Aardvark Therapeutics, Inc.

Previous wording

We have no products approved for commercial sale and have not generated any revenue to date, and we continue to incur significant research and development and other expenses related to our ongoing operations. As a result, we are not profitable and have incurred significant losses since our inception and expect to continue to incur significant and increasing operating losses for at least the next several years. For the three months ended March 31, 2026 and 2025, we reported a net loss of $21.6 million and $9.3 million, respectively. As of March 31, 2026, we had an accumulated deficit of $137.5 million. Substantially all of our losses have resulted from expenses incurred in connection with our research and development programs and from general and administrative costs associated with our operations. ARD-101 will require substantial additional development time and resources before we would be able to apply for or receive marketing approvals and begin generating revenue from product sales. We expect to continue to incur losses for the foreseeable future, and we anticipate that our expenses will increase substantially as we:

Current wording

We have no products approved for commercial sale and have not generated any revenue to date, and we continue to incur significant research and development and other expenses related to our ongoing operations. As a result, we are not profitable and have incurred significant losses since our inception and expect to continue to incur significant operating losses for at least the next several years. For the six months ended June 30, 2026 and 2025, we reported a net loss of $36.0 million and $23.7 million, respectively. As of June 30, 2026, we had an accumulated deficit of $151.9 million. Substantially all of our losses have resulted from expenses incurred in connection with our research and development programs and from general and administrative costs associated with our operations. ARD-101 will require substantial additional development time and resources before we would be able to apply for or receive marketing approvals and begin generating revenue from product sales, particularly following our voluntary pause of our partially completed Phase 3 clinical trial (HERO trial) of ARD-101 for hyperphagia associated with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS), as we now must first complete the unblinding and analysis of program-wide data related to the partially completed HERO trial, develop additional clinical study protocols and evaluate updates to our program-wide safety strategy in order to support future discussions with the FDA regarding potential next steps for the ARD-101 clinical development program in PWS. In June 2026, we terminated the HERO trial and the OLE trial and do not currently intend to resume these clinical trials as previously designed. We expect to continue to incur losses for the foreseeable future as we:

Previous wording

conduct our ongoing and planned clinical trials of ARD-101 as well as initiate and complete additional clinical trials for other product candidates and programs;

Current wording

commence any new clinical trials of ARD-101 as well as initiate and complete additional clinical trials for other product candidates and programs;

Previous wording

The development of biopharmaceutical product candidates is capital-intensive. We expect our expenses to increase substantially in connection with our ongoing and planned activities, particularly as we conduct our ongoing and planned preclinical studies and clinical trials of ARD-101 and our other product candidates and programs, and any future product candidates we may develop. Our expenses will increase substantially if our product candidates successfully complete early clinical and other studies and also could increase beyond expectations if the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities require us to perform studies in addition to those that we currently anticipate. Because the outcome of any clinical trial or preclinical study is highly uncertain, we cannot reasonably estimate the actual amounts necessary to successfully complete the development and commercialization of our product candidates. In addition, we will incur additional costs associated with operating as a public company. Furthermore, if we obtain marketing approval for our product candidates, we expect to incur significant expenses related to manufacturing, marketing, sales and distribution. Accordingly, we will need to obtain substantial additional funding in connection with our continuing operations. If we are unable to raise capital when needed or on attractive terms, we could be forced to delay, reduce or eliminate our research and development programs or any future commercialization efforts.

Current wording

The development of biopharmaceutical product candidates is capital-intensive. Upon a positive resolution of the clinical hold and a successful financing, we would expect our expenses to increase substantially in connection with our ongoing and planned activities, particularly as we conduct our planned preclinical studies and commence any new clinical trials of ARD-101 and our other product candidates and programs, and any future product candidates we may develop. Our expenses will increase substantially if our product candidates successfully complete early clinical and other studies and also could increase beyond expectations if the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities require us to perform studies in addition to those that we currently anticipate. Because the outcome of any clinical trial or preclinical study is highly uncertain, we cannot reasonably estimate the actual amounts necessary to successfully complete the development and commercialization of our product candidates. In addition, we will incur additional costs associated with operating as a public company. Furthermore, if we obtain marketing approval for our product candidates, we expect to incur significant expenses related to manufacturing, marketing, sales and distribution. Accordingly, we will need to obtain substantial additional funding in connection with our continuing operations. If we are unable to raise capital when needed or on attractive terms, we could be forced to delay, reduce or eliminate our research and development programs or any future commercialization efforts.

Previous wording

As of March 31, 2026, we had cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of approximately $91.2 million. Based on our current operating plan, we believe that our existing cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments will be sufficient to fund our projected operations into mid-2027. We have based these estimates on assumptions that may prove to be wrong, and we could use our capital resources sooner than we currently expect. Our operating plan may change as a result of many factors currently unknown to us, and we may need to seek additional funds sooner than planned, through equity offerings, debt financings or other capital sources, including potential grants, collaborations, licenses and other similar arrangements. Even if we believe we have sufficient capital for our current or future operating plans, we may seek additional capital if market conditions are favorable or if we have specific strategic considerations. Such financing may result in dilution to our stockholders, imposition of burdensome debt covenants and repayment obligations, or other restrictions that may affect our business.

