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MEI Pharma Inc

For the period ended Sep 30, 2024. Filed Nov 12, 2024.

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About this filing

A company's report for each of its first three quarters. The financial statements are not audited. It shows how the business has moved since the last annual report, and what management says changed.

Sep 30, 2024 · Filed Nov 12, 2024

LITS$1.02+4.9%Stored close · as of Nov 6, 2026

What changed in Management’s Discussion and Analysis?

Read the current filing

Previous report: 10-Q

Period ended 2024-03-31; filed 2024-05-09.

0000950170-24-056834

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Current report: 10-Q

Period ended 2024-09-30; filed 2024-11-12.

0000950170-24-125328

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.

Compared 184 previous paragraphs and 113 current paragraphs.

71 unchanged; 28 reworded; 13 added; 82 removed; 3 previous and 1 current paragraphs rearranged.

Tables are not compared: 4 previous and 2 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.

A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.

Added paragraphs (13)

Current report

Unless the context requires otherwise, references in this Annual Report to “MEI Pharma,” “MEI,” “we,” “us” and “our” refer to MEI Pharma, Inc.

Current report

On July 22, 2024, we announced that our Board of Directors (Board) had determined unanimously to begin the evaluation of our strategic alternatives, including potential transactions as well as an orderly wind down of operations, if appropriate, to maximize the value of our assets for our stockholders. We commenced a reduction-in-force (the 2024 RIF) beginning August 1, 2024, which will continue in stages as our operational and strategic direction evolves. We have discontinued the clinical development of voruciclib, while certain nonclinical activities related to MEI’s drug candidate assets will continue to be conducted by us. As part of the review of strategic alternatives, we may consider options such as out-licensing opportunities for existing programs and merger and acquisition opportunities.

Current report

Consistent with our intention to preserve cash, David M. Urso, our President and Chief Executive Officer, and Richard Ghalie, M.D., our Chief Medical Officer, stepped down effective August 1, 2024. Mr. Urso also left the Board at that date. We have entered into consulting agreements with both Mr. Urso and Dr. Ghalie under which they will remain available to assist us in our strategic efforts. Charles V. Baltic III, the Chairperson of the Board, also stepped down from the Board contemporaneously with the announcement on July 22, 2024. Our Board appointed Justin J. File, our current Chief Financial Officer, to assume the position of Acting Chief Executive Officer and has appointed Frederick W. Driscoll as Chairperson of the Board.

Current report

On October 22, 2024 (the Closing Date), MEI and Aardvark Therapeutics, Inc. (the Purchaser), entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement (the Asset Purchase Agreement), pursuant to which we sold to Purchaser our rights, title and interest in and to certain assets related to ME-344, including relevant intellectual property rights, technology and contracts. Pursuant to the Asset Purchase Agreement, the Purchaser paid us an initial payment of $0.5 million in cash plus a reimbursement amount of $55,000 at the closing of the transaction. The Purchaser may also make future milestone payments up to $62.0 million after the Closing Date, payable upon the achievement of certain regulatory and revenue milestones. The Purchaser also assumed certain of our liabilities after the Closing Date, including liabilities arising under the contracts transferred under the Asset Purchase Agreement.

Current report

Before ending the study, three patients were administered 150 mg voruciclib over 21 consecutive days in a 28-day cycle in combination with venetoclax to increase dose intensity and potentially optimize patient response based upon the rebound of peripheral blast counts in 44% (8/18) of the patients between Day 14 and Day 28 when voruciclib was stopped while continuing venetoclax.

Current report

Also, through October 22, 2024, we were advancing ME-344 in combination with the anti-angiogenic antibody bevacizumab in a Phase 1b study evaluating patients with relapsed colorectal cancer. The study enrolled patients with progressive disease after failure of standard therapies with patients treated until disease progression or intolerance. The primary objective was progression free survival. Secondary endpoints included overall response rate, duration of response, overall survival and safety. Additionally, ME-344 may also have clinical potential against hematological malignancies. At the AACR Annual Meeting 2022, a poster presentation reported results from preclinical studies exploring the ability of ME-344 to enhance the activity of venetoclax against AML. Data from the in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies evaluating the combination of ME-344 with venetoclax in standard-of-care-resistant AML cell lines and relapsed or refractory AML patient samples suggest that ME-344, both alone and in combination with venetoclax, inhibits purine biosynthesis, suppresses oxidative phosphorylation, induces apoptosis and decreases MCL-1, which together target metabolic vulnerabilities of AML cells. The data demonstrated that ME-344 and venetoclax prolong survival in MV4-11 and MV4-11/AraC-R-derived xenograft AML models. The poster concluded that ME-344 enhances venetoclax activity against AML cells including resistant AML.

Current report

Revenue: During the three months ended September 30, 2024, we recognized no revenue due to all deferred revenue associated with the KKC Commercialization Agreement having been recognized in fiscal year 2024, upon entry into the Termination Agreement. During the three months ended September 30, 2023, we recognized revenue of $65.3 million from the KKC Commercialization Agreement.

