PALISADE BIO, INC.
For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Mar 24, 2025.
View on SEC.govAbout this filing
A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2024 · Filed Mar 24, 2025
PALI$1.13-2.6%Stored close · as of Nov 6, 2026
What changed in Risk Factors?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-03-26.
0000950170-24-036402
Item 1A. Risk FactorsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-03-24.
0000950170-25-043859
Item 1A. Risk FactorsThe 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 206 previous paragraphs and 223 current paragraphs.
99 unchanged; 81 reworded; 43 added; 26 removed; 0 previous and 0 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 0 previous and 0 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 (43)
Current report
On October 9, 2024, Health Canada approved our Canadian Clinical Trial Application (“CTA”) to commence a Phase 1 clinical trial for PALI-2108 in Canada. On November 7, 2024, we commenced the Phase 1 clinical trial of PALI-2108. Our success depends on the development and clinical success of PALI-2108, which is subject to a number of risks, including:
Current report
timely and successful completion of required clinical trials, which may be significantly slower or costlier than we anticipate and/or produces results that do not achieve the primary or secondary endpoints of the trial(s);
Current report
our ability to retain third-party CROs on terms acceptable to us for the conduct and oversight of our anticipated clinical trials, including our Phase 1 clinical trial for PALI-2108;
Current report
our ability to fund the development costs related to PALI-2108’s clinical development;
Current report
We have commenced a Phase 1 clinical trial for ulcerative colitis in Canada. However, we have not received approval from the FDA to commence any clinical trials in the U.S., and there is no guarantee that we will be able to obtain such approval in a timely manner, if at all. If our Phase 1 clinical trial is successful and we seek to initiate a Phase 2 clinical trial in the U.S, there is no certainty that the FDA will accept the data generated from our Canadian trial. The FDA’s acceptance of foreign clinical data is subject to certain conditions, including whether the trial was conducted in accordance with good clinical practices (“GCP”) and whether the FDA can validate the trial data through on-site inspections or other means. Moreover, the FDA will assess whether the trial design, patient population, endpoints, and other factors meet the standards expected for clinical trials conducted within the U.S.
Current report
In addition, regulatory approval for clinical trials and eventual drug approval in the U.S. is a complex process, influenced by several factors, including:
Current report
the adequacy and relevance of the Phase 1 trial data in supporting progression to Phase 2, as evaluated by the FDA;
Current report
the ability of the trial to meet safety, efficacy, and other scientific requirements set by the FDA, which may differ from those of Health Canada;
Current report
whether the foreign clinical trial was conducted under an FDA-recognized regulatory authority, and whether FDA oversight is possible through monitoring or inspection of clinical sites; and
Current report
the FDA’s consideration of the risk-benefit ratio for continuing clinical development in the U.S., particularly based on data from a non-U.S. population.
Current report
Furthermore, while the FDA does have the ability to approve drugs that have undergone clinical trials in foreign jurisdictions, including Canada, approval is generally contingent on demonstrating that the trial data align with FDA standards and regulatory expectations. It is also possible that we may be required to conduct additional trials in the U.S. to address any concerns regarding the applicability of the foreign trial data to the U.S. population or regulatory environment. There can be no assurance that we will successfully obtain FDA approval to initiate a Phase 1 clinical trial in the U.S. or that if our Canadian trial is successful, a subsequent Phase 2 trial.
Current report
We may find it difficult to enroll patients in our clinical trials, which could delay or prevent us from proceeding with clinical trials of our product candidates.
Current report
We are currently enrolling subjects in the Phase 1 clinical trial of PALI-2108 in Canada. Identifying and qualifying subjects to participate in our current and anticipated future clinical trials is critical to our success. Our inability to enroll patients in our clinical trials on a timely basis could result in the trials being delayed or never completed.
Current report
Patient enrollment and trial completion are affected by numerous additional factors, including the:
Current report
availability of competing therapies and clinical trials;
Current report
ability to obtain and maintain patients’ consents;
Current report
risk that enrolled patients will drop out before completion of the clinical trial;
Current report
If we have difficulty enrolling a sufficient number of patients to conduct our clinical trials as planned, we may need to delay, limit or terminate ongoing or planned clinical trials, any of which would have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. There can be no assurances that we will be able to complete enrollment for our anticipated Phase 1 clinical trial for PALI-2108, and if we fail to do so, we may not be able to complete the trial on a timely basis, or at all.
Current report
Our product candidates, including our lead product candidate, PALI-2108, may cause undesirable side effects or have other unexpected properties that could delay or prevent their regulatory approval, limit the commercial profile of an approved label, or result in post-approval regulatory action.
Current report
Unforeseen side effects from PALI-2108 could arise either during clinical development or, if approved, after it has been marketed. Undesirable side effects could cause us, any partners with which we may collaborate, or regulatory authorities to interrupt, extend, modify, delay or halt clinical trials and could result in a more restrictive or narrower label or the delay or denial of regulatory approval by Health Canada, or comparable regulatory authorities like the FDA.
Current report
Results of clinical trials could reveal a high and unacceptable severity and prevalence of side effects. In such an event, trials could be suspended or terminated, and Health Canada or comparable regulatory authorities, like the FDA, could order us to cease further development of or deny approval of a product candidate for any or all targeted indications. The drug-related side effects could affect patient recruitment or the ability of enrolled patients to complete the trial or result in product liability claims. Any of these occurrences may have an adverse material effect on our business, financial condition, operating results and prospects.
Current report
Additionally, if we or others identify undesirable side effects, or other previously unknown problems, caused by a product after obtaining regulatory approval, a number of potentially negative consequences could result, which could prevent us or our potential partners from achieving or maintaining market acceptance of the product and could substantially increase the costs of commercializing such product.
Current report
On June 28, 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court issued an opinion holding that courts reviewing agency action pursuant to the Administrative Procedure Act “must exercise their independent judgment” and “may not defer to an agency interpretation of the law simply because a statute is ambiguous.” The decision will have a significant impact on how lower courts evaluate challenges to agency interpretations of law, including those by the FDA and other agencies with significant oversight of the biopharmaceutical industry. The new framework is likely to increase both the frequency of such challenges and their odds of success by eliminating one way in which the government previously prevailed in such cases. As a result, significant regulatory policies will be subject to increased litigation and judicial scrutiny.
