Meningitis, Fungal

PRINCETON, N.J.--( BUSINESS WIRE )-- Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE: BMY) today announced new data from the Phase 3 DAYBREAK trial demonstrating that decreased rates of brain volume loss were sustained in the open-label extension (OLE) for patients treated with Zeposia (ozanimod) for relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis. These findings showed that patients receiving continuous Zeposia treatment for up to five years experienced low and stable rates of whole brain volume (WBV) loss through Month 60 (annualized least squares mean [LSM] % change from parent trial baseline: RADIANCE, −0.27; SUNBEAM, −0.35). Additionally, findings from a separate DAYBREAK OLE safety analysis demonstrated declining or stable incidence rates of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), with relatively low rates of infections, serious infections and opportunistic infections over more than eight years of treatment with Zeposia . These data and 12 additional abstracts will be presented at the 40 th Congress of the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ECTRIMS) in Copenhagen, Denmark taking place September 18-20, 2024. “If not treated early upon diagnosis, multiple sclerosis can lead to significant, irreversible brain volume loss and cognitive decline,” said Jeffrey Cohen, MD, Mellen Center for Multiple Sclerosis, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio and a paid consultant for Bristol Myers Squibb. “These new analyses reinforce the well-established safety and efficacy profile of Zeposia as an effective oral therapy, especially for newly diagnosed patients living with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis.” Reductions in brain volume loss with Zeposia treatment The DAYBREAK OLE trial included 2,257 patients from the SUNBEAM and RADIANCE Phase 3 trials and evaluated rates of brain volume loss (Poster #P1623). Switching from interferon beta-1a (IFN-β) to Zeposia treatment consistently reduced rates of WBV loss (annualized LSM% change from RADIANCE baseline to Month 24 and DAYBREAK baseline to Month 24: −0.48 and −0.19, respectively, with a similar pattern observed in SUNBEAM). Additionally, similar reductions were observed for change in thalamic volume loss. High annualized LSM% reductions in cortical grey matter volume (CGMV) were observed with IFN-β (annualized change at Month 12 relative to SUNBEAM baseline: −1.02; annualized change at Month 24 relative to RADIANCE baseline: −0.59), but this trend reversed 12 months after switching to Zeposia in DAYBREAK (annualized LSM% increase relative to DAYBREAK baseline: patients from SUNBEAM, 0.10; patients from RADIANCE, 0.20), with low annualized LSM% CGMV loss observed thereafter. Established Zeposia safety profile confirmed with more than eight years of DAYBREAK data The final DAYBREAK OLE safety analysis (Poster #P1609) included 762 patients who were treated with continuous Zeposia with a median exposure of 83.9 months. Incident rates per 1,000 person-years decreased over time from the Phase 3 trials to Month 60 or more of the DAYBREAK OLE trial. Decreases were observed for overall TEAEs (896.1 versus 101.7), infections (300.5 versus 142.6), opportunistic infections (12.0 versus 4.9), cardiac (22.8 versus 9.5), hepatic (77.0 versus 15.7) and pulmonary disorders (11.3 versus 4.7), respectively. “The data presented at ECTRIMS further reinforce the long-term safety and efficacy of Zeposia and add to the robust body of evidence demonstrating its potential impact on decreasing disease progression over time,” said Alyssa Johnsen, MD, PhD , senior vice president and head of clinical development, Immunology, Cardiovascular and Neuroscience, Bristol Myers Squibb. “Building on our expertise with Zeposia , we are expanding our pipeline as we continue to look for new ways to advance the field of neuroscience. New modalities and disease targets fuel our goal of delivering medicines that elevate standards of care across neurological diseases, including multiple sclerosis.” Bristol Myers Squibb thanks the patients and investigators who participated in the Zeposia clinical trials. About DAYBREAK DAYBREAK was a Phase 3, multi-center, long-term open-label extension study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Zeposia (ozanimod) administered orally to patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (RMS). Eligible patients from the RADIANCE, SUNBEAM and RPC01-1001 trials diagnosed with RMS were enrolled to receive treatment until the end of the DAYBREAK. Patients in the trial received Zeposia 0.92 mg (equivalent to 1 mg). About SUNBEAM SUNBEAM was a pivotal, Phase 3, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, active-controlled trial evaluating the efficacy, safety and tolerability of two doses of oral Zeposia (0.92 mg and 0.46 mg, equivalent to 1 mg and 0.5 mg, respectively) against weekly intramuscular Avonex ® for at least a 12-month treatment period. The study included 1,346 people living with RMS across 152 sites in 20 countries. The primary endpoint of the trial was annualized relapse rates during the treatment period. The secondary MRI endpoints included the number of new or enlarging hyperintense T2-weighted brain MRI lesions over 12 months, number of gadolinium-enhanced brain MRI lesions at Month 12 and percent change from baseline in whole brain volume at Month 12. Cortical grey and thalamic volume changes were also prospectively assessed versus active comparator. About