MacroGenics Provides Update on Corporate Progress and 2017 Financial Results

On February 27, 2018 MacroGenics, Inc. (NASDAQ:MGNX), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing innovative monoclonal antibody-based therapeutics for the treatment of cancer, reported a corporate progress update and financial results for the year ended December 31, 2017 (Press release, MacroGenics, FEB 27, 2018, View Source [SID1234524243]).

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"We have had multiple advances in our portfolio of product candidates recently," said Scott Koenig, M.D., Ph.D., President and CEO of MacroGenics. "In addition to margetuximab passing an interim futility analysis for the SOPHIA Phase 3 metastatic breast cancer study, a combination of margetuximab with an anti-PD-1 agent has shown encouraging activity in the treatment of gastric cancer patients in a Phase 2 study. Furthermore, we continue to enroll relapsed/refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients in the flotetuzumab dose expansion study following the promising results that were presented at recent medical conferences. As we continue to advance these and our other candidates, we look forward to presenting additional data in 2018 and defining future development strategies across our portfolio."

Key Pipeline Updates

Margetuximab. Recent highlights related to the Company’s Fc-optimized monoclonal antibody that targets the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, or HER2, include:

Phase 3 Metastatic Breast Cancer Study. The pivotal SOPHIA study is evaluating the efficacy of margetuximab plus chemotherapy compared to trastuzumab plus chemotherapy in approximately 530 relapsed/refractory HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer patients. In January 2018, the Company announced the completion of a pre-planned interim futility analysis with the recommendation of an independent data safety monitoring committee to continue SOPHIA as planned without modification. This analysis was based on a pre-specified assessment of progression-free survival as determined by independent central review. The Company also announced that the U.S. FDA had granted Fast Track designation for the investigation of margetuximab for treatment of patients with metastatic or locally advanced HER2 positive breast cancer who have previously been treated with anti-HER2-targeted therapy. MacroGenics remains on track to complete enrollment of the study by the end of 2018.
Phase 2 Gastric Cancer Study. In January 2018, MacroGenics presented interim clinical data from a Phase 2 study of margetuximab plus an anti-PD-1 agent in patients with gastric and gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) cancer. These results included encouraging tolerability, a 32% objective response rate and median progression-free survival of 5.5 months in a subpopulation of 25 patients with gastric cancer. Based on these results, MacroGenics is expanding the study by enrolling 25 additional gastric cancer patients and will continue to evaluate biomarkers to determine the patients who are most likely to benefit from margetuximab plus anti-PD-1 therapy.

Flotetuzumab. Recent highlights of the Company’s bispecific, humanized DART molecule that recognizes both CD123 and CD3, include:

Monotherapy Study. Updated data from an ongoing dose expansion study of flotetuzumab in patients with AML and myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) were presented at the Annual American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) Meeting in December 2017. Consistent with previously disclosed earlier dose escalation data, flotetuzumab demonstrated acceptable tolerability as well as evidence of anti-leukemic activity. MacroGenics continues to enroll the AML and MDS dose-expansion cohorts and anticipates presenting updated clinical data in 2018. The Company’s collaborator, Servier, has development and commercialization rights outside North America, Japan, Korea and India for flotetuzumab, also known as S80880.
Planned Combination Study with anti-PD-1. At the Annual ASH (Free ASH Whitepaper) Meeting in December 2017, MacroGenics presented data supporting the rationale for using checkpoint blockade as an approach to potentially enhance the anti-leukemic activity of flotetuzumab. MacroGenics intends to initiate a combination study with MGA012, an anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody (mAb), by mid-2018.

Other Pipeline Assets Update

Additional programs that the Company is advancing include the following:

PD-1-Directed Immuno-Oncology Franchise. MacroGenics is advancing multiple PD-1-directed programs to enable both a broad set of combination opportunities across the Company’s portfolio and provide further differentiation from existing PD-1-based treatment options. These programs include:

MGA012. MGA012 is a humanized, proprietary anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody being developed for use as monotherapy as well as in combination with other potential cancer therapeutics. MGA012 was licensed to Incyte Corporation in 2017 under a global collaboration and license agreement. Patients are being enrolled across multiple dose expansion cohorts in a Phase 1 study.
MGD013. MacroGenics designed a DART molecule, MGD013, to provide co-blockade of two immune checkpoint molecules expressed on T cells, PD-1 and LAG-3, for the potential treatment of a range of solid tumors and hematological malignancies. MGD013 is currently being evaluated in a Phase 1 dose escalation study. MacroGenics expects to establish the dose and schedule for MGD013 administration as well as initiate dose expansion cohorts in 2018.
MGD019. This DART molecule is designed to provide co-blockade of both PD-1 and CTLA-4 on T cells. The Company is completing Investigational New Drug (IND)-enabling studies and anticipates submitting the IND application for MGD019 in 2018.

B7-H3 Franchise. MacroGenics is developing a portfolio of therapeutics that target B7-H3, a member of the B7 family of molecules involved in immune regulation. The Company is advancing multiple programs that target B7-H3 through complementary mechanisms of action that take advantage of this antigen’s broad expression across multiple solid tumor types. These molecules include:

Enoblituzumab: The Company continues to recruit patients with various solid tumors in an ongoing study of this Fc-optimized monoclonal antibody that targets B7-H3, in combination with an anti-PD-1 mAb. The Company expects to present clinical data from this study in 2018.
MGD009: This DART molecule targeting B7-H3 and CD3 is being evaluated in a Phase 1 study across multiple solid tumor types. The Company expects to establish the dose and schedule for MGD009 administration as well as initiate monotherapy dose expansion cohorts in 2018. In addition, a combination study of MGD009 and MGA012 was recently initiated.
MGC018: The Company is completing IND-enabling activities to support submission of an IND application for this anti-B7-H3 antibody drug conjugate (ADC) in 2018.

Additional DART Clinical Programs. Additional DART molecules in Phase 1 clinical development being led by MacroGenics include the following:

MGD007. The Company is completing a monotherapy study of MGD007, a DART molecule that recognizes gpA33 and CD3, and anticipates commencing a combination study with MGA012 in 2018.
MGD014. MacroGenics’ first DART molecule designed to target an infectious agent, MGD014 recognizes the envelope protein of HIV-infected cells (Env) and the T cells’ CD3 component, to redirect the immune system’s T cells to kill HIV-infected cells. The Company expects to commence the Phase 1 study in 2018.