Current report
If we fail to obtain regulatory approvals, or if there are significant changes in regulatory policies that result in increased litigation and judicial scrutiny leading to unexpected delays and increased cost, we may not be able to market PALI-2108 and our operations will be adversely affected.
Current report
the results of preclinical studies that we have completed may not be indicative of results that will be obtained in human clinical trials;
Current report
Retain qualified CROs to oversee and manage our Phase 1 clinical trial for PALI-2108 and future clinical trials;
Current report
Changes in funding for the FDA and, other government agencies or comparable foreign regulatory authorities could hinder their ability to hire and retain key leadership and other personnel, or otherwise prevent new products and services from being developed or commercialized in a timely manner or otherwise prevent these agencies or authorities from performing normal business functions on which the operations of our business may rely, which could negatively impact our business.
Current report
The ability of the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities to review and approve new products, to provide feedback on clinical trials and development programs, to meet with sponsors and to otherwise review regulatory submissions can be affected by a variety of factors, including government budget and funding levels, ability to hire and retain key leadership and other personnel, the sufficiency of user fees, and statutory, regulatory, and policy changes. Average review times at the agency have fluctuated in recent years as a result. In addition, government funding of other government agencies or comparable foreign regulatory authorities on which our operations may rely, including those that fund research and development activities is subject to the political process, which is inherently fluid and unpredictable.
Current report
Disruptions at the FDA and other, other government agencies or comparable foreign regulatory authorities may also slow the time necessary for new drugs to be reviewed or approved by necessary government agencies, which would adversely affect our business. For example, over the last several years, the U.S. government has shut down several times and certain regulatory agencies, such as the FDA, have had to furlough critical employees and stop critical activities. If a prolonged government shutdown occurs, it could significantly impact the ability of the FDA to timely review and process our regulatory submissions, which could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Current report
We depend on two qualified suppliers for the active pharmaceutical ingredient used in the clinical trials of PALI-2108. Insufficient availability of the API or other raw materials necessary to manufacture PALI-2108, or the inability of our suppliers to manufacture and supply our products on commercially reasonable terms, could adversely impact our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Current report
We have two qualified suppliers for the API used in PALI-2108. We do not have, and we do not intend to establish in the foreseeable future, internal manufacturing capabilities. Instead, we intend to use the facilities of third-party manufacturers to produce the materials used in our clinical trials. Our dependence on third parties for the supply and manufacture of PALI-2108 and any future product candidates may adversely affect our ability to obtain our products in a timely or competitive manner, if at all.
Current report
Any supply shortages, quality concerns, or failure to obtain sufficient API, excipients, or components from our suppliers, including disruptions caused by, among other things, supply chain delays, public health emergencies, climate events, or political unrest would adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition. In particular, our suppliers may be impacted by epidemics, pandemics or other disease outbreaks or public health emergencies and general macroeconomic conditions, including inflationary pressures, economic slowdown or recession, relatively high interest rates, imposed tariffs, changes in monetary policy, potential U.S. federal government shutdowns, geopolitical conflicts and financial institution instability, all of which may result in supply delays and cost increases.
Current report
The manufacturing process for pharmaceutical products is highly regulated, and regulatory agencies may from time to time shut down facilities that they believe do not comply with regulations. Our third-party manufacturers and suppliers are subject to numerous FDA and Health Canada regulations, including those governing manufacturing processes, stability testing, record keeping, product serialization, and quality standards. Similar regulations apply in other jurisdictions where we may conduct business. Our third-party manufacturers and suppliers are independent entities who are subject to their own operational and financial risks which are out of our control.
Current report
If we, our third-party manufacturers, or our suppliers fail to comply with these regulations, our ability to deliver adequate supplies of PALI-2108 for clinical trials in a timely and cost-effective manner may be adversely affected. Should any of these risks materialize and adversely affect such third-party manufacturers’ and/or suppliers’ performance obligations to us, and we are unable to secure sufficient of the API used in the manufacture of PALI-2108 on commercially acceptable terms, or if we encounter delays and difficulties in our relationships with manufacturers or suppliers, our business, results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected.
Current report
We currently have agreements in place with foreign third parties in China and other countries to provide the necessary clinical supply of our API. Termination of or limitations on our relationships with foreign third parties that manufacture the API used in PALI-2108 may arise if U.S. legislation, tariffs, sanctions, trade restrictions, or other U.S. and foreign regulatory requirements, or prohibitions restrict our ability to engage with these foreign third parties. Further, any such actions could adversely impact our current and future arrangements with our foreign suppliers, including our current Chinese drug manufacturer, which could increase the cost or reduce the supply of material available to us or delay the procurement or supply of such material used in our clinical trial.
Showing the first 40 of 43 passages. Open the source sections for the rest.
Removed paragraphs (26)
Previous report
On September 1, 2023, we announced that we had entered into the Giiant License Agreement, pursuant to which we licensed all of Giiant’s current and future technologies, including PALI-2108. PALI-2108 is a pre-clinical asset and is our only asset being actively developed. Our success depends on the development of PALI-2108, which is subject to a number of risks, including:
Previous report
the successful completion of our IND or CTA enabling studies and research;
Previous report
Even if our clinical studies are successful and achieve regulatory approval, the approved product label may be more limited than we anticipate, which could limit the commercial prospects of PALI-2108.
Previous report
At the time therapeutic drugs are approved for marketing, they are given a “product label” from the FDA or other regulatory body. In most countries this label sets forth the approved indication for marketing, and identifies potential safety concerns for prescribing physicians and patients. While we intend to seek as broad a product label as possible for PALI-2108, we may receive a narrower label than is expected by either us or third parties, such as stockholders and securities analysts. For example, any approved products may only be indicated to treat refractory patients (i.e., those who have failed some other first-line therapy). Similarly, it is possible that only a specific sub-set of patients safely responds to PALI-2108. As a result, even if successful in clinical trials, PALI-2108 could be approved only for a subset of patients. Additionally, safety considerations may result in contraindications that could further limit the scope of an approved product label. Any of these or other safety and efficacy considerations could limit the commercial prospects of PALI-2108.
