patients with advanced cancers. BMS-986205 has shown encouraging characteristics, including potent and selective inhibition of IDO1, as well as pharmacokinetic data that support once-daily dosing. We look forward to additional data from this study."

About CA017-003

CA017-003 is an ongoing Phase 1/2a dose escalation and expansion study evaluating BMS-986205 in patients with advanced cancers in combination with other agents, including Opdivo and Yervoy (ipilimumab), at different doses and schedules. The primary objectives of the dose escalation study are to establish the safety, tolerability, dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) and maximum tolerated dose (MTD), maximum administered dose (MAD) or alternate dose; BMS-986205 doses from 25 to 400 mg once-daily (QD) were evaluated in combination with Opdivo given 240 mg every two weeks. The secondary objectives in the dose escalation phase include pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, immunogenicity and preliminary anti-tumor activity. The primary objective of the dose expansion phase is to investigate preliminary anti-tumor activity, as well as safety and tolerability with BMS-986205 in combination with Opdivo. In this portion of the study, patients received BMS-986205 100 or 200 mg orally QD in combination with Opdivo 240 mg intravenously every two weeks, or 480 mg intravenously every four weeks.

The study evaluated potency of BMS-986205 by measuring serum kynurenine, an immune-modulating metabolite produced by the IDO1 enzyme that potentially allows cancer cells to escape the immune response. In addition to the anti-tumor activity data presented at SITC (Free SITC Whitepaper), additional results included evidence of increased kynurenine inhibition in the blood, with 56% inhibition achieved at the 100 mg dose selected for further evaluation. Kynurenine was also evaluated in pre- and on-treatment tumor samples, with reductions of up to 100% noted. Proliferating CD8 positive T cells were also increased in the paired tumor samples from a range of tumor types, providing evidence of immunomodulation within the tumor microenvironment by an IDO1 inhibitor in combination with a PD-1 inhibitor.

Across doses from 25 to 400 mg of BMS-986205 in combination with Opdivo (n=286), treatment-related Grade 3/4 toxicities occurred in 11% of patients. Those occurring in two or more participants included increased AST (1.7%), increased ALT (1.4%), anemia (1.4%), autoimmune hepatitis (1.4%), fatigue (0.7%), pneumonitis (0.7%), hepatitis (0.7%), hyponatremia (0.7%), hypophosphatemia (0.7%) and increased lipase (0.7%). In the study, 1.4% of patients were discontinued due to study-drug toxicity.

Bristol-Myers Squibb is evaluating BMS-986205 in combination with Opdivo across several advanced cancers, and recently initiated a Phase 3 study evaluating this combination in patients with previously untreated metastatic or unresectable melanoma.

Bristol-Myers Squibb & Immuno-Oncology: Advancing Oncology Research

At Bristol-Myers Squibb, patients are at the center of everything we do. Our vision for the future of cancer care is focused on researching and developing transformational Immuno-Oncology (I-O) medicines for hard-to-treat cancers that could potentially improve outcomes for these patients.

We are leading the scientific understanding of I-O through our extensive portfolio of investigational compounds and approved agents. Our differentiated clinical development program is studying broad patient populations across more than 50 types of cancers with more than 15 clinical-stage programs designed to target different immune system pathways. Our deep expertise and innovative clinical trial designs position us to advance I-O/I-O, I-O/chemotherapy, I-O/targeted therapies and I-O/radiation therapies across multiple tumors and potentially deliver the next wave of therapies with a sense of urgency. We also continue to pioneer research that will help facilitate a deeper understanding of the role of immune biomarkers and how patients’ tumor biology can be used as a guide for treatment decisions throughout their journey.

We understand making the promise of I-O a reality for the many patients who may benefit from these therapies requires not only innovation on our part but also close collaboration with leading experts in the field. Our partnerships with academia, government, advocacy and biotech companies support our collective goal of providing new treatment options to advance the standards of clinical practice.

About Opdivo

Opdivo is a programmed death-1 (PD-1) immune checkpoint inhibitor that is designed to uniquely harness the body’s own immune system to help restore anti-tumor immune response. By harnessing the body’s own immune system to fight cancer, Opdivo has become an important treatment option across multiple cancers.

Opdivo’s leading global development program is based on Bristol-Myers Squibb’s scientific expertise in the field of Immuno-Oncology and includes a broad range of clinical trials across all phases, including Phase 3, in a variety of tumor types. To date, the Opdivo clinical development program has enrolled more than 25,000 patients. The Opdivo trials have contributed to gaining a deeper understanding of the potential role of biomarkers in patient care, particularly regarding how patients may benefit from Opdivo across the continuum of PD-L1 expression.

In July 2014, Opdivo was the first PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor to receive regulatory approval anywhere in the world. Opdivo is currently approved in more than 60 countries, including the United States, the European Union and Japan. In October 2015, the company’s Opdivo and Yervoy combination regimen was the first Immuno-Oncology combination to receive regulatory approval for the treatment of metastatic melanoma and is currently approved in more than 50 countries, including the United States and the European Union.