Corporate Update

Incyte Collaboration. In October 2017, MacroGenics announced that it had entered into a global collaboration and license agreement with Incyte. The Company received an upfront payment of $150 million upon closing in December 2017 and is eligible to receive milestones and royalties on any future sales of MGA012. MacroGenics retains the right to develop its own pipeline assets in combination with MGA012, with Incyte commercializing MGA012 and MacroGenics commercializing its combinatorial asset(s), if any such potential combinations are approved. In addition, MacroGenics retains the right to manufacture a portion of both companies’ global clinical and commercial supply needs of MGA012.
Roche Collaboration. In January 2018, MacroGenics announced that it had entered into a research collaboration and license agreement with F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd and Hoffmann-La Roche Inc. ("Roche") to jointly discover and develop novel bispecific molecules to undisclosed targets. MacroGenics received an upfront payment of $10 million from Roche in January 2018 and is eligible to receive potential milestone payments and royalties on future sales.
GMP Manufacturing Suite Build-out: The Company began the expansion of its manufacturing capacity in early 2017 by commencing the build-out of a GMP suite in its headquarters building in Rockville, Maryland to support larger-scale clinical and commercial manufacturing. MacroGenics expects this manufacturing suite to be fully operational in 2018.
Dr. Jay Siegel Added to Board. In November 2017, MacroGenics announced the appointment of Jay Siegel, M.D., former Chief Biotechnology Officer and Head of Scientific Strategy and Policy at Johnson & Johnson, to its Board of Directors.

2017 Financial Results and Cash Runway Guidance

Cash Position: Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities as of December 31, 2017, were $305.1 million, compared to $285.0 million as of December 31, 2016.
Revenue: Total revenue, consisting primarily of revenue from collaborative agreements, was $157.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to $91.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. Revenue from collaborative agreements includes the recognition of deferred revenue from payments received in previous periods as well as payments received during the year.
R&D Expenses: Research and development expenses were $147.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to $122.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. This increase was primarily due to continued or expanded enrollment across multiple clinical trials as well as IND-enabling activities related to two preclinical product candidates.
G&A Expenses: General and administrative expenses were $32.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to $29.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. This increase was primarily due to labor-related costs, including stock-based compensation expense, and information technology-related expenses, partially offset by lower patent expenses.
Net Loss: Net loss was $19.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, compared to net loss of $58.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2016.
Shares Outstanding: Shares outstanding as of December 31, 2017 were 36,859,077.
Cash Runway Guidance: MacroGenics expects that its current cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities, combined with anticipated funding under its current strategic collaborations, should fund the Company’s operations for approximately two years.

MannKind Corporation Reports 2017 Fourth Quarter and Full Year Financial Results

On February 27, 2018 MannKind Corporation(NASDAQ:MNKD) reported financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2017 (Press release, Mannkind, FEB 27, 2018, View Source [SID1234524244]).

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Fourth Quarter 2017 Results

For the fourth quarter of 2017, Afrezza net revenue was $4.5 million, an increase of 125% compared to the third quarter of 2017 and 238% compared to the fourth quarter of 2016. Included in the fourth quarter net revenue is a favorable adjustment for a change in estimate of $1.4 million. The change in estimate relates to obtaining new and more comprehensive data regarding the inventory in the distribution channel – specifically inventory in the retail channel. This data indicated that the amount of inventory in the distribution channel was less than had been previously estimated using syndicated prescription data. As of December 31, 2017, the amount of Afrezza shipped to wholesale and retail channels, but not yet recognized as net revenue, was $3.0 million, the same amount as September 30, 2017. A reconciliation of gross to net revenues can be found in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations section of the form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017.

Cost of goods sold was $5.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to $4.6 million in the third quarter of 2017 and $1.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2016, an increase of $0.4 million and $3.4 million respectively. Cost of goods sold during these periods is greater than the associated product sales due to the under-utilization of our manufacturing facility.

Research and development expenses were $3.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to $4.4 million in the third quarter of 2017. The $0.9 million decrease was primarily due to a $0.6 million decrease in clinical study expenses and a $0.4 million decrease in compensation expenses. Research and development expenses were $1.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2016, representing a period-over-period increase of $1.9 million which was primarily due to a $1.3 million increase in compensation costs, a $1.4 million increase in consultant and supply costs and a $0.3 million increase in facilities costs, all due to increased clinical studies, partially offset by a decrease of $1.0 million related to a one-time FDA submission fee for a label expansion incurred in 2016 that did not recur in 2017.

Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses were $23.3 million for the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to $17.7 million for the third quarter of 2017. The $5.6 million increase was primarily due to $5.0 million in selling expenses associated with our first direct-to-consumer television advertising campaign in the fourth quarter of 2017. SG&A expenses in the fourth quarter of 2016 were $15.3 million representing a period-over-period increase of $8.0 million which was primarily due to the $5.0 million DTC TV campaign and growth in our commercial infrastructure.

The net loss for the fourth quarter of 2017 was $32.8 million, or $0.28 per share based on 116.5 million weighted average shares outstanding, compared to a $32.9 million net loss in the third quarter of 2017 or $0.31 per share based on 104.7 million weighted average shares outstanding. During the fourth quarter of 2016, we had net income of $54.0 million, or $0.56 per share based on 95.7 million weighted average shares outstanding. The net income in the fourth quarter of 2016 included net collaboration revenue of $10.2 million related to our license and collaboration agreement with Sanofi and a $72.0 million gain from the extinguishment of debt owed to Sanofi pursuant to a settlement agreement.

Full Year 2017 Results

Due to the termination of the Sanofi license and collaboration agreement in early 2016 and our commencement of commercial activities for Afrezza in the third quarter of 2016, a comparative analysis for Afrezza product revenue and commercial support between the year ended December 31, 2017 and the prior year is not meaningful.

For the year ended December 31, 2017, total net revenue of $11.7 million was comprised of $9.2 million of Afrezza net revenue, $1.7 million from the net revenue of surplus bulk insulin to a third party, $0.6 million from the sale of certain oncology intellectual property, and $0.3 million from collaboration net revenue.

Research and development expenses were $14.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to $14.9 million for the prior year. The $0.8 million decrease was primarily due to a $3.6 million decrease in research and development expenses associated with a reduction in workforce in 2016, and a one-time FDA submission fee for label expansion of $1.0 million incurred in 2016. These decreases were partially offset by a $2.5 million increase in clinical trial expenses, a $0.7 million increase in expenses incurred for the development of manufacturing improvements.