Current report

General and Administrative: General and administrative expenses decreased by $1.3 million to $5.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $6.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease was primarily due to a $0.8 million decrease in legal costs and $0.6 in professional fees associated with various stockholder related items from the prior fiscal year with no current period recurrence, a $0.5 decrease in share-based compensation costs due to reversal of expense in excess of vested shares recognized upon execution of our 2024 RIF and a $0.4 million decrease in corporate overhead costs. These decreases were partially offset by a $0.9 million increase in expenses associated with the 2024 RIF partially offset by a decrease in payroll related costs.

Current report

On June 18, 2024, we entered into a lease termination agreement (Agreement) with our landlord for our offices at 11455 El Camino Real, Suite 200 and Suite 250, San Diego, California. Under the Agreement, the lease terminated on September 30, 2024, rather than its scheduled expiration date of November 30, 2029. During the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, we paid the landlord a termination fee totaling approximately $11.1 million in addition to prepaying the remaining rent under the Agreement in the amount of approximately $0.2 million. We have no further financial obligations under the Agreement.
Removed paragraphs (82)

Previous report

Our business is subject to numerous risks and uncertainties that you should consider before investing in our common stock. Set forth below is a summary of the principal risks we face:

Previous report

We are subject to risks relating to general economic conditions, including financial market volatility and disruption, elevated levels of inflation, and uncertain economic conditions in the United States and abroad;

Previous report

We will need substantial additional funds to progress the clinical trial programs for our drug candidates, to commercialize our drug candidates and to develop new compounds. The actual amount of funds we will need will be determined by a number of factors, some of which are beyond our control;

Previous report

We may be required to seek additional capital through marketing and distribution arrangements or other collaborations, strategic alliances or licensing arrangements with third parties at terms which maybe unfavorable to us;

Previous report

We are a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company focused on developing potential new therapies for cancer and are likely to incur operating losses for the foreseeable future;

Previous report

The results of pre-clinical studies and completed clinical trials are not necessarily predictive of future results, and our current drug candidates may not have favorable results in later studies or trials;

Previous report

Changes in drug candidate manufacturing or formulation may result in additional costs or delay;

Previous report

If third parties with whom we collaborate on the development and commercialization of our drug candidates do not satisfy their obligations, do not otherwise pursue development or commercialization of our drug candidates or if they terminate their agreements with us, we may not be able to develop or commercialize our drug candidates;

Previous report

We are subject to significant obligations to Presage in connection with our license of voruciclib, and we may become subject to significant obligations in connection with future licenses we obtain, which could adversely affect the overall profitability of any products we may seek to commercialize, and such licenses of drug candidates, the development and commercialization for which we are solely responsible, may never become profitable;

Previous report

Our business strategy may include entry into additional collaborative or license agreements. We may not be able to enter into collaborative or license agreements or may not be able to negotiate commercially acceptable terms for these agreements;

Previous report

Final approval by regulatory authorities of our drug candidates for commercial use may be delayed, limited or prevented, for reasons which may or may not be directly related to our drug candidates, and any of which would adversely affect our ability to generate operating revenues;

Previous report

The FDA may determine that our drug candidates have undesirable risk-benefit profiles with respect to its evaluations of efficacy and/or side effects that could delay or prevent regulatory approval or commercialization;

Previous report

If we experience delays or difficulties in the enrollment of patients in clinical trials, our completion of clinical trials and receipt of necessary regulatory approvals could be delayed or prevented;

Previous report

Changes in funding for the FDA and other government agencies or future government shutdowns could cause delays in the submission and regulatory review of marketing applications, which could negatively impact our business or prospects;

Previous report

Failure to obtain regulatory approval in foreign jurisdictions would prevent us from marketing our products internationally;

Previous report

Any designation granted by the FDA for any of our product candidates may not lead to a faster development or regulatory review or approval process, and does not increase the likelihood that our product candidates will receive marketing approval. We may also not be able to obtain or maintain any such designation;

Previous report

Any orphan drug designations we receive may not confer marketing exclusivity or other benefits;

Previous report

Even if we or our licensees receive regulatory approval to commercialize our drug candidates, our ability to generate revenues from any resulting products will be subject to a variety of risks, many of which are out of our control;

Previous report

If any products we develop become subject to unfavorable pricing regulations, third party reimbursement practices or healthcare reform initiatives, our ability to successfully commercialize our products will be impaired;

Previous report

Our drug candidates are subject to ongoing government regulation both before and after regulatory approval;

Previous report

We may not be able to establish the contractual arrangements necessary to develop, market and distribute our drug candidates;

Previous report

Our commercial opportunity will be reduced or eliminated if competitors develop and market products that are more effective, have fewer side effects or are less expensive than our drug candidates;

Previous report

Our product candidates may face competition sooner than anticipated;

Previous report

We rely on third parties to conduct our clinical trials and pre-clinical studies. If those parties do not successfully carry out their contractual duties or meet expected deadlines, our drug candidates may not advance in a timely manner or at all;

Previous report

We will depend on third party suppliers and contract manufacturers for the manufacturing of our drug candidates and have no direct control over the cost and timing of manufacturing our drug candidates. Increases in the cost of manufacturing our drug candidates or delays in manufacturing would increase our costs of conducting clinical trials and could adversely affect our future profitability;

