Natera, Inc. - NTRA STOCK NEWS

Natera, Inc. (NASDAQ: NTRA) announced a study published in Transplantation Proceedings that highlights the significance of total cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing in kidney transplant recipients hospitalized with COVID-19. Using its Prospera™ test, the study reveals that elevated total cfDNA can obscure donor-derived cfDNA (dd-cfDNA) levels, potentially masking transplant rejection cases. The Prospera test identified two patients whose biopsy-proven rejections were undetected by dd-cfDNA alone. This research underscores the necessity of total cfDNA in understanding graft health amidst COVID-19 challenges.

Natera, a leader in cell-free DNA testing, has been recognized by Fast Company in its annual list of the World's Most Innovative Companies for 2022. The company ranked sixth in the Health category, acknowledged for its Signatera™ MRD test, which effectively monitors therapy response and predicts patient benefit from immunotherapy across various cancer types. This recognition highlights the test's significant impact, particularly after Medicare's approval for its serial use in pan-cancer immunotherapy monitoring.

Eikon Therapeutics has appointed Dr. Roy D. Baynes as Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, effective July 11, 2022. Dr. Baynes, a distinguished oncologist with extensive experience, previously held senior roles at Merck and Amgen, contributing to the development of significant drugs like Keytruda. He will lead the company's clinical research and development, leveraging Eikon's advanced technologies in drug discovery. This appointment aims to strengthen Eikon's ability to deliver innovative therapies for serious illnesses.

Natera, a global leader in cell-free DNA testing, has published a study in Transplantation showing that its Prospera™ technology effectively assesses pancreas graft rejection in simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplants. Conducted at the Hospital Clinic of Barcelona, the study involved 36 transplant recipients and highlighted that the combination of donor-derived cell-free DNA (dd-cfDNA) quantity and fraction significantly outperformed existing biochemical markers, achieving a sensitivity of 85.7% and specificity of 93.7%. This advancement positions Natera for improved clinical outcomes in transplant care.

Natera announced new data from the CIRCULATE-Japan trial, revealing a 75% detection rate of colorectal cancer recurrence from a single blood draw four weeks post-surgery. This update, presented at the SSO 2022 conference, indicates improved outcomes for patients identified through Natera's Signatera test. The CIRCULATE-Japan study is the largest clinical trial focusing on molecular residual disease in colorectal cancer, enrolling over 3,300 patients to date. Additionally, Natera activated the CIRCULATE-US trial to further explore MRD-guided treatment strategies.

Natera, Inc. (NASDAQ: NTRA) announced a $5 million investment in its stock by Roelof Botha, lead independent director and partner at Sequoia Capital, reflecting his confidence in the company’s future. Botha has worked closely with Natera for 15 years, emphasizing his commitment to its strategic and commercial execution. Additionally, Natera's executives and non-employee directors will convert their cash compensation to equity for the remainder of 2022. This move indicates a strong internal belief in the company's potential, focusing on genetic testing's role in healthcare.

A jury in Delaware District Court ruled that both CareDx and Natera engaged in false advertising. CareDx misled investors and physicians regarding its funding of a scientific publication, which it falsely claimed was independent. Additionally, there were no findings regarding the scientific validity of Natera's data. In parallel litigation, a federal court invalidated all patents that CareDx asserted against Natera, who is pursuing its own patent enforcement. Final monetary relief from the jury's decision is still pending.

Natera, Inc. (NASDAQ: NTRA) announced a significant change in compensation for its executive leaders and board of directors, who will receive stock instead of cash salaries for the remainder of 2022. This decision reflects their confidence in the company's strong fundamentals and business outlook. Key figures include CEO Steve Chapman, CFO Mike Brophy, and COO Bob Schueren, among others. Natera focuses on cell-free DNA testing across oncology, women's health, and organ health, emphasizing a commitment to personalized diagnostics.

Natera, Inc. (NASDAQ: NTRA) has achieved a significant milestone in its BESPOKE CRC study, enrolling over 1,000 patients across more than 100 sites in the U.S. The study focuses on the impact of Signatera, a custom ctDNA test, in managing colorectal cancer (CRC). Target enrollment is over 2,000 patients, with a follow-up period of up to 5 years. Investigators plan an interim analysis in late 2022. This study aims to provide real-world insights into personalized treatment decisions for CRC patients.