Selling, general and administrative expenses were $75.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 compared to $46.9 million for the prior year, an increase of $28.1 million primarily due to the creation of a commercial support infrastructure after termination of the Sanofi license and collaboration agreement.

The loss on foreign currency translation is related to our purchase commitment for insulin which is denominated in Euros. For the year ended December 31, 2017, the loss was $13.6 million as compared to a gain of $3.4 million in the prior year, a $17.1 million change due to the unfavorable movement of the U.S. dollar-Euro exchange rate.

The net loss for the year ended December 31, 2017 was $117.3 million, or $1.13 per share based on 104.2 million weighted average shares outstanding, compared to net income for the prior year of $125.7 million, or $1.37 per share based on 92.1 million weighted average shares outstanding. The net income for the prior year included net revenue – collaboration of $171.1 million and a gain on the extinguishment of debt of $72.0 million due to the recognition of previously deferred revenue following the termination of the Sanofi license and collaboration agreement.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2017 increased to $43.9 million compared to $22.9 million at December 31, 2016, primarily due to cash inflows of $57.7 million of net proceeds from a registered direct offering of common stock, $0.5 million through sales under the at-the-market equity offering facility, $30.6 million received from Sanofi pursuant to a settlement agreement, $16.7 million from the sale of our Valencia, CA facility, $15.4 million from a net increase of debt, and cash received from revenue of $12.5 million offset in part by commercial and general corporate spending of $95.6 million. In addition to the $43.9 million in cash and cash equivalents, the Company had $4.4 million of restricted cash at December 31, 2017 of which $3.2 million was released in January 2018 following a conversion of Facility Financing Obligation debt to equity. The net cash used in operating activities for the fourth quarter of 2017 was $30.0 million.

2H 2017 Results vs. Guidance

Afrezza gross revenue was $8.3 million for the six months ended December 31, 2017 compared with a range of $9-$14 million.
Afrezza net revenue was $6.4 million for the six months ended December 31, 2017 compared with a range of $6-$10 million.
Net cash used in operating activities was $30.0 million in the fourth quarter 2017 and $23.3 million in the third quarter 2017 totaling $53.3 million compared with a range of $48-$56 million.

Conference Call

MannKind will host a conference call and presentation webcast to discuss these results today at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. To participate in the live call by telephone, please dial (888) 771-4371 or (847) 585-4405 and use the participant passcode: 46307898. Those interested in listening to the conference call live via the Internet may do so by visiting the Company’s website at www.mannkindcorp.com.

A telephone replay of the call will be accessible for approximately 14 days following completion of the call by dialing (888) 843-7419 or (630) 652-3042 and use the participant passcode: 4630 7898#. A replay will also be available on MannKind’s website for 14 days.

Myriad Genetics to Present at Two Upcoming Healthcare Conferences

On February 27, 2018 Myriad Genetics, Inc. (NASDAQ:MYGN), a leader in molecular diagnostics and personalized medicine, reported that Mark C. Capone, president and CEO, is scheduled to present at two upcoming investor conferences (Press release, Myriad Genetics, FEB 27, 2018, View Source [SID1234524246]). On March 13, 2018, Mr. Capone will present at the 38th annual Cowen Healthcare Conference in Boston, Massachusetts at 8:40 a.m. ET. On March 14, 2018, Mr. Capone will present at the Barclays Global Healthcare Conference in Miami, Florida at 2:35 p.m. ET.

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The presentations will be available to interested parties through a live audio webcast accessible through a link in the investor information section of Myriad’s website at www.myriad.com.

Jazz Pharmaceuticals Announces Full Year And Fourth Quarter 2017 Financial Results

On February 27, 2018 Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc (Nasdaq: JAZZ) reported financial results for the full year and the fourth quarter of 2017 and provided financial guidance for 2018 (Press release, Jazz Pharmaceuticals, FEB 27, 2018, View Source;p=RssLanding&cat=news&id=2335067 [SID1234524210]).

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"2017 was a pivotal year for Jazz as we delivered record revenues while achieving two global regulatory approvals, launching an innovative new treatment for AML and advancing numerous early- and late-stage development programs," said Bruce Cozadd, chairman and chief executive officer of Jazz Pharmaceuticals. "We enter 2018 energized by the strong U.S. launch of Vyxeos and the early enthusiasm we’ve seen from the prescriber community; prepared for executing on Xyrem growth opportunities; looking forward to continuing the progress we’ve made in our pre-clinical and clinical development programs; excited about advancing solriamfetol through the regulatory approval process; and financially nimble to aggressively pursue opportunities to further diversify our commercial and R&D portfolio."

GAAP net income for 2017 was $487.8 million, or $7.96 per diluted share, compared to $396.8 million, or $6.41 per diluted share, for 2016. GAAP net income for the fourth quarter of 2017 was $232.2 million, or $3.79 per diluted share, compared to $116.7 million, or $1.91 per diluted share, for the fourth quarter of 2016.

Adjusted net income for 2017 was $676.7 million, or $11.04 per diluted share, compared to $627.2 million, or $10.14 per diluted share, for 2016. Adjusted net income for the fourth quarter of 2017 was $180.5 million, or $2.95 per diluted share, compared to $165.6 million, or $2.71 per diluted share, for the fourth quarter of 2016.

In the full year and fourth quarter 2017, the company recorded a net tax benefit on a GAAP basis of $148.8 million, or $2.43 per diluted share, resulting from provisional estimates based on the company’s analysis of the U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (U.S. Tax Act). Given the significant complexity of the U.S. Tax Act, anticipated guidance from the U.S. Department of Treasury, and the potential for additional guidance from the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and/or the Financial Accounting Standards Board related to the U.S. Tax Act, these provisional estimates may be adjusted during 2018. The net tax benefit resulting from the U.S. Tax Act has been excluded from adjusted net income and the related per share measures for the full year and fourth quarter 2017.

