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Pliant Therapeutics, Inc. - PLRX STOCK NEWS

Welcome to our dedicated page for Pliant Therapeutics news (Ticker: PLRX), a resource for investors and traders seeking the latest updates and insights on Pliant Therapeutics stock.

Overview of Pliant Therapeutics, Inc.

Pliant Therapeutics, Inc. (symbol: PLRX) is a clinical‐stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery, development, and commercialization of novel therapies to treat fibrotic diseases. Utilizing cutting‐edge integrin biology and TGF-β modulation, the company focuses on developing breakthrough treatment approaches that target the molecular drivers of fibrosis, a condition characterized by excessive collagen deposition and tissue scarring.

From its early-stage research foundation established by renowned academic leaders, including experts from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), Pliant Therapeutics has built a strong reputation for its deep expertise in fibrosis biology and small molecule chemistry. The company’s approach centers on translating advanced scientific insights into practical, innovative therapies, thereby addressing unmet clinical needs in conditions such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC).

Clinical Programs and Research Pipeline

The company’s lead product candidate, bexotegrast (PLN-74809), exemplifies its innovative strategy as an oral small molecule designed to offer dual selective inhibition of αvβ6 and αvβ1 integrins. Its development efforts target key fibrotic indications including IPF and PSC. Bexotegrast’s mechanism of action focuses on diminishing pathological extracellular matrix accumulation, which underlies the progression of fibrotic diseases. Clinical trials involving adaptive and seamless trial designs have been implemented to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and potential efficacy of this candidate in diverse patient populations.

Beyond IPF and PSC, Pliant Therapeutics is advancing multiple other clinical programs. The company is exploring therapeutic options in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with fibrosis, solid tumors with novel integrin targets, and even expanding its research into areas such as neuromuscular conditions and preclinical programs targeting muscular dystrophies. This diversified pipeline reflects a robust commitment to applying its core scientific expertise across multiple disease areas affected by fibrosis.

Scientific and Operational Excellence

Pliant Therapeutics distinguishes itself through its rigorous research methodologies and strong partnerships with clinical investigators worldwide. The company consistently employs innovative trial designs and state-of-the-art imaging techniques, such as positron emission tomography (PET), to quantitatively assess changes in total collagen deposition and other fibrotic biomarkers. Such strategies facilitate a deep understanding of therapeutic mechanisms and offer significant insights into disease progression.

The company’s operational model does not solely depend on clinical efficacy but also emphasizes patient safety and a thorough understanding of the natural history of fibrotic diseases. Initiatives such as building patient registries contribute to improved biomarker discovery and enhanced understanding of disease progression, thereby laying a solid foundation for future translational research.

Market Position and Competitive Dynamics

Operating within the competitive field of biopharmaceutical innovation, Pliant Therapeutics has positioned itself as an authority in the realm of antifibrotic therapy development. Its specific focus on integrin inhibition sets the company apart by addressing fundamental molecular pathways that drive tissue fibrosis. While many companies pursue broad-spectrum treatments, Pliant’s targeted strategy allows for more precise intervention, potentially minimizing off-target effects. Its ongoing clinical trials, while subject to the inherent uncertainties of drug development, underscore a well-considered approach that balances scientific rigor with practical considerations in complex therapeutic landscapes.

Investors and industry researchers recognize the company’s commitment to evidence-based advancement. Through transparent reporting and continuous communication of clinical and preclinical results, Pliant Therapeutics reinforces its credibility and integrates extensive academic research with clinical development practices.

Key Takeaways

  • Innovative Focus: Pliant leverages integrin biology and TGF-β pathway modulation to develop novel antifibrotic small molecule therapies.
  • Robust Pipeline: The lead candidate bexotegrast, aimed at treating IPF and PSC, is supported by multiple clinical and preclinical programs across various fibrotic indications.
  • Research Excellence: Strong ties with academia and a reliance on advanced imaging and adaptive trial designs reflect the company’s commitment to precision medicine.
  • Patient-Centered: Their initiatives include establishing patient registries to better understand fibrotic disease progression and fuel biomarker discovery.
  • Neutral Positioning: Through a scientific and unbiased approach, the company provides an informed perspective without speculative claims about future performance.

Overall, Pliant Therapeutics stands out as a research-driven organization aiming to lead the development of targeted therapies for fibrotic diseases. By combining detailed scientific inquiry with strategic clinical development, the firm remains a critical point of reference for understanding the nuances of antifibrotic treatment innovation within the broader biopharmaceutical industry.

Rhea-AI Summary

Pliant Therapeutics (Nasdaq: PLRX) has announced the advancement of a fibrosis-directed integrin target into development, following a successful validation from its 2019 collaboration with Novartis. The company will receive a $4 million milestone payment alongside research funding to support the initiation of development activities. This milestone showcases Pliant's commitment to advancing therapies for fibrotic diseases, highlighting the productivity of its antifibrotic drug development platform.

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Pliant Therapeutics (Nasdaq: PLRX) announced the presentation of two scientific posters at the International Liver Congress™ 2022 in London from June 22-26, 2022. The posters will focus on the dual inhibition of integrins αvß6 and αvß1 by PLN-74809 in treating primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC).

The first poster highlights findings from preclinical studies, while the second investigates portal pressure and liver fibrosis in rats with biliary cirrhosis. The presentations will be available on-demand at Pliant's website.

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Pliant Therapeutics (Nasdaq: PLRX) presented five scientific posters at the 2022 American Thoracic Society International Conference in San Francisco from May 13-18, 2022. The data showcased their lead product, PLN-74809, a dual-selective inhibitor aimed at treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Key findings included safety data indicating PLN-74809 was well-tolerated in over 450 subjects, with no severe adverse events. Interim results from Phase 2a trials demonstrated dose-dependent target engagement in IPF patients, reinforcing the therapeutic potential of PLN-74809.