RADIANCE RADIANCE Part B was a pivotal, Phase 3, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, active-controlled trial evaluating the efficacy, safety and tolerability of oral Zeposia 0.92 mg (equivalent to 1 mg) against weekly intramuscular Avonex ® (interferon beta-1a) over a 24-month treatment period. The study included 1,320 people living with RMS across 150 sites in 21 countries. The primary endpoint of the trial was annualized relapse rates over 24 months. The secondary MRI endpoints included the number of new or enlarging hyperintense T2-weighted brain MRI lesions over 24 months. About Multiple Sclerosis Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disabling, unpredictable disease in which the immune system attacks the protective myelin sheath that covers the nerves. The myelin damage disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Ultimately, the nerves themselves may deteriorate—a process that's currently irreversible. MS affects 700,000 people in Europe and approximately 2.9 million people worldwide. Relapsing forms of MS (RMS), including clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing remitting disease and active secondary progressive disease, is characterized by clearly defined attacks of worsening neurologic function. These attacks—often called relapses, flare-ups or exacerbations—are followed by partial or complete recovery periods. During these recovery periods, also called remissions, symptoms improve partially or completely with no apparent progression of disease. However, smoldering neuroinflammation can be present from the earliest stages of MS, which is underlying and continuous disease activity occurring simultaneously in different areas of the brain that contributes to disability accumulation. Since MS relapses are unpredictable, patients can feel frustrated, stressed or scared when they occur. RMS is the most common disease course at the time of diagnosis. Approximately 85% of patients are initially diagnosed with RMS, compared with 10%-15% diagnosed with progressive forms of the disease. Bristol Myers Squibb: Delivering Breakthrough Science for Meaningful Interventions in Neuroscience Neurological conditions represent some of the greatest challenges of our time because of their impact on society, including patients, caregivers, families and healthcare systems. At Bristol Myers Squibb, we are committed to advancing our robust pipeline of potential medicines for neurological disorders with the goal of modifying disease and improving quality of life. Leveraging genetics, biomarkers and predictive sciences, we target key pathways involved in the initiation and progression of neurological diseases to develop therapies with the potential to optimize patient outcomes. About Zeposia (ozanimod) Zeposia (ozanimod) is an oral, sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator that binds with high affinity to S1P receptors 1 and 5. Zeposia blocks the capacity of lymphocytes to egress from lymph nodes, reducing the number of lymphocytes in peripheral blood. The mechanism by which Zeposia exerts therapeutic effects in multiple sclerosis (MS) is unknown but may involve the reduction of lymphocyte migration into the central nervous system. Zeposia is approved in numerous countries around the world for the treatment of adults with relapsing forms of MS and adults with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis. U.S. FDA APPROVED INDICATIONS ZEPOSIA ® (ozanimod) is indicated for the treatment of: Relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS), to include clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting disease, and active secondary progressive disease, in adults. Moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis (UC) in adults. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION Contraindications: Patients who in the last 6 months, experienced myocardial infarction, unstable angina, stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), decompensated heart failure requiring hospitalization, or Class III/IV heart failure or have a presence of Mobitz type II second-degree or third-degree atrioventricular (AV) block, sick sinus syndrome, or sino-atrial block, unless the patient has a functioning pacemaker Patients with severe untreated sleep apnea Patients taking a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor Infections: ZEPOSIA may increase the susceptibility to infections. Life-threatening and rare fatal infections have occurred in patients receiving ZEPOSIA. Obtain a recent (i.e., within 6 months or after discontinuation of prior MS or UC therapy) complete blood count (CBC) including lymphocyte count before initiation of ZEPOSIA. Delay initiation of ZEPOSIA in patients with an active infection until the infection is resolved. Consider interruption of treatment with ZEPOSIA if a patient develops a serious infection. Continue monitoring for infections up to 3 months after discontinuing ZEPOSIA. Herpes zoster was reported as an adverse reaction in ZEPOSIA-treated patients. Herpes simplex encephalitis and varicella zoster meningitis have been reported with sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulators. Patients without a healthcare professional-confirmed history of varicella (chickenpox), or without documentation of a full course of vaccination against varicella zoster virus (VZV), should be tested for antibodies to VZV before initiating ZEPOSIA. A full course of vaccination for antibody-negative