Previous report

We rely on acquisitions or licenses from third parties to expand our pipeline of drug candidates;

Previous report

Our commercial success is dependent, in part, on obtaining and maintaining patent protection and preserving trade secrets, which cannot be guaranteed;

Previous report

Claims by other companies that we infringe on their proprietary technology may result in liability for damages or stop our development and commercialization efforts;

Previous report

We may be subject to claims by third parties asserting that our employees or we have misappropriated their intellectual property, or claiming ownership of what we regard as our own intellectual property;

Previous report

We may be subject to substantial costs stemming from our defense against third party intellectual property infringement claims;

Previous report

We face a risk of product liability claims and claims may exceed our insurance limits;

Previous report

Our employees, independent contractors, consultants, commercial partners, principal investigators, or clinical contract research organizations (CROs) may engage in misconduct or other improper activities, including noncompliance with regulatory standards and requirements, which could have a material adverse effect on our business;

Previous report

Our business and operations would suffer in the event of system failures;

Previous report

Our efforts will be seriously jeopardized if we are unable to retain and attract key employees;

Previous report

Negative U.S. and global economic conditions may pose challenges to our business strategy, which relies on funding from the financial markets or collaborators, including financial and other impacts of macroeconomic and geopolitical trends and events, including the conflicts in Ukraine and between Israel and Hamas and related regional and global ramifications;

Previous report

Laws, rules and regulations relating to public companies may be costly and impact our ability to attract and retain directors and executive officers;

Previous report

Security breaches, cyber attacks and other disruptions could compromise our information and expose us to liability, which would cause our business and reputation to suffer;

Previous report

If we fail to comply with environmental, health and safety laws and regulations, we could become subject to fines or penalties or incur costs that could harm our business;

Previous report

We or the third parties upon whom we depend may be adversely affected by natural disasters and our business continuity and disaster recovery plans may not adequately protect us from a serious disaster;

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Reworded paragraphs (28)

Previous wording

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (Quarterly Report) includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act) and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act). All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this Quarterly Report, including statements regarding the future financial position, business strategy and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. The words believe, may, will, estimate, continue, anticipate, intend, should, plan, expect, and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including, without limitation, those described in Risk Factors in our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K (2023 Annual Report), as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 26, 2023. Set forth below is a summary of the principal risks we face:

Current wording

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (Quarterly Report) includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act) and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act). All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this Quarterly Report, including statements regarding the future financial position, business strategy and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. The words “may,” “will,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “estimate,” "predict," "potential," “continue,” "likely," or “opportunity,” the negative of these words or similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including, without limitation, those described in Risk Factors in our 2024 Annual Report on Form 10-K (2024 Annual Report), as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on September 19, 2024.

Previous wording

MEI Pharma, Inc. (Nasdaq: MEIP) is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company committed to developing novel and differentiated cancer therapies. We build our pipeline by acquiring promising cancer agents and creating value in programs through clinical development, strategic partnerships, and out-licensing or commercialization, as appropriate. Our approach to oncology drug development is to evaluate our drug candidates in combinations with standard-of-care therapies to overcome known resistance mechanisms and address clear medical needs to provide improved patient benefit. The drug candidate pipeline includes voruciclib, an oral cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) inhibitor, and ME-344, an intravenous small molecule inhibitor of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Our common stock is listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol MEIP.

Current wording

MEI Pharma, Inc. (Nasdaq: MEIP) is apharmaceutical company that has been developing novel and differentiated cancer therapies. Webuilt our pipeline by acquiring promising cancer agents and creating value in programs through clinical development, strategic partnerships, and out-licensing or commercialization, as appropriate. Our approach to oncology drug development has been to evaluate our drug candidates in combinations with standard-of-care therapies to overcome known resistance mechanisms and address clear medical needs to provide improved patient benefit. Our drug candidate pipeline includes voruciclib, an oral cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) inhibitor, and prior to its sale (as discussed below) ME-344, an intravenous small molecule mitochondrial inhibitor targeting the oxidative phosphorylation pathway.

Previous wording

Our clinical-stage drug candidate pipeline includes voruciclib, an oral CDK9 inhibitor, and ME-344, an intravenous small molecule inhibitor mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXHPHOS).

Current wording

Our clinical-stage drug candidate pipeline includes voruciclib, an oral CDK9 inhibitor, and prior to its sale, ME-344, an intravenous small molecule mitochondrial inhibitor targeting the oxidative phosphorylation pathway in the mitochondria.

Previous wording

Voruciclib is a selective orally administered CDK9 inhibitor. Voruciclib is being studied in a Phase 1 trial currently evaluating dose and schedule in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in combination with the B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) inhibitor venetoclax (marketed as Venclexta®). Voruciclib is also being evaluated in pre-clinical studies to explore potential activity in various solid tumor cancers including in combination with therapies that target the RAS signaling pathway, such as KRAS inhibitors.

Current wording

Following the announcement of the exploration of strategic alternatives on July 22, 2024, all ongoing clinical trial efforts for voruciclib have ceased, while certain nonclinical activities have continued. Voruciclib is a selective orally administered CDK9 inhibitor. Voruciclib recently completed a Phase 1 trial evaluating dose and schedule in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in combination with the B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) inhibitor venetoclax (marketed as Venclexta®). Voruciclib is also being evaluated in pre-clinical studies to explore potential activity in various solid tumor cancers including in combination with therapies that target the RAS signaling pathway, such as KRAS inhibitors.