U.S. FDA-APPROVED INDICATIONS FOR OPDIVO

OPDIVO (nivolumab) as a single agent is indicated for the treatment of patients with BRAF V600 mutation-positive unresectable or metastatic melanoma. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on progression-free survival. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials. OPDIVO (nivolumab) as a single agent is indicated for the treatment of patients with BRAF V600 wild-type unresectable or metastatic melanoma.

OPDIVO (nivolumab), in combination with YERVOY (ipilimumab), is indicated for the treatment of patients with unresectable or metastatic melanoma. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on progression-free survival. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials.

OPDIVO (nivolumab) is indicated for the treatment of patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with progression on or after platinum-based chemotherapy. Patients with EGFR or ALK genomic tumor aberrations should have disease progression on FDA-approved therapy for these aberrations prior to receiving OPDIVO.

OPDIVO (nivolumab) is indicated for the treatment of patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) who have received prior anti-angiogenic therapy.

OPDIVO (nivolumab) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) that has relapsed or progressed after autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and brentuximab vedotin or after 3 or more lines of systemic therapy that includes autologous HSCT. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on overall response rate. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.

OPDIVO (nivolumab) is indicated for the treatment of patients with recurrent or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN) with disease progression on or after platinum-based therapy.

OPDIVO (nivolumab) is indicated for the treatment of patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma who have disease progression during or following platinum-containing chemotherapy or have disease progression within 12 months of neoadjuvant or adjuvant treatment with platinum-containing chemotherapy. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and duration of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.

OPDIVO (nivolumab) is indicated for the treatment of adult and pediatric (12 years and older) patients with microsatellite instability high (MSI-H) or mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) that has progressed following treatment with a fluoropyrimidine, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on overall response rate and duration of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in confirmatory trials.

OPDIVO (nivolumab) is indicated for the treatment of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who have been previously treated with sorafenib. This indication is approved under accelerated approval based on tumor response rate and durability of response. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the confirmatory trials.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

WARNING: IMMUNE-MEDIATED ADVERSE REACTIONS

YERVOY can result in severe and fatal immune-mediated adverse reactions. These immune-mediated reactions may involve any organ system; however, the most common severe immune-mediated adverse reactions are enterocolitis, hepatitis, dermatitis (including toxic epidermal necrolysis), neuropathy, and endocrinopathy. The majority of these immune-mediated reactions initially manifested during treatment; however, a minority occurred weeks to months after discontinuation of YERVOY.

Assess patients for signs and symptoms of enterocolitis, dermatitis, neuropathy, and endocrinopathy and evaluate clinical chemistries including liver function tests (LFTs), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) level, and thyroid function tests at baseline and before each dose.

Permanently discontinue YERVOY and initiate systemic high-dose corticosteroid therapy for severe immune-mediated reactions.

Immune-Mediated Pneumonitis

OPDIVO can cause immune-mediated pneumonitis. Fatal cases have been reported. Monitor patients for signs with radiographic imaging and for symptoms of pneumonitis. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or more severe pneumonitis. Permanently discontinue for Grade 3 or 4 and withhold until resolution for Grade 2. In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, fatal cases of immune-mediated pneumonitis have occurred. Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 3.1% (61/1994) of patients. In patients receiving OPDIVO with YERVOY, immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 6% (25/407) of patients.

In Checkmate 205 and 039, pneumonitis, including interstitial lung disease, occurred in 6.0% (16/266) of patients receiving OPDIVO. Immune-mediated pneumonitis occurred in 4.9% (13/266) of patients receiving OPDIVO: Grade 3 (n=1) and Grade 2 (n=12).

Immune-Mediated Colitis

OPDIVO can cause immune-mediated colitis. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of colitis. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 (of more than 5 days duration), 3, or 4 colitis. Withhold OPDIVO monotherapy for Grade 2 or 3 and permanently discontinue for Grade 4 or recurrent colitis upon re-initiation of OPDIVO. When administered with YERVOY, withhold OPDIVO and YERVOY for Grade 2 and permanently discontinue for Grade 3 or 4 or recurrent colitis. In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, immune-mediated colitis occurred in 2.9% (58/1994) of patients. In patients receiving OPDIVO with YERVOY, immune-mediated colitis occurred in 26% (107/407) of patients including three fatal cases.

In a separate Phase 3 study of YERVOY 3 mg/kg, severe, life-threatening, or fatal (diarrhea of ≥7 stools above baseline, fever, ileus, peritoneal signs; Grade 3-5) immune-mediated enterocolitis occurred in 34 (7%) patients. Across all YERVOY-treated patients in that study (n=511), 5 (1%) developed intestinal perforation, 4 (0.8%) died as a result of complications, and 26 (5%) were hospitalized for severe enterocolitis.

Immune-Mediated Hepatitis

OPDIVO can cause immune-mediated hepatitis. Monitor patients for abnormal liver tests prior to and periodically during treatment. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater transaminase elevations. For patients without HCC, withhold OPDIVO for Grade 2 and permanently discontinue OPDIVO for Grade 3 or 4. For patients with HCC, withhold OPDIVO and administer corticosteroids if AST/ALT is within normal limits at baseline and increases to >3 and up to 5 times the upper limit of normal (ULN), if AST/ALT is >1 and up to 3 times ULN at baseline and increases to >5 and up to 10 times the ULN, and if AST/ALT is >3 and up to 5 times ULN at baseline and increases to >8 and up to 10 times the ULN. Permanently discontinue OPDIVO and administer corticosteroids if AST or ALT increases to >10 times the ULN or total bilirubin increases >3 times the ULN. In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 1.8% (35/1994) of patients. In patients receiving OPDIVO with YERVOY, immune-mediated hepatitis occurred in 13% (51/407) of patients.

