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Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS) und Fortrea gehen eine Partnerschaft zur Förderung der Zusammenarbeit in der klinischen Forschung ein

DURHAM, North Carolina, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Die Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS) und Fortrea (Nasdaq: FTRE), ein führendes globales Auftragsforschungsinstitut (Contract Research Organization, CRO), freuen sich, die Förderung der Arbeitsgruppe „SCRS Collaborate Forward“ durch Fortrea bekanntzugeben.

Die Arbeitsgruppe „Collaborate Forward“, die aus 16 führenden Global Impact Partner–Organisationen besteht, wird bewährte Verfahren zur Reduzierung des Verwaltungsaufwands im gesamten Bereich der klinischen Forschung untersuchen und entwickeln. Die Gruppe setzt sich für Transparenz und Zusammenarbeit ein, um die Herausforderungen zu bewältigen, mit denen klinische Forschungszentren konfrontiert sind. Durch die Verbesserung interner Prozesse sollen die Standorte nachhaltiger und die Studien effizienter werden, was letztlich zu einem reibungsloseren Ablauf für die Patienten führt.

Die Förderung durch Fortrea stellt eine bedeutende Investition in die Förderung branchenweiter Innovationen dar und spiegelt das Engagement des Unternehmens wider, Prüfzentren an die Spitze der Planung klinischer Studien zu bringen.

„Wir freuen uns, mit der SCRS zusammenzuarbeiten, um diese Arbeitsgruppe ins Leben zu rufen und zu unterstützen“, so Mike Clay, Senior Vice President of Global Project Delivery bei Fortrea. „Klinische Studien werden immer komplexer und die Branche steht unter zunehmendem Druck, Innovationen für Patienten zu beschleunigen. Wir sind der Meinung, dass die Zusammenarbeit mit klinischen Forschungszentren der Schlüssel zu mehr Effizienz und Produktivitätssteigerungen ist, die den Prozess klinischer Studien optimieren werden. Diese Initiative wird konkrete Lösungen entwickeln, hinter denen sich Sponsoren klinischer Studien, CROs, Anbieter, Prüfzentren und Patientenvertretungsgruppen versammeln können. Als führendes Auftragsforschungsinstitut sind wir stolz darauf, bei diesen Bemühungen an vorderster Front zu stehen und sicherzustellen, dass die Prüfzentren weiterhin eine zentrale Rolle bei der Förderung des Fortschritts und der Förderung einer stärkeren branchenweiten Zusammenarbeit spielen, um Patienten schneller lebensverändernde Behandlungen zukommen zu lassen.“

„Klinische Forschung erfordert eine einzigartige Interdependenz, um die besten Ergebnisse zu erzielen. Collaborate Forward wird über Erfolge von Partnerschaften berichten, die sich auf die Menschen, Prozesse und Technologien auswirken und die klinische Forschung heute verbessern“, fügte Sean Soth, Senior Vice President, Strategy and Global Business Partnerships, SCRS, hinzu. „Wir freuen uns, Fortrea als Gründungssponsor von Collaborate Forward begrüßen zu dürfen. Diese Partnerschaft unterstreicht den Wert branchenübergreifender Zusammenarbeit und der gemeinsamen Anstrengungen, die erforderlich sind, um einen bedeutenden Fortschritt bei der Schaffung eines stärker vernetzten und effizienteren Ökosystems für klinische Studien zu erzielen.“

Collaborate Forward wird sich zunächst auf den Beginn von Studien konzentrieren und die Vorteile der Zusammenarbeit durch fesselnde Geschichten, Fallstudien und datengestützte Erkenntnisse aufzeigen. Die Gruppe wird regelmäßig zusammenkommen, um Erkenntnisse auszutauschen, Branchentrends zu bewerten und pragmatische Tools zu entwickeln, die Sponsoren und CROs in ihren Organisationen umsetzen können. Über den Fortschritt der Arbeitsgruppe wird im Laufe des Jahres 2025 auf den SCRS Site Solutions Summits und in Veröffentlichungen berichtet, in denen die wichtigsten Ergebnisse und Erfolge der Zusammenarbeit hervorgehoben werden.

Die SCRS lädt Sponsoren und CROs, die sich für die Nachhaltigkeit von Standorten einsetzen, ein, sich diesen Bemühungen anzuschließen und zur Gestaltung einer effektiveren und synergetischeren klinischen Forschungslandschaft beizutragen. Für weitere Informationen zur Teilnahme wenden Sie sich bitte an Brian Egan.

Über die Society for Clinical Research Sites

Die Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS) ist die führende Interessenvertretung, die sich dafür einsetzt, der weltweiten Gemeinschaft der klinischen Forschungszentren eine gemeinsame Stimme zu verleihen. Die SCRS vertritt mehr als 11.000 Forschungszentren weltweit und fördert die Zusammenarbeit und den Austausch in der Branche, die sich für standortbezogene Interessenvertretung, Bildung, Mentoring und Vernetzung einsetzen. Die SCRS ist ein aktiver und einflussreicher Fürsprecher für Standorte in Brancheninitiativen, um sicherzustellen, dass die Perspektive der Prüfzentren gehört und geschätzt wird. Erfahren Sie mehr und engagieren Sie sich unter myscrs.org. Unsere Stimme. Unsere Gemeinschaft. Ihr Erfolg.

Über Fortrea

Fortrea (Nasdaq: FTRE) ist ein weltweit führender Anbieter von Lösungen für die klinische Entwicklung in der Life–Science–Branche. Wir arbeiten mit aufstrebenden und großen biopharmazeutischen, biotechnologischen, medizintechnischen und diagnostischen Unternehmen zusammen, um Innovationen im Gesundheitswesen voranzutreiben, die das Angebot lebensverändernder Therapien für Patienten beschleunigen. Fortrea bietet Management von klinischen Studien der Phasen I–IV, klinische Pharmakologie und Beratungsdienste an. Die Lösungen von Fortrea basieren auf drei Jahrzehnten Erfahrung in mehr als 20 Therapiegebieten, einer Leidenschaft für wissenschaftliche Strenge, außergewöhnlichen Erkenntnissen und einem starken Netzwerk von Prüfzentren. Unser talentiertes und vielfältiges Team, das in etwa 100 Ländern tätig ist, ist darauf ausgelegt, Kunden weltweit fokussierte und flexible Lösungen zu bieten. Erfahren Sie mehr darüber, wie Fortrea von der Pipeline zum Patienten zu einer transformativen Kraft wird, unter Fortrea.com und folgen Sie uns auf LinkedIn und X (ehemals Twitter).

SCRS – Kontakte:

Marissa Hill (Medien) – 267–865–3296, [email protected]
Brian Egan (Medien) – 518–207–6965, [email protected]

Kontakt zu Fortrea:

Galen Wilson (Medien) – 703–298–0802, [email protected]
Kate Dillon (Medien) – 646–818–9115, [email protected]


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9362056)

La Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS) et Fortrea s’associent pour promouvoir la collaboration dans le domaine de la recherche clinique

DURHAM, N.C., 20 févr. 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — La Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS) et Fortrea (Nasdaq : FTRE), l’une des principales organisations de recherche contractuelle (ORC) à l’international, ont le plaisir d’annoncer que Fortrea parraine désormais le groupe de travail Collaborate Forward de la SCRS.

Le groupe de travail Collaborate Forward, composé de 16 grandes organisations Global Impact Partner, a pour mission d’explorer et de développer les meilleures pratiques pour réduire la charge administrative dans l’ensemble du secteur de la recherche clinique. Le groupe s’engage à favoriser la transparence et la collaboration pour relever les défis auxquels sont confrontés les sites de recherche clinique. Il cherche à rendre les sites plus durables et les essais plus efficaces en améliorant les processus internes, ce qui permettra aux patients de bénéficier d’une expérience plus sereine.

Le parrainage de Fortrea constitue un investissement important dans la promotion de l’innovation à travers le secteur et témoigne de son engagement à donner la priorité aux sites lors de la planification des essais cliniques.