Previous wording

CDK9 is a transcriptional regulator of the MYC proto-oncogene protein (MYC) which regulates cell proliferation and growth. Up regulation of MYC is implicated in many human cancers and is frequently associated with poor prognosis and unfavorable patient survival. CDK9, in addition to being a transcription factor for MYC, also decreases phosphorylation of MYC protein that is implicated in stabilizing MYC in KRAS mutant cancers.

Current wording

CDK9 is a transcriptional regulator of the MYC proto-oncogene protein (MYC) which regulates cell proliferation and growth. Upregulation of MYC is implicated in many human cancers and is frequently associated with poor prognosis and unfavorable patient survival. CDK9, in addition to being a transcription factor for MYC, also decreases phosphorylation of MYC protein that is implicated in stabilizing MYC in KRAS mutant cancers.

Previous wording

In a Phase 1 clinical trial, we are currently evaluating the dose and schedule of voruciclib in combination with venetoclax, a BCL-2 inhibitor, in patients with R/R AML. The trial started with the evaluation of dose and schedule of voruciclib as a monotherapy in patients with relapsed and refractory B-cell malignancies and AML after failure of prior standard therapies to determine the safety, preliminary efficacy and maximum tolerated dose. The primary objectives of the study are to determine the safety and biologic effective dose of voruciclib monotherapy or voruciclib in combination with venetoclax. Secondary objectives of the study include assessing the preliminary efficacy, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and biomarkers of voruciclib monotherapy or voruciclib in combination with venetoclax.

Current wording

In a recent Phase 1 clinical trial, we evaluated the dose and schedule of voruciclib in combination with venetoclax, a BCL-2 inhibitor, in patients with R/R AML. The trial started with the evaluation of dose and schedule of voruciclib as a monotherapy in patients with relapsed and refractory B-cell malignancies and AML after failure of prior standard therapies to determine the safety, preliminary efficacy and maximum tolerated dose. The primary objectives of the study were to determine the safety and biologic effective dose of voruciclib monotherapy or voruciclib in combination with venetoclax. Secondary objectives of the study included assessing the preliminary efficacy, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and biomarkers of voruciclib monotherapy or voruciclib in combination with venetoclax.

Previous wording

Since reporting data from the monotherapy stage of the study, we have advanced to the next stage of the study to evaluate seven voruciclib dose levels from 50 mg every other day to 300 mg daily for 14 consecutive days in a 28-day cycle in combination with standard dose venetoclax in patients with R/R AML. In April 2024, we reported that a total of 29 patients with R/R AML, median age 67 years (range 34-89), enrolled in this dose escalation stage of the study evaluating voruciclib in combination with venetoclax. These patients were generally heavily pretreated; the median number of prior therapies was 3 (range 1-7), and 15 (52%) patients had ≥3 prior lines. Almost all patients (28/29) were treated with venetoclax in an earlier line of therapy. Additionally, 21 (72%) patients were noted as being in an adverse 2017 ELN Risk Category due to adverse cytogenetics and molecular mutations.

Current wording

The next stage of the study evaluated seven voruciclib dose levels from 50 mg every other day to 300 mg daily for 14 consecutive days in a 28-day cycle in combination with standard dose venetoclax in patients with R/R AML. A total of 41 patients with R/R AML, median age 67 years (range 34-89), enrolled in this dose escalation stage of the study evaluating voruciclib in combination with venetoclax. These patients were generally heavily pretreated; the median number of prior therapies was 2 (range 1-7), and 18 (44%) patients had ≥3 prior lines. Almost all patients (39/41) were treated with venetoclax in an earlier line of therapy. Additionally, 30 (73%) patients were noted as being in an adverse 2017 ELN Risk Category due to adverse cytogenetics and molecular mutations.

Previous wording

Of the 20 patients administered voruciclib at a dose of 100 mg or more in combination with venetoclax, three patients achieved a response, including two patients that achieved a complete response with incomplete hematologic recovery (CRi) and one patient that achieved a morphologic leukemia-free state (MLFS), in each case having received venetoclax in an earlier line of treatment. Responses lasted 7 months in one patient, 5 months and ongoing in the second patient, and the third patient was referred to stem cell transplant. Further, an additional 14 patients had stable disease which lasted more than 90 days in 5 patients.

Current wording

Of the 32 patients administered voruciclib at doses ≥ 100 mg in combination with venetoclax 10 (31%) achieved disease control. Three patients achieved a response, including two patients that achieved a complete response with incomplete hematologic recovery (CRi) and one patient that achieved a morphologic leukemia-free state (MLFS), in each case having received venetoclax in an earlier line of treatment. Responses lasted 6 months in one patient, 9 months and ongoing in the second patient, and the third patient was referred to stem cell transplant. Further, an additional 7 patients had stable disease which lasted more than 90 days and 13 had stable disease < 3 months.