Financial Highlights

Three Months Ended
December 31,



Year Ended
December 31,

(In thousands, except per share amounts and percentages)

2017

2016

Change

2017

2016

Change

Total revenues

$

436,399


$

396,621


10

%

$

1,618,693


$

1,487,973


9

%

GAAP net income

$

232,207


$

116,689


99

%

$

487,848


$

396,831


23

%

Adjusted net income

$

180,493


$

165,637


9

%

$

676,718


$

627,162


8

%

GAAP EPS

$

3.79


$

1.91


98

%

$

7.96


$

6.41


24

%

Adjusted EPS

$

2.95


$

2.71


9

%

$

11.04


$

10.14


9

%

Total Revenues

Three Months Ended
December 31,

Year Ended
December 31,

(In thousands)

2017

2016

2017

2016

Xyrem (sodium oxybate) oral solution

$

312,477


$

291,204


$

1,186,699


$

1,107,616

Erwinaze / Erwinase (asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi)

47,755


56,771


197,340


200,678

Defitelio (defibrotide sodium) / defibrotide

36,299


29,672


133,650


108,952

Vyxeos (daunorubicin and cytarabine) liposome for injection

24,071





33,790



Prialt (ziconotide) intrathecal infusion

6,058


6,055


27,361


29,120

Other

3,435


8,912


22,559


30,895

Product sales, net

430,095


392,614


1,601,399


1,477,261

Royalties and contract revenues

6,304


4,007


17,294


10,712

Total revenues

$

436,399


$

396,621


$

1,618,693


$

1,487,973

Total revenues increased 9% in 2017 and 10% in the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to the same periods in 2016 primarily due to an increase in net product sales of Xyrem and Defitelio and the launch of Vyxeos.

Xyrem net product sales increased 7% in both 2017 and in the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to the same periods in 2016. Xyrem net product sales growth in 2017 was negatively impacted by payer mix throughout 2017 and operational changes that delayed some prescription fulfillment in the second half of 2017.

Erwinaze/Erwinase net product sales decreased 2% in 2017 and 16% in the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to the same periods in 2016. Fourth quarter 2017 net product sales were lower compared to fourth quarter 2016 due to higher ordering patterns in the fourth quarter 2016 resulting from the availability of product following an extended supply disruption in late 2016. Throughout 2017, the company experienced global supply challenges for Erwinaze. The company is currently experiencing temporary supply disruptions in the U.S. and other countries and expects that there may be further supply disruptions during 2018.

Defitelio/defibrotide net product sales increased 23% in 2017 compared to 2016 due to an increase in sales volumes and a full year of U.S. Defitelio sales after launch in April 2016. Net product sales increased 22% in the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to the same period in 2016 primarily due to an increase in sales volume outside of the U.S. The company continues to expect inter-quarter variability in Defitelio net sales given that veno-occlusive disease (VOD) is an ultra-rare disease. The recognition, diagnosis and early treatment of VOD with multi-organ dysfunction in adult patients remains an educational priority.

Vyxeos net product sales were $33.8 million in 2017 and $24.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2017. Vyxeos launched in the U.S. in August 2017.

Operating Expenses

Three Months Ended
December 31,

Year Ended
December 31,

(In thousands, except percentages)

2017

2016

2017

2016

GAAP:






Cost of product sales

$

25,248


$

33,656


$

110,188


$

105,386

Gross margin

94.1

%

91.4

%

93.1

%

92.9

%

Selling, general and administrative

$

143,050


$

127,141


$

544,156


$

502,892

% of total revenues

32.8

%

32.1

%

33.6

%

33.8

%

Research and development

$

65,995


$

44,158


$

198,442


$

162,297

% of total revenues

15.1

%

11.1

%

12.3

%

10.9

%

Acquired in-process research and development

$

8,000


$




$

85,000


$

23,750







Non-GAAP adjusted:






Cost of product sales

$

23,782


$

32,177


$

104,376


$

100,797

Gross margin

94.5

%

91.8

%

93.5

%

93.2

%

Selling, general and administrative

$

121,414


$

108,204


$

454,938


$

404,837

% of total revenues

27.8

%

27.3

%

28.1

%

27.2

%

Research and development

$

43,276


$

39,619


$

162,072


$

146,466

% of total revenues

9.9

%

10.0

%

10.0

%

9.8

%

Operating expenses changed over the prior year periods primarily due to the following:

Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses increased in 2017 and in the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to the same periods in 2016 on a GAAP and on a non-GAAP adjusted basis due to higher headcount and other expenses resulting from the expansion of the company’s business and the launch of Vyxeos in the U.S., partially offset by a contract termination fee of $11.6 million paid in 2016 to eliminate a potential future royalty obligation related to Vyxeos. SG&A expenses in 2016 on a GAAP basis included transaction and integration costs of $13.1 million.
Research and development (R&D) expenses increased in 2017 and in the fourth quarter of 2017 compared to the same periods in 2016 on a GAAP and on a non-GAAP adjusted basis. R&D expenses in 2017 reflected an increase in expenses related to the company’s ongoing pre-clinical and clinical development programs and regulatory activities, including an increase in headcount, partially offset by a decrease in costs following the completion of three solriamfetol Phase 3 studies in 2017. R&D expenses in 2017 and in the fourth quarter of 2017 on a GAAP basis included $18.5 million of payments related to an amended license and option agreement with Pfenex Inc.
Acquired in-process research and development expenses in 2017 included an upfront payment of $75.0 million to ImmunoGen, Inc. related to entry into a collaboration and option agreement.

Cash Flow and Balance Sheet

As of December 31, 2017, cash, cash equivalents and investments were $601.0 million, and the outstanding principal balance of the company’s long-term debt was $1.8 billion. In 2017, the company issued $575.0 million aggregate principal amount of 1.50% exchangeable senior notes due 2024, repaid a total of $850.0 million of borrowings under the company’s revolving credit facility, made upfront and milestone payments totaling $104.5 million and used $98.8 million to repurchase approximately 704,000 ordinary shares under the company’s share repurchase program at an average cost of $140.34 per ordinary share.

Recent Developments

In February 2018, the company enrolled the first patient in a Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating the efficacy and safety of defibrotide for the prevention of acute graft-versus-host disease in adult and pediatric patients after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant.

In February 2018, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) added Vyxeos to the Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines) for acute myeloid leukemia (AML). NCCN Guidelines now include a Category 1 recommendation for use of Vyxeos for adult patients 60 years of age or greater with newly-diagnosed therapy-related AML or AML with myelodysplasia-related changes. The Category 1 recommendation indicates that, based upon high-level evidence, there is uniform NCCN consensus that Vyxeos is appropriate for these patients.

In December 2017, the company submitted a New Drug Application (NDA) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) seeking marketing approval for solriamfetol, an investigational medicine for the treatment of excessive sleepiness in adult patients with narcolepsy or obstructive sleep apnea.