Previous report
We may in the future choose to conduct clinical trials outside of the U.S. Although the FDA or applicable foreign regulatory authority may accept data from clinical trials conducted outside the U.S. or the applicable jurisdiction, acceptance of such study data by the FDA or applicable foreign regulatory authority may be subject to certain conditions or exclusion. Where data from foreign clinical trials are intended to serve as the basis for marketing approval in the United States, the FDA will not approve the application on the basis of foreign data alone unless such data are applicable to the U.S. population and U.S. medical practice; the studies were performed by clinical investigators of recognized competence; and the data are considered valid without the need for an on-site inspection by the FDA or, if the FDA considers such an inspection to be necessary, the FDA is able to validate the data through an on-site inspection or other appropriate means. Many foreign regulatory bodies have similar requirements. In addition, such foreign studies would be subject to the applicable local laws of the foreign jurisdictions where the studies are conducted. There can be no assurance the FDA or applicable foreign regulatory authority will accept data from trials conducted outside of the United States or the applicable home country. If the FDA or applicable foreign regulatory authority does not accept such data, it would likely result in the need for additional trials, which would be costly and time-consuming and delay aspects of our business plan.
Previous report
We have entered into a collaborative research agreement with Giiant related to pre-clinical development, which will require the efforts of Giiant and its personnel, which are out of our control.
Previous report
The license agreement with Giiant provides for certain joint research and development of PALI-2108 related to pre-clinical studies and development. Our business strategy relies on such collaboration to shorten the time required to file and IND and accelerate the knowledge transfer of trade secrets and other know-how associated with the licensed technologies. Overall, the success of the development PALI-2108 will depend on our ability to manage such relationship, and to a certain extent, to the efforts of Giiant, which are beyond our control.
Previous report
We have received a delisting notification from the Nasdaq Stock Market based on our Bid Price being under $1.00 for thirty (30) consecutive trading days. If we are not able to regain compliance with the applicable continued listing requirements or standards of The Nasdaq Capital Market, Nasdaq could delist our common stock.
Previous report
Our ability to publicly or privately sell equity securities and the liquidity of our common stock could be adversely affected if we are delisted from the Nasdaq Capital Market or if we are unable to transfer our listing to another stock market. In order to maintain this listing, we must satisfy minimum financial and other continued listing requirements and standards, including a requirement to maintain a minimum bid price of our common stock of $1.00 per share (“Minimum Bid Price Requirement”). On October 19, 2023, we received notice (the “Notice”) from the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) advising us that for 30 consecutive trading days preceding the date of the Notice, the bid price of our common stock had closed below the $1.00 per share minimum required for continued listing on the Nasdaq Capital Market pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5550(a)(2). Under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5810(c)(3)(A), we have until April 16, 2024 to regain compliance with the Minimum Bid Price Requirement. If at any time during this period the closing bid price of our common stock is at least $1.00 for a minimum of 10 consecutive business days, we will regain compliance with the Minimum Bid Price Requirement and our common stock will continue to be eligible for listing on The Nasdaq Capital Market absent noncompliance with any other requirement for continued listing. In the event that we do not regain compliance by April 16, 2024, we may be eligible for an additional 180 calendar day grace period if we meet the continued listing requirement for market value of publicly held shares and all other initial listing standards for the Nasdaq Capital Market with the exception of bid price, and we provide written notice to Nasdaq of our intention to cure the deficiency during the second compliance period, by effecting a reverse stock split, if necessary.
Previous report
If we do not regain compliance within the allotted compliance period, including any extensions that may be granted by Nasdaq, Nasdaq will provide notice that our common stock will be subject to delisting. We will then be entitled to appeal the determination to a Nasdaq Listing Qualifications Panel and request a hearing. We cannot be sure that our share price will comply with the requirements for continued listing of our shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market in the future or that it will comply with the other continued listing requirements.
Previous report
Notwithstanding, we cannot assure you that, in the future, our securities will meet the continued listing requirements to be listed on Nasdaq. If our common stock is delisted by Nasdaq, it could lead to a number of negative implications, including an adverse effect on the price of our common stock, increased volatility in our common stock, reduced liquidity in our common stock, a limited availability of market quotations for our common stock, the loss of federal preemption of state securities laws and greater difficulty in obtaining financing. In addition, delisting of our common stock could deter broker-dealers from making a market in or otherwise seeking or generating interest in our common stock, could result in a loss of current or future coverage by certain sell-side analysts and might deter certain institutions and persons from investing in our securities at all. Delisting could also cause a loss of confidence from our collaborators, vendors, suppliers and employees, which could harm our business and future prospects.
Previous report
If our common stock is delisted by Nasdaq, our common stock may be eligible to trade on the OTC Bulletin Board, OTCQB or another over-the-counter market. Any such alternative would likely result in it being more difficult for us to raise additional capital through the public or private sale of equity securities and for investors to dispose of, or obtain accurate quotations as to the market value of, our common stock. In addition, there can be no assurance that our common stock would be eligible for trading on any such alternative exchange or markets. Moreover, if our common stock is delisted, it may come within the definition of “penny stock” under the Exchange Act, which imposes additional sales practice requirements on broker-dealers who sell securities to persons other than established customers and accredited investors. For example, we and/or broker-dealers are required to make a special suitability determination for purchases of such securities and must receive a purchaser’s written consent to the transaction prior to any purchase. Additionally, unless exempt, prior to a transaction involving a penny stock, the penny stock rules require the delivery of a disclosure schedule prescribed by the SEC relating to the penny stock market. The broker-dealer must also disclose the commissions payable to the broker-dealer, current quotations for the securities and, if the broker-dealer is the sole market-maker for the security, the fact that they are the sole market-maker and their presumed control over the market. Finally, monthly statements disclosing recent price information on the limited market in penny stocks must be sent to holders of such penny stocks. These requirements may reduce trading activity in the secondary market for our common stock and may impact the ability or willingness of broker-dealers to sell our securities, which could limit the ability of stockholders to sell their securities in the public market.