« Nous sommes ravis de travailler en partenariat avec la SCRS pour créer et accompagner ce groupe de travail », déclare Mike Clay, vice–président senior de Global Project Delivery chez Fortrea. « Les essais cliniques deviennent de plus en plus complexes et le secteur fait face à une pression croissante pour accélérer l’innovation au service des patients. Nous sommes convaincus qu’une collaboration avec les sites de recherche clinique est essentielle pour réaliser des gains d’efficacité et de productivité qui permettront de simplifier le processus d’essai clinique. Cette initiative permettra de mettre au point des solutions concrètes auxquelles les promoteurs d’études cliniques, les ORC, les fournisseurs, les sites et les groupes de défense des intérêts des patients pourront adhérer. En tant qu’ORC de premier plan, nous sommes fiers de participer à cet effort, en veillant à ce que les sites restent au cœur du progrès et en encourageant une plus grande collaboration à travers le secteur, afin de mettre plus rapidement à la disposition des patients des traitements qui changeront leur vie. »

« La recherche clinique nécessite une interdisciplinarité particulière pour générer les meilleurs résultats. Collaborate Forward partagera les réussites de partenariats qui ont un impact sur les personnes, les processus et la technologie qui améliorent la recherche clinique aujourd’hui », ajoute Sean Soth, vice–président senior de la stratégie et des partenariats commerciaux mondiaux chez la SCRS. « Nous sommes ravis de pouvoir compter sur Fortrea en tant que promoteur fondateur de Collaborate Forward. Ce partenariat souligne l’importance de la collaboration interdisciplinaire et de l’effort collectif nécessaire pour réaliser des progrès significatifs dans la création d’un système d’essais cliniques plus connecté et plus efficace. »

Collaborate Forward se concentrera d’abord sur le lancement d’études, en présentant les avantages de la collaboration par le biais de témoignages convaincants, d’études de cas et d’informations fondées sur des données. Le groupe se réunira régulièrement pour échanger des points de vue, évaluer les tendances du secteur et développer des outils pragmatiques que les promoteurs et les ORC pourront mettre en œuvre au sein de leurs organisations. Des informations sur les progrès réalisés par le groupe de travail seront communiquées tout au long de l’année 2025 lors des sommets SCRS Site Solutions ainsi que dans des publications, mettant en évidence les principaux résultats et les réussites en matière de collaboration.

La SCRS invite les promoteurs et les ORC impliqués dans la durabilité des sites à se joindre à cet effort et à contribuer à la création d’un environnement de recherche clinique plus efficace et plus dynamique. Pour plus d’informations sur les modalités de participation, veuillez contacter Brian Egan.

À propos de la Society for Clinical Research Sites

La Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS) est la principale organisation de défense des intérêts des sites de recherche clinique à l’échelle internationale. Représentant plus de 11 000 sites de recherche dans le monde, elle facilite les collaborations au sein du secteur et les conversations sur la défense des intérêts des sites, l’éducation, le mentorat et les relations. La SCRS est un porte–parole actif et influent pour les sites dans les initiatives du secteur, qui s’assure que le point de vue des sites est entendu et pris en compte. Pour en savoir plus et participer, consultez le site myscrs.org. Notre voix. Notre communauté. Votre succès.

À propos de Fortrea

Fortrea (Nasdaq : FTRE) est un fournisseur mondial de premier plan de solutions de développement clinique pour le secteur des sciences de la vie. Fortrea s’associe à des sociétés établies et émergentes du domaine biopharmaceutique, de la biotechnologie, des dispositifs médicaux et des diagnostics pour stimuler l’innovation en matière de santé, et accélérer la mise au point de traitements révolutionnaires pour les patients. Fortrea propose des services de gestion d’essais cliniques de phase I à IV, de pharmacologie clinique et de consulting. Nos solutions s’appuient sur 30 ans d’expérience dans 20 disciplines thérapeutiques, une passion pour la rigueur scientifique, des connaissances exceptionnelles et un solide réseau de centres de recherche. Notre équipe talentueuse et diversifiée, qui travaille dans une centaine de pays, est dimensionnée pour fournir des solutions ciblées et flexibles à nos clients, partout dans le monde. Pour en savoir plus sur la manière dont Fortrea est un moteur d’influence du pipeline au patient, rendez–vous sur Fortrea.com et suivez–nous sur LinkedIn et X (anciennement Twitter).

Contacts SCRS :

Marissa Hill (Média) – 267–865–3296, [email protected]
Brian Egan (Média) – 518–207–6965, [email protected]

Contacts Fortrea :

Galen Wilson (Média) – 703–298–0802, [email protected]
Kate Dillon (Média) – 646–818–9115, [email protected]


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9362056)

Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS) e Fortrea Fazem Parceria para Promover a Colaboração na Pesquisa Clínica

DURHAM, N.C., Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS) e a Fortrea (Nasdaq: FTRE), uma organização líder global de pesquisa por contrato (CRO), tem o prazer de anunciar o patrocínio da Fortrea do grupo de trabalho SCRS Collaborate Forward.

Composto por 16 organizações líderes de Parceiros de Impacto Global, o grupo de trabalho Collaborate Forward explorará e desenvolverá as melhores práticas para reduzir os encargos administrativos em todo o ecossistema de pesquisa clínica. O grupo está empenhado em promover transparência e colaboração para enfrentar os desafios enfrentados pelos centros de pesquisa clínica. O aprimoramento dos processos internos visa tornar os sites mais sustentáveis e os ensaios mais eficientes – levando, em última análise, a uma experiência mais simplificada para os pacientes.

O patrocínio da Fortrea é um investimento significativo para a promoção da inovação em todo o setor e reflete a dedicação da empresa em colocar os sites na vanguarda do planejamento de ensaios clínicos.

“Estamos entusiasmados com a parceria com a SCRS para lançar e apoiar este grupo de trabalho”, disse Mike Clay, vice–presidente sênior de Entrega Global de Projetos da Fortrea. “Os ensaios clínicos estão se tornando cada vez mais complexos, e a indústria enfrenta uma pressão crescente para acelerar a inovação para os pacientes. Acreditamos que a colaboração com centros de pesquisa clínica é essencial para a disponibilidade de eficiências e ganhos de produtividade que irão agilizar o processo de testes clínicos. Esta iniciativa desenvolverá soluções tangíveis que patrocinadores de estudos clínicos, CROs, fornecedores, sites e grupos de defesa do paciente podem apoiar. Como CRO líder, temos orgulho de estar na vanguarda desse esforço, garantindo que os sites permaneçam centrais para impulsionar o progresso e promover maior colaboração em toda a indústria para a oferta de tratamentos que mudem mais rapidamente a vida dos pacientes.”

“A pesquisa clínica requer uma interdependência única para gerar os melhores resultados. O Collaborate Forward compartilhará sucessos de parcerias que impactam as pessoas, os processos e a tecnologia que melhoram a pesquisa clínica hoje ”, acrescentou Sean Soth, vice–presidente sênior de Estratégia e Parcerias de Negócios Globais da SCRS. “É um prazer ter a Fortrea como patrocinadora da Collaborate Forward. Essa parceria ressalta o valor da colaboração intersetorial e do esforço coletivo necessário para impulsionar um progresso significativo para a criação de um ecossistema de ensaios clínicos mais conectado e eficiente.”

O Collaborate Forward se concentrará inicialmente na inicialização do estudo, mostrando as vantagens da colaboração por meio de histórias convincentes, estudos de caso e insights baseados em dados. O grupo se reunirá regularmente para trocar ideias, avaliar as tendências do setor e desenvolver ferramentas pragmáticas que patrocinadores e CROs possam implementar em suas organizações. As atualizações sobre o progresso do grupo de trabalho serão compartilhadas ao longo de 2025 por meio de Summits e publicações da SCRS Site Solutions, destacando os principais resultados e realizações colaborativas.

A SCRS convida patrocinadores e CROs comprometidos com a sustentabilidade do site a se juntarem a esse esforço e contribuírem para moldar um cenário de pesquisa clínica mais eficaz e sinérgico. Para mais informação sobre como participar, contacte Brian Egan.

Sobre a Society for Clinical Research Sites

A Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS) é a principal organização de defesa dedicada a unificar a voz da comunidade global de centros de pesquisa clínica. Representando mais de 11.000 sites de pesquisa em todo o mundo, a SCRS facilita colaborações e conversas da indústria dedicadas à defesa, educação, orientação e conexão focadas no site. A SCRS é uma defensora ativa e influente de sites em iniciativas do setor para garantir que a perspectiva dos sites seja ouvida e valorizada. Saiba mais e participe em myscrs.org. Nossa voz. Nossa comunidade. Seu sucesso.

Sobre a Fortrea

A Fortrea (Nasdaq: FTRE) é fornecedora líder global de soluções para o desenvolvimento clínico para a indústria de ciências da vida. Fazemos parcerias com grandes e emergentes empresas biofarmacêuticas, de biotecnologia, de dispositivos médicos e de diagnóstico para impulsionar a inovação na saúde que acelera terapias que mudam a vida dos pacientes. A Fortrea fornece gerenciamento de testes clínicos de fase I–IV, farmacologia clínica e serviços de consultoria. As soluções da Fortrea utilizam suas três décadas de experiência abrangendo mais de 20 áreas terapêuticas, sua dedicação ao rigor científico, insights excepcionais e uma forte rede de pesquisadores. Nossa equipe talentosa e diversificada que trabalha em cerca de 100 países é dimensionada para fornecer soluções focadas e ágeis para clientes de todo o mundo. Saiba mais sobre como a Fortrea está se tornando uma força transformadora de pipeline para pacientes em Fortrea.com e siga–nos em LinkedIn e X (ex–Twitter).