Previous wording

In the 20 patients administered voruciclib at a dose of 100 mg or more in combination with venetoclax, initial results from correlative biomarker assay studies of available samples from patients treated with the combination also demonstrated anticipated decreases of Mcl-1, including a greater decrease in Mcl-1 at higher doses. This supports our hypothesis that voruciclib, as an inhibitor or CDK9, regulates Mcl-1 and therefore may address the upregulation of MCL1 associated with venetoclax. Additional evidence of anti-leukemic activity was also demonstrated by decreases in bone marrow blast counts post voruciclib/venetoclax administration versus pre drug administration in 50% (10/20) of evaluable patients.

Current wording

In the 28 patients administered voruciclib in combination with venetoclax and with blood samples available for analysis, initial results from correlative biomarker assay studies demonstrated anticipated decreases of Mcl-1, including a greater decrease in Mcl-1 in responding patients. This supports our hypothesis that voruciclib, as an inhibitor or CDK9, regulates Mcl-1 and therefore may address the upregulation of MCL1 associated with venetoclax. Additional evidence of anti-leukemic activity was also demonstrated including decreases in bone marrow blast counts post voruciclib/venetoclax administration versus pre drug administration in ~50% (11/21) of evaluable patients.

Previous wording

ME-344: Clinical-stage Mitochondrial Inhibitor with Combinatorial Potential

Current wording

ME-344: Mitochondrial Inhibitor with Combinatorial Potential

Previous wording

ME-344 is a novel drug candidate that inhibits mitochondrial OXPHOS, a fundamental metabolic pathway involved in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in the mitochondria. ATP provides energy to drive many metabolic cell processes, including division, proliferation, and growth. By disrupting the production of ATP, ME-344 has been shown to induce cancer cell death in nonclinical models and was associated with antitumor activity in clinical studies. ME-344 has also demonstrated clinical activity in multiple clinical studies in combinations, including with bevacizumab (Avastin®).

Current wording

Nonclinical activities related to ME-344 continued following the announcement of the exploration of strategic alternatives on July 22, 2024 and ended with the closing of its sale, as discussed under Sale of ME-344, elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. MEI-344 is a novel drug candidate that inhibits mitochondrial OXPHOS, a fundamental metabolic pathway involved in the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in the mitochondria. ATP provides energy to drive many metabolic cell processes, including division, proliferation, and growth. By disrupting the production of ATP, ME-344 has been shown to induce cancer cell death in nonclinical models and was associated with antitumor activity in clinical studies. ME-344 has also demonstrated clinical activity in multiple clinical studies in combinations, including with bevacizumab (Avastin®).

Previous wording

Currently, we are advancing ME-344 via development of a new formulation with the goal of increasing biological activity, improving patient convenience of administration and increasing commercial opportunity. We believe a new formulation represents the optimal approach to pursue the potential of the program after observing encouraging data in two clinical studies evaluating the prior ME-344 formulation in combination with bevacizumab (Avastin®).

Current wording

Recently, we were advancing ME-344 via development of a new formulation with the goal of increasing biological activity, improving patient convenience of administration and increasing commercial opportunity. We believe a new formulation represents the optimal approach to pursue the potential of the program after observing encouraging data in two clinical studies evaluating the prior ME-344 formulation in combination with bevacizumab (Avastin®).

Previous wording

Energy supplied in the form of ATP fuels tumor metabolism supporting cell division and growth. Accordingly, tumor cells often display a high metabolic rate to support tumor cell survival and proliferation. This heightened metabolism requires a continual supply of energy in the form of ATP. Anti-angiogenics, such as the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor bevacizumab, have the potential to normalize vasculature and decrease reliance on glycolysis for ATP. The resulting reduction in glycolysis may trigger an increased dependence on mitochondrial ATP production for energy to support continued tumor proliferation. In such cases of tumor plasticity, the combination of ME-344 and bevacizumab may induce metabolic synthetic lethality, providing a novel therapeutic strategy. Specifically, leveraging the ability of antiangiogenics like bevacizumab to reduce glycolysis and force tumor cells to switch to mitochondrial respiration via OXPHOS, which is inhibited by ME-344, may reduce access to ATP needed for cell division and growth in tumors.

Current wording

Anti-angiogenics, such as the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor bevacizumab, have the potential to normalize vasculature and decrease reliance on glycolysis for ATP. The resulting reduction in glycolysis may trigger an increased dependence on mitochondrial ATP production for energy to support continued tumor proliferation. In such cases of tumor plasticity, the combination of ME-344 and bevacizumab may induce metabolic synthetic lethality, providing a novel therapeutic strategy. Specifically, leveraging the ability of antiangiogenics like bevacizumab to reduce glycolysis and force tumor cells to switch to mitochondrial respiration via OXPHOS, which is inhibited by ME-344, may reduce access to ATP needed for cell division and growth in tumors.

Previous wording

It was further reported that in the first cohort, 5 of 20 (25%) evaluable patients completed 16 weeks of therapy without evidence of disease progression, exceeding the 20% predetermined threshold as set forth in the Clinical Study Protocol to proceed to Cohort 2. The median PFS was 1.9 months, the 4-month PFS rate was 31.2%, and the median overall survival was 6.7 months with 15 patients censored at the time of analysis. Nine (45%) of the 20 evaluable patients had stable disease. Although Cohort 1 exceeded the predetermined PFS threshold, the Company decided not to initiate enrollment in a second cohort.