2018 Financial Guidance

Jazz Pharmaceuticals’ full year 2018 financial guidance is as follows (in millions, except per share amounts and percentages):

Revenues

$1,860-$1,930

Total net product sales

$1,845-$1,910

-Xyrem net sales

$1,310-$1,340

-Erwinaze/Erwinase net sales

$190-$220

-Defitelio/defibrotide net sales

$145-$165

-Vyxeos net sales

$130-$155

GAAP gross margin %

93%

Non-GAAP adjusted gross margin %1,5

93%

GAAP SG&A expenses

$608-$648

Non-GAAP adjusted SG&A expenses2,5

$525-$555

GAAP R&D expenses

$232-$263

Non-GAAP adjusted R&D expenses3,5

$205-$225

GAAP effective tax rate

18%-21%

Non-GAAP adjusted effective tax rate4,5

17%-19%

GAAP net income per diluted share

$7.15-$8.45

Non-GAAP adjusted net income per diluted share5

$12.65-$13.25










1.

Excludes $5-$9 million of share-based compensation expense from estimated GAAP gross margin.

2.

Excludes $83-$93 million of share-based compensation expense from estimated GAAP SG&A expenses.

3.

Excludes $17-$23 million of share-based compensation expense and $10-$15 million of milestone payments from estimated GAAP R&D expenses.

4.

Excludes the income tax effect of adjustments between GAAP reported and non-GAAP adjusted net income.

5.

See "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below. Reconciliations of non-GAAP adjusted guidance measures are included above and in the table titled "Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Adjusted 2018 Net Income Guidance" at the end of this press release.

Conference Call Details

Jazz Pharmaceuticals will host an investor conference call and live audio webcast today at 4:30 p.m. EST (9:30 p.m. GMT) to provide a business and financial update and discuss its 2017 full year and fourth quarter results and provide 2018 financial guidance. The live webcast may be accessed from the Investors section of the company’s website at www.jazzpharmaceuticals.com. Please connect to the website prior to the start of the conference call to ensure adequate time for any software downloads that may be necessary. Investors may participate in the conference call by dialing +1 855 353 7924 in the U.S., or +1 503 343 6056 outside the U.S., and entering passcode 4179828.

A replay of the conference call will be available through March 6, 2018 by dialing +1 855 859 2056 in the U.S., or +1 404 537 3406 outside the U.S., and entering passcode 4179828. An archived version of the webcast will be available for at least one week in the Investors section of the company’s website at www.jazzpharmaceuticals.com.

About Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc

Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc (Nasdaq: JAZZ) is an international biopharmaceutical company focused on improving patients’ lives by identifying, developing and commercializing meaningful products that address unmet medical needs. The company has a diverse portfolio of products and product candidates with a focus in the areas of sleep and hematology/oncology. In these areas, Jazz Pharmaceuticals markets Xyrem (sodium oxybate) oral solution, Erwinaze (asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi), Defitelio (defibrotide sodium) and Vyxeos (daunorubicin and cytarabine) liposome for injection in the U.S. and markets Erwinase and Defitelio (defibrotide) in countries outside the U.S. For country-specific product information, please visit www.jazzpharmaceuticals.com/products. For more information, please visit www.jazzpharmaceuticals.com and follow us on Twitter at @JazzPharma.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

To supplement Jazz Pharmaceuticals’ financial results and guidance presented in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), the company uses certain non-GAAP (also referred to as adjusted or non-GAAP adjusted) financial measures in this press release and the accompanying tables. In particular, the company presents non-GAAP adjusted net income (and the related per share measure) and its line item components, as well as certain non-GAAP adjusted financial measures derived therefrom, including non-GAAP adjusted gross margin percentage, non-GAAP adjusted income tax provision and non-GAAP adjusted effective tax rate. Non-GAAP adjusted net income (and the related per share measure) and its line item components exclude from reported GAAP net income (and the related per share measure) and its line item components certain items, as detailed in the reconciliation tables that follow, and in the case of non-GAAP adjusted net income (and the related per share measure), adjust for the income tax effect of non-GAAP adjustments and, for the full year and fourth quarter of 2017, the U.S. Tax Act benefit. In this regard, the components of non-GAAP adjusted net income, including non-GAAP cost of product sales, non-GAAP selling, general and administrative expenses and non-GAAP research and development expenses, are income statement line items prepared on the same basis as, and therefore components of, the overall non-GAAP adjusted net income measure.

The company believes that each of these non-GAAP financial measures provides useful supplementary information to, and facilitates additional analysis by, investors and analysts. In particular, the company believes that each of these non-GAAP financial measures, when considered together with the company’s financial information prepared in accordance with GAAP, can enhance investors’ and analysts’ ability to meaningfully compare the company’s results from period to period and to its forward-looking guidance, and to identify operating trends in the company’s business. In addition, these non-GAAP financial measures are regularly used by investors and analysts to model and track the company’s financial performance. Jazz Pharmaceuticals’ management also regularly uses these non-GAAP financial measures internally to understand, manage and evaluate the company’s business and to make operating decisions, and compensation of executives is based in part on certain of these non-GAAP financial measures. Because these non-GAAP financial measures are important internal measurements for Jazz Pharmaceuticals’ management, the company also believes that these non-GAAP financial measures are useful to investors and analysts since these measures allow for greater transparency with respect to key financial metrics the company uses in assessing its own operating performance and making operating decisions.

These non-GAAP financial measures are not meant to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for comparable GAAP measures; should be read in conjunction with the company’s condensed consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP; have no standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP; and are not prepared under any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles. In addition, from time to time in the future there may be other items that the company may exclude for purposes of its non-GAAP financial measures; and the company has ceased, and may in the future cease, to exclude items that it has historically excluded for purposes of its non-GAAP financial measures. Likewise, the company may determine to modify the nature of its adjustments to arrive at its non-GAAP financial measures. Because of the non-standardized definitions of non-GAAP financial measures, the non-GAAP financial measures as used by Jazz Pharmaceuticals in this press release and the accompanying tables have limits in their usefulness to investors and may be calculated differently from, and therefore may not be directly comparable to, similarly titled measures used by other companies.