Contatos da SCRS:

Marissa Hill (Mídia) – 267–865–3296, [email protected]
Brian Egan (Mídia) – 518–207–6965, [email protected]

Contatos da Fortrea:

Galen Wilson (Mídia) – 703–298–0802, [email protected]
Kate Dillon (Mídia) – 646–818–9115, [email protected]


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9362056)

Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS) and Fortrea Partner to Advance Collaboration in Clinical Research

DURHAM, N.C., Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS) and Fortrea (Nasdaq: FTRE), a leading global contract research organization (CRO), are pleased to announce Fortrea’s sponsorship of the SCRS Collaborate Forward working group.

Comprising 16 leading Global Impact Partner organizations, the Collaborate Forward working group will explore and develop best practices to reduce administrative burdens across the clinical research ecosystem. The group is committed to fostering transparency and collaboration to tackle challenges faced by clinical research sites. By improving internal processes, it aims to make sites more sustainable and trials more efficient—ultimately leading to a smoother experience for patients.

Fortrea’s sponsorship marks a significant investment in fostering industry–wide innovation and reflects the company’s dedication to placing sites at the forefront of clinical trial planning.

“We are excited to partner with SCRS to launch and support this working group,” said Mike Clay, senior vice president of Global Project Delivery at Fortrea. “Clinical trials are becoming increasingly complex, and the industry faces mounting pressure to accelerate innovation for patients. We believe that collaboration with clinical research sites is key to unlocking efficiencies and productivity gains that will streamline the clinical trial process. This initiative will develop tangible solutions that clinical study sponsors, CROs, vendors, sites and patient advocacy groups can rally behind. As a leading CRO, we are proud to be at the forefront of this effort, ensuring that sites remain central to driving progress and fostering greater industry–wide collaboration to bring life–changing treatments to patients faster.”

“Clinical research requires a unique interdependency to generate the best outcomes. Collaborate Forward will share partnership successes that impact the people, process and technology improving clinical research today,” added Sean Soth, senior vice president, Strategy and Global Business Partnerships, SCRS. “We are pleased to welcome Fortrea as the charter sponsor of Collaborate Forward. This partnership underscores the value of cross–industry collaboration and the collective effort needed to drive meaningful progress in creating a more connected and efficient clinical trial ecosystem.”

Collaborate Forward will initially focus on study startup, showcasing the advantages of collaboration through compelling stories, case studies and data–driven insights. The group will convene regularly to exchange insights, assess industry trends and develop pragmatic tools that sponsors and CROs can implement within their organizations. Updates on the working group's progress will be shared throughout 2025 via SCRS Site Solutions Summits and publications, highlighting key findings and collaborative achievements.

SCRS invites sponsors and CROs committed to site sustainability to join this effort and contribute to shaping a more effective and synergistic clinical research landscape. For more information on how to participate, please contact Brian Egan.

About The Society for Clinical Research Sites

The Society for Clinical Research Sites (SCRS) is the leading advocacy organization dedicated to unifying the voice of the global clinical research site community. Representing more than 11,000 research sites globally, SCRS facilitates industry collaborations and conversations dedicated to site–focused advocacy, education, mentorship and connection. SCRS is an active and influential champion for sites in industry initiatives to ensure that the perspective of sites is heard and valued. Learn more and get involved at myscrs.org. Our voice. Our community. Your success. 

About Fortrea

Fortrea (Nasdaq: FTRE) is a leading global provider of clinical development solutions to the life sciences industry. We partner with emerging and large biopharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device and diagnostic companies to drive healthcare innovation that accelerates life changing therapies to patients. Fortrea provides phase I–IV clinical trial management, clinical pharmacology and consulting services. Fortrea’s solutions leverage three decades of experience spanning more than 20 therapeutic areas, a passion for scientific rigor, exceptional insights and a strong investigator site network. Our talented and diverse team working in about 100 countries is scaled to deliver focused and agile solutions to customers globally. Learn more about how Fortrea is becoming a transformative force from pipeline to patient at Fortrea.com and follow us on LinkedIn and X (formerly Twitter).

SCRS Contacts:

Marissa Hill (Media) – 267–865–3296, [email protected]
Brian Egan (Media) – 518–207–6965, [email protected]

Fortrea Contacts:

Galen Wilson (Media) – 703–298–0802, [email protected]
Kate Dillon (Media) – 646–818–9115, [email protected]


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9361361)

Zenas BioPharma Announces Key 2024 Accomplishments and 2025 Business Objectives to Support the Global Development and Commercialization of Therapies for Autoimmune Diseases

– Advancing Phase 2 and Phase 3 trials of obexelimab, a unique CD–19 x FcγRIIb inhibitor of B cell function–

–Topline results from Phase 2 Trial in Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis (MoonStone) expected in third quarter 2025–

–Topline results from pivotal Phase 3 Trial in Immunoglobulin G4–Related Disease (INDIGO) expected year–end 2025–

– Enrollment of Phase 2 Trial in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SunStone) expected to be completed in 2025–

– Out–licensed greater–China anti–IGF–1R Thyroid Eye Disease programs to Zai Lab –

WALTHAM, Mass., Feb. 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Zenas BioPharma, Inc. (“Zenas” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: ZBIO), a clinical–stage global biopharmaceutical company committed to being a leader in the development and commercialization of therapies for autoimmune diseases, today announced its 2024 accomplishments, outlined its key business objectives for 2025 and announced preliminary unaudited cash balance as of year–end 2024.

“Based upon the progress achieved across all of our corporate goals and objectives during 2024, we enter 2025 with an opportunity to achieve major value–driving milestones with the anticipated results from our ongoing obexelimab Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical trials,” said Lonnie Moulder, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Zenas. “We are extremely proud of the accomplishments of our dedicated team as we enter the year well–financed and able to focus on execution, and achievement of our key objectives for the year.”

The Company enters 2025 well–capitalized to deliver its key milestones with approximately $350 million in cash, cash equivalents, and short–term investments as of December 31, 2024, 1 which is expected to fund its operating expenses and capital expenditure requirements into the fourth quarter of 2026.

2024 Accomplishments and Recent Achievements

During 2024, the Company achieved the following objectives and announced a recent business development transaction:

  • Completed enrollment of the Phase 3 INDIGO trial, a global Phase 3 registration–directed, randomized, double–blind placebo–controlled trial of obexelimab in patients with Immunoglobulin–G4 Related Disease (IgG4–RD), the largest clinical trial ever conducted in this patient population.
  • Initiated the Phase 2 MoonStone trial, a Phase 2, multicenter, randomized, double–blind, placebo–controlled trial, to evaluate the efficacy and safety of obexelimab in patients with Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis (RMS).
  • Initiated the Phase 2 SunStone trial, a Phase 2, multicenter, randomized, double–blind, placebo–controlled trial, to evaluate the efficacy and safety of obexelimab to reduce disease activity in patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE).
  • Provided initial data from the Phase 2 SApHiAre trial, a global, multicenter, open–label safety and dose confirmation run–in period (SRP) to evaluate the safety and activity of obexelimab in patients with warm Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (wAIHA). Obexelimab achieved clinical proof–of–mechanism by increasing hemoglobin levels and red blood cells, and decreasing LDH and total bilirubin levels. Obexelimab was well tolerated in the SRP.
  • Completed an upsized Series C and initial public offering, raising approximately $458.7 million in aggregate gross proceeds to fund its planned activities for obexelimab and the Company’s growth strategy.
  • Bolstered its leadership team with the appointments of Chief Commercial Officer, Orlando Oliveira, and Chief Legal Officer, Jeff Held.
  • Out–licensed ZB005, a human IgG4 monoclonal antibody designed to bind only to the active form of C1s, for which Zenas held the development and commercialization rights in China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan (Greater China) through an exclusive license with Dianthus.
  • The Company recently out–licensed regional rights to its thyroid eye disease programs, including ZB001, an insulin–like growth factor–1 receptor (anti–IGF–1R) monoclonal antibody, to Zai Lab (Zai).  Zenas received an upfront fee and is eligible to receive milestone payments and royalties in the future, as consideration for an exclusive sublicense to Zai to develop and commercialize ZB001 and related programs in Greater China.

