Molecular Partners reports key financials for H1 19 and corporate highlights: EMA has validated the marketing authorization application for abicipar; Focus of MP0250 on multiple myeloma with expected initiation of ph2 IMiD trial in Q4 19; MP0310 ph1 start on track for H2 19

Research & Development:

  • MP0250 (VEGF x HGF) in MM: PI Trial (in combination with Velcade®) – Encouraging responses observed in first patient cohorts triggered decision for further investment;
  • IMiD Trial (in combination with Pomalyst®) – Start of phase 2 trial expected in Q4 19, having received FDA approval;
  • MP0250 in EGFR-mutated Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (EGFR-mut NSCLC) in combination with Tagrisso®: Following lift of partial clinical hold by FDA, strategic decision to discontinue phase 2 trial and focus resources on MM trials;
  • MP0274 (Her2): Phase 1 dose escalation trial in Her2-positive cancer patients progressing; first patients dosed at level of 4mg/kg;
  • MP0310 (FAP x 4-1BB): Novel Therapeutic Design for tumor-localized immune-modulator on track to dose the first patient in the phase 1 trial in H2 19 (co-development with Amgen);
    Research portfolio is focused on DARPin® candidates with innovative therapeutic designs, including tumor-localized FAP x CD40, peptide-MHC DARPin® binders and DARPin® T cell-engager candidates, and continues to progress according to plan;
  • Abicipar (VEGF): EMA has validated marketing authorization application for abicipar; EMA decision may be received in H2 20; US launch, following FDA filing and review, expected mid-2020; abicipar expected to be the first anti-VEGF therapy to sustain initial vision gains on true fixed 12-week dosing interval

Team:

  • Molecular Partners appointed Nicolas Leupin, M.D., MBA, as Chief Medical Officer;
  • Daniel Steiner, Ph.D., promoted to lead the company’s research department;
  • 14% year-on-year increase of talent base to 128 full-time employees, reflecting ongoing build-out of research and clinical development expertise

Financial highlights:

  • Ongoing strong financial position with CHF 123.3 million in cash and short-term deposits as of June 30, 2019, ensuring financing into 2021, beyond the expected market launch of abicipar mid-2020;
  • Net cash inflow from operating activities of CHF 27.0 million in H1 2019, positively reflecting the collection of the USD 50 million Amgen receivable in January 2019;
  • FY 2019 expense guidance reiterated at CHF 60-70 million

Press release

back