patients with varicella vaccine is recommended prior to commencing treatment with ZEPOSIA. Cases of fatal cryptococcal meningitis (CM) were reported in patients treated with another S1P receptor modulator. If CM is suspected, ZEPOSIA should be suspended until cryptococcal infection has been excluded. If CM is diagnosed, appropriate treatment should be initiated. In the MS and UC clinical studies, patients who received ZEPOSIA were not to receive concomitant treatment with antineoplastic, non-corticosteroid immunosuppressive, or immune-modulating therapies used for treatment of MS and UC. Concomitant use of ZEPOSIA with any of these therapies would be expected to increase the risk of immunosuppression. When switching to ZEPOSIA from immunosuppressive medications, consider the duration of their effects and their mode of action to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Use of live attenuated vaccines should be avoided during and for 3 months after treatment with ZEPOSIA. If live attenuated vaccine immunizations are required, administer at least 1 month prior to initiation of ZEPOSIA. Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML): PML is an opportunistic viral infection of the brain that typically occurs in patients who are immunocompromised, and that usually leads to death or severe disability. PML has been reported in patients treated with S1P receptor modulators, including ZEPOSIA, and other MS and UC therapies and has been associated with some risk factors. If PML is suspected, withhold ZEPOSIA and perform an appropriate diagnostic evaluation. If confirmed, treatment with ZEPOSIA should be discontinued. Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) has been reported in MS patients treated with S1P receptor modulators who developed PML and subsequently discontinued treatment. IRIS presents as a clinical decline in the patient’s condition that may be rapid, can lead to serious neurological complications or death, and is often associated with characteristic changes on MRI. The time to onset of IRIS in patients with PML was generally within a few months after S1P receptor modulator discontinuation. Monitoring for development of IRIS and appropriate treatment of the associated inflammation should be undertaken. Bradyarrhythmia and Atrioventricular Conduction Delays: Since initiation of ZEPOSIA may result in a transient decrease in heart rate and atrioventricular conduction delays, dose titration is recommended to help reduce cardiac effects. Initiation of ZEPOSIA without dose escalation may result in greater decreases in heart rate. If treatment with ZEPOSIA is considered, advice from a cardiologist should be sought for those individuals: with significant QT prolongation with arrhythmias requiring treatment with Class 1a or III anti-arrhythmic drugs with ischemic heart disease, heart failure, history of cardiac arrest or myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular disease, and uncontrolled hypertension with a history of Mobitz type II second-degree or higher AV block, sick sinus syndrome, or sino-atrial heart block Liver Injury: Elevations of aminotransferases may occur in patients receiving ZEPOSIA. Obtain liver function tests, if not recently available (i.e., within 6 months), before initiation of ZEPOSIA. Patients who develop symptoms suggestive of hepatic dysfunction should have hepatic enzymes checked and ZEPOSIA should be discontinued if significant liver injury is confirmed. Fetal Risk: There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Based on animal studies, ZEPOSIA may cause fetal harm. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception to avoid pregnancy during treatment and for 3 months after stopping ZEPOSIA. Women who become pregnant while taking ZEPOSIA for MS may enroll in the ZEPOSIA pregnancy registry by calling 1-877-301-9314 or visiting www.zeposiapregnancyregistry.com . Increased Blood Pressure: Increase in systolic pressure was observed after about 3 months of treatment and persisted throughout treatment. Blood pressure should be monitored during treatment and managed appropriately. Certain foods that may contain very high amounts of tyramine could cause severe hypertension in patients taking ZEPOSIA. Patients should be advised to avoid foods containing a very large amount of tyramine while taking ZEPOSIA. Respiratory Effects: ZEPOSIA may cause a decline in pulmonary function. Spirometric evaluation of respiratory function should be performed during therapy, if clinically indicated. Macular Edema: S1P modulators have been associated with an increased risk of macular edema. Patients with a history of uveitis or diabetes mellitus are at increased risk. Patients with a history of these conditions should have an ophthalmic evaluation of the fundus, including the macula, prior to treatment initiation and regular follow-up examinations. An ophthalmic evaluation is recommended in all patients at any time if there is a change in vision. Continued use of ZEPOSIA in patients with macular edema has not been evaluated; potential benefits and risks for the individual patient should be considered if deciding whether ZEPOSIA should be discontinued. Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES): Rare cases of PRES have been reported in patients receiving a S1P receptor modulator. If a ZEPOSIA-treated patient develops unexpected neurological or psychiatric symptoms or any symptom/sign suggestive of an increase in intracranial pressure, a complete physical and neurological examination should be conducted. Symptoms of PRES are usually reversible but may evolve into ischemic stroke or cerebral hemorrhage. Delay in diagnosis and treatment may lead to permanent neurological sequelae. If PRES is suspected, treatment with ZEPOSIA should be discontinued. Unintended Additive Immunosuppressive Effects From Prior Immunosuppressive or Immune-Modulating Drugs: When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects while at the same time minimizing risk of disease reactivation. Initiating treatment with ZEPOSIA after treatment with alemtuzumab is not recommended. Severe Increase in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Disability After Stopping ZEPOSIA: In MS, severe exacerbation of disease, including disease rebound, has been rarely reported after discontinuation of a S1P receptor modulator. The possibility of severe exacerbation of disease should be considered after stopping ZEPOSIA treatment so patients should be monitored upon discontinuation. After stopping ZEPOSIA in the setting of PML, monitor for development of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (PML-IRIS). Immune System Effects After Stopping ZEPOSIA: After discontinuing ZEPOSIA, the median time for lymphocyte counts to return to the normal range was 30 days with approximately 90% of patients in the normal range within 3 months. Use of immunosuppressants within this period may lead to an additive effect on the immune system, therefore caution should be applied when initiating other drugs 4 weeks after the last dose of ZEPOSIA. Most Common Adverse Reactions that occurred in the MS clinical trials of ZEPOSIA-treated patients (≥4%): upper respiratory infection, hepatic transaminase elevation, orthostatic hypotension, urinary tract infection, back pain, and hypertension. In the UC clinical trials, the most common adverse reactions that occurred in ≥4% of ZEPOSIA-treated patients and greater than in patients who received placebo were upper respiratory infection, liver test increased, and headache. Use in Specific Populations: Hepatic Impairment: Dosage adjustment in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class A or B) is required, and use of ZEPOSIA in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C) is not recommended. For additional safety information, please see the full Prescribing Information and Medication Guide . About Bristol Myers Squibb Bristol Myers Squibb is a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases. For more information about Bristol Myers Squibb, visit us at BMS.com or follow us on LinkedIn , Twitter , YouTube , Facebook and Instagram . Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 regarding, among other things, the research, development and commercialization of pharmaceutical products. All statements that are not statements of historical facts are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and projections about our future financial results, goals, plans and objectives and involve inherent risks, assumptions and uncertainties, including internal or external factors that could delay, divert or change any of them in the next several years, that are difficult to predict, may be beyond our control and could cause our future financial results, goals, plans and objectives to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, the statements. These risks, assumptions, uncertainties and other factors include, among others, that results of future post-marketing studies will be consistent with the results of this study, that Zeposia (ozanimod) for the indication described in this release may not be commercially successful, any marketing approvals, if granted, may have significant limitations on their use, and that continued approval of Zeposia for such indication may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in additional confirmatory trials. No forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. Forward-looking statements in this press release should be evaluated together with the many risks and uncertainties that affect Bristol Myers Squibb’s business and market, particularly those identified in the cautionary statement and risk factors discussion in Bristol Myers Squibb’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023, as updated by our subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The forward-looking statements included in this document are made only as of the date of this document and except as otherwise required by applicable law, Bristol Myers Squibb undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, changed circumstances or otherwise. corporatefinancial-news

Signs non-binding term sheet granting global rights to develop and commercialize oral MAT2203 for invasive aspergillosis and potentially other invasive fungal infections 31 patients have enrolled in the MAT2203 Compassionate/Expanded Use Access Program with 6 additional patients under evaluation Additional LNC platform work in inflammation and oncology completed; Company evaluating next steps Conference call begins at 4:30 p.m. Eastern time today BEDMINSTER, N.J., Aug. 14, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Matinas BioPharma Holdings, Inc. (NYSE American: MTNB), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on delivering groundbreaking therapies using its lipid nanocrystal (LNC) platform delivery technology, reports financial results for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 and provides a business