Arbutus Biopharm Stock Price, News & Analysis

Arbutus Biopharma Corporation (Nasdaq: ABUS) has initiated the Phase 1 clinical trial for AB-161, an oral RNA destabilizer aimed at providing a functional cure for hepatitis B virus (HBV). The first subject has been dosed, and initial data is anticipated in the second half of 2023. This double-blind, placebo-controlled trial will evaluate safety and tolerability in healthy subjects, with unique cohorts receiving escalating doses. AB-161 targets host proteins involved in stabilizing HBV RNA, potentially leading to reduced viral replication and lower HBsAg levels.

Chronic HBV affects over 290 million globally, with significant unmet medical needs.

Arbutus Biopharma Corporation (Nasdaq: ABUS) presented preclinical data for AB-343, a novel oral SARS-CoV-2 M^pro inhibitor, at the 36th International Conference on Antiviral Research. AB-343 is designed as a ritonavir-free treatment for COVID-19 and shows promise against circulating variants. The drug exhibited potent antiviral activity (EC50 ~ 20nM) and superior binding characteristics compared to existing treatments like nirmatrelvir. Arbutus plans to advance AB-343 into IND-enabling studies, aiming for a Phase 1 clinical trial in H2 2023. These developments highlight Arbutus' commitment to tackling COVID-19 through innovative therapeutics.

Arbutus Biopharma Corporation (Nasdaq: ABUS) reported significant advancements in its clinical pipeline during their year-end 2022 update. Notably, AB-729, an RNAi therapeutic for chronic HBV, is undergoing multiple Phase 2a trials, with preliminary data expected in 2023. The company also plans to initiate Phase 1 trials for oral candidates AB-101 and AB-161, along with AB-343 targeting coronaviruses. Financially, Arbutus ended 2022 with $184.3 million in cash. Total revenue surged to $39 million, primarily from a $26 million license agreement. However, R&D expenses rose to $84.4 million, leading to a net loss of $69.5 million, an improvement over the previous year's loss.

Arbutus Biopharma Corporation (Nasdaq: ABUS) announced its upcoming fourth quarter and year-end 2022 financial results, scheduled for March 2, 2023. A press release will be issued at 7:30 a.m. ET, followed by a conference call/webcast at 8:45 a.m. ET. The company focuses on developing therapeutics for viral diseases including Hepatitis B and SARS-CoV-2, with lead compound AB-729 currently in phase 2 trials. Arbutus aims to provide a functional cure for chronic HBV. Investors can access the conference call via a registration link or through the company's website.

Arbutus Biopharma Corporation (Nasdaq: ABUS) has announced participation in three investor conferences: the SVB Securities Global Biopharma Conference from February 14-16, 2023, the Cowen 43rd Annual Health Care Conference with a formal presentation on March 7, and the Jefferies Biotech on the Bay Summit from March 16-17, 2023. The company focuses on developing innovative therapeutics for viral diseases, particularly Hepatitis B and coronaviruses. Its lead compound, AB-729, is currently under evaluation in multiple phase 2 clinical trials. Access to webcasts for the presentations will be available on the Arbutus website.

Arbutus Biopharma Corporation (Nasdaq: ABUS) announced that Dr. Tram Tran has resigned from its Board of Directors, effective February 26, 2023, to transition into public service. Dr. Tran, a board member since November 2021, was part of the Executive Compensation and Human Resources Committee, contributing her expertise in virology to the company's hepatitis B and COVID-19 pipeline. The resignation was amicable and not due to any disagreements. The company is initiating a search for a new independent board member to fill her vacancy. Arbutus focuses on developing therapeutics for Hepatitis B and coronaviruses, including its lead candidate, AB-729.

Arbutus Biopharma Corporation (Nasdaq: ABUS) announced its 2023 objectives, focusing on advancing its HBV assets, AB-101 and AB-161, into Phase 1 clinical trials and expecting data from ongoing AB-729 trials. The company anticipates significant data from multiple Phase 2a trials in 2023 and plans to advance AB-343, a new coronavirus asset, into clinical trials. As of December 31, 2022, Arbutus had approximately $185 million in cash, providing a runway into Q4 2024. The company aims to address unmet needs in HBV and coronavirus treatment.

Arbutus Biopharma Corporation (Nasdaq: ABUS) announced promising preliminary data from the lead-in phase of its Phase 2a clinical trial for AB-729, targeting chronic Hepatitis B virus (cHBV). With 43 patients enrolled, the initial results show a 1.51 log decline in HBsAg after 16 weeks, similar to Phase 1b results. The treatment, combined with nucleos(t)ide analogue (NA) therapy and Peginterferon alfa-2a, demonstrates a safe profile. The company expects to release further results from the trial's IFN phase in the first half of 2023, underscoring its commitment to addressing chronic HBV infection.

Arbutus Biopharma Corporation (ABUS) reported strong cash reserves of $190.2 million as of September 30, 2022, sufficient to fund operations into Q2 2024. The company showcased promising data on its RNAi therapeutic AB-729, indicating long-term control of HBV biomarkers. Total revenue increased 79% year-over-year to $6.0 million, driven by collaborations. However, the net loss decreased from $24.2 million to $17.6 million, reflecting a loss per share of $0.12. Despite challenges from COVID-19, the company is on track to achieve milestones in its clinical pipeline by year-end.