Current wording

It was further reported that in the first cohort, 5 of 20 (25%) evaluable patients completed 16 weeks of therapy without evidence of disease progression, exceeding the 20% predetermined threshold as set forth in the Clinical Study Protocol to proceed to Cohort 2. The median PFS was 1.9 months, the 4-month PFS rate was 31.2%, and the median overall survival was 6.7 months with 15 patients censored at the time of analysis. Nine (45%) of the 20 evaluable patients had stable disease. Although Cohort 1 exceeded the predetermined PFS threshold, we decided not to initiate enrollment in a second cohort.

Previous wording

We are continuing to pursue ME-344 via development of a new formulation to advance our novel approach to inducing synthetic lethality in tumors in combination with VEGF inhibitors such as bevacizumab (Avastin®). The Company has already initiated research and development activity of the new formulation, with the goal of increasing biological activity, improving convenience of administration and increasing commercial opportunity.

Current wording

Through October 22, 2024, we were pursuing ME-344 via development of a new formulation to advance our novel approach to inducing synthetic lethality in tumors in combination with VEGF inhibitors such as bevacizumab (Avastin®). We had already initiated research and development activity of the new formulation, with the goal of increasing biological activity, improving patient convenience of administration and increasing commercial opportunity.

Previous wording

Zandelisib is an oral, once-daily, selective PI3Kδ inhibitor that we were jointly developing with KKC under a global license, development and commercialization agreement entered into in April 2020.

Current wording

Zandelisib is an oral, once-daily, selective PI3Kδ inhibitor that we were jointly developing with Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd. (KKC) under a global license, development and commercialization agreement entered into in April 2020.

Previous wording

In November 2022, we and KKC met with the FDA in a follow-up meeting to the March 2022 end of Phase 2 meeting. At this meeting, the FDA provided further guidance regarding the design and statistical analysis for the Phase 3 COASTAL trial. Following the November meeting, the companies jointly concluded that a clinical trial consistent with the recent FDA guidance, including modification of the ongoing COASTAL trial, would likely not be feasible to complete within a time period that would support further investment or with sufficient certainty of the regulatory requirements for approval to justify continued global development efforts. As a result, we and KKC jointly decided to discontinue global development of zandelisib for indolent forms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma outside of Japan. The discontinuation of zandelisib development outside of Japan was a business decision based on the most recent regulatory guidance from the FDA and is not related to the zandelisib clinical data generated to date. After making the joint decision to terminate development outside of Japan, we and KKC began closing all ongoing zandelisib clinical studies outside of Japan, including the Phase 3 COASTAL trial, the Phase 2 TIDAL trial, and the Phase 2 CORAL trial.

Current wording

In March 2022, we and KKC jointly decided to discontinue global development of zandelisib for indolent forms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma outside of Japan. The discontinuation of zandelisib development outside of Japan was a business decision based on the most recent regulatory guidance from the FDA and was not related to the zandelisib clinical data generated to date. After making the joint decision to terminate development outside of Japan, we and KKC began closing all ongoing zandelisib clinical studies outside of Japan, including the Phase 3 COASTAL trial, the Phase 2 TIDAL trial, and the Phase 2 CORAL trial.

Previous wording

In April 2020, we entered into the KKC Commercialization Agreement under which we granted to KKC a co-exclusive, sublicensable, payment-bearing license under certain patents and know-how controlled by us to develop and commercialize zandelisib and any pharmaceutical product containing zandelisib for all human indications in the U.S. (the U.S. License), and an exclusive (subject to certain retained rights to perform obligations under the KKC Commercialization Agreement), sublicensable, payment- bearing, license under certain patents and know-how controlled by us to develop and commercialize zandelisib and any pharmaceutical product containing zandelisib for all human indications in countries outside of the U.S. (the Ex-U.S. and the Ex-U.S. License). Also under the KKC Commercialization Agreement, we were granted a co-exclusive, sublicensable, license under certain patents and know-how controlled by KKC to develop and commercialize zandelisib for all human indications in the U.S., and a co-exclusive, sublicensable, royalty-free, fully paid license under certain patents and know-how controlled by KKC to perform our obligations in the Ex-U.S. and were paid an initial non-refundable payment of $100.0 million. Additionally, in Japan, the KKC Commercialization Agreement included potential regulatory and commercialization milestone payments plus royalties on net sales of zandelisib in Japan, which are tiered beginning in the teens. Prior to the execution of the Termination Agreement on July 14, 2023, KKC was responsible for the development and commercialization of zandelisib in the Ex-U.S. and, subject to certain exceptions, solely responsible for all costs related thereto. We also provided to KKC certain drug supplies necessary for the development and commercialization of zandelisib in the Ex-U.S., with the understanding that KKC would have assumed responsibility for manufacturing for the Ex-U.S. as soon as practicable.