"Safe Harbor" Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995

This press release contains forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements related to Jazz Pharmaceuticals’ future financial and operating results, including 2018 financial guidance and the potential for 2018 adjustments to the company’s provisional tax estimates, the company’s expectations regarding its ability to execute on Xyrem growth opportunities, continuing progress in the company’s pre-clinical and clinical development programs, advancing solriamfetol through the regulatory approval process, the potential for future opportunities to diversify the company’s commercial and research and development portfolio and the company’s ability to execute on those opportunities, the company’s expectations for future Erwinaze supply disruptions and inter-quarter variability in Defitelio net sales, and other statements that are not historical facts. These forward-looking statements are based on the company’s current plans, objectives, estimates, expectations and intentions and inherently involve significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties, which include, without limitation, risks and uncertainties associated with: maintaining or increasing sales of and revenue from Xyrem, such as the potential U.S. introduction of a generic version of Xyrem before the entry dates specified in the company’s settlements with certain companies that have filed abbreviated new drug applications with the FDA seeking approval to market a generic version of Xyrem or on terms that are different from those contemplated by the settlements; ongoing patent litigation and related proceedings; effectively commercializing the company’s other products and product candidates; the time-consuming and uncertain regulatory approval process, including the risk that the company’s regulatory submissions, including the solriamfetol NDA and the marketing authorization application for Vyxeos in the European Union, may not be approved by applicable regulatory authorities in a timely manner or at all; protecting and enhancing the company’s intellectual property rights; delays or problems in the supply or manufacture of the company’s products and product candidates; complying with applicable U.S. and non-U.S. regulatory requirements; government investigations and other actions; obtaining and maintaining appropriate pricing and reimbursement for the company’s products; pharmaceutical product development and the uncertainty of clinical success, including risks related to failure or delays in initiating or completing clinical trials; identifying and acquiring, in-licensing or developing additional products or product candidates, financing these transactions and successfully integrating acquired businesses; potential restrictions on the company’s ability and flexibility to pursue share repurchases and future strategic opportunities as a result of its substantial outstanding debt obligations; the ability to achieve expected future financial performance and results and the uncertainty of future tax and other provisions and estimates; and other risks and uncertainties affecting the company, including those described from time to time under the caption "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings and reports (Commission File No. 001-33500), including the company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2017 and future filings and reports by the company, including the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2017. Other risks and uncertainties of which the company is not currently aware may also affect the company’s forward-looking statements and may cause actual results and timing of events to differ materially from those anticipated. The forward-looking statements herein are made only as of the date hereof or as of the dates indicated in the forward-looking statements, even if they are subsequently made available by the company on its website or otherwise. The company undertakes no obligation to update or supplement any forward-looking statements to reflect actual results, new information, future events, changes in its expectations or other circumstances that exist after the date as of which the forward-looking statements were made.

JAZZ PHARMACEUTICALS PLC

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited)

Three Months Ended
December 31,

Year Ended
December 31,

2017

2016

2017

2016

Revenues:






Product sales, net

$

430,095


$

392,614


$

1,601,399


$

1,477,261

Royalties and contract revenues

6,304


4,007


17,294


10,712

Total revenues

436,399


396,621


1,618,693


1,487,973

Operating expenses:






Cost of product sales (excluding amortization of intangible assets)

25,248


33,656


110,188


105,386

Selling, general and administrative

143,050


127,141


544,156


502,892

Research and development

65,995


44,158


198,442


162,297

Acquired in-process research and development

8,000





85,000


23,750

Intangible asset amortization

52,901


26,162


152,065


101,994

Total operating expenses

295,194


231,117


1,089,851


896,319

Income from operations

141,205


165,504


528,842


591,654

Interest expense, net

(21,426)


(19,131)


(77,756)


(61,942)

Foreign exchange gain (loss)

(854)


4,940


(9,969)


3,372

Loss on extinguishment and modification of debt










(638)

Income before income tax provision (benefit) and equity in loss of investees

118,925


151,313


441,117


532,446

Income tax provision (benefit)

(113,654)


34,348


(47,740)


135,236

Equity in loss of investees

372


276


1,009


379

Net income

$

232,207


$

116,689


$

487,848


$

396,831







Net income per ordinary share:






Basic

$

3.87


$

1.95


$

8.13


$

6.56

Diluted

$

3.79


$

1.91


$

7.96


$

6.41

Weighted-average ordinary shares used in per share calculations – basic

59,980


59,930


60,018


60,500

Weighted-average ordinary shares used in per share calculations – diluted

61,189


61,033


61,317


61,870

JAZZ PHARMACEUTICALS PLC

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands)

(Unaudited)

December 31

2017

2016

ASSETS


Current assets:


Cash and cash equivalents

$

386,035


$

365,963

Investments

215,000


60,000

Accounts receivable, net of allowances

224,129


234,244

Inventories

43,245


34,051

Prepaid expenses

23,182


24,501

Other current assets

76,686


29,310

Total current assets

968,277


748,069

Property and equipment, net

170,080


107,490

Intangible assets, net

2,979,127


3,012,001

Goodwill

947,537


893,810

Deferred tax assets, net

34,559


15,060

Deferred financing costs

7,673


9,737

Other non-current assets

16,419


14,060

Total assets

$

5,123,672


$

4,800,227

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY


Current liabilities:


Accounts payable

$

24,368


$

22,415

Accrued liabilities

198,779


193,268

Current portion of long-term debt

40,605


36,094

Income taxes payable

21,577


4,506

Deferred revenue

8,618


1,123

Total current liabilities

293,947


257,406

Deferred revenue, non-current

16,115


2,601

Long-term debt, less current portion

1,540,433


1,993,531

Deferred tax liabilities, net

383,472


556,733

Other non-current liabilities

176,608


112,617

Total shareholders’ equity

2,713,097


1,877,339

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

$

5,123,672


$

4,800,227

JAZZ PHARMACEUTICALS PLC

SUMMARY OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

(Unaudited)

Year Ended December 31,

2017

2016

Net cash provided by operating activities

$

693,087


$

592,391

Net cash used in investing activities

(268,950)


(1,751,155)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

(409,111)


540,987

Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents

5,046


(5,045)

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

$

20,072


$

(622,822)

JAZZ PHARMACEUTICALS PLC

RECONCILIATIONS OF GAAP REPORTED TO NON-GAAP ADJUSTED INFORMATION

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited)

Three Months Ended
December 31,

Year Ended
December 31,

2017

2016

2017

2016

GAAP reported net income

$

232,207


$

116,689


$

487,848


$

396,831

Intangible asset amortization

52,901


26,162


152,065


101,994

Share-based compensation expense

27,321


24,281


106,900


98,771

Upfront and milestone payments

26,500





101,500


23,750

Transaction and integration related costs




674





13,644

Expenses related to certain legal proceedings and restructuring







6,000


6,060

Non-cash interest expense

10,792


5,715


30,026


22,133

Loss on extinguishment and modification of debt










638

Income tax effect of above adjustments

(20,425)


(7,884)


(58,818)


(36,659)

