Biora Therapeutics Provides Corporate Update and Reports Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2023 Financial Results
- Successful results from the SAD portion of the BT-600 clinical trial showcasing targeted drug delivery to the colon
- Lower systemic drug levels observed with NaviCap devices compared to conventional oral delivery
- Progression of the BT-600 trial with anticipated conclusion in Q2 2024 and plans for a clinical study in H2 2024
- Reduction of net debt by 75% in 2023 and raising $19.8 million through note exchanges
- BioJet platform's advancement with successful animal studies and potential partnerships in the pipeline
- None.
Insights
The completion of the single-ascending dose (SAD) portion of the BT-600 clinical trial by Biora Therapeutics signifies a important step in the development of a novel therapeutic delivery system for ulcerative colitis. The reported data indicating targeted drug delivery and absorption in the colon, with lower systemic drug levels, suggests a potential for improved treatment efficacy and reduced side effects. This could represent a shift in the treatment paradigm for ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects millions worldwide. The Medical Research Analyst perspective here focuses on the implications of these clinical results for future drug development and patient care. The reduction in drug levels in the blood implies a more localized effect, which could lead to fewer systemic side effects and an improved safety profile, a common concern among patients and healthcare providers. Additionally, the dose-proportional pharmacokinetics observed with tofacitinib, the active drug in BT-600, are indicative of predictable and controllable drug exposure, an important factor in managing chronic conditions.
From a financial standpoint, the positive clinical trial results of BT-600 and the progression of the BioJet platform are likely to be seen favorably by investors and could potentially increase Biora Therapeutics' market value. The company's efforts in reducing its net debt by 75% and raising $19.8 million through note exchanges reflect a strategic approach to capital structure optimization. These moves could improve the company's financial flexibility and investor sentiment. Furthermore, the monetization of an investment and the resolution of a legacy legal matter add to a more streamlined and focused financial strategy. However, despite these positive developments, the reported net loss of $124.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, is a significant increase from the previous year. This underscores the inherent risks and financial pressures in the biotech industry, especially for companies in the clinical stage without revenue-generating products.
The biotech sector is highly competitive and sensitive to clinical trial outcomes, which can significantly influence stock performance. Biora Therapeutics' announcement of successful SAD clinical trial results could impact its competitiveness in the ulcerative colitis treatment market. The ability to demonstrate targeted delivery with lower systemic exposure could differentiate BT-600 from existing treatments and potentially capture market share if the subsequent multiple ascending dose (MAD) trials and planned clinical studies in active ulcerative colitis patients are successful. The preclinical success of the BioJet platform, achieving higher bioavailability, positions Biora to potentially disrupt the oral delivery market for biologics, a market that has traditionally relied on injections. The anticipation of partnership agreements could signal further validation of the technology and potential revenue streams. However, the long-term market impact will depend on continued positive clinical outcomes, regulatory approvals and the ability to commercialize these platforms effectively.
All performance targets achieved in single-ascending dose (SAD) cohorts of BT-600 clinical trial
Results demonstrated targeted drug delivery and absorption in the colon, with 3-4 times lower drug levels in blood
Remainder of BT-600 clinical trial progressing well and on schedule
Management will host conference call and webcast today at 4:30 PM Eastern / 1:30 PM Pacific
SAN DIEGO, March 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Biora Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: BIOR), the biotech company that is reimagining therapeutic delivery, today provided a corporate update and reported financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2023.
“We are thrilled by the results from the single ascending dose (SAD) portion of our clinical trial for BT-600. The data indicate exactly what we had hoped: NaviCap devices consistently delivered tofacitinib directly to the colon, resulting in systemic drug levels three to four times lower than conventional oral delivery. This demonstrates the NaviCap platform’s unique ability for targeted delivery to the colon, and is consistent with potentially higher drug levels in colon tissue at the site of the disease,” said Adi Mohanty, Chief Executive Officer of Biora Therapeutics.
“We eagerly anticipate the conclusion of the multiple ascending dose (MAD) portion of the trial during the second quarter of 2024, which will provide additional insight into the performance of BT-600. We are working to create a new treatment paradigm that leads to better outcomes for patients suffering from ulcerative colitis, and we are encouraged by the data so far,” stated Mr. Mohanty.