Previous report
We have received a notification from the Nasdaq Stock Market that our audit committee does not have three (3) independent members as a result of recent director resignations. If we fail to timely appoint an independent director that meets the Nasdaq Stock Market Requirements for audit committees, Nasdaq could delist our common stock.
Previous report
Our ability to publicly or privately sell equity securities and the liquidity of our common stock could be adversely affected if we are delisted from the Nasdaq Capital Market or if we are unable to transfer our listing to another stock market. In order to maintain this listing, we must satisfy certain continued listing standards, including but not limited to the composition of our Audit Committee. On March 22, 2024, we received a notice from Nasdaq stating that pursuant to the recent resignation of certain members of the Board of Directors ("Board"), we became noncompliant with the requirements set forth in Nasdaq Listing Rule 5605(c)(2)(A), which requires us to have an audit committee of at least three (3) independent directors. We currently only have two (2) independent directors serving on the Audit Committee.
Previous report
The Notice states that, consistent with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5605(c)(4), Nasdaq will provide us with a cure period in order to regain compliance (i) until the earlier of the Company’s next annual shareholders’ meeting or March 4, 2025, or (ii) if the next annual shareholders’ meeting is held before September 3, 2024, then we must evidence compliance no later than September 3, 2024.
Previous report
If we do not regain compliance within the allotted compliance period, including any extensions that may be granted by Nasdaq, Nasdaq will provide notice that our common stock will be subject to delisting. We will then be entitled to appeal the determination to a Nasdaq Listing Qualifications Panel and request a hearing. We cannot be sure that we will be able to appoint a new director, with suitable experience and expertise to serve on our Audit Committee to comply with the requirements for continued listing of our shares on the Nasdaq Capital Market in the future or that we will be able to comply with the other continued listing requirements.
Previous report
We may seek to avail ourselves of mechanisms to expedite the development or approval for product candidates it may pursue in the future, such as Fast Track or breakthrough designation, but such mechanisms may not actually lead to a faster development or regulatory review or approval process.
Previous report
We may seek to avail ourselves of Fast Track designation, breakthrough designation, or priority review for product candidates it may pursue in the future. For example, if a drug is intended for the treatment of a serious or life-threatening condition and the drug demonstrates the potential to address unmet medical needs for this condition, the drug sponsor may apply for FDA Fast Track designation. However, the FDA has broad discretion with regard to these mechanisms, and even if we believe a particular product candidate is eligible for any such mechanism, it cannot guarantee that the FDA would decide to grant it. Even if we believe a product candidate meets the criteria for designation as a breakthrough therapy, the FDA may disagree and instead determine not to make such designation. Even if it does obtain Fast Track or priority review designation or pursue an accelerated approval pathway, we may not experience a faster development process, review, or approval compared to conventional FDA procedures. The FDA may withdraw a particular designation if it believes that the designation is no longer supported by data from our clinical development program.
Previous report
Changing circumstances and market conditions, some of which may be beyond our control, could impair our ability to access our existing cash and cash equivalents and investments and to timely pay key vendors and others.
Previous report
Changing circumstances and market conditions, some of which may be beyond our control, could impair our ability to access our existing cash and cash equivalents and investments and to timely pay key vendors and others. For example, on March 10, 2023, Silicon Valley Bank ("SVB") was placed into receivership with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC"), which resulted in all funds held at SVB being temporarily inaccessible by SVB’s customers. Although we do not have any funds at SVB, if other banks and financial institutions with whom we have banking relationships enter receivership or become insolvent in the future in response to financial conditions affecting the banking system and financial markets, we may be unable to access, and we may lose, some or all of our existing cash and cash equivalents to the extent those funds are not insured or otherwise protected by the FDIC. In addition, in such circumstances we might not be able to timely pay key vendors and others. We regularly maintain cash balances that are not insured or are in excess of the FDIC’s insurance limit. Any delay in our ability to access our cash and cash equivalents (or the loss of some or all of such funds) or to timely pay key vendors and others could have a material adverse effect on our operations and cause it to need to seek additional capital sooner than planned.
Previous report
We have entered into an in-license agreement with respect to our lead product candidate, PALI-2108. This license agreement imposes various diligence, milestone, royalty, insurance and other obligations on us. If we fail to comply with these obligations, the licensor may terminate the license. The loss of such rights would materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, operating results and prospects.
Previous report
Our business could be negatively affected as a result of the actions of activist stockholders, and such activism could impact the trading value of our securities.
Previous report
Stockholders may, from time to time, engage in proxy solicitations or advance stockholder proposals, or otherwise attempt to effect changes and assert influence on our Board and management. Activist campaigns that contest or conflict with our strategic direction or seek changes in the composition of our Board could have an adverse effect on our operating results and financial condition. A proxy contest would require us to incur significant legal and advisory fees, proxy solicitation expenses and administrative and associated costs and require significant time and attention by our Board and management, diverting their attention from the pursuit of our business strategy. Any perceived uncertainties as to our future direction and control, our ability to execute on our strategy, or changes to the composition of our Board or senior management team arising from a proxy contest could lead to the perception of a change in the direction of our business or instability, which may result in the loss of potential business opportunities, make it more difficult to pursue our strategic initiatives, or limit our ability to attract and retain qualified personnel and business partners, any of which could adversely affect our business and operating results. If individuals are ultimately elected to our Board with a specific agenda, it may adversely affect our ability to effectively implement our business strategy and create additional value for our stockholders. We may choose to initiate, or may become subject to, litigation as a result of the proxy contest or matters arising from the proxy contest, which would serve as a further distraction to our Board and management and would require us to incur significant additional costs. In addition, actions such as those described above could cause significant fluctuations in our stock price based upon temporary or speculative market perceptions or other factors that do not necessarily reflect the underlying fundamentals and prospects of our business.
Previous report
Securities class action litigation could divert our management’s attention and harm our business and could subject us to significant liabilities.
Previous report
The stock markets have from time-to-time experienced significant price and volume fluctuations that have affected the market prices for the equity securities of life sciences and biotechnology companies. These broad market fluctuations may cause the market price of our common shares to decline. In the past, securities class action litigation has often been brought against a company following a decline in the market price of its securities. This risk is especially relevant for us because biotechnology and biopharmaceutical companies have experienced significant stock price volatility in recent years. Even if we are successful in defending claims that may be brought in the future, such litigation could result in substantial costs and may be a distraction to our management and may lead to an unfavorable outcome that could adversely impact our financial condition and prospects.