Anticipated 2025 Clinical Milestones for Obexelimab

Obexelimab is a bifunctional monoclonal antibody designed to bind both CD19 and FcγRIIb, which are broadly present across B cell lineage, to inhibit the activity of cells that are implicated in many autoimmune diseases without depleting them. This unique mechanism of action and self–administered, subcutaneous once–weekly injection regimen may broadly and effectively address the pathogenic role of B cell lineage in chronic autoimmune disease. Obexelimab has been evaluated in five completed clinical trials in a total of 198 patients who received obexelimab either as an intravenous infusion or as a subcutaneous injection. Obexelimab was well tolerated and demonstrated clinical activity across these five clinical trials, providing the Company an initial clinical proof of concept for obexelimab as a potent B cell inhibitor for the treatment of patients living with certain autoimmune diseases.

During 2025, the Company expects to achieve the following key clinical milestones:

  • Report the 12–week primary endpoint results in the third quarter of 2025 from the Phase 2 MoonStone trial in patients with RMS.

The role of B cells in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis including RMS has been demonstrated through the successful clinical development, approval and clinical use of anti–CD20 B cell targeting therapies of other companies, including OCREVUS® (ocrelizumab) and KESIMPTA® (ofatumumab), which selectively deplete CD20–expressing B cells. The Company believes obexelimab’s unique mechanism of action to potently inhibit but not deplete a broader B cell lineage than CD20, nonclinical data, and a subcutaneous injection regimen, supports its potential for the treatment of RMS.

  • Following an initial screening period, patients in the MoonStone trial are being randomized 2:1 to 250 mg of obexelimab or placebo administered as a subcutaneous injection every seven days for a 12–week treatment period.
  • The primary objective of this double–blinded portion of the trial will be to assess the change from baseline in the cumulative number of gadolinium (Gd) enhancing lesions identified on T1–weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
  • Upon completion of the 12–week period, patients will enter an open–label period where patients on placebo will receive obexelimab treatment for at least three months, and patients initially randomized to obexelimab will continue treatment.
  • Important secondary endpoints during this open–label period include using standardized assessments, novel 3D imaging and biomarkers, including serum neurofilament light chain (NfL), to evaluate the impact of obexelimab on disease progression.

More information on the Phase 2 MoonStone trial (NCT06564311) is available at clinicaltrials.gov

  • Report topline results year–end 2025 from the Phase 3 INDIGO trial in patients with IgG4–RD.

IgG4–RD is a chronic fibro–inflammatory disease that can affect virtually all organ systems, including the pancreas, biliary tract, salivary and lacrimal glands, lungs, and kidneys. Patients with IgG4–RD may present with a single organ involved but more frequently present with multiple organ involvement. As the disease progresses and patients experience new or worsening symptoms (i.e., flares), lesions develop in additional organs and the cellular inflammation characterizing early disease moves toward a more fibrotic stage, which can lead to major irreversible tissue damage and ultimately organ failure. We estimate that the currently diagnosed population of IgG4–RD patients in the U.S. is approximately 20,000, with comparable prevalence rates globally.

Despite the growing recognition of IgG4–RD and advances in the understanding of its pathophysiology, there are no approved therapies for the treatment of this disease and there remains high unmet medical need. The current standard of care is treatment with glucocorticoids (GCs). Although GCs are initially effective, treatment with GCs can often result in various complications and co–morbidities. Most patients can relapse within 12 months of discontinuing GC treatment, and maintenance therapy with GCs has not been shown to prevent recurrence of disease.

The pathogenesis of IgG4–RD suggests that B cell–targeted therapies may provide therapeutic benefit. Although not approved by any regulatory authorities to treat IgG4–RD, certain B cell depleting agents (e.g., rituximab) are occasionally administered to patients with IgG4–RD. However, B cell depleting agents are often associated with infections, including serious opportunistic infections, and can compromise a patient’s ability to mount a response to vaccinations.

The reported evidence for the role of B cells in the pathogenesis of IgG4–RD, the observed effects of B cell targeting agents in previous trials in IgG4–RD, the data from our Phase 2 IgG4–RD trials with obexelimab, and its unique, non–depleting mechanism and once–weekly, subcutaneous injection regimen support its development in patients with IgG4–RD.

  • INDIGO is the largest clinical trial conducted in patients living with IgG4–RD and is designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of obexelimab in approximately 190 patients with active IgG4–RD and being conducted at approximately 100 sites in 20 countries.
  • Following an initial screening period, patients were randomized 1:1 to 250 mg of obexelimab or placebo administered as a subcutaneous injection every seven days for 52 weeks, followed by an opportunity for eligible patients to continue in an open–label extension period where all patients will receive treatment with obexelimab.
  • The primary efficacy endpoint of INDIGO is the time to first IgG4–RD flare, as determined per protocol by the investigator and the adjudication committee.
  • Secondary endpoints include annualized flare rate, the proportion of patients achieving complete remission, and use and quantity of rescue medication, including GCs.

More information on the Phase 3 INDIGO trial (NCT05662241) is available at clinicaltrials.gov

  • Complete enrollment in 2025 in the Phase 2 SunStone trial in patients with SLE and report topline results in the first half of 2026.

The crucial role of B cells in SLE pathogenesis is well recognized, from producing autoantibodies to abnormal regulation of immune responses. Moreover, SLE is an autoimmune disease characterized by B cell dysfunction, the production of autoantibodies toward cellular and nuclear components, and multiorgan damage caused by immune complex deposition and inflammation within affected tissues. Current treatments are limited in number and modestly effective. Obexelimab has demonstrated clinical activity in a prior Phase 2 double–blind, randomized trial demonstrating proof–of–concept in the overall trial population and increased response in patients who maintained higher systemic exposure to obexelimab, and also in biomarker–defined subpopulations. Coupled with the safety data obtained to date, we believe these data provide support for the development of obexelimab in patients with SLE.

  • Patients with active SLE determined at screening by the investigator and adjudication committee are randomized 1:1 to obexelimab 250 mg or placebo administered as a subcutaneous injection every seven days for 24 weeks.
  • The 250 mg once–weekly subcutaneous injection dose has been selected to maximize the potential for clinical activity as higher systemic exposure (Ctrough) correlated with greater clinical activity in the prior Phase 2 trial in SLE.
  • The primary endpoint is the percentage of responders, defined by BILAG–based Composite Lupus Assessment, with a reduction of SLE disease activity at week 24.
  • Biomarker analysis is planned to be conducted in all patients, including baseline RNA expression profiles to immunophenotype patients and evaluation of their differential responses to treatment.

More information on the Phase 2 SunStone trial (NCT06559163) is available at clinicaltrials.gov

About Zenas BioPharma, Inc.

Zenas is a clinical–stage global biopharmaceutical company committed to becoming a leader in the development and commercialization of transformative therapies for patients with autoimmune diseases. Our core business strategy combines our experienced leadership team with a disciplined product candidate acquisition approach to identify, acquire and develop product candidates globally that we believe can provide superior clinical benefits to patients living with autoimmune diseases. Zenas’ lead product candidate, obexelimab, is a bifunctional monoclonal antibody designed to bind both CD19 and FcγRIIb, which are broadly present across B cell lineage, to inhibit the activity of cells that are implicated in many autoimmune diseases without depleting them. We believe that obexelimab’s unique mechanism of action and self–administered, subcutaneous injection regimen may broadly and effectively address the pathogenic role of B cell lineage in chronic autoimmune disease. For more information about Zenas BioPharma, please visit www.zenasbio.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