U.S. Tax Act benefit

(148,803)





(148,803)



Non-GAAP adjusted net income

$

180,493


$

165,637


$

676,718


$

627,162







GAAP reported net income per diluted share

$

3.79


$

1.91


$

7.96


$

6.41

Non-GAAP adjusted net income per diluted share

$

2.95


$

2.71


$

11.04


$

10.14

Weighted-average ordinary shares used in diluted per share calculations

61,189


61,033


61,317


61,870

JAZZ PHARMACEUTICALS PLC

RECONCILIATIONS OF GAAP REPORTED TO NON-GAAP ADJUSTED INFORMATION

CERTAIN LINE ITEMS AND OTHER INFORMATION

(In thousands, except per share amounts and percentages)

(Unaudited)

Three Months Ended

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

GAAP
Reported

Adjustments

Non-GAAP
Adjusted

GAAP
Reported

Adjustments

Non-GAAP
Adjusted

Total revenues

$

436,399


$




$

436,399


$

396,621


$




$

396,621

Cost of product sales (excluding amortization of intangible assets)

25,248


(1,466)

(a)

23,782


33,656


(1,479)

(a)

32,177

Selling, general and administrative

143,050


(21,636)

(b)

121,414


127,141


(18,937)

(b)

108,204

Research and development

65,995


(22,719)

(c)

43,276


44,158


(4,539)

(c)

39,619

Acquired in-process research and development

8,000


(8,000)












Intangible asset amortization

52,901


(52,901)





26,162


(26,162)



Interest expense, net

21,426


(10,792)

(d)

10,634


19,131


(5,715)

(d)

13,416

Foreign currency loss (gain)

854





854


(4,940)





(4,940)

Income before income tax provision (benefit) and equity in loss of investees

118,925


117,514

(e)

236,439


151,313


56,832

(e)

208,145

Income tax provision (benefit)

(113,654)


169,228

(f)

55,574


34,348


7,884

(f)

42,232

Effective tax rate (g)

(95.6)

%



23.5

%

22.7

%



20.3

%

Equity in loss of investees

372





372


276





276

Net income

$

232,207


$

(51,714)

(h)

$

180,493


$

116,689


$

48,948

(h)

$

165,637

Net income per diluted share

$

3.79




$

2.95


$

1.91




$

2.71

JAZZ PHARMACEUTICALS PLC

RECONCILIATIONS OF GAAP REPORTED TO NON-GAAP ADJUSTED INFORMATION

CERTAIN LINE ITEMS AND OTHER INFORMATION

(In thousands, except per share amounts and percentages)

(Unaudited)

Year Ended

December 31, 2017

December 31, 2016

GAAP
Reported

Adjustments

Non-GAAP
Adjusted

GAAP
Reported

Adjustments

Non-GAAP
Adjusted

Total revenues

$

1,618,693


$




$

1,618,693


$

1,487,973


$




$

1,487,973

Cost of product sales (excluding amortization of intangible assets)

110,188


(5,812)

(i)

104,376


105,386


(4,589)

(i)

100,797

Selling, general and administrative

544,156


(89,218)

(j)

454,938


502,892


(98,055)

(j)

404,837

Research and development

198,442


(36,370)

(k)

162,072


162,297


(15,831)

(k)

146,466

Acquired in-process research and development

85,000


(83,000)


2,000


23,750


(23,750)



Intangible asset amortization

152,065


(152,065)





101,994


(101,994)



Interest expense, net

77,756


(30,026)

(d)

47,730


61,942


(22,133)

(d)

39,809

Foreign currency loss (gain)

9,969





9,969


(3,372)





(3,372)

Loss on extinguishment and modification of debt










638


(638)



Income before income tax provision (benefit) and equity in loss of investees

441,117


396,491

(l)

837,608


532,446


266,990

(l)

799,436

Income tax provision (benefit)

(47,740)


207,621

(m)

159,881


135,236


36,659

(m)

171,895

Effective tax rate (g)

(10.8)

%



19.1

%

25.4

%



21.5

%

Equity in loss of investees

1,009





1,009


379





379

Net income

$

487,848


$

188,870

(n)

$

676,718


$

396,831


$

230,331

(n)

$

627,162

Net income per diluted share

$

7.96




$

11.04


$

6.41




$

10.14










Explanation of Adjustments and Certain Line Items (in thousands):

(a)

Share-based compensation expense of $1,466 and $1,479 for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

(b)

Share-based compensation expense of $21,636 and $18,373 and transaction and integration related costs of $0 and $564 for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

(c)

Upfront and milestone payments of $18,500 and $0, share-based compensation expense of $4,219 and $4,429 and transaction and integration related costs of $0 and $110 for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

(d)

Non-cash interest expense associated with debt discount and debt issuance costs for the respective three- and twelve-month periods.

(e)

Sum of adjustments (a) through (d) plus the adjustments for acquired in-process research and development and intangible asset amortization, as applicable, for the respective three-month period.

(f)

Income tax adjustments related to the impact of the U.S. Tax Act of $148,803 and $0 and the income tax effect of adjustments between GAAP reported and non-GAAP adjusted net income of $20,425 and $7,884 for the three months ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

(g)

Income tax provision (benefit) divided by income before income tax provision (benefit) and equity in loss of investees for the respective three- and twelve-month periods.

(h)

Net of adjustments (e) and (f) for the respective three-month period.

(i)

Share-based compensation expense of $5,812 and $4,438, expenses related to certain legal proceedings and restructuring of $0 and $110 and transaction and integration related costs of $0 and $41 for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

(j)

Share-based compensation expense of $83,218 and $79,037, expenses related to certain legal proceedings and restructuring of $6,000 and $5,950 and transaction and integration related costs of $0 and $13,068 for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

(k)

Upfront and milestone payments of $18,500 and $0, share-based compensation expense of $17,870 and $15,296 and transaction and integration related costs of $0 and $535 for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

(l)

Sum of adjustments (i), (j), (k) and (d) plus the adjustments for acquired in-process research and development, intangible asset amortization and loss on extinguishment and modification of debt, as applicable, for the respective twelve-month period.

(m)

Income tax adjustments related to the impact of the U.S. Tax Act of $148,803 and $0 and the income tax effect of adjustments between GAAP reported and non-GAAP adjusted net income of $58,818 and $36,659 for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

(n)

Net of adjustments (l) and (m) for the respective twelve-month period.