Reworded paragraphs (81)
Previous wording
Investing in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. We have described below a number of uncertainties and risks that, in addition to uncertainties and risks presented elsewhere in this Annual Report, may adversely affect our business, operating results and financial condition. The uncertainties and risks enumerated below as well as those presented elsewhere in this Annual Report should be considered carefully when evaluating us, our business and the value of our securities. On September 1, 2023, we announced that we had entered into the Giiant License Agreement with Giiant for the exclusive worldwide license to Giiant’s assets. As a result, we changed our strategic focus.
Current wording
Investing in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. We have described below a number of uncertainties and risks that, in addition to uncertainties and risks presented elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, may adversely affect our business, operating results and financial condition. The uncertainties and risks enumerated below as well as those presented elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K should be considered carefully when evaluating us, our business and the value of our securities.
Previous wording
Risks Related to our Development, Commercialization and Regulatory Approval of our Investigational Therapies
Current wording
Risks Related to Our Development, Commercialization and Regulatory Approval of Our Product Candidates
Previous wording
Our business depends on the successful pre-clinical and clinical development, regulatory approval, and commercialization of our recently licensed therapeutic compound, including our lead asset PALI-2108.
Current wording
Our business depends on the successful clinical development, regulatory approval, and commercialization of our therapeutic compounds, including our lead asset PALI-2108.
Previous wording
the successful initiation and completion of our planned pre-clinical studies and clinical trials;
Current wording
the successful initiation and completion of our current planned clinical trials and any additionally required preclinical studies, if any;
Previous wording
the approval by the FDA or other regulatory authority to commence the marketing of our product candidates;
Current wording
the approval by Health Canada or other regulatory authorities to commence the marketing of our product candidates;
Previous wording
the ability of our contract manufacturers to manufacture sufficient supply of our product candidates to meet the required pre-clinical studies and clinical trial supplies;
Current wording
the ability of our contract manufacturers to manufacture sufficient supply of our product candidates to meet the required clinical trial supplies and any additional required preclinical studies;
Previous wording
the ability of our contract manufacturers to remain in good standing with regulatory agencies and to develop, validate and maintain commercially viable manufacturing facilities and processes that are compliant with cGMP;
Current wording
the ability of our contract manufacturers to remain in good standing with regulatory agencies and to develop, validate and maintain commercially viable manufacturing facilities and processes that are compliant with cGMP regulations;
Previous wording
If we do not achieve one or more of these factors, many of which are beyond our control, in a timely manner or at all, we could experience significant delays or an inability to obtain regulatory approvals or commercialize our proposed product candidate. Such delays may result in increased costs and the failure to complete any required regulatory activity. Even if regulatory approvals are obtained, we may never be able to successfully commercialize our product candidates. Accordingly, we cannot make assurances that we will ever be able to generate sufficient revenue through the sale of any product candidates, if approved, to internally fund our business.
Current wording
If we do not achieve one or more of these factors, many of which are beyond our control, in a timely manner or at all, we could experience significant delays or an inability to obtain regulatory approvals or commercialize our proposed product candidates. For example, we are currently enrolling and dosing subjects in our initial Phase 1 clinical trial of PALI-2108 in Canada. We may experience delays or difficulties in finding suitable trial subjects, or in completing enrollment. Such delays may result in increased costs and the failure to complete the Phase 1 clinical trial of PALI-2108 in Canada in a timely manner. Even if successfully completed, we must complete a number of additional clinical trials prior to obtaining regulatory approval to commercialize our product candidates. Accordingly, we cannot make assurances that we will ever be able to generate sufficient revenue through the sale of any product candidates, if approved, to internally fund our business.
Previous wording
There are substantial risks inherent in drug development, and, as a result, we may not be able to successfully develop PALI-2108.
Current wording
There are substantial risks in drug development, and, as a result, we may not be able to successfully develop any product candidate. including our lead product candidate, PALI-2108.
Previous wording
Our research and development efforts are focused on a therapeutic based on PDE4 inhibitors. Our development of PALI-2108 is in the early stages. However, such technology’s commercial feasibility and acceptance in our target indication of inflammatory bowel disease are unknown. Scientific research and development requires significant amounts of capital and takes a long time to reach commercial viability, if it can be achieved at all. During the research and development process, we may experience technological barriers that we may be unable to overcome. Further, certain underlying premises in our development programs have not been proven. Because of these and similar uncertainties, it is possible that our product candidates will not reach commercialization. If we are unable to successfully develop and commercialize our product candidates, we will be unable to generate revenue or build a sustainable or profitable business.
Current wording
We have initiated a Phase 1 clinical trial of PALI-2108 in our target indication of IBD. Drug development requires a significant amount of capital and can take a long time to reach commercial viability, if it can be achieved at all. During the development process, we may experience technological barriers that we may be unable to overcome. Further, certain underlying premises in our development programs have not been proven. Because of these and similar uncertainties, it is possible that our product candidates will not reach commercialization. If we are unable to successfully develop and commercialize our product candidates, including our lead product candidate, PALI-2108, we will be unable to generate revenue or build a sustainable or profitable business.
Previous wording
We depend on our license agreement with Giiant to permit us to use patents and patent applications relating to PALI-2108. Termination of these rights or the failure to comply with obligations under this agreement could materially harm our business and prevent us from developing or commercializing PALI-2108, our lead product candidate.
Current wording
We depend on our license agreement with Giiant to permit us to use patents and patent applications relating to PALI-2108. Termination of these rights or the failure to comply with our obligations under the license agreement could materially harm our business and prevent us from developing or commercializing PALI-2108, our lead product candidate.