Forward looking statements

This press release contains “forward–looking statements” which involve risks, uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, which may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from anticipated results, performance, or achievements. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release are forward–looking statements. In some cases, forward–looking statements can be identified by terms such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “could,” “intend,” “target,” “project,” “contemplate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions, although not all forward–looking statements contain these words. Forward–looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning Zenas’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions; the timing and results of ongoing and future clinical trials, including expectations on the timing of reporting INDIGO trial topline results, the 12–week primary endpoint data for the MoonStone trial and the anticipated timing of completing enrollment and reporting topline results for the SunStone trial; its growth strategy; the Company’s preliminary unaudited cash, cash equivalents and short–term investments as of December 31, 2024; and cash runway guidance. The forward–looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release and are subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward–looking statements, including, but not limited to: the Company’s limited operating history, incurrence of substantial losses since the Company’s inception and anticipation of incurring substantial and increasing losses for the foreseeable future; the Company’s need for substantial additional financing to achieve the Company’s goals; the uncertainty of clinical development, which is lengthy and expensive, and characterized by uncertain outcomes, and risks related to additional costs or delays in completing, or failing to complete, the development and commercialization of the Company’s current product candidates or any future product candidates; delays or difficulties in the enrollment and dosing of patients in clinical trials; the impact of any significant adverse events or undesirable side effects caused by the Company’s product candidates; potential competition, including from large and specialty pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, many of which already have approved therapies in the Company’s current indications; the Company’s ability to realize the benefits of the Company’s current or future collaborations or licensing arrangements and ability to successfully consummate future partnerships; the Company’s ability to obtain regulatory approval to commercialize any product candidate in the United States or any other jurisdiction, and the risk that any such approval may be for a more narrow indication than the Company seeks; the Company’s dependence on the services of the Company’s senior management and other clinical and scientific personnel, and the Company’s ability to retain these individuals or recruit additional management or clinical and scientific personnel; the Company’s ability to grow the Company’s organization, and manage the Company’s growth and expansion of the Company’s operations; risks related to the manufacturing of the Company’s product candidates, which is complex, and the risk that the Company’s third–party manufacturers may encounter difficulties in production; the Company’s ability to obtain and maintain sufficient intellectual property protection for the Company’s product candidates or any future product candidates the Company may develop; the Company’s reliance on third parties to conduct the Company’s preclinical studies and clinical trials; the Company’s compliance with the Company’s obligations under the licenses granted to the Company by others, for the rights to develop and commercialize the Company’s product candidates; risks related to the operations of the Company’s suppliers, many of which are located outside of the United States, including the Company’s current sole contract manufacturing organization for drug substance and drug product, WuXi Biologics (Hong Kong) Limited, which is located in China; and other risks and uncertainties described in the section “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10–Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2024, as well as other information we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward–looking statements in this press release are inherently uncertain, speak only as of the date of this press release and may prove incorrect. These statements are based upon information available to the Company as of the date of this press release and while the Company believes such information forms a reasonable basis for such statements, such information may be limited or incomplete, and our statements should not be read to indicate that the Company has conducted an exhaustive inquiry into, or review of, all potentially available relevant information. Because forward–looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified and some of which are beyond the Company’s control, these forward–looking statements should not be relied upon as guarantees of future events. The events and circumstances reflected in the forward–looking statements may not be achieved or occur and actual future results, levels of activity, performance and events and circumstances could differ materially from those projected in the forward–looking statements. Moreover, the Company operates in an evolving environment. New risks and uncertainties may emerge from time to time, and management cannot predict all risks and uncertainties. Except as required by applicable law, the Company does not undertake to publicly update or revise any forward–looking statements contained herein, whether as a result of any new information, future events, changed circumstances or otherwise.

The Zenas BioPharma word mark and logos are trademarks of Zenas BioPharma, Inc. or its affiliated companies.

Investor Contact:

Matthew Osborne

Investor Relations and Corporate Communications
[email protected]

Media Contact:

Argot Partners
[email protected]

1 This amount is preliminary and unaudited and is subject to completion of the Company’s financial closing procedures. As a result, this amount may differ materially from the amount that will be reflected in the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024.


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9353140)

Sabin Vaccine Institute Delivers Marburg Vaccines to Combat Outbreak in Rwanda

[Caption] Sabin Vaccine Institute delivered 700 doses of its Marburg vaccine to Rwanda on Oct. 5, 2024.

WASHINGTON, Oct. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Sabin Vaccine Institute has provided its investigational Marburg vaccine to Rwanda to support the ongoing outbreak response. The initial shipment of approximately 700 vaccine doses will be used in a trial targeting frontline workers, including healthcare professionals who have been hardest hit by the deadly virus. 

Sabin has entered into a clinical trial agreement with the Rwanda Biomedical Centre, the trial sponsor, to provide investigational doses for the Phase 2 rapid response open–label study. Per the approved protocol, approximately 700 high–risk adults, starting with health care providers, will be dosed at 6 clinical trial sites in Rwanda. Pending a request from Rwandan officials and authorization from BARDA, Sabin plans to supply additional vaccines. 

Currently, there are no licensed vaccines or treatments for Marburg, which has a mortality rate of up to 88%. Sabin’s single–dose vaccine, based on the cAd3 platform, is in Phase 2 trials in Uganda and Kenya with no safety concerns reported to date. Results from Phase 1 clinical trials and nonclinical studies indicate that the vaccine is safe and elicits rapid, robust immune responses.

Rwanda declared the Marburg outbreak on September 27, and as of October 5, it had infected 46 people and claimed 12 lives. While most cases are among health workers in two facilities in Kigali, the capital, a smaller number are spread across a few other districts. 

Sabin has been working directly with Rwandan officials and partners since the outbreak began to mount a response.

“We were able to ship Marburg vaccine doses within 7 days of being contacted by the Rwanda government for assistance. Working alongside our partners, we moved with lightning speed to prepare shipments, finalize protocols, and secure the necessary regulatory and legal approvals,” says Sabin Chief Executive Officer Amy Finan. “This swift emergency response demonstrates that a dedicated, collaborative group of individuals and organizations can achieve remarkable results when united by a common cause: to contain a lethal disease outbreak and prevent further loss of life.” 

Rwanda’s Minister of Health Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana points out that “in emergency situations, the success of clinical trials relies on quick, strategic, global partnerships that bring together expertise, resources, and innovation. Today, a week after this Marburg outbreak was first confirmed, we are receiving doses of the Sabin Vaccine Institute’s Marburg vaccine candidate to protect our health workers and other high–risk groups, and also advance scientific tools which will ensure this virus can be effectively controlled now and in the future.” 

Sabin’s manufacturing partner, Italy–based ReiThera, has produced the drug substance and filled and finished doses for shipment to Rwanda. “At ReiThera, we believe in the transformative power of global collaboration to advance science and create lasting impact,” says ReiThera CEO Stefano Colloca. “Our partnership with Sabin highlights our shared commitment to developing a life–saving vaccine against Marburg disease with a mutual goal: to save lives and ensure that even the most vulnerable communities around the world have access to vital and equitable protection.” 

Once rare, Marburg virus disease outbreaks have surged in Africa in recent years, with incidents reported in 2023 in Tanzania (Rwanda's neighbor) and Equatorial Guinea. Marburg belongs to the same virus family as Ebola and is transmitted from fruit bats to humans, spreading from person to person through contact with infected bodily fluids. 

Sabin’s Phase 2 clinical trials for Marburg, which began last year, are currently monitoring participants in Uganda and Kenya, including younger (18–50 years) and older age groups (51–70 years). Interim results are expected next year, and Sabin also plans to launch a similar Phase 2 trial in the U.S. next year. 

Sabin’s development program, which includes clinical trials and manufacturing of clinical trial material that have been leveraged in this donation, is supported by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), part of the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, under multi–year contracts. BARDA has to date obligated $235 million to Sabin for advancing vaccine research and development against Sudan ebolavirus and Marburg virus diseases. 

In addition to ReiThera and Rwanda’s government, Sabin is grateful for all these organizations including CEPI, GSK, IQVIA, kENUP Africa, National Institutes of Health's Vaccine Research Center, WHO, and World Courier who have contributed to our past and current efforts.

About the Sabin Vaccine Institute

The Sabin Vaccine Institute is a leading advocate for expanding vaccine access and uptake globally, advancing vaccine research and development, and amplifying vaccine knowledge and innovation. Unlocking the potential of vaccines through partnership, Sabin has built a robust ecosystem of funders, innovators, implementers, practitioners, policy makers and public stakeholders to advance its vision of a future free from preventable diseases. As a non–profit with three decades of experience, Sabin is committed to finding solutions that last and extending the full benefits of vaccines to all people, regardless of who they are or where they live. At Sabin, we believe in the power of vaccines to change the world. For more information, visit www.sabin.org and follow us on X, @SabinVaccine.

Media Contact: 
Monika Guttman 
Media Relations Specialist 
Sabin Vaccine Institute 
+1 (202) 662–1841 
[email protected] 

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2e9400c0–1467–4956–b52d–64891ed3fc1d


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9251765)

Minovia Therapeutics Announces FDA Clearance of IND Application for a Phase Ib Clinical Trial of MNV-201 in Low Risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome

MNV–201 is a mitochondrial cell therapy product composed of autologous hematopoietic stem cells enriched with allogeneic mitochondria

In pre–clinical studies, MNV–201 demonstrated improved engraftment and bone marrow reconstitution potential of patient derived hematopoietic stem cells

In vitro data also demonstrated improved ability to differentiate to erythroid cells, supporting potential for improvement in biomarkers of anemia

HAIFA, Israel, Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Minovia Therapeutics Ltd, a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company advancing mitochondrial cell therapies for primary and secondary mitochondrial diseases, today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared its Investigational New Drug (IND) application for MNV–201, an autologous hematopoietic stem cell product augmented with allogeneic mitochondria. The IND supports the initiation of a Phase Ib dose exploration clinical trial of MNV–201 in patients with Low Risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS).