update. “We continue to engage in constructive partnership dialogues for MAT2203 and are pleased to announce that we have signed a non-binding term sheet for global licensing rights to this oral formulation of the potent, yet toxic antifungal amphotericin B,” said Jerome D. Jabbour, Chief Executive Officer of Matinas. “Since June, seven additional patients have gained access to oral MAT2203 in our Compassionate/Expanded Use Access Program with an additional six patients under evaluation. We are experiencing a dramatic increase in requests by physicians seeking access for their patients who have limited or no treatment options, which we attribute to the consistently positive clinical impact of MAT2203 in successfully treating a variety of deadly invasive fungal infections. “Recent studies have increased our understanding of the potential for our LNC platform in delivering both small oligonucleotides and small molecule oncology drugs, including LNC cellular uptake and cargo delivery,” he added. “We continue to expand our knowledge base and are evaluating the next best steps for this technology as we determine how to maximize return to shareholders. We expect to be in a better position to provide additional guidance following the consummation of a MAT2203 partnership.” Key Program Updates MAT2203 (Oral Amphotericin B) Matinas signed a non-binding term sheet with a single partner for global licensing rights to develop, manufacture and commercialize MAT2203 for all future treatment indications, including the intended initial indication of treatment for patients with invasive aspergillosis with limited or no other treatment options. Preparations are ongoing to enable the initiation of the ORALTO Phase 3 registration trial of MAT2203 to commence as soon as possible following a successful partnership announcement. Under the Compassionate/Expanded Use Access Program, 31 patients with a variety of serious and even life-threatening invasive fungal infections with limited or no other treatment options have been provided access to oral MAT2203, and 6 additional requests are under evaluation. Importantly, 7 patients have been or are being treated for invasive aspergillosis, each with positive results. Of the 15 patients in the Compassionate/Expanded Use Access Program who have completed treatment with MAT2203 (median treatment of 16 weeks with a range of 2 to 49 weeks), 8 had a complete response and 7 were improved. Response to treatment was assessed by the treating physician. Nine additional patients are continuing to receive longer-term treatment with positive ongoing effects and 5 have just recently initiated treatment. To date, only 2 patients have discontinued MAT2203 in this program, both occurring during the first week of treatment, with one due to an intolerance and the other due to a terminal condition not otherwise related to the underlying fungal infection. LNC Platform Following early success in melanoma, recent additional in vivo studies in animal breast, prostate and lung cancer models have demonstrated varying degrees of tumor growth inhibition with daily oral dosing of LNC-docetaxel. Additionally, daily oral LNC-docetaxel in combination with intravenous docetaxel demonstrated greater degrees of tumor inhibition, but also resulted in additional weight loss. Additional studies are evaluating several strategies to potentially improve the therapeutic index of docetaxel. An LNC formulation of an additional chemotherapeutic agent, miriplatin, a highly toxic agent only approved outside the U.S. for intra-arterial use, demonstrated strong cellular uptake and tumor cell-killing capabilities in vitro in testing conducted during the second quarter. More recent in vivo testing showed the oral LNC formulation of miriplatin as very effective in reducing tumor sizes with significant weight loss also observed. A series of in vitro studies was recently completed investigating potential relationships between the amount of surface phosphatidylserine (PS) and the extent of LNC uptake into certain tumor cells. Based upon these studies, surface PS expression appears to be one, but not the only, driving factor for cellular uptake. Additional work is ongoing to better understand and predict the efficacy of LNC-delivered chemotherapeutics. Following early encouraging in vivo data demonstrating the successful oral delivery, biological activity, and potential therapeutic efficacy of two different LNC-formulated small oligonucleotides targeting inflammatory cytokines IL-17A and TNFα, more recent follow-up in vivo studies of orally administered LNC-formulated small oligonucleotides have been less consistent in showing therapeutic efficacy in certain inflammatory conditions. Additional optimization is required prior to identifying a potential product candidate. Second Quarter Financial Results The Company reported no revenue for the second quarters of 2024 and 2023. Total costs and expenses for the second quarter of 2024 were $5.8 million, compared with $6.2 million for the second quarter of 2023. The decrease was primarily due to lower clinical development expenses, personnel costs and administrative expenses. The net loss for the second quarter of 2024 was $5.7 million, or $0.02 per share, compared with a net loss for the second quarter of 2023 of $6.1 million, or $0.03 per share. Six Month Financial Results The Company reported no revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared with $1.