In Checkmate 040, immune-mediated hepatitis requiring systemic corticosteroids occurred in 5% (8/154) of patients receiving OPDIVO.

In a separate Phase 3 study of YERVOY 3 mg/kg, severe, life-threatening, or fatal hepatotoxicity (AST or ALT elevations >5x the ULN or total bilirubin elevations >3x the ULN; Grade 3-5) occurred in 8 (2%) patients, with fatal hepatic failure in 0.2% and hospitalization in 0.4%.

Immune-Mediated Neuropathies

In a separate Phase 3 study of YERVOY 3 mg/kg, 1 case of fatal Guillain-Barré syndrome and 1 case of severe (Grade 3) peripheral motor neuropathy were reported.

Immune-Mediated Endocrinopathies

OPDIVO can cause immune-mediated hypophysitis, immune-mediated adrenal insufficiency, autoimmune thyroid disorders, and Type 1 diabetes mellitus. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of hypophysitis, signs and symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, thyroid function prior to and periodically during treatment, and hyperglycemia. Administer hormone replacement as clinically indicated and corticosteroids for Grade 2 or greater hypophysitis. Withhold for Grade 2 or 3 and permanently discontinue for Grade 4 hypophysitis. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 3 or 4 adrenal insufficiency. Withhold for Grade 2 and permanently discontinue for Grade 3 or 4 adrenal insufficiency. Administer hormone-replacement therapy for hypothyroidism. Initiate medical management for control of hyperthyroidism. Withhold OPDIVO for Grade 3 and permanently discontinue for Grade 4 hyperglycemia.

In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, hypophysitis occurred in 0.6% (12/1994) of patients. In patients receiving OPDIVO with YERVOY, hypophysitis occurred in 9% (36/407) of patients. In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, adrenal insufficiency occurred in 1% (20/1994) of patients. In patients receiving OPDIVO with YERVOY, adrenal insufficiency occurred in 5% (21/407) of patients. In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, hypothyroidism or thyroiditis resulting in hypothyroidism occurred in 9% (171/1994) of patients. Hyperthyroidism occurred in 2.7% (54/1994) of patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy. In patients receiving OPDIVO with YERVOY, hypothyroidism or thyroiditis resulting in hypothyroidism occurred in 22% (89/407) of patients. Hyperthyroidism occurred in 8% (34/407) of patients receiving OPDIVO with YERVOY. In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, diabetes occurred in 0.9% (17/1994) of patients. In patients receiving OPDIVO with YERVOY, diabetes occurred in 1.5% (6/407) of patients.

In a separate Phase 3 study of YERVOY 3 mg/kg, severe to life-threatening immune-mediated endocrinopathies (requiring hospitalization, urgent medical intervention, or interfering with activities of daily living; Grade 3-4) occurred in 9 (1.8%) patients. All 9 patients had hypopituitarism, and some had additional concomitant endocrinopathies such as adrenal insufficiency, hypogonadism, and hypothyroidism. 6 of the 9 patients were hospitalized for severe endocrinopathies.

Immune-Mediated Nephritis and Renal Dysfunction

OPDIVO can cause immune-mediated nephritis. Monitor patients for elevated serum creatinine prior to and periodically during treatment. Administer corticosteroids for Grades 2-4 increased serum creatinine. Withhold OPDIVO for Grade 2 or 3 and permanently discontinue for Grade 4 increased serum creatinine. In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, immune-mediated nephritis and renal dysfunction occurred in 1.2% (23/1994) of patients. In patients receiving OPDIVO with YERVOY, immune-mediated nephritis and renal dysfunction occurred in 2.2% (9/407) of patients.

Immune-Mediated Skin Adverse Reactions and Dermatitis

OPDIVO can cause immune-mediated rash, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), some cases with fatal outcome. Administer corticosteroids for Grade 3 or 4 rash. Withhold for Grade 3 and permanently discontinue for Grade 4 rash. For symptoms or signs of SJS or TEN, withhold OPDIVO and refer the patient for specialized care for assessment and treatment; if confirmed, permanently discontinue. In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, immune-mediated rash occurred in 9% (171/1994) of patients. In patients receiving OPDIVO with YERVOY, immune-mediated rash occurred in 22.6% (92/407) of patients.

In a separate Phase 3 study of YERVOY 3 mg/kg, severe, life-threatening, or fatal immune-mediated dermatitis (eg, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis, or rash complicated by full thickness dermal ulceration, or necrotic, bullous, or hemorrhagic manifestations; Grade 3-5) occurred in 13 (2.5%) patients. 1 (0.2%) patient died as a result of toxic epidermal necrolysis. 1 additional patient required hospitalization for severe dermatitis.