Anemia is a common and serious symptom in patients with low–risk myelodysplastic syndrome (LR–MDS), affecting almost 90% of cases and is often the primary characteristic of the disease. Anemia in MDS can have a negative impact on quality of life and may correlate with decreased progression–free survival and overall survival. 

“The FDA’s clearance of our IND marks an important achievement for Minovia, allowing us to clinically evaluate our allogeneic mitochondrial cell therapy approach and proceed with the Phase Ib clinical program for this first–in–class allogeneic mitochondrial therapy for low risk MDS patients,” said Natalie Yivgi Ohana, PhD, CEO of Minovia. “We are pleased to have safely dosed two MDS patients enrolled in an ongoing study under the Israeli Ministry of Health. We look forward to treating additional patients under this IND, as well as to learning about the potential of MAT to improve anemia in this patient population.”

The Phase Ib clinical trial is an open–label, dose exploration study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of MNV–201 in subjects with low risk MDS. This trial will continue our campaign to evaluate dose exploration and safety of single or repeat dosing of MNV–201. The trial will also enable assessment of efficacy in improving anemia and durability of response. The study is expected to enroll at least three patients each in the low, medium and high dose cohorts, and up to a total of 15 patients in total. For more information visit clinicaltrials.gov.

About MNV–201
MNV–201 is an autologous hematopoietic stem cell product enriched with allogeneic mitochondria. MNV–201 aims to restore mitochondrial function in low risk MDS patient hematopoietic stem cells, resulting in improved differentiation to erythroid lineage with the potential to improve anemia. Preclinical research suggests the potential for safe dosing with low immunogenicity risk and scalable manufacturing to address the significant number of patients who are potentially eligible for MNV–201 therapy.

About Minovia Therapeutics
Minovia Therapeutics Ltd. is a clinical stage biotechnology company advancing mitochondrial cell therapies for primary–genetic and age–related mitochondrial diseases. Minovia's clinical stage product candidate, MNV–201, is composed of mobilized peripheral blood, autologous CD34+ cells enriched with allogeneic, cryopreserved placental derived mitochondria, produced by Minovia's proprietary Mitochondrial Augmentation Technology (MAT). The enrichment of hematopoietic stem cells with healthy and functional mitochondria aims to restore stem cells function of patients suffering mitochondrial dysfunction, caused both by mtDNA mutations or deletions in pediatric patients suffering from primary mitochondrial diseases, or in adults with age–related bone marrow failure disorders. MNV–201 is currently in clinical studies for pediatric patients with single–large scale mtDNA deletion syndromes (Pearson Syndrome and Kearn Sayre Syndrome) with four patients successfully dosed; and in Low Risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome. For more information, please visit www.minoviatx.com or follow the Company LinkedIn.

About Low Risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of bone marrow failures that occur when the blood–forming cells in the bone marrow become abnormal leading to an abnormal differentiation and production of one or more blood cell types. Patients with MDS collectively have a high symptom burden and are also at risk of death from complications of cytopenias or progression to acute myeloid leukemia (AML). MDS is generally a disease that develops with aging; the median age at diagnosis of MDS is ~70 years.

Mitochondrial Dysfunction in MDS: Scientific literature shows a correlation between mitochondrial dysfunction and MDS progression. It is known that ineffective hematopoiesis in MDS results from increased susceptibility of clonal myeloid progenitors to apoptosis. This may be triggered by intrinsic factors, such as mitochondrial polarization due to iron retention in ringed sideroblasts. A subset of MDS patients present with sideroblastic anemia, a phenotype common in Pearson Syndrome patients and which implicates mitochondrial dysfunction of HSPCs as part of the pathology of MDS.

Contact Information: Natalie Yivgi Ohana, Co–Founder and CEO

Phone: +972–74–7039954

Email: [email protected]


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9237236)

Entera Bio Reports Q2 2024 Financial Results and Provides Business Updates

JERUSALEM , Aug. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Entera Bio Ltd. (NASDAQ: ENTX), (“Entera” or the “Company”) a leader in the development of orally delivered peptides and small therapeutic proteins, today reported financial results and key business updates for the quarter ended June 30, 2024.

“We continue to deliver strong execution with key milestones achieved during the second quarter of 2024 across each of our N–Tab™ oral peptide programs dedicated to patients with OBGYN/endocrinology, GI and metabolic diseases,” said Miranda Toledano, Entera’s CEO. “Importantly, we are now just five months away from FDA’s potential landmark ruling on the ASBMR–FNIH SABRE regulatory endpoint for osteoporosis drugs, which we view as a major catalyst for EB613. We are especially keen to start our pivotal study of EB613 in a much wider population where injectable anabolic drugs do not play a dominant role. Because of its potential dual mechanism of action, faster onset of action as an anabolic boosting agent and oral minitablet format, we believe EB613 is uniquely positioned to support earlier osteoanabolic intervention in post–menopausal women at high risk of fracture,” she added.

EB613: First Oral PTH(1–34) Daily Osteoanabolic Tablets for Osteoporosis

  • In April 2024, the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research (JBMR) published “Oral daily PTH(1–34) Tablets [EB613] in Postmenopausal Women with Low BMD or Osteoporosis: A Randomized, Placebo–Controlled, 6–Month, Phase 2 Study”
  • In May 2024, Entera welcomed Dr. Rachel Wagman as Key Clinical Advisor to lead EB613 clinical development. Wagman has successfully advanced the development of five molecules, including the osteoporosis products Forteo®, Prolia® and Evenity® through registration
  • In June 2024, the JMBR published an independent editorial titled “A Novel Oral hPTH(1–34) [EB613] Unveils the Promise of Modeling–Based Anabolism with No Increase in Bone Remodeling”
  • In July 2024, Entera announced that new comparative pharmacological data for its investigational agent EB613 vs. Forteo® was selected for presentation at the ASBMR September 2024 Annual Meeting in Toronto
  • In July 2024, Entera announced that the SABRE (Study to Advance BMD as a Regulatory Endpoint) is expected to provide an update at the ASBMR September 2024 Annual Meeting in Toronto

EB612: First Oral PTH(1–34) Peptide Replacement Therapy Tablets for Hypoparathyroidism

  • In June 2024, Entera presented Phase 1 clinical data for its hypoparathyroidism focused investigational program, EB612, at the Endocrine Society ENDO 2024 Annual Meeting. Entera showed that the data supports potentially moving the BID (twice–daily) tablet dose to Phase 2 development in patients with hypoparathyroidism
  • Entera continues to collaborate with a third party on the development of another PTH replacement treatment for hypoparathyroidism

First GLP–2 Peptide Tablets for Short Bowel Syndrome

  • In March 2024, Entera announced positive in vivo PK results from its program combining OPKO Health, Inc.’s (Nasdaq: OPK) long acting GLP–2 analogue with N–Tab™ technology. Pharmacology data is expected early in the second half of 2024

First GLP–1/Glucagon Agonist (Oxyntomodulin) Peptide Tablets for Obesity

  • Collaborative work is ongoing combining N–Tab™ with OPKO’s long–acting Oxyntomodulin (OXM) analogues for potential treatment for obesity and other metabolic diseases. PK data for the oral OXM tablet are expected early in the second half of 2024

Financial Results for the Quarter Ended June 30, 2024

As of June 30,2024, Entera had cash and cash equivalents of $9.1 million. The Company expects that its existing cash resources are sufficient to meet its projected operating requirements into the third quarter of 2025.

Research and development expenses for the three months ended June 30, 2024 were $1.1 million, as compared to $1.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2023. The decrease of $0.1 million was primarily due to a decrease of $0.3 million in clinical expenses for our Phase 1 PK study related to our new generation platform and new formulations for EB612, which completed its first stage in 2023.

General and administrative expenses for both the three months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023 were $1.1 million.

Operating expenses for the period ended June 30, 2024 were $2.2 million, as compared to $2.3 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2023.

Net loss was $2.1 million, or $0.06 per ordinary share (basic and diluted), for the quarter ended June 30, 2024, as compared to $2.3 million, or $0.08 per ordinary share (basic and diluted), for the quarter ended June 30, 2023.