Current wording

In April 2020, we entered into the April 2020, License, Development and Commercialization Agreement with KKC (the KKC Commercialization Agreement) under which we granted to KKC a co-exclusive, sublicensable, payment-bearing license under certain patents and know-how controlled by us to develop and commercialize zandelisib and any pharmaceutical product containing zandelisib for all human indications in the U.S. (the U.S. License), and an exclusive (subject to certain retained rights to perform obligations under the KKC Commercialization Agreement), sublicensable, payment- bearing, license under certain patents and know-how controlled by us to develop and commercialize zandelisib and any pharmaceutical product containing zandelisib for all human indications in countries outside of the U.S. (the Ex-U.S. and the Ex-U.S. License). Also, under the KKC Commercialization Agreement, we were granted a co-exclusive, sublicensable, license under certain patents and know-how controlled by KKC to develop and commercialize zandelisib for all human indications in the U.S., and a co-exclusive, sublicensable, royalty-free, fully paid license under certain patents and know-how controlled by KKC to perform our obligations in the Ex-U.S. and were paid an initial non-refundable payment of $100.0 million. Additionally, in Japan, the KKC Commercialization Agreement included potential regulatory and commercialization milestone payments plus royalties on net sales of zandelisib in Japan, which are tiered beginning in the teens. Prior to the execution of the Termination Agreement as discussed below, KKC was responsible for the development and commercialization of zandelisib in the Ex-U.S. and, subject to certain exceptions, solely responsible for all costs related thereto. We also provided to KKC certain drug supplies necessary for the development and commercialization of zandelisib in the Ex-U.S., with the understanding that KKC would have assumed responsibility for manufacturing for the Ex-U.S. as soon as practicable.

Previous wording

As noted above, on July 14, 2023, we entered into a Termination Agreement with KKC to mutually terminate the KKC Commercialization Agreement and all other related agreements between the parties. Pursuant to the Termi nation Agreement:

Current wording

On July 14, 2023, we entered into a Termination Agreement with KKC (the Termination Agreement) to mutually terminate the KKC Commercialization Agreement and all other related agreements between the parties. Pursuant to the Termi nation Agreement:

Previous wording

Costs related to zandelisib decreased $27.2 million primarily as a result of the discontinuation of the program during fiscal year 2023 with lower costs in fiscal year 2024 associated with wind-down activities. Costs related to voruciclib decreased $0.3 million mainly due to lower manufacturing costs. Costs related to ME-344 increased $3.3 million due to higher clinical costs related to the Phase 1b study and manufacturing costs of ME-344 to support clinical and non-clinical studies. Other research and development costs decreased $13.1 million primarily due to a decrease of $11.6 million in personnel costs resulting from our reductions in workforce, including a $1.7 million decrease in one-time employee termination benefits and a $1.0 million decrease in noncash stock-based compensation.

Current wording

Research and development costs decreased by $0.3 million to $3.2 million for three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $3.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. Costs related to ME-344 decreased $0.9 million due to decreased manufacturing and clinical costs related to the Phase 1b study. Costs related to zandelisib decreased $0.4 million, primarily as a result of the discontinuation of the program during fiscal year 2023 and the completion of wind-down related activities. Costs related to voruciclib increased $1.1 million mainly due to greater recognized manufacturing and clinical costs in the Phase 1 study and costs associated with nonclinical studies. Other research and development costs decreased a net $0.1 million primarily due to reduced payroll related costs partially offset by increased expenses associated with our plan to explore strategic alternatives that was announced in July 2024.

Previous wording

Other Income, net: Other income, net, decreased by approximately $1.2 million to $2.7 million for the nine months ended March 31, 2024 compared to $3.9 million for the nine months ended March 31, 2023. We recognized a noncash gain of $1.6 million during the nine months ended March 31, 2023, due to a change in the fair value of our warrant liability with no similar gain during the nine months ended March 31, 2024, because of the underlying warrants expiring in May 2023. Additionally, we received interest and dividend income of $2.7 million for the nine months ended March 31, 2024 compared to $2.3 million for the nine months ended March 31, 2023. The increase in interest and dividend income is primarily due to higher yields during the nine months ended March 31, 2024 compared to the nine months ended March 31, 2023.

Current wording

Other Income, net: Other income, net, decreased by $0.8 million to $0.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $1.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. We received interest and dividend income of $0.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to $1.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease in interest and dividend income was primarily due to lower average balances during the three months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the three months ended September 30, 2023.

Previous wording

To date, we have obtained cash and funded our operations primarily through equity financings and license agreements. In order to continue the development of our drug candidates, at some point in the future we expect to pursue one or more capital transactions, whether through the sale of equity securities, debt financing, license agreements or entry into strategic partnerships. There can be no assurance that we will be able to continue to raise additional capital in the future.

Current wording

To date, we have obtained cash and funded our operations primarily through equity financings and license agreements. There can be no assurance that we will be able to continue to raise additional capital in the future. We have accumulated losses of $396.2 million since inception and expect to incur operating losses and generate negative cash flows from operations for the foreseeable future. As of September 30, 2024, we had $26.9 million in cash and cash equivalents, and short-term investments. On July 22, 2024, we announced that our Board had determined unanimously to begin the evaluation of our strategic alternatives, including potential transactions as well as an orderly wind down of operations, if appropriate, to maximize the value of our assets for our stockholders. In connection with the exploration of strategic alternatives, we initiated the 2024 RIF to reduce headcount on August 1, 2024 and discontinued the clinical development of voruciclib. As a result of this announcement, we expect our research and development expenses to decrease significantly as we discontinued our clinical research and development activities along with decreased general and administrative costs as we reduce headcount and other operational expenses that supported research and development activities. We will continue to incur research and development expenses in connection with clinical trial closing costs and the completion of certain ongoing nonclinical activities. We believe our cash balance, including our short-term investments, is sufficient to fund operations for at least the next 12 months.