JAZZ PHARMACEUTICALS PLC

RECONCILIATION OF GAAP TO NON-GAAP ADJUSTED 2018 NET INCOME GUIDANCE

(In millions, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited)

GAAP net income

$435 – $520

Intangible asset amortization

190 – 220

Share-based compensation expense

105 – 125

Milestone payments

10 – 15

Non-cash interest expense

40 – 50

Income tax effect of adjustments

(50) – (70)

Non-GAAP adjusted net income

$775 – $815

GAAP net income per diluted share

$7.15-$8.45

Non-GAAP adjusted net income per diluted share

$12.65-$13.25

Weighted-average ordinary shares used in per share calculations

61

Jazz Pharmaceuticals Logo (PRNewsFoto/Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc) (PRNewsFoto/Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc)

Cision View original content with multimedia:View Source

Acceleron Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2017 Operating and Financial Results

On February 27, 2018 February 27, 2018 – Acceleron Pharma Inc. (NASDAQ: XLRN), a leading biopharmaceutical company in the discovery and development of TGF-beta therapeutics to treat serious and rare diseases, reported a corporate update and reported financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2017 (Press release, Acceleron Pharma, FEB 27, 2018, View Source [SID1234524205]).

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"2017 was an important year for Acceleron as we laid out our corporate strategy and vision for future growth. We are committed to building therapeutic area leadership and advancing our clinical programs in three areas of high unmet medical need in hematologic, neuromuscular, and pulmonary disease," said Habib Dable, Chief Executive Officer of Acceleron. "With this progress, we are well positioned for the transformative year ahead. In hematology, we look forward to announcing top-line results from our MEDALIST and BELIEVE Phase 3 trials of luspatercept in mid-2018. We and Celgene continue to drive preparations and key activities for the regulatory and commercial readiness. In neuromuscular, we are advancing ACE-083, our locally acting ‘Myostatin+’ agent, through Phase 2 trials in two distinct neuromuscular diseases. In pulmonary, we plan to initiate a Phase 2 study with sotatercept in pulmonary arterial hypertension. Our entire team remains focused on near-term execution as we prepare for long-term value creation and aim to bring new transformative therapies to patients."
Development Program Highlights

Hematology

Luspatercept:

Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS), Beta-Thalassemia, and Myelofibrosis (MF)

Luspatercept is designed to treat chronic anemia and reduce red blood cell (RBC) transfusion burden in adults with rare blood disorders. Luspatercept is being developed as part of the global collaboration between Acceleron and Celgene.




Top-line results from the MEDALIST and BELIEVE Phase 3 trials in MDS and beta-thalassemia, respectively, are expected in mid-2018.




The initiation of the COMMANDS Phase 3 trial in first-line, lower-risk MDS patients is planned for the first half of 2018.




The BEYOND Phase 2 trial in non-transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia was recently initiated and enrollment is ongoing in the Phase 2 trial in MF.




Updated results from the ongoing Phase 2 trial in lower-risk MDS patients were presented at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) (Free ASH Whitepaper) 2017 annual meeting. Multiple patients are now nearing three years on treatment.

Neuromuscular Disease

ACE-083

Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD) and Charcot-Marie Tooth (CMT) disease

1
xlrnlogoa17.gif

ACE-083 is a locally-acting therapeutic, based on the naturally-occurring protein follistatin, designed to have a concentrated effect on muscle mass and strength in target muscles for diseases that cause debilitating focal muscle weakness. ACE-083 utilizes the "Myostatin+" approach to inhibit multiple TGF-beta ligands.




Preliminary results from dose cohorts 1 and 2 in Part 1 of the ACE-083 Phase 2 trial in patients with FSHD demonstrated mean total muscle volume increases of over 12% in the tibialis anterior and biceps brachii muscle cohorts. In addition, both of these cohorts demonstrated a reduction in fat fraction.




Part 1 of the trial is fully enrolled with treatment ongoing in dose cohort 3; the Company plans to begin Part 2 of the Phase 2 trial in the second quarter of this year.




Enrollment and treatment are ongoing in Part 1 of the Phase 2 trial in patients with CMT disease. The Company plans to present preliminary Part 1 results in the second half of 2018 and to initiate Part 2 of the Phase 2 trial by the end of 2018.

ACE-2494
ACE-2494 is designed to have a systemic effect on muscle mass and strength throughout the body by utilizing the "Myostatin+" approach to inhibit multiple TGF-beta ligands.




The Phase 1 clinical trial has been initiated and preliminary results from this healthy volunteer study are expected in the first half of 2019.

Pulmonary Disease

Sotatercept:

Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)
Sotatercept is an activin receptor type IIA fusion protein that acts as a ligand trap for members in the TGF-beta protein superfamily involved in the remodeling of a variety of different tissues, including the vasculature and fibrotic tissue.




Preclinical results were presented at the American Heart Association 2017 Scientific Sessions demonstrating that sotatercept decreased vessel muscularization, improved pulmonary arterial pressures, and decreased indicators of right heart failure.




Clinical activities are underway to initiate the planned Phase 2 trial in PAH in the first half of 2018.




The Company plans to host an educational webinar to discuss the Phase 2 trial design in the first half of 2018.

Financial Results



Cash Position – Cash, cash equivalents and investments as of December 31, 2017 were $372.9 million. As of December 31, 2016 the Company had cash, cash equivalents and investments of $234.4 million. Cash, cash equivalents and investments include $215.8 million of net proceeds from a follow-on public offering of common stock in 2017. We believe that our existing cash, cash equivalents and investments will be sufficient to fund projected operating requirements into 2021.



Revenue – Collaboration revenue for the year was $13.5 million. The revenue is all from the Company’s Celgene partnership and is primarily due to cost sharing revenue of $12.9 million related to expenses incurred by the Company in support of our partnered programs.



Costs and expenses – Total costs and expenses for the year were $123.5 million. This includes R&D expenses of $89.7 million and G&A expenses of $33.7 million.



Net Loss – The Company’s net loss for the year ended December 31, 2017 was $108.5 million.

Conference Call and Webcast
The Company will host a webcast and conference call to discuss its fourth quarter and full year financial results for 2017 and provide an update on recent corporate activities on February 27, 2018, at 5:00 p.m. EST.

The webcast will be accessible under "Events & Presentations" in the Investors/Media page of the Company’s website at www.acceleronpharma.com. Individuals can participate in the conference call by dialing 877-312-5848 (domestic) or 253-237-1155 (international) and referring to the "Acceleron Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2017 Earnings Call."

The archived webcast will be available for replay on the Acceleron website approximately two hours after the event.