“Meanwhile, our BioJet platform is progressing well. We just completed animal studies with another collaborator molecule, and we remain focused on our planned goal of progressing to partnerships this year,” continued Mr. Mohanty.
Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2023 and Recent Highlights
NaviCap™ Targeted Oral Delivery Platform and BT-600 in ulcerative colitis
- Completion of SAD Portion of Phase 1 Clinical Trial for BT-600. Results from the single-ascending dose (SAD) portion of the trial were consistent with desired performance targets:
- NaviCap devices were well tolerated by study subjects in the SAD cohort.
- All participants who received devices containing active drug showed systemic drug absorption, indicating that the NaviCap devices released and delivered drug as intended.
- Measurable tofacitinib in blood was first observed at approximately six hours, with maximal concentrations at approximately eight hours post ingestion, which is indicative of drug delivery and absorption in the colon, as intended.
- Plasma levels of tofacitinib were approximately 3-4 times lower than what is observed with conventional oral tofacitinib at the same doses, which is a positive sign consistent with passage of drug through the colonic tissue and into systemic circulation.
- Dose-proportional pharmacokinetics were also observed, with consistently lower plasma drug concentrations with the 5 mg dose than the 10 mg dose.
BioJet™ Systemic Oral Delivery Platform preclinical development
- BioJet Research Collaborations. Biora has now successfully performed animal studies with peptides, antibodies, and nucleic acids, exceeding its performance target of
15% bioavailability compared to IV administration, and achieving 30-40% bioavailability with its most recent studies. The company recently completed animal studies with another large pharma research collaborator; final study data is anticipated during Q2.
Capital Markets
- Optimization of Capital Structure. During 2023, Biora reduced its outstanding notes by more than
$80 million , resulting in a75% reduction in net debt. With an additional note exchange in March 2024, the company has brought in a total of$19.8 million in new investment through these transactions, demonstrating continued support from institutional investors. - Resolution of Legacy Matters. Biora recently monetized its investment in Enumera Molecular, Inc., generating
$3 million in non-dilutive capital, and also reached an agreement in principle to resolve a legacy securities litigation matter. The company believes that remaining legacy issues will have minimal impact on Biora going forward.
Anticipated Milestones
NaviCap™ Targeted Oral Delivery Platform and BT-600 in ulcerative colitis
- Conclusion of the Phase 1 clinical trial of BT-600 is anticipated. The company expects to receive final SAD/MAD data, including colon tissue biopsy results, during Q2 2024 and plans to present topline data from the trial shortly afterward.
- A clinical study in active ulcerative colitis patients is planned during the second half of 2024.
BioJet™ Systemic Oral Delivery Platform development
- The company expects data from a recently completed animal study with its newest large pharmaceutical collaborator during Q2.
- An update on data from recent animal studies will be shared at the Next Gen Peptide Formulation & Delivery Summit in June 2024.
- Biora anticipates continued progress toward a partnership agreement for the BioJet platform.
| Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2023 Financial Results |
Comparison of Three Months Ended December 31, 2023 and September 30, 2023
Operating expenses were
Net loss was
Net gain from discontinued operations was
Comparison of Three Months Ended December 31, 2023 and 2022
Operating expenses were
Net loss was
Net gain from discontinued operations was
Comparison of Full-Year Ended December 31, 2023 and 2022
Operating expenses were
Net loss was
Net gain from discontinued operations was
Conference Call and Webcast Information
| Date: | Tuesday, March 26, 2024 | |
| Time: | 4:30 PM Eastern time / 1:30 PM Pacific time | |
| Conference Call: | Domestic 1-877-423-9813 International 1-201-689-8573 Conference ID 13744533 Call me for instant telephone access | |
| Webcast: | https://investors.bioratherapeutics.com/events-presentations |
About Biora Therapeutics
Biora Therapeutics is reimagining therapeutic delivery. By creating innovative smart pills designed for targeted drug delivery to the GI tract, and systemic, needle-free delivery of biotherapeutics, the company is developing therapies to improve patients’ lives.