Immune-Mediated Encephalitis

OPDIVO can cause immune-mediated encephalitis. Evaluation of patients with neurologic symptoms may include, but not be limited to, consultation with a neurologist, brain MRI, and lumbar puncture. Withhold OPDIVO in patients with new-onset moderate to severe neurologic signs or symptoms and evaluate to rule out other causes. If other etiologies are ruled out, administer corticosteroids and permanently discontinue OPDIVO for immune-mediated encephalitis. In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, encephalitis occurred in 0.2% (3/1994) of patients. Fatal limbic encephalitis occurred in one patient after 7.2 months of exposure despite discontinuation of OPDIVO and administration of corticosteroids. Encephalitis occurred in one patient receiving OPDIVO with YERVOY (0.2%) after 1.7 months of exposure.

Other Immune-Mediated Adverse Reactions

Based on the severity of the adverse reaction, permanently discontinue or withhold OPDIVO, administer high-dose corticosteroids, and, if appropriate, initiate hormone-replacement therapy. Across clinical trials of OPDIVO monotherapy or in combination with YERVOY, the following clinically significant immune-mediated adverse reactions, some with fatal outcome, occurred in <1.0% of patients receiving OPDIVO: myocarditis, rhabdomyolysis, myositis, uveitis, iritis, pancreatitis, facial and abducens nerve paresis, demyelination, polymyalgia rheumatica, autoimmune neuropathy, Guillain-Barré syndrome, hypopituitarism, systemic inflammatory response syndrome, gastritis, duodenitis, sarcoidosis, histiocytic necrotizing lymphadenitis (Kikuchi lymphadenitis), motor dysfunction, vasculitis, and myasthenic syndrome.

Infusion Reactions

OPDIVO can cause severe infusion reactions, which have been reported in <1.0% of patients in clinical trials. Discontinue OPDIVO in patients with Grade 3 or 4 infusion reactions. Interrupt or slow the rate of infusion in patients with Grade 1 or 2. In patients receiving OPDIVO monotherapy, infusion-related reactions occurred in 6.4% (127/1994) of patients. In patients receiving OPDIVO with YERVOY, infusion-related reactions occurred in 2.5% (10/407) of patients.

Complications of Allogeneic HSCT after OPDIVO

Complications, including fatal events, occurred in patients who received allogeneic HSCT after OPDIVO. Outcomes were evaluated in 17 patients from Checkmate 205 and 039, who underwent allogeneic HSCT after discontinuing OPDIVO (15 with reduced-intensity conditioning, 2 with myeloablative conditioning). Thirty-five percent (6/17) of patients died from complications of allogeneic HSCT after OPDIVO. Five deaths occurred in the setting of severe or refractory GVHD. Grade 3 or higher acute GVHD was reported in 29% (5/17) of patients. Hyperacute GVHD was reported in 20% (n=2) of patients. A steroid-requiring febrile syndrome, without an identified infectious cause, was reported in 35% (n=6) of patients. Two cases of encephalitis were reported: Grade 3 (n=1) lymphocytic encephalitis without an identified infectious cause, and Grade 3 (n=1) suspected viral encephalitis. Hepatic veno-occlusive disease (VOD) occurred in one patient, who received reduced-intensity conditioned allogeneic HSCT and died of GVHD and multi-organ failure. Other cases of hepatic VOD after reduced-intensity conditioned allogeneic HSCT have also been reported in patients with lymphoma who received a PD-1 receptor blocking antibody before transplantation. Cases of fatal hyperacute GVHD have also been reported. These complications may occur despite intervening therapy between PD-1 blockade and allogeneic HSCT.

Follow patients closely for early evidence of transplant-related complications such as hyperacute GVHD, severe (Grade 3 to 4) acute GVHD, steroid-requiring febrile syndrome, hepatic VOD, and other immune-mediated adverse reactions, and intervene promptly.

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

Based on their mechanisms of action, OPDIVO and YERVOY can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with an OPDIVO- or YERVOY- containing regimen and for at least 5 months after the last dose of OPDIVO.

Lactation

It is not known whether OPDIVO or YERVOY is present in human milk. Because many drugs, including antibodies, are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from an OPDIVO-containing regimen, advise women to discontinue breastfeeding during treatment. Advise women to discontinue nursing during treatment with YERVOY and for 3 months following the final dose.

