Assembly Biosciences, Inc. reports developments for a clinical-stage biotechnology business focused on small-molecule therapeutics for serious viral diseases. Its recurring updates center on investigational antiviral candidates for herpes simplex virus, hepatitis delta virus and hepatitis B virus, including helicase-primase inhibitors ABI-5366 and ABI-1179, the HDV entry inhibitor ABI-6250 and the HBV capsid assembly modulator ABI-4334.
Company news also covers clinical data presentations, financial results, research and collaboration revenue, the Gilead collaboration and licensing activity, and equity financing transactions that support pipeline development.
Assembly Biosciences (Nasdaq: ASMB) presented new virology data at the AASLD conference, showcasing advancements in its hepatitis B virus (HBV) therapeutic candidates. Key highlights include the nanomolar potency of ABI-4334, a core inhibitor, and progress on a new class of small molecule entry inhibitors targeting HBV and HDV. The data supports ABI-4334's advancement into Phase 1 clinical studies. Additionally, research on interferon-alpha receptor agonists indicates potential for improved tolerability and long-lasting antiviral effects. The company remains committed to developing curative therapies for chronic HBV patients.
Assembly Biosciences, Inc. (Nasdaq: ASMB) announced four poster presentations at the AASLD The Liver Meeting® from November 4-8, 2022, in Washington, DC. This includes two late-breaking presentations showcasing preclinical data for ABI-4334, a next-generation core inhibitor targeting hepatitis B virus (HBV). The company plans to initiate a Phase 1a trial for ABI-4334 within H2 2022. Additional presentations will focus on their viral entry inhibitor and the ongoing Phase 2 study of vebicorvir. These findings demonstrate the potential of Assembly Bio's innovative virology portfolio.
Assembly Biosciences announced the retirement of John G. McHutchison as CEO effective end of 2022. He will remain on the Board of Directors, chairing the Science & Technology Committee. Jason A. Okazaki, currently the President and COO, has been elected to succeed McHutchison as CEO. Okazaki, who joined Assembly Bio in 2020, played a key role in the company's strategic direction and clinical operations. The Board expresses confidence in Okazaki's leadership to advance the company's mission in developing therapies for hepatitis B virus.
Assembly Biosciences (Nasdaq: ASMB) is set to host a research webcast on August 31, 2022, from 1:30-2:30 PM PT, featuring two innovative small molecule programs targeting viral diseases. Notable speakers include CEO John McHutchison and Nobel laureate Sir Michael Houghton. The first program focuses on a unique antiviral for herpes simplex virus type 2, while the second advances a pan-herpes antiviral for serious viral infections post-transplant. The webcast will be accessible live and via replay on their website.
Assembly Biosciences (ASMB) reported its Q2 2022 financial results, highlighting a cash position of $128.6 million, funding operations until mid-2024. The company initiated a Phase 1b trial for next-generation core inhibitor ABI-H3733 and announced the discontinuation of vebicorvir's development. R&D expenses increased to $17.8 million, while the net loss was $24.5 million, or $0.51 per share. Additionally, a new small molecule interferon-α receptor agonist research program was launched, aiming for improved tolerability in HBV treatments.
Assembly Bio announces the discontinuation of clinical development for vebicorvir (VBR), its first-generation core inhibitor, based on ineffective interim efficacy data from ongoing trials. The focus will shift to next-generation core inhibitors ABI-H3733 and ABI-4334, which have shown significantly higher potency in preclinical studies. The company will undergo organizational restructuring, reducing its workforce by approximately 30%, thus extending its cash runway into the first half of 2024. Initial data from the ABI-H3733 trial is expected in H2 2022.
Assembly Biosciences (Nasdaq: ASMB) reported promising advancements in its investigational HBV core inhibitor programs ABI-H3733, ABI-4334, and vebicorvir (VBR) during the International Liver Congress 2022.
Key data highlights include:
- ABI-H3733 shows improved pharmacokinetics in a new tablet formulation.
- ABI-4334 demonstrates significant potency against HBV cccDNA formation.
- VBR, under Phase 2 studies, exhibits enhanced antiviral effects when combined with entecavir.
Assembly aims to deliver innovative therapies for the 296 million people affected by HBV worldwide.
Assembly Biosciences (ASMB) has announced a new research program focusing on a novel oral interferon-α receptor agonist, aimed at enhancing treatment for hepatitis B. This program will leverage the antiviral mechanisms of interferon-α while minimizing systemic exposure, potentially improving patient tolerability. A live webcast is scheduled for July 26, 2022, featuring key speakers including Professor Edward J. Gane and CEO John McHutchison. The company remains committed to developing curative therapies for the 296 million individuals affected by HBV globally.
Assembly Biosciences, Inc. (Nasdaq: ASMB), a clinical-stage biotechnology firm, announced the acceptance of six abstracts for presentation at the International Liver Congress™ 2022 held from June 22-26. The data covers investigational core inhibitors including vebicorvir and two new candidates, ABI-H3733 and ABI-4334. CEO John McHutchison emphasized the significance of the presentations, which support the company's goal of developing finite therapies for hepatitis B virus (HBV). The posters will be accessible online for conference registrants, showcasing new insights into their drug candidates.
Assembly Biosciences, Inc. (Nasdaq: ASMB) has initiated a Phase 1b trial for its next-generation core inhibitor, ABI-H3733, targeting chronic hepatitis B virus (cHBV) infection. This trial follows a successful Phase 1a study that showed a favorable safety profile and assesses a new tablet formulation designed for once-daily dosing. Approximately 50 treatment-naïve patients will participate in a 28-day, randomized, double-blind study to evaluate the drug's safety and antiviral activity, with results supporting future Phase 2 trial dose selection.