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Pliant Therapeutics (Nasdaq: PLRX), a clinical-stage biotechnology firm, announced that its President and CEO, Bernard Coulie, will participate in two investor conferences in May 2022. The RBC Capital Markets Global Healthcare conference will feature a fireside chat on May 18 at 10:00 a.m. ET, while a replay of the H.C. Wainwright Global Investment Conference chat will be available on May 23 at 7:00 a.m. ET. Interested parties can access these events on Pliant's Investor Relations page.

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Pliant Therapeutics (Nasdaq: PLRX) provided a corporate update on May 9, 2022, announcing a $100 million loan facility from Oxford Finance that extends its cash runway to mid-2024. The company is advancing its clinical programs, notably the INTEGRIS-IPF Phase 2a trial for PLN-74809, expected to yield data in mid-2022. The drug received FDA Fast Track and EMA Orphan Drug designations for treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and primary sclerosing cholangitis. Financially, R&D and G&A expenses increased, resulting in a net loss of $28.1 million for Q1 2022.

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Pliant Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biotechnology company, has secured a loan facility of up to $100 million from Oxford Finance LLC. This non-dilutive financing is aimed at advancing its lead clinical candidate, PLN-74809, for treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). The funding will extend Pliant's cash runway to mid-2024, supporting multiple upcoming clinical milestones. An initial draw of $10 million has been made, with further funds available based on performance milestones.

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Pliant Therapeutics (NASDAQ: PLRX) announced that its drug candidate, PLN-74809, has received Fast Track designation from the FDA for treating idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). This designation highlights the urgent need for new treatments for this severe disease, which affects approximately 140,000 people annually in the U.S. PLN-74809, currently in a Phase 2a clinical trial (INTEGRIS-IPF), aims to address the high unmet medical need as existing therapies do not halt disease progression. Topline data from the trial is expected in mid-2022.

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Pliant Therapeutics (Nasdaq: PLRX) is presenting five posters at the ATS 2022 International Conference from May 13-18 in San Francisco. The posters showcase data supporting the development of PLN-74809, a dual-selective inhibitor for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Key findings include dose-dependent target engagement and a favorable safety profile. Pliant is also featured in a special presentation during the ATS Respiratory Innovation Summit. PLN-74809 is currently in Phase 2 trials and has received Orphan Drug Designation from the FDA for IPF and primary sclerosing cholangitis.

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Pliant Therapeutics (Nasdaq: PLRX), a clinical-stage biotechnology company, will have its CEO, Bernard Coulie, participate in a fireside chat at the 21st Annual Needham Virtual Healthcare Conference on April 12, 2022, at 2:15 p.m. ET. The event can be accessed via the Investor Relations’ Events & Presentation page on Pliant’s website, with an audio archive available for 30 days. Pliant focuses on developing therapies for fibrosis, with its lead candidate, PLN-74809, targeting idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and primary sclerosing cholangitis, having received Orphan Drug Designation from the FDA.

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Pliant Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: PLRX) recently corrected its financial reporting for 2021, highlighting significant advancements in its pipeline. The company reported a net loss of $24.5 million for Q4 2021, up from $19 million in the previous year. R&D expenses increased to $18.8 million, while G&A expenses rose to $7.8 million. PLN-74809, its lead therapeutic candidate, demonstrated robust biological activity in a Phase 1b trial and is poised for further trials in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and primary sclerosing cholangitis. The company has $200.6 million in cash, sufficient to fund operations into H2 2023.

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FAQ

What is the current stock price of Pliant Therapeutics (PLRX)?

The current stock price of Pliant Therapeutics (PLRX) is $1.34 as of April 11, 2025.

What is the market cap of Pliant Therapeutics (PLRX)?

The market cap of Pliant Therapeutics (PLRX) is approximately 76.9M.

What is the primary focus of Pliant Therapeutics?

Pliant Therapeutics focuses on discovering, developing, and commercializing novel therapies for fibrotic diseases using integrin biology and TGF-β modulation.

What is bexotegrast?

Bexotegrast is Pliant Therapeutics' lead product candidate, an oral small molecule designed to inhibit αvβ6 and αvβ1 integrins, and is being developed for conditions like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and primary sclerosing cholangitis.

Which therapeutic areas does the company target?

The company primarily targets fibrotic conditions including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), and extends its research to areas such as NASH with liver fibrosis, certain solid tumors, and neuromuscular disorders.

How does Pliant Therapeutics support its research?

Pliant leverages deep scientific expertise, including insights from renowned academic centers like UCSF, and utilizes advanced imaging techniques and adaptive clinical trial designs to evaluate its therapies.

What is unique about Pliant’s approach to drug development?

Their strategy is distinguished by targeting specific integrin pathways to modulate fibrosis, alongside building patient registries and harnessing innovative trial designs to drive biomarker discovery and clinical insights.

How does Pliant Therapeutics ensure safety in its trials?

The company employs rigorous safety assessments in its clinical trials, carefully monitoring adverse events and integrating adaptive trial designs to balance efficacy with patient safety.

In what ways does the company communicate its research and development progress?

Pliant Therapeutics provides transparent updates through scientific presentations at conferences, detailed press releases, and regular disclosures in compliance with regulatory standards.

How does Pliant Therapeutics compare with other companies in the antifibrotic space?

Pliant’s focused approach on integrin inhibition and TGF-β modulation differentiates it by targeting the core molecular mechanisms of fibrosis, as opposed to broader treatments, which underscores its research-driven positioning.
Pliant Therapeutics, Inc.

Nasdaq:PLRX

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76.85M
58.09M
3.27%
117.06%
5.37%
Biotechnology
Pharmaceutical Preparations
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