Serious Adverse Reactions

In Checkmate 037, serious adverse reactions occurred in 41% of patients receiving OPDIVO (n=268). Grade 3 and 4 adverse reactions occurred in 42% of patients receiving OPDIVO . The most frequent Grade 3 and 4 adverse drug reactions reported in 2% to <5% of patients receiving OPDIVO were abdominal pain, hyponatremia, increased aspartate aminotransferase, and increased lipase. In Checkmate 066, serious adverse reactions occurred in 36% of patients receiving OPDIVO (n=206). Grade 3 and 4 adverse reactions occurred in 41% of patients receiving OPDIVO. The most frequent Grade 3 and 4 adverse reactions reported in ≥2% of patients receiving OPDIVO were gamma-glutamyltransferase increase (3.9%) and diarrhea (3.4%). In Checkmate 067, serious adverse reactions (73% and 37%), adverse reactions leading to permanent discontinuation (43% and 14%) or to dosing delays (55% and 28%), and Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions (72% and 44%) all occurred more frequently in the OPDIVO plus YERVOY arm (n=313) relative to the OPDIVO arm (n=313). The most frequent (≥10%) serious adverse reactions in the OPDIVO plus YERVOY arm and the OPDIVO arm, respectively, were diarrhea (13% and 2.6%), colitis (10% and 1.6%), and pyrexia (10% and 0.6%). In Checkmate 017 and 057, serious adverse reactions occurred in 46% of patients receiving OPDIVO (n=418). The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in at least 2% of patients receiving OPDIVO were pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, dyspnea, pyrexia, pleural effusion, pneumonitis, and respiratory failure. In Checkmate 025, serious adverse reactions occurred in 47% of patients receiving OPDIVO (n=406). The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in ≥2% of patients were acute kidney injury, pleural effusion, pneumonia, diarrhea, and hypercalcemia. In Checkmate 205 and 039, adverse reactions leading to discontinuation occurred in 7% and dose delays due to adverse reactions occurred in 34% of patients (n=266). Serious adverse reactions occurred in 26% of patients. The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in ≥1% of patients were pneumonia, infusion-related reaction, pyrexia, colitis or diarrhea, pleural effusion, pneumonitis, and rash. Eleven patients died from causes other than disease progression: 3 from adverse reactions within 30 days of the last OPDIVO dose, 2 from infection 8 to 9 months after completing OPDIVO, and 6 from complications of allogeneic HSCT. In Checkmate 141, serious adverse reactions occurred in 49% of patients receiving OPDIVO. The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in at least 2% of patients receiving OPDIVO were pneumonia, dyspnea, respiratory failure, respiratory tract infection, and sepsis. In Checkmate 275, serious adverse reactions occurred in 54% of patients receiving OPDIVO (n=270). The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in at least 2% of patients receiving OPDIVO were urinary tract infection, sepsis, diarrhea, small intestine obstruction, and general physical health deterioration. In Checkmate 040, serious adverse reactions occurred in 49% of patients (n=154). The most frequent serious adverse reactions reported in at least 2% of patients were pyrexia, ascites, back pain, general physical health deterioration, abdominal pain, and pneumonia.

Common Adverse Reactions

In Checkmate 037, the most common adverse reaction (≥20%) reported with OPDIVO (n=268) was rash (21%). In Checkmate 066, the most common adverse reactions (≥20%) reported with OPDIVO (n=206) vs dacarbazine (n=205) were fatigue (49% vs 39%), musculoskeletal pain (32% vs 25%), rash (28% vs 12%), and pruritus (23% vs 12%). In Checkmate 067, the most common (≥20%) adverse reactions in the OPDIVO plus YERVOY arm (n=313) were fatigue (59%), rash (53%), diarrhea (52%), nausea (40%), pyrexia (37%), vomiting (28%), and dyspnea (20%). The most common (≥20%) adverse reactions in the OPDIVO (n=313) arm were fatigue (53%), rash (40%), diarrhea (31%), and nausea (28%). In Checkmate 017 and 057, the most common adverse reactions (≥20%) in patients receiving OPDIVO (n=418) were fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, cough, dyspnea, and decreased appetite. In Checkmate 025, the most common adverse reactions (≥20%) reported in patients receiving OPDIVO (n=406) vs everolimus (n=397) were asthenic conditions (56% vs 57%), cough (34% vs 38%), nausea (28% vs 29%), rash (28% vs 36%), dyspnea (27% vs 31%), diarrhea (25% vs 32%), constipation (23% vs 18%), decreased appetite (23% vs 30%), back pain (21% vs 16%), and arthralgia (20% vs 14%). In Checkmate 205 and 039, the most common adverse reactions (≥20%) reported in patients receiving OPDIVO (n=266) were upper respiratory tract infection (44%), fatigue (39%), cough (36%), diarrhea (33%), pyrexia (29%), musculoskeletal pain (26%), rash (24%), nausea (20%) and pruritus (20%). In Checkmate 141, the most common adverse reactions (≥10%) in patients receiving OPDIVO were cough and dyspnea at a higher incidence than investigator’s choice. In Checkmate 275, the most common adverse reactions (≥ 20%) reported in patients receiving OPDIVO (n=270) were fatigue (46%), musculoskeletal pain (30%), nausea (22%), and decreased appetite (22%).. In Checkmate 040, the most common adverse reactions (≥20%) in patients receiving OPDIVO (n=154) were fatigue (38%), musculoskeletal pain (36%), abdominal pain (34%), pruritus (27%), diarrhea (27%), rash (26%), cough (23%), and decreased appetite (22%). The most common adverse reactions (≥20%) in patients who received OPDIVO as a single agent were fatigue, rash, musculoskeletal pain, pruritus, diarrhea, nausea, asthenia, cough, dyspnea, constipation, decreased appetite, back pain, arthralgia, upper respiratory tract infection, and pyrexia.

In a separate Phase 3 study of YERVOY 3 mg/kg, the most common adverse reactions (≥5%) in patients who received YERVOY at 3 mg/kg were fatigue (41%), diarrhea (32%), pruritus (31%), rash (29%), and colitis (8%).