Previous wording
We are a party to a license agreement with Giiant under which we have been granted rights to patents and patent applications that are important to our business. We rely on this license agreement to be able to use various proprietary technologies that are material to our business, including certain trade secrets and patent applications that cover PALI-2108. Our rights to use this intellectual property and employ the inventions claimed in these patent applications and contained in the trade secrets are subject to the continuation of and our compliance with the terms of our license agreement. If we fail to comply with any of our obligations under the license agreement with Giiant, Giiant may have the right to terminate the license agreement, in which event we would not be able to continue the development of PALI-2108. Additionally, disputes may arise under the license agreement regarding the intellectual property that is subject to such license agreement. If disputes over intellectual property that we have licensed, or in the future may license, prevent or impair our ability to maintain any of our license agreements on acceptable terms, we may be unable to successfully develop and commercialize the affected product candidates and technologies.
Current wording
We are a party to the Giiant License Agreement under which we have been granted rights to patents and patent applications that are important to our business. We rely on this license agreement to be able to use various proprietary technologies that are material to our business, including patents, and patent applications that cover PALI-2108. Our rights to PALI-2108 are subject to the continuation of, and our compliance with, the terms of the Giiant License Agreement. If we fail to comply with any of our obligations under the Giiant License Agreement, Giiant may have the right to terminate the Giiant License agreement, in which event we would not be able to continue the development or our proposed commercialization of PALI-2108. Additionally, disputes may arise under the Giiant License Agreement regarding the intellectual property that is subject to such agreement. If disputes over intellectual property that we have licensed, or in the future may license, prevent or impair our ability to maintain any of our license agreements, including the Giiant License Agreement, on acceptable terms, we may be unable to successfully develop and commercialize the affected product candidates and technologies.
Previous wording
Pre-clinical and clinical drug development is very expensive, time-consuming and uncertain.
Current wording
Clinical drug development is expensive, time-consuming and uncertain.
Previous wording
The pre-clinical and clinical development of product candidates is very expensive, time-consuming, difficult to design and implement, and the outcomes are inherently uncertain. Most product candidates that commence clinical trials are never approved by regulatory authorities for commercialization and of those that are approved, many do not cover their costs of development. In addition, we, any partner with which we may in the future collaborate, the FDA, or other regulatory authorities, including state and local agencies and counterpart agencies in foreign countries, or institutional review boards (“IRB”) at our trial sites, may suspend, delay, require modifications to or terminate our clinical trials, once begun, at any time.
Current wording
The clinical development of product candidates is very expensive, time-consuming, difficult to design and implement, and the outcomes are inherently uncertain. Most product candidates that commence clinical trials are never approved by regulatory authorities for commercialization and of those that are approved, many do not generate sufficient revenue to cover their costs of development. In addition, we, any partner with which we may collaborate, Health Canada, any similar regulatory authority, state and local agencies, counterpart agencies in foreign countries, or the applicable Institutional Review Board ("IRB") at our trial sites, may suspend, delay, require modifications to or terminate our clinical trials, once begun, at any time.
Previous wording
We may in the future conduct clinical trials for PALI-2108 outside the United States, and the FDA or applicable foreign regulatory authorities may not accept data from such trials.
Current wording
We are currently conducting a Phase 1 clinical trial of PALI-2108 in Canada, and the FDA or applicable foreign regulatory authorities may not accept data from such trials, or any other trial we conduct outside of the U.S.
Previous wording
We have historically funded our operations and prior development efforts through the sale of our securities. Based on our existing cash resources and our current or future plan of operations, we do not have adequate capital to fund our anticipated operations through the completion of the development of PALI-2108. As a result, we may need to secure additional funding. If we are not able to obtain financing in the future or on acceptable terms, we may have to curtail our research and development efforts as well as our operations.
Current wording
We have historically funded our operations and prior development efforts through the sale of our securities. Based on our existing cash resources and our current business plan, we do not have adequate capital to fund our anticipated operations through the completion of the development of PALI-2108. As a result, we will need to secure additional funding. If we are not able to obtain additional capital in the future or on acceptable terms, we may need to curtail our anticipated clinical trials as well as our operations.
Previous wording
pre-clinical data required for the submission of an IND or CTA;
Current wording
preclinical data required for the submission of an IND or CTA;
Previous wording
government review and approval of a submission containing manufacturing, pre-clinical and clinical data; and
Current wording
government review and approval of a submission containing manufacturing, preclinical and clinical data; and
Previous wording
The proposed product candidate we currently have under development, PALI-2108, will require significant development, pre-clinical and clinical testing and the investment of significant funds to gain regulatory approval before it can be commercialized. The results of our research and human clinical testing of PALI-2108 may not meet regulatory requirements. If approved, PALI-2108 may also require the completion of post-market studies. There can be no assurance that PALI-2108 will be successfully developed and approved. The process of completing pre-clinical and clinical testing and obtaining the required approvals is expected to take a number of years and require the use of substantial resources. Further, there can be no assurance that PALI-2108 will be shown to be safe and effective in clinical trials or receive applicable regulatory approvals. If we fail to obtain regulatory approvals, it will not be able to market PALI-2108 and our operations may be adversely affected.
Current wording
PALI-2108 will require significant development, clinical testing, possibly additional preclinical studies, and the investment of significant funds to gain regulatory approval before it can be commercialized. Although we commenced a Phase 1 clinical trial in Canada, there can be no assurances that gaining regulatory approval in Canada will result in regulatory approval from any other regulatory agency, including the FDA of the U.S. The results of our human clinical testing of PALI-2108 may not meet applicable regulatory requirements. If approved in a jurisdiction, PALI-2108 may also require the completion of post-market studies. The process of completing clinical testing and obtaining the required approvals is expected to take a number of years and require the use of substantial resources. Further, there can be no assurance that PALI-2108 will be shown to be safe and effective in clinical trials or receive applicable regulatory approvals.
Previous wording
If pre-clinical and clinical studies of PALI-2108 do not yield successful results, then we may not continue to develop PALI-2108.
Current wording
If clinical studies of PALI-2108 do not yield successful results, we may discontinue the development of PALI-2108.