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023, which was generated from research collaborations with BioNTech SE and Genentech Inc. Total costs and expenses for the first six months of 2024 were $11.7 million, compared with $12.8 million for the first six months of 2023. The net loss for the first six months of 2024 was $11.5 million, or $0.05 per share, compared with a net loss for the first six months of 2023 of $11.6 million, or $0.05 per share. Cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities as of June 30, 2024, were $14.3 million, compared with $13.8 million as of December 31, 2023. In April 2024, the Company raised gross proceeds of $10.0 million through a registered direct offering. Conference Call and Webcast Matinas will host a conference call and webcast today beginning at 4:30 p.m. Eastern time. To participate in the call, please dial (866) 682-6100 or (862) 298-0702. The live webcast will be accessible on the Investors section of the Company’s website and archived for 90 days. About Matinas BioPharmaMatinas BioPharma is a biopharmaceutical company focused on delivering groundbreaking therapies using its lipid nanocrystal (LNC) platform delivery technology. Matinas’ lead LNC-based therapy is MAT2203, an oral formulation of the broad-spectrum antifungal drug amphotericin B, which although highly potent, can be associated with significant toxicity. Matinas’ LNC platform provides oral delivery of amphotericin B without the significant nephrotoxicity otherwise associated with IV-delivered formulations. Combining comparable fungicidal activity with targeted delivery results in a lower risk of toxicity and potentially creates the ideal antifungal agent for the treatment of invasive fungal infections. MAT2203 was successfully evaluated in the completed Phase 2 EnACT study in HIV patients suffering from cryptococcal meningitis, meeting its primary endpoint and achieving robust survival. MAT2203 will be further evaluated in a single Phase 3 registration trial (the “ORALTO” trial) as an oral step-down monotherapy following treatment with AmBisome® (liposomal amphotericin B) compared with the standard of care in patients with invasive aspergillosis who have limited treatment options. In addition to MAT2203, preclinical and clinical data have demonstrated that this novel technology can potentially provide solutions to many challenges of achieving safe and effective intracellular delivery of both small molecules and larger, more complex molecular cargos including small oligonucleotides such as ASOs and siRNA. The combination of its unique mechanism of action and flexibility with routes of administration (including oral) positions Matinas’ LNC technology to potentially become a preferred next-generation orally available intracellular drug delivery platform. For more information, please visit www.matinasbiopharma.com. Forward-looking StatementsThis release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including those relating to our business activities, our strategy and plans, the potential of our LNC platform technology, and the future development of our product candidates, including MAT2203, the Company’s ability to identify and pursue development, licensing and partnership opportunities for its products, including MAT2203, or platform delivery technologies on favorable terms, if at all, and the ability to obtain required regulatory approval and other statements that are predictive in nature, that depend upon or refer to future events or conditions. All statements other than statements of historical fact are statements that could be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include words such as "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "could," "believes," "estimates" and similar expressions. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results to be materially different from any future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, our ability to continue as a going concern, our ability to obtain additional capital to meet our liquidity needs on acceptable terms, or at all, including the additional capital which will be necessary to complete the clinical trials of our product candidates; our ability to successfully complete research and further development and commercialization of our product candidates; the uncertainties inherent in clinical testing; the timing, cost and uncertainty of obtaining regulatory approvals; our ability to protect the Company’s intellectual property; the loss of any executive officers or key personnel or consultants; competition; changes in the regulatory landscape or the imposition of regulations that affect the Company’s products; and the other factors listed under "Risk Factors" in our filings with the SEC, including Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this release. Except as may be required by law, the Company does not undertake any obligation to release publicly any revisions to such forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Matinas BioPharma’s product candidates are all in a development stage and are not available for sale or use. Investor Contact: LHA Investor RelationsJody Cain Jcain@lhai.com310-691-7100 [Financial Tables to Follow] Matinas BioPharma Holdings, Inc.Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets(in thousands, except for share data) June 30, 2024 December 31, 2023 (Unaudited) (Audited) ASSETS: Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents$4,216 $4,787 Marketable debt securities 10,097 8,969 Restricted cash – security deposit 50 50 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 922 1,737 Total current assets 15,285 15,543 Non-current assets: Leasehold improvements and equipment – net 1,739 1,923 Operating lease right-of-use assets – net 2,770 3,064 Finance lease right-of-use assets – net 18 21 In-process research and development 3,017 3,017 Goodwill 1,336 1,336 Restricted cash – security deposit 200 200 Total non-current assets 9,080 9,561 Total assets$24,365 $25,104 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY: Current liabilities: Accounts payable$238 $514 Accrued expenses 1,442 1,447 Operating lease liabilities – current 707 656 Financing lease liabilities – current 5 5 Total current liabilities 2,392 2,622 Non-current liabilities: Deferred tax liability 341 341 Operating lease liabilities – net of current portion 2,514 2,877 Financing lease liabilities – net of current portion 15 18 Total non-current liabilities 2,870 3,236 Total liabilities 5,262 5,858 Stockholders’ equity: Common stock par value $0.0001 per share, 500,000,000 shares authorized at June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023; 250,816,164 and 217,264,526 issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively 25 22 Additional paid-in capital 206,245 195,018 Accumulated deficit (187,116) (175,573)Accumulated other comprehensive loss (51) (221)Total stockholders’ equity 19,103 19,246 Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity$24,365 $25,104 Matinas BioPharma Holdings, Inc.Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss(in thousands, except for share and per share data)Unaudited Three Months EndedJune 30, Six Months EndedJune 30, 2024 2023 2024 2023 Revenue: Contract revenue$— $— $— $1,096 Costs and expenses: Research and development 3,371 3,559 6,817 7,530 General and administrative 2,468 2,600 4,925 5,311 Total costs and expenses 5,839 6,159 11,742 12,841 Loss from operations (5,839) (6,159) (11,742) (11,745)Other income, net 120 99 199 172 Net loss$(5,719) $(6,060) $(11,543) $(11,573)Net loss per share – basic and diluted$(0.02) $(0.03) $(0.05) $(0.05) Weighted average common shares outstanding: Basic and diluted 249,350,963 217,264,526 233,354,524 217,264,526 Other comprehensive gain, net of tax Unrealized gain on securities available-for-sale 83 81 170 310 Other comprehensive gain, net of tax 83 81 170 310 Comprehensive loss$(5,636) $(5,979) $(11,373) $(11,263)

August 14, 2024 -- Researchers at the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) Clinical Center and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute have developed and tested a new imaging method that will allow specific detection of Aspergillus fumigatus fungal infections in a timely manner in the future, without the need for invasive procedures. Delays in diagnosing fungal infections caused by Aspergillus and other fungi can put immunocompromised patients at risk for more serious illnesses or even death. Due to their presence in the environment, many fungi evolved to use other sources of fuel besides glucose, such as by breaking down complex sugars into simple ones to produce energy. Aspergillus can break down a specific sugar, cellobiose, into two glucose molecules, while most other microbes and human cells cannot. The researchers developed a radioactive version of cellobiose which when injected in the blood, it can be visualized in the body using positron emission tomography (PET) scanners. In this study, radioactive cellobiose ([ 18 F]-Fluorocellobiose, [ 18 F]-FCB) was injected in mice with fungal infections which were then imaged using a specialized PET scanner for small animals. The mice showed accumulation of radioactivity, while mice with bacterial infections or with noninfectious inflammation did not. Researchers also found that the same radioactive tracer, [ 18 F]-FCB, can determine if the mice with fungal infections are responding to treatment through PET images taken before and after starting treatment. The study was funded by the Center for Infectious Disease Imaging (CIDI), a joint initiative between Radiology and Imaging Sciences (RIS) at the NIH Clinical Center and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), in collaboration with the Chemistry and Synthesis Center (CSC) at the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Dima A. Hammoud, M.D., Tenured Senior Investigator, NIH Clinical Center Dima A. Hammoud, MD, et al. Development and preclinical validation of 2-Deoxy 2-[18F] Fluorocellobiose as an Aspergillus-specific PET tracer. Science Translational Medicine. August 14, 2024. DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adl5934 . About the NIH Clinical Center (CC): The NIH Clinical Center is the world’s largest hospital entirely devoted to clinical research. It is a national resource that makes it possible to rapidly translate scientific observations and laboratory discoveries into new approaches for diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease. Over 1,600 clinical research studies are conducted at the NIH Clinical Center, including those focused on cancer, infectious diseases, blood disorders, heart disease, lung disease, alcoholism and drug abuse. For more information about the Clinical Center, visit www.cc.nih.gov. About the National Institutes of Health (NIH): NIH, the nation's medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit www.nih.gov . Whatever your topic of interest, subscribe to our newsletters to get the best of Drugs.com in your inbox.