Previous wording

Net cash used in operating activities for the nine months ended March 31, 2024 of $32.5 million consisted of our net income of $36.2 million and $3.3 million for noncash items offset by $71.9 million in changes in our operating assets and liabilities primarily due to recognition of $64.9 million in noncash deferred revenue. Net cash used in operating activities for the nine months ended March 31, 2023 of $41.2 million consisted of our net loss of $21.8 million and changes in our operating assets and liabilities of $22.9 million partially offset by $3.5 million in noncash items.

Current wording

Net cash used in operating activities for the three months ended September 30, 2024 of $11.5 million consisted of our net loss of $8.0 million and $3.9 million in changes in our operating assets partially offset by $0.5 million for noncash items. Net cash used in operating activities for the three months ended September 30, 2023 of $18.5 million consisted of our net income of $56.4 million and $0.8 million in noncash items offset by changes in our operating assets and liabilities of $75.7 million primarily due to recognition of $64.9 million in deferred revenue.

Previous wording

Net cash provided by investing activities for the nine months ended March 31, 2024 was $29.6 million as compared to $34.3 million cash provided by investing activities for the nine months ended March 31, 2023. The increase was primarily due to timing differences between the purchases of and maturities of short-term investments during the nine months ended March 31, 2024 against the comparative period.

Current wording

Net cash provided by investing activities for the three months ended September 30, 2024 was $14.7 million as compared to $5.0 million cash provided by investing activities for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The change in cash provided by investing activities was primarily due to more net short-term investment activity during the three months ended September 30, 2024.

Previous wording

Under our remaining license agreements, we have payment obligations that are contingent upon future events such as our achievement of specified development, regulatory and commercial milestones and are required to make royalty payments in connection with the sales of products developed under those agreements. For additional details regarding these agreements, see the section titled Note 8—Other License Agreements and Note 6—Commitments and Contingencies to our condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report;

Current wording

Under our remaining license agreements, we have payment obligations, which are contingent upon future events such as our achievement of specified development, regulatory and commercial milestones and are required to make royalty payments in connection with the sales of products developed under those agreements. For additional details regarding these agreements, see the section titled Note 8. Other License Agreements and Note 6. Commitments and Contingencies to our condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report;

Previous wording

Obligations under contracts that are cancelable without significant penalty;

Current wording

Obligations under contracts which are cancelable without significant penalty;

Previous wording

Due to recent disruptions in access to bank deposits and lending commitments associated with bank failures, macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions, there has been uncertainty and disruption in the global economy and financial markets. We are not aware of any specific event or circumstance that would require an update to our estimates or judgments or a revision of the carrying value of its assets or liabilities as of March 31, 2024. While there was no material impact to our condensed consolidated financial statements as of and for the three and nine months ended March 31, 2024, these estimates may change, as new events occur and additional information is obtained, which could materially impact our condensed consolidated financial statements in future reporting periods.

Current wording

Due to recent disruptions in access to bank deposits and lending commitments associated with macroeconomic and geopolitical conditions, there has been uncertainty and disruption in the global economy and financial markets. We are not aware of any specific event or circumstance that would require an update to our estimates or judgments or a revision of the carrying value of our assets or liabilities as of September 30, 2024. While there was no material impact to our condensed consolidated financial statements as of and for the three months ended September 30, 2024, these estimates may change, as new events occur and additional information is obtained, which could materially impact our condensed consolidated financial statements in future reporting periods.

Previous wording

We describe our significant accounting policies in Note 1. The Company and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, of the notes to the financial statements included in our 2023 Annual Report. We discuss our critical accounting estimates in Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, in our 2023 Annual Report. There have been no changes in our significant accounting policies or critical accounting estimates since June 30, 2023.

Current wording

We describe our significant accounting policies in Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, of the notes to the financial statements included in our 2024 Annual Report. We discuss our critical accounting estimates in Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, in our 2024 Annual Report. There have been no changes in our significant accounting policies or critical accounting estimates since June 30, 2024.
Rearranged current paragraphs (1)

Current report — wording carried from elsewhere

Energy supplied in the form of ATP fuels tumor metabolism supporting cell division and growth. Accordingly, tumor cells often display a high metabolic rate to support tumor cell survival and proliferation. This heightened metabolism requires a continual supply of energy in the form of ATP.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (3)

Previous report — wording carried elsewhere

Comparison of Nine Months Ended March 31, 2024 and 2023

Previous report — wording carried elsewhere

The following table summarizes certain components of our results of operations (in thousands):

Previous report — wording carried elsewhere

Research and Development: The following is a summary of our research and development expenses to supplement the more detailed discussion below (in thousands).