Biora is focused on development of two therapeutics platforms: the NaviCap™ targeted oral delivery platform, which is designed to improve outcomes for patients with inflammatory bowel disease through treatment at the site of disease in the gastrointestinal tract, and the BioJet™ systemic oral delivery platform, which is designed to replace injection for better management of chronic diseases through needle-free, oral delivery of large molecules.
For more information, visit bioratherapeutics.com or follow the company on LinkedIn or Twitter.
Safe Harbor Statement or Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, which statements are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties and are based on estimates and assumptions. All statements, other than statements of historical facts included in this press release, including statements concerning the progress and future expectations and goals of our research and development, preclinical, and clinical trial efforts including our phase 1 trial execution and data timelines, are forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “objective,” “intend,” “should,” “could,” “can,” “would,” “expect,” “forward,” “believe,” “design,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “plan,” “target,” or the negative of these terms, and similar expressions intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect our plans, estimates, and expectations, as of the date of this press release. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements expressed or implied in this press release. Such risks, uncertainties, and other factors include, among others, our ability to innovate in the field of therapeutics, our ability to make future filings and initiate and execute clinical trials on expected timelines or at all, our ability to obtain and maintain regulatory approval or clearance of our products on expected timelines or at all, our plans to research, develop, and commercialize new products, the unpredictable relationship between preclinical study results and clinical study results, our expectations regarding allowed patents or intended grants to result in issued or granted patents, our expectations regarding opportunities with current or future pharmaceutical collaborators or partners, our ability to raise sufficient capital to achieve our business objectives, and those risks described in “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022 filed with the SEC and other subsequent documents, including Quarterly Reports, that we file with the SEC.
Biora Therapeutics expressly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.
Investor Contact
Chuck Padala
Managing Director, LifeSci Advisors
IR@bioratherapeutics.com
(646) 627-8390
Media Contact
media@bioratherapeutics.com
| Biora Therapeutics, Inc. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) (In thousands, except share and per share amounts) | |||||||
| Three Months Ended | |||||||
| December 31, 2023 | September 30, 2023 | ||||||
| Revenues | $ | — | $ | — | |||
| Operating expenses: | |||||||
| Research and development | 6,118 | 10,547 | |||||
| Selling, general and administrative | 7,226 | 12,774 | |||||
| Total operating expenses | 13,344 | 23,321 | |||||
| Loss from operations | (13,344 | ) | (23,321 | ) | |||
| Interest expense, net | (1,840 | ) | (2,592 | ) | |||
| Gain on warrant liabilities | 12,733 | 4,568 | |||||
| Other expense, net | (13,276 | ) | (52,108 | ) | |||
| Loss before income taxes | (15,727 | ) | (73,453 | ) | |||
| Income tax (benefit) expense | (95 | ) | 1 | ||||
| Loss from continuing operations | (15,632 | ) | (73,454 | ) | |||
| Gain from discontinued operations | 219 | — | |||||
| Net loss | $ | (15,413 | ) | $ | (73,454 | ) | |
| Net loss per share from continuing operations, basic and diluted | $ | (0.63 | ) | $ | (4.89 | ) | |
| Net gain per share from discontinued operations, basic and diluted | $ | 0.01 | $ | — | |||
| Net loss per share, basic and diluted | $ | (0.62 | ) | $ | (4.89 | ) | |
| Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted | 24,810,923 | 15,024,726 | |||||
| Biora Therapeutics, Inc. Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited) (In thousands, except share and per share amounts) | |||||||||||||||