Please see U.S. Full Prescribing Information for OPDIVO and YERVOY, including Boxed WARNING regarding immune-mediated adverse reactions for YERVOY.

Checkmate Trials and Patient Populations

Checkmate 067 – advanced melanoma alone or in combination with YERVOY; Checkmate 037 and 066 – advanced melanoma; Checkmate 017 – squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC); Checkmate 057 – non-squamous NSCLC; Checkmate 025 – renal cell carcinoma; Checkmate 205/039 – classical Hodgkin lymphoma; Checkmate 141 – squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck; Checkmate 275 – urothelial carcinoma; Checkmate 040 – hepatocellular carcinoma.

Revision of Results Forecast for the Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2017

On November 10, 2017 Carna Biosciences reported that it has revised its consolidated results forecast for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2017 (Press release, Carna Biosciences, NOV 10, 2017, View Source [SID1234526522])

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(January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2017) announced on February 10, 2017.

1. Revised consolidated results forecast

Reason of the revision
Carna Biosciences has revised its full year consolidated sales forecast to 701 million yen. Sales forecast for the
Drug Discovery Support business was revised to 701 million yen from 1,000 million yen and sales forecast for
the Drug Discovery and Development business was revised to zero from 440 million yen.
At the Drug Discovery and Development business, we decided to revise our forecast because we concluded that
it would be difficult to receive the expected milestone payment of 440 million yen within this fiscal year for
SRA141 that Carna out-licensed to Sierra Oncology, Inc. Sierra is currently conducting preclinical research for
SRA141 as initially planned, aiming to expand its pipeline targeting DNA Damage Response (DDR). However,
given its near-term focus on broadening the development program for its lead asset SRA737, Sierra rescheduled
the development timeline of SRA141, and the IND submission has been postponed until next year. We decided
to revise our forecast, examining the current development status of SRA141 and other revenue from the Drug
Discovery and Development business.
At the Drug Discovery Support business, in order to achieve sales target of 1,000 million yen, we focused on the
marketing activity to win large scale contract for DGK assay kits from major pharmaceutical companies and
biotech companies mainly in North America. As a result of our efforts, such as providing DGK proteins and
smaller scale assay kits, we expect to receive medium scale orders within this fiscal year. However, we currently
expect that it would be difficult to achieve 220 million sales target for DGK assay kits and decided to revise our
sales forecast for North America to 238 million yen, down 48.9 % compared to the previous forecast and up
19.4% compared to the previous fiscal year. In Japan, sales from profiling services provided to Ono
Pharmaceutical are expected to fall short of the initial plan. As a result, we decided to revise sales forecast for
Japan to 366 million yen, down 14.1% compared to the previous forecast and down 12.5% compared to the
previous fiscal year. We also revised sales forecast for Europe to 70 million yen, down 16.8% compared to the
previous forecast and down 2.0% compared to the previous fiscal year and revised sales forecast for other region
to 26 million yen, up 18.5% compared to the previous forecast and up 19.6% compared to the previous fiscal year.
– 2 –
For operating income, we initially expected 39 million yen at consolidated level, 443 million yen from the Drug
Discovery Support business and loss of 403 million yen from the Drug Discovery and Development business.
However, after careful consideration, we decided to revise our consolidated operating profit forecast to operating
loss of 727 million yen. By segment, we now expect operating profit of 173 million yen for the Drug Discovery
Support business, down 270 million yen from the previous forecast, mainly due to a decline in gross profit caused
by the lower than expected sales. For the Drug Discovery and Development business, we now expect operating
loss of 901 million yen mainly due to a lack of milestone payment from Sierra.
As a result, we now expect ordinary loss of 738 million yen after considering non-operating income and expenses
and net loss attributable to owners of parent of 766 million yen.
We expect to receive milestone payment from Sierra in FY2018 since preclinical research of SRA141 is advancing
as expected. For DGK assay kits in North America, we plan to strengthen our marketing activity in an effort to
expand the expected medium scale contracts to large scale contract.
We plan to reduce unnecessary expenses thoroughly. At the same time, we continue to advance preclinical trials
and lead optimization of our compounds. We also aim to initiate in-house clinical trials and to out-license our
pipeline in order to maximize our corporate value.
* The forward-looking statements in this document have been prepared based on information available at the
time of the issuance of this release as well as on the certain assumptions considered by the management to be
reasonable. Actual results may differ from this forecast due to variety of factors.

BioTime Reports Third Quarter Results and Recent Corporate Accomplishments

On November 9, 2017 BioTime, Inc. (NYSE American: BTX), a late stage clinical biotechnology company developing and commercializing products addressing degenerative diseases, reported financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2017 (Press release, BioTime, NOV 9, 2017, View Source;p=RssLanding&cat=news&id=2316015 [SID1234521856]).

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"BioTime achieved several significant milestones during the third quarter, both in its clinical programs and in the execution of its corporate strategy," said Adi Mohanty, Co-Chief Executive Officer. "With the additional positive long-term data from our EU Renevia trial, and the expansion of the OpRegen trial into the U.S., physicians and patients that may benefit from these products are one step closer to approved therapies."

