PharmAust rebrands as Neurizon Therapeutics, confirming strategy

MELBOURNE, Australia, Oct. 15, 2024 -- Neurizon Therapeutics Limited, previously known as PharmAust Limited, has officially announced its rebranding, which received shareholder approval at the Annual General Meeting on October 9, 2024. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has registered the new name. Starting today, the company’s securities will be traded under the ticker symbols "NUZ" for fully paid ordinary shares and "NUZOA" for quoted options.

The rebranding to Neurizon Therapeutics Limited reflects the company’s commitment to innovating treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, with a primary focus on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), a prevalent form of Motor Neurone Disease. Chair Sergio Duchini emphasized the alignment of the new name and brand with the company's mission to create promising new treatment avenues for patients enduring complex neurological diseases.

Neurizon Therapeutics' strategic approach is built around three main pillars:

1. **Enhancing Patient Access to ALS Treatments**: Neurizon is focused on facilitating greater patient access to novel ALS therapies. The company has attained Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) in the United States and is anticipating a similar status in Europe. Additionally, it is investigating the Special Access Scheme (SAS) in Australia. These initiatives aim to expedite the delivery of critical treatments to patients in need, establishing a robust framework for global distribution.

2. **Accelerating Hope through the HEALEY ALS Platform Trial**: With the inclusion of their drug candidate NUZ-001 in the HEALEY ALS Platform Trial, Neurizon is collaborating with leading neurologists and researchers. This partnership seeks to substantiate NUZ-001's efficacy in ALS treatment, accelerating patient access and enhancing Neurizon’s prominence in the ALS research domain. The company aims to fast-track regulatory approvals and introduce impactful treatments to the market.

3. **Exploring NUZ-001's Potential Beyond ALS**: Neurizon is investigating the broader applications of NUZ-001 for various neurodegenerative diseases, particularly targeting areas that have seen limited treatment advancements for decades.

Dr. Michael Thurn, Managing Director and CEO of Neurizon Therapeutics, expressed enthusiasm about the company’s future, citing the advanced clinical-stage product, a renewed strategy, and a committed team. Dr. Thurn highlighted the significant market potential, projecting a growth to US$77.82 billion by 2029. This provides Neurizon with the opportunity to leverage its global network of neurologists and its expertise to bring innovative treatments to patients.

Sergio Duchini extended gratitude to shareholders for their continuous support and shared commitment to advancing the company's mission.

Neurizon Therapeutics Limited, traded on the ASX under the symbol NUZ, is a clinical-stage biotech firm focused on developing treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. Their lead candidate, NUZ-001, is aimed at treating ALS. The company's strategic objectives include accelerating the availability of effective ALS treatments and exploring the broader potential of NUZ-001 for various neurodegenerative conditions. Through global collaborations and comprehensive clinical research, Neurizon is devoted to creating new opportunities for patients and their families affected by complex neural disorders.