In May last year, Imugene (IMU: $0.089) commenced the first study with its novel oncolytic virus, CF33. CF33 was invented by Dr Yuman Fong and his team at City of Hope. It was in-licensed by Imugene in 2019 with the first clinical study having started in May last year.

For Chimeric Therapeutics (CHM: $0.029), achieving Phase Ib data from its programs is expected to position the company for licensing deals ahead of registration Phase II studies with CAR-T cell therapies.

Novel heart valve development company Anteris Technologies (AVR: $20.00) has secured commitments to raise $40 million at $20 per share through a private placement.

Immuron (IMC: $0.075) has reported a record $1.5 million in sales in the September quarter for its Travelan product used to prevent travelers' diarrhea.

Aroa Biosurgery (ARX: $0.79), a wound-healing products company, continues its resilient performance with a 35% increase in cash receipts during the September quarter compared to the PCP. Total revenue during the September quarter was NZ$14.8 million.

–3 November 2023–

Neuren  Pharmaceuticals' (NEU: $11.29) partner Acadia Pharmaceuticals has reported a strong second quarter of sales of its drug DAYBUE for Rett syndrome after having been launched in the US in April this year.

Over the next 12-24 months a number of companies in the sector may receive acquisition bids. The last company to be acquired was ResApp Health for $180 million by Pfizer in 2022. Three companies viewed as potential targets by Bioshares are discussed below.

Dimerix (DXB: $0.16) has signed a licensing deal for its lead compound, DMX-200, with Advanz Pharma. The deal gives Advanz rights to the use of DMX-200 for the treatment of FSGS (Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis) in Europe, the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Over the next 12-24 months a number of companies in the sector may receive acquisition bids. The last company to be acquired was ResApp Health for $180 million by Pfizer in 2022. Three companies viewed as potential targets by Bioshares are discussed below.

Not surprisingly, Pharmaxis (PXS: $0.035) will sell off its mannitol drug business. The acquiror is Australian-based Arna Pharma.