"BioTime successfully secured over $40 million in funding including a public equity offering, which will enable the advancement of our clinical programs into the middle of 2019," continued Mr. Mohanty.

Corporate Highlights

AgeX completed a $10 million financing, which is expected to fund its operations well into 2019.
BioTime Board of Directors approved a distribution of some or all of the shares of AgeX Therapeutics, Inc. owned by BioTime to BioTime’s shareholders. The Board also authorized management to work with investment banks and other financial institutions to finalize and implement the strategy for taking AgeX public, which may include a tax-free distribution.
BioTime successfully completed a public equity offering raising net proceeds of approximately $26.7 million. The raise was completed on attractive terms and included both new and existing investors.
BioTime was awarded two grants, one from the Israel Innovation Authority and one from the National Institutes of Health, totaling approximately $3.6 million.
Clinical Progress

Renevia

BioTime announced positive secondary and additional positive long-term data from the Renevia pivotal trial. Treated patients retained an average 70% of the transplanted volume at 12 months and 64% at 18 months. The results thus far are encouraging and the long-term performance exceeded management expectations. All Renevia transplants were shown to be well tolerated and there were no device-related serious adverse events noted during this trial.
BioTime announced that an investigator-led clinical trial successfully treated its first patient in a study of Premvia, in combination with stromal vascular fraction cells, for the treatment of volume loss in the face, as was done in the Renevia pivotal trial. This clinical trial is studying Premvia in a cosmetic application. Premvia has 510(k) clearance in the U.S. for wound management. BioTime expects to file for CE Mark in Europe under the name Renevia for the treatment of facial lipoatrophy in HIV patients early next year.
OpRegen (dry-AMD)

Awarded a $2 million grant from the Israel Innovation Authority (IIA) for further development of OpRegen for Dry age-related macular degeneration. To date the IIA has provided grants totaling approximately $12 million.
Successful defense of two key patents providing protection to OpRegen. The patents were upheld during an opposition proceeding in March. In September, we announced the successful conclusion of the appeals. The two European patents (EP2554661 and EP2147094), cover the proprietary directed differentiation methods to produce pluripotent stem cell-derived cell replacement therapies being developed to treat retinal degenerative diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration.
Vision Restoration Program

Awarded a grant of up to $1.6 million from the Small Business Innovation Research program of the National Institutes of Health. The grant provides funding to further develop BioTime’s innovative, next generation vision restoration program for more advanced retinal diseases and injuries, which severely impact the quality of life for millions of people with no treatment option. This initiative aims at improving vision in people affected by blindness, whether caused by retinal injuries, age-related macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa or other causes.
AST-OPC1 (oligodendrocyte progenitor cells)

Asterias Biotherapeutics announced new 12-month data from the first efficacy cohort in the company’s ongoing Phase 1/2a SCiStar study designated to evaluate safety and efficacy of AST-OPC1 in spinal cord injury. The 12-month data showed 67% of Cohort 2 subjects have recovered 2 or more motor levels on at least one side through 12 months, which is more than double the rates of recovery seen in both matched historical controls and published data in a similar population. Also, the FDA granted the company’s request for AST-OPC1 to be designated a Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy under the 21st Century Cures Act.
AST-VAC2 (patient specific cancer vaccine)

Asterias Biotherapeutics announced that the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency and the NHS Research Ethics Committee have provided the necessary approvals to initiate the first-in-human clinical trial of AST-VAC2 in the United Kingdom. The trial, which is being sponsored and managed by Cancer Research UK, will examine the safety, tolerability, immunogenicity and activity of AST-VAC2 in non-small cell lung cancer patients and is expected to be initiated later this year.
Liquid Biopsy (lung cancer confirmatory blood test)

OncoCyte received Clinical Laboratory Improvements Amendments (CLIA) certification of registration from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. In addition, OncoCyte’s laboratory has passed inspection by the California Department of Public Health and is now fully licensed and operational. Clinical validation study initiated.
OncoCyte announced positive results from the Analytical Validation Study of its liquid biopsy lung cancer diagnostic test, DetermaVU.
Simplification and Unlocking Value

New Subsidiary AgeX Therapeutics, Inc.

BioTime Board of Directors approved a distribution of some or all of the shares of AgeX Therapeutics, Inc. owned by BioTime to BioTime’s shareholders. The Board also authorized management to work with investment banks and other financial institutions to finalize and implement the strategy for taking AgeX public, which may include a tax-free distribution.
Third Quarter Financial Results

Cash Position and Marketable Securities: Cash, cash equivalents and available for sale securities totaled $18.2 million as of September 30, 2017, compared to $15.8 million as of June 30, 2017. On October 17, 2017, we completed a public offering of our common stock in which we issued 11,057,693 shares of our common stock for aggregate net cash proceeds of $26.7 million, after deducting commissions, discounts and estimated offering expenses.

Value of Holdings in Public Affiliates: At September 30, 2017, BioTime held common stock in publicly-traded affiliates valued at $184.7 million. This amount was the market value of BioTime’s 21.7 million shares in Asterias Biotherapeutics (NYSE American: AST) and 14.7 million shares in OncoCyte (NYSE American: OCX).