| Three Months Ended December 31, | Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | 2023 | 2022 | ||||||||||||
| Revenues | $ | — | 14 | $ | 4 | $ | 305 | ||||||||
| Operating expenses: | |||||||||||||||
| Research and development | 6,118 | 5,767 | 29,838 | 24,049 | |||||||||||
| Selling, general and administrative | 7,226 | 8,023 | 37,309 | 38,037 | |||||||||||
| Total operating expenses | 13,344 | 13,790 | 67,147 | 62,086 | |||||||||||
| Loss from operations | (13,344 | ) | (13,776 | ) | (67,143 | ) | (61,781 | ) | |||||||
| Interest expense, net | (1,840 | ) | (2,685 | ) | (9,815 | ) | (10,990 | ) | |||||||
| Gain on warrant liabilities | 12,733 | 5,458 | 18,004 | 20,904 | |||||||||||
| Other (expense) income, net | (13,276 | ) | (2,207 | ) | (65,470 | ) | 2,617 | ||||||||
| Loss before income taxes | (15,727 | ) | (13,210 | ) | (124,424 | ) | (49,250 | ) | |||||||
| Income tax (benefit) expense | (95 | ) | 259 | (90 | ) | (420 | ) | ||||||||
| Loss from continuing operations | (15,632 | ) | (13,469 | ) | (124,334 | ) | (48,830 | ) | |||||||
| Gain (loss) from discontinued operations | 219 | (253 | ) | 219 | 10,673 | ||||||||||
| Net loss | $ | (15,413 | ) | $ | (13,722 | ) | $ | (124,115 | ) | $ | (38,157 | ) | |||
| Net loss per share from continuing operations, basic and diluted | $ | (0.63 | ) | $ | (1.61 | ) | $ | (7.88 | ) | $ | (6.40 | ) | |||
| Net gain (loss) per share from discontinued operations, basic and diluted | $ | 0.01 | $ | (0.03 | ) | $ | 0.01 | $ | 1.40 | ||||||
| Net loss per share, basic and diluted | $ | (0.62 | ) | $ | (1.64 | ) | $ | (7.87 | ) | $ | (5.00 | ) | |||
| Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted | 24,810,923 | 8,349,844 | 15,773,297 | 7,635,107 | |||||||||||
| Biora Therapeutics, Inc. Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) (In thousands) | |||||||
| December 31, | |||||||
| 2023 | 2022 | ||||||
| Assets | |||||||
| Current assets: | |||||||
| Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | $ | 15,211 | $ | 30,486 | |||
| Income tax receivable | 830 | 828 | |||||
| Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 3,030 | 4,199 | |||||
| Current assets of disposal group held for sale | — | 2,603 | |||||
| Total current assets | 19,071 | 38,116 | |||||
| Property and equipment, net | 1,156 | 1,654 | |||||
| Right-of-use assets | 1,614 | 1,482 | |||||
| Other assets | 3,302 | 6,201 | |||||
| Goodwill | 6,072 | 6,072 | |||||
| Total assets | $ | 31,215 | $ | 53,525 | |||
| Liabilities and Stockholders' Deficit | |||||||
| Current liabilities: | |||||||
| Accounts payable | $ | 2,843 | $ | 3,606 | |||
| Accrued expenses and other current liabilities | 17,319 | 16,161 | |||||
| Warrant liabilities | 40,834 | 3,538 | |||||
| Related party senior secured convertible notes, current portion | 1,976 | — | |||||
| Total current liabilities | 62,972 | 23,305 | |||||
| Convertible notes, net | 9,966 | 127,811 | |||||
| Senior secured convertible notes, net | 14,591 | — | |||||
| Related party senior secured convertible notes, net | 19,179 | — | |||||
| Derivative liabilities | 22,899 | — | |||||
| Other long-term liabilities | 3,029 | 4,696 | |||||
| Total liabilities | $ | 132,636 | $ | 155,812 | |||
| Stockholders' deficit: | |||||||
| Common stock | 25 | 8 | |||||
| Additional paid-in capital | 868,591 | 743,626 | |||||
| Accumulated deficit | (950,958 | ) | (826,843 | ) | |||
| Treasury stock | (19,079 | ) | (19,078 | ) | |||
| Total stockholders' deficit | (101,421 | ) | (102,287 | ) | |||
| Total liabilities and stockholders' deficit | $ | 31,215 | $ | 53,525 | |||
FAQ
What were the results of the single-ascending dose (SAD) portion of the BT-600 clinical trial for Biora Therapeutics (BIOR)?
What financial achievements did Biora Therapeutics (BIOR) report for the year ended December 31, 2023?
What are the anticipated milestones for the NaviCap™ Targeted Oral Delivery Platform and BT-600 in ulcerative colitis?
How has Biora Therapeutics (BIOR) progressed with its BioJet™ Systemic Oral Delivery Platform?
What is the date and time of the conference call and webcast provided by Biora Therapeutics (BIOR)?