About Entera Bio

Entera is a clinical stage company focused on developing oral peptide or protein replacement therapies for significant unmet medical needs where an oral tablet form holds the potential to transform the standard of care. The Company leverages on a disruptive and proprietary technology platform (N–Tab™) and its pipeline includes five differentiated, first–in–class oral peptide programs, expected to enter the clinic (Phase 1 to Phase 3) by 2025. The Company’s most advanced product candidate, EB613 (oral PTH (1–34)), is being developed as the first oral, osteoanabolic (bone building) once–daily tablet treatment for post–menopausal women with low BMD and high–risk osteoporosis, with no prior fracture. A placebo controlled, dose ranging Phase 2 study of EB613 tablets (n= 161) met primary (PD/bone turnover biomarker) and secondary endpoints (BMD). Entera is preparing to initiate a Phase 3 registrational study for EB613 pursuant to the FDA’s qualification of a quantitative BMD endpoint which is expected to occur by January 2025. The EB612 program is being developed as the first oral PTH(1–34) tablet peptide replacement therapy for hypoparathyroidism. Entera is also developing the first oral oxyntomodulin, a dual targeted GLP1/glucagon peptide, in tablet form for the treatment of obesity; and first oral GLP–2 peptide tablet as an injection–free alternative for patients suffering from rare malabsorption conditions such as short bowel syndrome in collaboration with OPKO Health. For more information on Entera Bio, visit www.enterabio.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward Looking Statements

Various statements in this press release are “forward–looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements (other than statements of historical facts) in this press release regarding our prospects, plans, financial position, business strategy and expected financial and operational results may constitute forward–looking statements. Words such as, but not limited to, “anticipate,” “believe,” “can,” “could,” “expect,” “estimate,” “design,” “goal,” “intend,” “may,” “might,” “objective,” “plan,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “likely,” “should,” “will,” and “would,” or the negative of these terms and similar expressions or words, identify forward–looking statements. Forward–looking statements are based upon current expectations that involve risks, changes in circumstances, assumptions and uncertainties. Forward–looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results and may not be accurate indications of when such performance or results will be achieved.

Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in Entera’s forward–looking statements include, among others: changes in the interpretation of clinical data; results of our clinical trials; the FDA’s interpretation and review of our results from and analysis of our clinical trials; unexpected changes in our ongoing and planned preclinical development and clinical trials, the timing of and our ability to make regulatory filings and obtain and maintain regulatory approvals for our product candidates; the potential disruption and delay of manufacturing supply chains; loss of available workforce resources, either by Entera or its collaboration and laboratory partners; impacts to research and development or clinical activities that Entera may be contractually obligated to provide; overall regulatory timelines; the size and growth of the potential markets for our product candidates; the scope, progress and costs of developing Entera’s product candidates; Entera’s reliance on third parties to conduct its clinical trials; Entera’s expectations regarding licensing, business transactions and strategic collaborations; Entera’s operation as a development stage company with limited operating history; Entera’s ability to continue as a going concern absent access to sources of liquidity; Entera’s ability to obtain and maintain regulatory approval for any of its product candidates; Entera’s ability to comply with Nasdaq’s minimum listing standards and other matters related to compliance with the requirements of being a public company in the United States; Entera’s intellectual property position and its ability to protect its intellectual property; and other factors that are described in the “Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward–Looking Statements,” “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” sections of Entera’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10–K filed with the SEC, as well as the company’s subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10–Q and Current Reports on Form 8–K. There can be no assurance that the actual results or developments anticipated by Entera will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, Entera. Therefore, no assurance can be given that the outcomes stated or implied in such forward–looking statements and estimates will be achieved. Entera cautions investors not to rely on the forward–looking statements Entera makes in this press release. The information in this press release is provided only as of the date of this press release, and Entera undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward–looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by law.

ENTERA BIO LTD.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(U.S. dollars in thousands)
 
  June 30,   December 31,
  2024   2023
  (Unaudited)   (Audited)
   
Cash and cash equivalents 9,056   11,019
Accounts receivable and other current assets 539   238
Property and equipment, net 76   100
Other assets, net 364   408
Total assets 10,035   11,765
       
       
Accounts payable and other current liabilities 1,294   1,091
Total non–current liabilities 219   288
Total liabilities 1,503   1,379
Total shareholders' equity 8,532   10,386
       
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity 10,035   11,765
 

ENTERA BIO LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)
(Unaudited)
 
  Three Months Ended
June 30,
  2024   2023  
REVENUES 57   –  
COST OF REVENUES 48   –  
GROSS PROFIT 9   –  
OPERATING EXPENSES:    
Research and development 1,086   1,209  
General and administrative 1,088   1,135  
Other income –   (14)  
TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES 2,174   2,330  
OPERATING LOSS 2,165   2,330  
FINANCIAL INCOME, NET (20)   (5)  
NET LOSS 2,145   2,325  
     
LOSS PER SHARE BASIC AND DILUTED 0.06   0.08  
WEIGHTED AVERAGE NUMBER OF SHARES OUTSTANDING         
USED IN COMPUTATION OF BASIC AND DILUTED LOSS PER SHARE 37,090,160   28,812,375  
     


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9202470)

Sabin Vaccine Institute Begins Phase 2 Clinical Trial for Sudan Ebolavirus Vaccine

Laboratory at Makerere University Walter Reed Project, where Sabin’s Phase 2 Sudan ebolavirus vaccine clinical trial begins this month.

WASHINGTON, July 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sabin Vaccine Institute launched a Phase 2 clinical trial for its vaccine against Sudan ebolavirus, with healthy volunteers receiving the single–dose vaccine at Makerere University Walter Reed Project (MUWRP) in Uganda. There are currently no approved vaccines for this strain of ebolavirus, which saw an outbreak end just last year. Ebolavirus disease kills on average half the people infected, according to the World Health Organization.

Sudan ebolavirus is a filovirus, in the same family as Marburg virus disease and Zaire ebolavirus, which killed 11,325 in one outbreak in West Africa from 2014–16. Ebolavirus disease spreads between people via direct contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of infected people and is highly virulent, causing hemorrhagic fever.

Based on the same cAd3 platform as its Marburg vaccine candidate, Sabin’s single–dose investigational Sudan ebolavirus vaccine was found to be promising in Phase 1 clinical and non–clinical studies, with results showing it to be safe, while eliciting rapid and robust immune responses that lasted up to 12 months.

This is Sabin’s second Phase 2 clinical trial partnership with MUWRP, based in Uganda’s capital, Kampala. A Phase 2 trial for a Marburg vaccine is already underway, having recently completed enrollment. Initial results from the Marburg trial are expected later this year.

Dr. Betty Mwesigwa, deputy executive director of MUWRP, is once again the principal investigator (PI) for the Sabin–sponsored trial for the Sudan ebolavirus vaccine. In the coming weeks, participants will also be enrolled at the Kenya Medical Research Institute in Siaya, Kenya, with Dr. Videlis Nduba serving as PI for that site. In all, 125 volunteers will participate in the trial across the two countries.

“We are delighted to advance a vaccine candidate that can thwart a deadly and devastating disease, especially one that caused a fairly recent outbreak and for which no approved treatments exist,” says Amy Finan, Sabin’s Chief Executive Officer. “Sabin’s vaccine candidate is backed by strong safety and immunogenicity data, and we hope this trial will yield further evidence to move the vaccine closer to licensure.”

The most recent outbreak of Sudan ebolavirus occurred in the fall of 2022 in Uganda, after six suspicious deaths in the Mubende district. That outbreak ultimately resulted in 55 deaths. Sabin’s vaccine was the first to arrive in Uganda during that outbreak after the World Health Organization included it as one of three vaccines for possible use in an outbreak trial. The outbreak ended on January 11, prior to vaccine being deployed for use.

“Makerere University Walter Reed Project is pleased to partner with the Sabin Vaccine Institute once again,” says Dr. Mwesigwa. “Uganda has the most experience with Sudan ebolavirus outbreaks so we understand the importance of testing and researching an effective Sudan ebolavirus vaccine that could be used in the event of an outbreak.”

The Phase 2 clinical trial will evaluate safety and immunogenicity for the vaccine among a larger group of individuals than in previous trials. This is a randomized, placebo–controlled, double–blind study, meaning that neither the participants nor the researchers will know whether trial participants receive a vaccine dose or a placebo dose until after the trial is over, an approach used to help reduce experimental bias.

Participants in the clinical trial will be monitored for a full year and will include both younger (18–50 years) and older age groups (51–70 years). Interim results are expected next year. In addition to the current trial in Uganda and Kenya, Sabin plans to conduct a similar Phase 2 clinical trial for Sudan ebolavirus vaccine in the U.S.

The Sudan ebolavirus vaccine trials are supported by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), part of the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, under multi–year contracts between the organizations.

To date, Sabin has received around $216 million in contract awards from BARDA for furthering vaccine research and development against Sudan ebolavirus and Marburg virus diseases. BARDA and Sabin began working together in September 2019 to develop the two monovalent vaccine candidates.

This project has been supported in whole or in part with federal funds from the Department of Health and Human Services; Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response; Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), under contract numbers 75A50119C00055 and 75A50123C00010.