Revenues: BioTime’s revenue is generated primarily from research grants, licensing fees and royalties, and subscription and advertising from the marketing of online database products. Total revenue was $1.7 million for the third quarter of 2017, compared to $1.5 million in the third quarter of 2016.

Operating Expenses: Operating expenses for the third quarter of 2017 were $11.1 million. On an adjusted basis, operating expenses were $8.6 million, of which $6.5 million was mainly attributable to our clinical programs, while $2.1 million in expenses were related to AgeX.

Our operating expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 were $33.4 million. Adjusted operating expenses were $26.8 million for this period, including $18.3 million spent on our clinical and early stage programs.

The reconciliation between GAAP and non-GAAP operating expenses by entity, is provided in the financial tables included with this earnings release.

R&D Expenses: Research and development expenses were $6.6 million for the third quarter of 2017, compared to $6.4 million for the comparable period in 2016, a decrease of $0.2 million.

G&A Expenses: General and administrative expenses were $4.6 million for the third quarter of 2017 compared to $4.6 million for the comparable period in 2016.

Net Income or loss attributable to BioTime: Net income attributable to BioTime was $14.3 million, or $0.12 per basic and diluted common share for the three months ended September 30, 2017, compared to net income of $31.2 million, or $0.30 per basic and diluted common share for the three months ended September 30, 2016. For the nine months ended September 30, 2017, net income attributable to BioTime was $52.0 million, or $0.47 per diluted common share, compared to $38.6 million, or $0.39 per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2016. Results in each period were primarily driven by noncash deconsolidation gains and noncash gains and losses in the changes in share prices of our public affiliate investments in Asterias and OncoCyte common stock.

Conference Call and Webcast Details

BioTime is hosting a conference call and webcast today, Thursday, November 9, at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time / 1:30 p.m. Pacific Time to discuss the results and recent corporate developments. The conference call dial-in number in the U.S./Canada is 1-877-407-0784. For international participants outside the U.S./Canada, the dial-in number is 1-201-689-8560. For all callers, please refer to the "BioTime, Inc. Conference Call." The live webcast can be accessed on the "Events & Presentations" page of the "Investors & Media" section on the company’s website at View Source;p=irol-calendar.

A replay of the conference call will be available for seven business days beginning about two hours after the conclusion of the live call, by calling toll-free from U.S./Canada: 1-844-512-2921; international callers dial 1-412-317-6671. Use the Conference ID 13671848. Additionally, the archived webcast will be available on the "Events & Presentations" page of the "Investors & Media" section on the company’s website at View Source;p=irol-calendar.

About Renevia

Renevia is an investigational medical device that is being developed as an alternative for whole adipose tissue transfer (fat grafting) procedures. Renevia’s hydrogel polymer network provides the requisite amino acid sequences for adipose stromal vascular cell attachment and may support proliferation, localization and adipogenic differentiation. Renevia is part of the Hystem hydrogel family of proprietary injectable matrices, which are designed to facilitate the survival and growth of transplanted cells.

About OpRegen

OpRegen, which is being studied for the treatment of the dry form of AMD, consists of a suspension of Retinal Pigment Epithelial (RPE) cells that are delivered subretinally during a simple intraocular injection. RPE cells are essential components of the back lining of the retina, and function to help nourish the retina including photoreceptors. A proprietary process that drives the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells is used to generate high purity OpRegen RPE cells. OpRegen RPE cells are also "xeno-free," meaning that no animal products are used at any point in the derivation and production process. The avoidance of the use of animal products eliminates some potential safety concerns. Preclinical studies in rats have shown that following a single subretinal injection of OpRegen, the cells can rapidly organize into its natural monolayer structure in the subretinal space and survive throughout the lifetime of the animal. OpRegen is designed to be an "off-the-shelf" allogeneic (non-patient specific) product. Unlike treatments that require multiple, frequent injections into the eye, it is expected that OpRegen would be administered in a single procedure. OpRegen was granted Fast Track designation from the FDA, which allows more frequent interactions with the agency, and eligibility for accelerated approval and priority review. OpRegen is a registered trademark of Cell Cure Neurosciences Ltd., a majority-owned subsidiary of BioTime, Inc.

About Premvia

Approved Uses

Premvia is indicated for the management of wounds including: partial-thickness, full-thickness, tunneling wounds, pressure ulcers, venous ulcers, diabetic ulcers, chronic vascular ulcers, donor skin graft sites, post-Moh’s surgery, post-laser surgery, podiatric wounds, wound dehiscence, abrasions, lacerations, second degree burns, skin tears, and draining wounds.

Contraindications

Premvia is contraindicated for patients with severe allergies, indicated by a history of anaphylaxis or presence of multiple severe allergies.
Premvia is specifically contraindicated for patients with known allergies to products containing either hyaluronan or collagen derivatives.
Premvia is not indicated for use in third degree burns.
Important Safety Information

Complications that may arise from wound management products may include: infection, chronic inflammation, allergic reaction, excessive redness, pain, or swelling. If any of these complications are present, product should be removed from the wound area.
Federal law restricts this device to sale by or on the order of a physician or practitioner.
Only the vial contents are sterile – outside of vials are not sterile.
Do not add additional components or additives to Premvia.