Previous wording
We must demonstrate that PALI-2108 is safe and efficacious in humans through extensive pre-clinical and clinical testing. Our research and development programs are at an early stage of development. We may experience numerous unforeseen events during, or as a result of, the testing process that could delay or prevent commercialization of any products, including the following:
Current wording
We must demonstrate that PALI-2108 is safe and efficacious in humans through extensive clinical testing. We may experience numerous unforeseen events during, or as a result of, the testing process that could delay or prevent commercialization of any products, including the following:
Previous wording
safety and efficacy results attained in early human clinical trials, if approved, may not be indicative of results that are obtained in later clinical trials;
Current wording
safety and efficacy results attained in preclinical studies may not be indicative of results that are obtained in our clinical trials;
Previous wording
after reviewing test results, we may abandon projects that it previously believed to be promising;
Current wording
after reviewing early clinical trial results, we may abandon projects that we previously believed to be promising;
Previous wording
It may take us longer than we estimate to complete pre-clinical studies and clinical trials, and we may not be able to complete them at all.
Current wording
It may take us longer than we estimate to complete clinical trials, and we may not be able to complete them at all.
Previous wording
Although for planning purposes we project the commencement, continuation and completion of our pre-clinical studies and clinical trials; a number of factors, including scheduling conflicts with participating researchers and/or clinicians and research or clinical institutions, and difficulties in identifying or enrolling patients who meet trial eligibility criteria, may cause significant delays. We may not commence or complete pre-clinical studies or clinical trials involving PALI-2108 as currently contemplated or may not be able to conduct them successfully.
Current wording
Although for planning purposes we project the commencement, continuation and completion of our clinical trials; a number of factors, including scheduling conflicts with participating researchers and/or CROs, clinicians and research or clinical institutions, and difficulties in identifying or enrolling patients who meet trial eligibility criteria, may cause significant delays. Even if we were to commence and complete our clinical trials involving PALI-2108 as currently contemplated, they may not be successful.
Previous wording
If regulatory approval to sell PALI-2108 is received, regulatory agencies will subject PALI-2108, as well as the manufacturing facilities, to continual review and periodic inspection. If previously unknown problems with a product or manufacturing and laboratory facility are discovered, or we fail to comply with applicable regulatory approval requirements, a regulatory agency may impose restrictions on PALI-2108 or us. The agency may require the withdrawal of PALI-2108 from the market, closure of the facility or substantial fines.
Current wording
If regulatory approval to market and commercialize PALI-2108 is received, regulatory agencies will subject PALI-2108, as well as the manufacturing facilities, to continual review and periodic inspection. If previously unknown problems with a product or manufacturing and laboratory facility are discovered, or we fail to comply with applicable regulatory approval requirements, a regulatory agency may impose restrictions on PALI-2108 or us. The agency may require the withdrawal of PALI-2108 from the market, closure of the facility or substantial fines.
Previous wording
Sales of any approved drug candidate will depend in part on the availability of coverage and reimbursement from third-party payers such as government insurance programs, including Medicare and Medicaid, private health insurers, health maintenance organizations and other health care related organizations, who are increasingly challenging the price of medical products and services. Accordingly, coverage and reimbursement may be uncertain. Adoption of any drug by the medical community may be limited if third-party payers will not offer coverage. Additionally, significant uncertainty exists as to the reimbursement status of newly approved drugs. Cost control initiatives may decrease coverage and payment levels for any drug and, in turn, the price that we will be able to charge and/or the volume of our sales. We are unable to predict all changes to the coverage or reimbursement methodologies that will be applied by private or government payers. Any denial of private or government payer coverage or inadequate reimbursement could harm our business or future revenues, if any. If we partner with third parties with respect to any of our product candidates, we may be reliant on that partner to obtain reimbursement from government and private payors for the drug, if approved, and any failure of that partner to establish adequate reimbursement could have a negative impact on our revenues and profitability.
Current wording
Sales of any approved drug candidate will depend in part on the availability of coverage and reimbursement from third-party payers such as government insurance programs in the applicable jurisdiction, including, for example, Medicare and Medicaid in the U.S., private health insurers, health maintenance organizations and other health care related organizations, who are increasingly challenging the price of medical products and services. Accordingly, coverage and reimbursement may be uncertain. Adoption of any drug by the medical community may be limited if third-party payers will not offer coverage. Additionally, significant uncertainty exists as to the reimbursement status of newly approved drugs. Cost control initiatives may decrease coverage and payment levels for any drug and, in turn, the price that we will be able to charge and/or the volume of our sales. We are unable to predict all changes to the coverage or reimbursement methodologies that will be applied by private or government payers. Any denial of private or government payer coverage or inadequate reimbursement could harm our business or future revenues, if any. If we partner with third parties with respect to any of our product candidates, we may be reliant on that partner to obtain reimbursement from government and private payors for the drug, if approved, and any failure of that partner to establish adequate reimbursement could have a negative impact on our revenues and profitability.
Previous wording
In addition, both the federal and state governments in the United States and foreign governments continue to propose and pass new legislation, regulations, and policies affecting coverage and reimbursement rates, which are designed to contain or reduce the cost of health care. Further federal and state proposals and healthcare reforms are likely, which could limit the prices that can be charged for the product candidates that we develop and may further limit our commercial opportunity. There may be future changes that result in reductions in potential coverage and reimbursement levels for our product candidates, if approved and commercialized, and we cannot predict the scope of any future changes or the impact that those changes would have on our operations.
Current wording
In addition, both the federal and state governments in the U.S. and foreign governments continue to propose and pass new legislation, regulations, and policies affecting coverage and reimbursement rates, which are designed to contain or reduce the cost of health care. Further federal and state proposals and healthcare reforms are likely, which could limit the prices that can be charged for the product candidates that we develop and may further limit our commercial opportunity. There may be future changes that result in reductions in potential coverage and reimbursement levels for our product candidates, if approved and commercialized, and we cannot predict the scope of any future changes or the impact that those changes would have on our operations.
Previous wording
If future reimbursement for PALI-2108, subject to approval, are substantially less than projected, or rebate obligations associated with them are substantially greater than expected, our future net revenue and profitability, if any, could be materially diminished.
Current wording
If future reimbursement for PALI-2108, subject to approval, is substantially less than projected, or rebate obligations associated with them are substantially greater than expected, our future net revenue and profitability, if any, could be materially diminished.