About the Sabin Vaccine Institute

The Sabin Vaccine Institute is a leading advocate for expanding vaccine access and uptake globally, advancing vaccine research and development, and amplifying vaccine knowledge and innovation. Unlocking the potential of vaccines through partnership, Sabin has built a robust ecosystem of funders, innovators, implementers, practitioners, policy makers and public stakeholders to advance its vision of a future free from preventable diseases. As a non–profit with three decades of experience, Sabin is committed to finding solutions that last and extending the full benefits of vaccines to all people, regardless of who they are or where they live. At Sabin, we believe in the power of vaccines to change the world. For more information, visit www.sabin.org and follow us on X, @SabinVaccine.

About Sabin’s Vaccine R&D Using the cAd3 Platform

In August 2019, Sabin announced exclusive agreements with GSK for Sabin to advance the development of the prophylactic candidate vaccines against the deadly Zaire ebolavirus, Sudan ebolavirus and Marburg virus. The three candidate vaccines were initially developed collaboratively by the U.S. National Institutes of Health and Okairos, which was acquired by GSK in 2013. The candidate vaccines, based on GSK’s proprietary cAd3 platform, were further developed by GSK, including the Phase 2 development for the Zaire ebolavirus vaccine. Under the agreements between GSK and Sabin, Sabin exclusively licensed the technology for all three candidate vaccines and acquired certain patent rights specific to these vaccines.

About the Makerere University Walter Reed Project

MUWRP is a non–profit biomedical research organization with a mission to mitigate disease threats through quality research, health care and disease surveillance. The project’s scope includes, among others; clinical research in infectious and non–infectious diseases such as HIV, Ebola, Marburg, COVID–19, Influenza and Influenza–like illnesses, and neglected tropical diseases such as Schistosomiasis, among others. A major part of the clinical research are clinical trials, where the MUWRP has conducted more than 12 phase 1 and 2 vaccine clinical trials including the first Ebola vaccine trial in Africa.

Media Contact:
Monika Guttman
Media Relations Specialist
Sabin Vaccine Institute
+1 (202) 662–1841
[email protected]

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7ea30f47–768e–4cd0–b0a3–19adff04b2ab


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CSL Behring Announces First Two Patients Treated with HEMGENIX® (etranacogene dezaparvovec) Gene Therapy for Hemophilia B in Europe

MARBURG, Germany, July 04, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Global biotechnology leader CSL Behring (ASX: CSL) today announced that two hemophilia B patients were treated with the gene therapy HEMGENIX® (etranacogene dezaparvovec) at Hemophilia Treatment Centers in France. This milestone achievement makes HEMGENIX® the first gene therapy administered as a treatment in a real–world setting for hemophilia B in Europe.

HEMGENIX® is the first one–time gene therapy approved in Europe for the treatment of adults with severe and moderately severe hemophilia B, an inherited bleeding disorder caused by the lack of Factor IX (a protein needed to produce blood clots to stop bleeding). It is used in adults without a history of Factor IX inhibitors.1

Following European Commission approval, HEMGENIX® was the first ever therapy to be granted Direct Access in France2, thus enabling the first patients to be treated in Europe outside of the clinical program.

Though effective, current therapies can be time intensive and require regular treatment that can have a substantial impact on a patient’s daily life.3 HEMGENIX® offers a one–time treatment, allowing people living with hemophilia B to produce their own Factor IX, which can lower the risk of bleeding.4

“Only a few decades ago, gene therapy for hemophilia was a distant concept, which has now become reality. Accordingly, the first two patients treated with HEMGENIX® since receiving European approval is a major accomplishment and a testament to the joint commitment of the hemophilia B community, as well as the access and reimbursement authorities, in bringing innovative therapies to patients,” said Dr Lutz Bonacker SVP and General Manager, CSL Behring Commercial Operations Europe. “This milestone has been made possible by the innovative Direct Access scheme adopted in France, allowing patients to benefit from early access to pioneering treatments. We are encouraged to see increasing access to gene therapies in European countries and are fully committed to ensuring that access to potentially life–changing treatment continues.”

HEMGENIX® was granted conditional marketing authorisation by the European Commission (EC) for the European Union and European Economic Area in February 2023, following approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in November 2022. It has also been approved by Health Canada, the United Kingdom's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), Switzerland’s Swissmedic and Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).

The multi–year clinical development of HEMGENIX® was led by uniQure and sponsorship of the clinical trials transitioned to CSL after it licensed global rights to commercialise the treatment.

About Hemophilia B

Hemophilia B is a life–threatening rare disease. People with the condition are particularly vulnerable to bleeds in their joints, muscles, and internal organs, leading to pain, swelling, and joint damage. Current treatments for moderate to severe hemophilia B include life–long prophylactic infusions of factor IX to temporarily replace or supplement low levels of the blood–clotting factor.  

About HEMGENIX®

HEMGENIX® is a gene therapy that reduces the rate of abnormal bleeding in eligible people with hemophilia B by enabling the body to continuously produce factor IX, the deficient protein in hemophilia B. It uses AAV5, a non–infectious viral vector, called an adeno–associated virus (AAV). The AAV5 vector carries the Padua gene variant of Factor IX (FIX–Padua) to the target cells in the liver, generating factor IX proteins that are 5x–8x more active than normal. These genetic instructions remain in the target cells, but generally do not become a part of a person’s own DNA. Once delivered, the new genetic instructions allow the cellular machinery to produce stable levels of factor IX.

About the Pivotal HOPE–B Trial

The pivotal Phase III HOPE–B trial is an ongoing, multinational, open–label, single–arm study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of HEMGENIX®. Fifty–four adult hemophilia B patients classified as having moderately severe to severe hemophilia B and requiring prophylactic factor IX replacement therapy were enrolled in a prospective, six–month or longer observational period during which time they continued to use their current standard of care therapy to establish a baseline Annual Bleeding Rate (ABR). After the six–month lead–in period, patients received a single intravenous administration of HEMGENIX® at the 2×10^13 gc/kg dose. Patients were not excluded from the trial based on pre–existing neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) to AAV5.

A total of 54 patients received a single dose of HEMGENIX® in the pivotal trial, with 52 patients completing at least three years of follow–up. The primary endpoint in the pivotal HOPE–B study was ABR 52 weeks after achievement of stable factor IX expression (months 7 to 18) compared with the six–month lead–in period. For this endpoint, ABR was measured from month seven to month 18 after infusion, ensuring the observation period represented a steady–state factor IX transgene expression. Secondary endpoints included assessment of factor IX activity.

No serious treatment–related adverse reactions were reported. One death resulting from urosepsis and cardiogenic shock in a 77–year–old patient at 65 weeks following dosing was considered unrelated to treatment by investigators and the company sponsor. A serious adverse event of hepatocellular carcinoma was determined to be unrelated to treatment with HEMGENIX® by independent molecular tumour characterization and vector integration analysis. No inhibitors to factor IX were reported. 

Long–term three–year data presented at the 17th Annual Congress of the European Association for Haemophilia and Allied Disorders (EAHAD) 2024 continue to reinforce the potential long–lasting efficacy and safety of HEMGENIX® and the ongoing benefit of this treatment for people living with hemophilia B.

About CSL
CSL (ASX:CSL; USOTC:CSLLY) is a global biotechnology company with a dynamic portfolio of lifesaving medicines, including those that treat hemophilia and immune deficiencies, vaccines to prevent influenza, and therapies in iron deficiency and nephrology. Since our start in 1916, we have been driven by our promise to save lives using the latest technologies. Today, CSL – including our three businesses: CSL Behring, CSL Seqirus and CSL Vifor – provides lifesaving products to patients in more than 100 countries and employs 32,000 people. Our unique combination of commercial strength, R&D focus and operational excellence enables us to identify, develop and deliver innovations so our patients can live life to the fullest. For inspiring stories about the promise of biotechnology, visit CSL.com/Vita. For more information about CSL, visit CSL.com.

Media Contacts
Stephanie Fuchs
Mobile: +49 151 584 388 60
Email: [email protected]

References

1 European Medicines Agency. First Gene therapy to treat haemophilia B. Available at: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/news/first–gene–therapy–treat–haemophilia–b. [Accessed May 2024].
2 Republique Française. Légifrance: Article 62 of Law No. 2021–1754. Available at: https://www.legifrance.gouv.fr/jorf/id/JORFTEXT000048551003 [Accessed May 2024].
3 Leebeek, F & Miesbach, W. (2021) Gene therapy for haemophilia: a review on clinical benefit, limitations, and remaining issues. Blood. Vol 138, Issue 11. pp923–931.
4 Coppens M et al. Etranacogene dezaparvovec gene therapy for haemophilia B (HOPE–B): 24–month post–hoc efficacy and safety data from a single–arm, multicentre, phase 3 trial. The Lancet Haematology 2024; 11(4):E265–E275.


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