Gritstone bio, Inc. - GRTS STOCK NEWS

Gritstone bio, Inc. (Nasdaq: GRTS), a clinical-stage biotechnology company, announced its addition to the NASDAQ Biotech Index, effective December 20, 2021. The NASDAQ Biotechnology Index tracks the performance of selected biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies based on specific eligibility criteria. Gritstone focuses on developing immunotherapies for cancer and infectious diseases, utilizing proprietary technology platforms. Their key programs include GRANITE and SLATE for oncology, and CORAL for COVID-19 vaccine development.

Gritstone bio (Nasdaq: GRTS) announces an expanded agreement with CEPI to develop a self-amplifying mRNA (SAM) vaccine for the Omicron COVID-19 variant. CEPI will provide up to $5 million for a Phase 1 trial in South Africa, building on their existing $20.6 million funding for Gritstone’s Beta variant vaccine. The SAM platform shows promise against mutations in the Omicron variant, aiming for broader immunity. The Phase 1 trial's Omicron arms are expected to start in Q2 2022, pending regulatory approval, with the potential for global distribution through COVAX if proven effective.

Gritstone bio, Inc. (Nasdaq: GRTS) reported that its COVID-19 vaccine platform shows minimal impact from the Omicron variant. Only 3 out of 146 T Cell Epitope (TCE) sequences (~2%) are affected by mutations. The company’s CORAL program aims for broader immunity against variants and is set to initiate a Phase 1 study in South Africa by year-end 2021. Initial data from a UK trial is expected early 2022. Gritstone emphasizes the importance of addressing both Spike variants and conserved SARS-CoV-2 genes in their immunotherapy approach.

Gritstone bio, Inc. (Nasdaq: GRTS) announced the granting of nonqualified stock options for 109,000 shares to fourteen employees, with an exercise price of $10.87. This stock grant is an inducement for new hires, aligning with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(c)(4). The options will vest over four years, with 25% vesting after the first anniversary and the remainder monthly, contingent on employment status. Gritstone is focused on developing next-gen immunotherapies for cancer and infectious diseases, leveraging its proprietary Gritstone EDGE™ platform.

Gritstone bio announced promising preclinical results for its self-amplifying mRNA (SAM) vaccine against SARS-CoV-2. The vaccine showcased effective protection in rhesus macaques, either in a two-dose regimen or as a single boost. Notably, it elicited strong T cell responses and produced higher antibody levels at lower doses compared to first-generation mRNA vaccines. Preliminary Phase 1 data from the CORAL study is anticipated early in Q1 2022, aiming to enhance vaccination strategies, particularly for immunocompromised patients.

Gritstone bio (GRTS) reported its Q3 2021 financial results, highlighting a cash position of $216.4 million as of September 30, 2021. The company is advancing its cancer and infectious disease therapies, including the CORAL study for a second-generation SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, with Phase 1 data expected in early Q1 2022. Significant clinical progress was achieved, evidenced by data from the GRANITE individualized neoantigen program presented at ESMO 2021, showing a 44% molecular response rate in advanced colorectal cancer. The firm raised $55 million through PIPE financing to support its initiatives.

Gritstone bio, Inc. (Nasdaq: GRTS), a clinical-stage biotechnology company, will participate in five investor conferences from October to December 2021. Notable events include the B. Riley Fall Best Ideas in Oncology Panel on October 28, and the Stifel 2021 Virtual Healthcare Conference on November 15. CEO Andrew Allen, M.D., Ph.D., will present at all events. The company focuses on developing next-generation immunotherapies for cancer and infectious diseases using its proprietary Gritstone EDGE™ platform. Live webcasts and archived replays will be available on their website.

Gritstone bio, Inc. (Nasdaq: GRTS) announced the grant of nonqualified stock options for 41,800 shares to six employees, with an exercise price of $11.58, equal to the closing stock price on September 14, 2021. These options serve as an inducement for new employees in compliance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(c)(4). The options will vest over four years, with a portion vesting on the first anniversary of employment. Gritstone is focused on developing innovative cancer and infectious disease immunotherapies using its proprietary Gritstone EDGE™ technology.

Gritstone bio (Nasdaq: GRTS) has initiated a Phase 1 trial for GRT-R910, a self-amplifying mRNA vaccine aimed at enhancing immunity against SARS-CoV-2, particularly in individuals aged 60 and older. This vaccine targets both spike and conserved non-spike proteins to broaden protection across variants. The trial, conducted with The University of Manchester, will enroll 20 volunteers to assess safety and immunogenicity. Initial data is anticipated in Q1 2022. GRT-R910, part of the CORAL program, aims to boost the efficacy of existing vaccines.