Previous wording
We face potential product liability exposure, and if successful claims are brought against us, it may incur substantial liability for a product candidate and may have to limit our commercialization.
Current wording
We face potential product liability exposure, and if successful claims are brought against us, we may incur substantial liability for a product candidate and we may need to limit our commercialization.
Previous wording
The use of our product candidates in clinical trials and the sale of any products for which we obtain marketing approval exposes us to the risk of product liability claims. Product liability claims might be brought against us by clinical trial participants, consumers, health-care providers, pharmaceutical companies, or others selling our products. If we cannot successfully defend ourselves against these claims, it may incur substantial liabilities. Regardless of merit or eventual outcomes of such claims, product liability claims may result in:
Current wording
The use of our product candidates in clinical trials and the sale of any products for which we obtain marketing approval exposes us to the risk of product liability claims. Product liability claims might be brought against us by clinical trial participants, consumers, health-care providers, pharmaceutical companies, or others selling our products. If we cannot successfully defend ourselves against these claims, we may incur substantial liabilities. Regardless of merit or eventual outcomes of such claims, product liability claims may result in:
Previous wording
Our insurance coverage may not be sufficient to reimburse it for all expenses or losses it may suffer. Moreover, insurance coverage is becoming increasingly expensive and, in the future, we may not be able to maintain insurance coverage at a reasonable cost or in sufficient amounts to protect it against losses.
Current wording
Our insurance coverage may not be sufficient to reimburse us for all expenses or losses we may suffer. Moreover, insurance coverage is becoming increasingly expensive, and, in the future, we may not be able to maintain insurance coverage at a reasonable cost or in sufficient amounts to protect us against losses.
Previous wording
limitations or contraindications, warnings, precautions or approved indications for use different than those sought by us that are contained in the final FDA-approved labeling, or other authoritative regulatory body approved labeling, for the applicable product;
Current wording
limitations or contraindications, warnings, precautions or approved indications for use different than those sought by us that are contained in the final approved labeling;
Previous wording
any FDA requirement, or other authoritative regulatory body requirement, to undertake a risk evaluation and mitigation strategy;
Current wording
any requirement of an authoritative regulatory body to undertake a risk evaluation and mitigation strategy;
Previous wording
We are a biopharmaceutical company with a limited operating history that may make it difficult to evaluate the success of our business to date and to assess our future viability. We were initially formed in 2001 and our operations, to date, have been limited to business planning, raising capital and other research and development activities related to our product candidates. We have not yet demonstrated an ability to successfully complete any clinical trials and has never completed the development of any product candidate, nor has it ever generated any revenue from product sales or otherwise. Consequently, we have no meaningful operations upon which to evaluate our business, and predictions about our future success or viability may not be as accurate as they could be if it had a longer operating history or a history of successfully developing and commercializing biopharmaceutical products.
Current wording
We are a biopharmaceutical company with a limited operating history that may make it difficult to evaluate the success of our business to date and to assess our future viability. While we were initially formed in 2001, our operations, to date, have been limited to business planning, raising capital and other research and development activities related to our product candidates. We additionally adopted a new business plan in September 2023 upon entering into the Giiant License Agreement. Since that time, we have not yet demonstrated an ability to successfully complete any clinical trials and have never completed the development of any product candidate, nor have we ever generated any revenue from product sales. Consequently, we have no meaningful operations upon which to evaluate our business, and predictions about our future success or viability may not be as accurate as they could be if we had a longer operating history or a history of successfully developing and commercializing biopharmaceutical products.
Previous wording
Our business model assumes revenue from, among other activities, marketing or out-licensing the products we develop. PALI-2108 is in the early stages of development and because we have a short development history with PALI-2108, there is a limited amount of information about us upon which you can evaluate our business and prospects.
Current wording
Our business model assumes revenue from, among other activities, marketing or out-licensing the products we develop. PALI-2108 is in the early stages of clinical development and because we have a short development history with PALI-2108, there is a limited amount of information about us upon which you can evaluate our business and prospects.
Previous wording
We have no approved drugs and thus have not begun to market or generate revenues from the commercialization of any products. We recently in-licensed PALI-2108 and accordingly, we only have a limited history upon which we can evaluate our ability to develop PALI-2108 as it is still at an early stage of development. Thus, we have limited experience and have not yet demonstrated our ability to successfully overcome many of the risks and uncertainties frequently encountered by companies in new and rapidly evolving fields, particularly in the biopharmaceutical area.
Current wording
We have no approved drugs and thus have not begun to market or generate revenues from the commercialization of any products. We only have a limited history upon which we can evaluate our ability to develop PALI-2108. We commenced our initial Phase 1 clinical trial of PALI-2108 in November of 2024. Thus, we have limited experience and have not yet demonstrated an ability to successfully overcome many of the risks and uncertainties frequently encountered by companies in new and rapidly evolving fields, particularly in the biopharmaceutical area.
Previous wording
Receive FDA approval and approval from similar foreign regulatory bodies;
Current wording
Receive approval from Health Canada and/or approval from similar foreign regulatory bodies, such as the FDA;
Previous wording
Manage our spending and cash requirements as our expenses will increase in the near term if we add programs and additional pre-clinical and clinical trials; and
Current wording
Manage our spending and cash requirements as our expenses will increase in the near term if we add programs and additional preclinical and clinical trials; and
Previous wording
Our future success depends to a significant extent on the continued services of our key employees, including our senior scientific, technical and managerial personnel. We do not maintain key person life insurance for any of our executives and we do not maintain employment agreements with many senior employees. Competition for qualified employees in the pharmaceutical industry is high, and our ability to execute our strategy will depend in part on our ability to continue to attract and retain qualified scientists and management. If we are unable to find, hire and retain qualified individuals, it will have difficulty implementing our business plan in a timely manner, or at all.
Current wording
Our future success depends to a significant extent on the continued services of our key employees, including our senior scientific, technical and managerial personnel. We do not maintain key person life insurance for any of our executives. Competition for qualified employees in the pharmaceutical industry is high, and our ability to execute our strategy will depend in part on our ability to continue to attract and retain qualified scientists and management. If we are unable to find, hire, and retain qualified individuals, we may be unable to execute our business plan in a timely manner, if at all.
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