Current wording

As of June 30, 2026, we had cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of approximately $73.9 million. Based on our current operating plan, we believe that our existing cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments will be sufficient to fund our projected operations into late 2027. We have based these estimates on assumptions that may prove to be wrong, and we could use our capital resources sooner than we currently expect. Our operating plan may change as a result of many factors currently unknown to us, including the completion of the assessment of the unblinded data and further discussions with the FDA following analysis of such data, and we may need to seek additional funds sooner than planned, through equity offerings, debt financings or other capital sources, including potential grants, collaborations, licenses and other similar arrangements. Even if we believe we have sufficient capital for our current or future operating plans, we may seek additional capital if market conditions are favorable or if we have specific strategic considerations. Such financing may result in dilution to our stockholders, imposition of burdensome debt covenants and repayment obligations, or other restrictions that may affect our business.

Previous wording

the design, timing, costs, progress, and results of our planned and ongoing preclinical studies and clinical trials;

Current wording

the design, timing, costs, progress, and results of our planned preclinical studies and clinical trials;

Previous wording

whether the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities accept our clinical trial designs and development, data from our planned and ongoing preclinical studies and clinical trials and other work as the basis for review and approval of our product candidates;

Current wording

whether the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities accept our clinical trial designs and development, data from our planned preclinical studies and clinical trials and other work as the basis for review and approval of our product candidates;

Previous wording

our need to implement additional internal systems and infrastructure, including financial and reporting systems and validate large-scale data and document systems;

Current wording

our need to implement additional internal systems and infrastructure, including financial and reporting systems, and to validate large-scale data and document systems;

Previous wording

Any additional capital raising efforts may divert our management from their day-to-day activities, which may adversely affect our ability to develop and, if approved, commercialize our current and any future product candidates. Additional funding may not be available when we need them, on acceptable terms, or at all. If the equity and credit markets deteriorate, it may make any necessary debt or equity financing more difficult, more costly or more dilutive. If adequate funds are not available to us on a timely basis or on terms we believe are acceptable, we may be required to:

Current wording

Any additional capital raising efforts may divert our management from their day-to-day activities, which may adversely affect our ability to develop and, if approved, commercialize our current and any future product candidates. Additional funding may not be available when we need it, on acceptable terms, or at all. If the equity and credit markets deteriorate, it may make any necessary debt or equity financing more difficult, more costly or more dilutive. If adequate funds are not available to us on a timely basis or on terms we believe are acceptable, we may be required to:

Previous wording

We currently have no products that are approved for commercial sale. Our lead product candidate, ARD-101, is an oral, largely gut-restricted small-molecule agonist of certain TAS2Rs expressed on luminally accessible enteroendocrine cells lining the gut for which we have initiated a Phase 3 clinical trial for hyperphagia associated with PWS. In February 2026, we voluntarily paused enrollment and dosing in the HERO trial and the open label extension (OLE) trial based on reversible cardiac observations in a healthy volunteer study. We are conducting a comprehensive review of the data and collaborating with the FDA to determine next steps and expect to provide further guidance in the second quarter of 2026. The success of our business, including our ability to finance our company and generate revenue in the future, will primarily depend on the successful development, regulatory approval and commercialization of our lead product candidate. We cannot be certain that ARD-101 or any other current or future product candidates will receive regulatory approval or be successfully commercialized even if we receive regulatory approval.

Current wording

We currently have no products that are approved for commercial sale. Our lead product candidate, ARD-101, is an oral, largely gut-restricted small-molecule agonist of certain TAS2Rs expressed on luminally accessible enteroendocrine cells lining the gut for which we previously initiated a Phase 3 clinical trial for hyperphagia associated with PWS. In February 2026, we voluntarily paused enrollment and dosing in the HERO trial and the open label extension (OLE) trial, and the POWER and STRENGTH clinical trials for ARD-201, based on reversible cardiac observations in a healthy volunteer study, and the FDA placed a full clinical hold on our investigational new drug application (IND) for ARD-101 in May 2026. In June 2026, we terminated the HERO trial and the OLE trial and do not currently intend to resume these clinical trials as previously designed. We are evaluating whether and how to pursue further clinical development of ARD-101 in PWS, including a potentially redesigned trial. We are conducting a comprehensive review of the data, including initiating the unblinding and analysis of program-wide data related to the partially completed HERO trial, developing additional clinical study protocols and evaluating updates to our program-wide safety strategy to support future discussions with the FDA regarding potential next steps for the ARD-101 clinical development program in PWS, and expect to provide further guidance in the third quarter of 2026. The success of our business, including our ability to finance our company and generate revenue in the future, will primarily depend on the successful development, regulatory approval and commercialization of our lead product candidate. We cannot be certain that ARD-101 or any other current or future product candidates will receive regulatory approval or be successfully commercialized even if we receive regulatory approval.

Previous wording

our ability to complete and maintain investigational new drug applications (INDs) and IND-enabling studies and successfully submit INDs or comparable applications for our product candidates or any future product candidates;

Current wording

our ability to complete and maintain INDs and IND-enabling studies and successfully submit INDs or comparable applications for our product candidates or any future product candidates;

Previous wording

acceptance of our proposed indications and primary endpoint assessments relating to the proposed indications of our product candidates by the FDA and comparable foreign regulatory authorities, including the use of non-invasive or other novel endpoint to initially obtain market authorization for our product candidates or any future product candidates;

Current wording

acceptance of our proposed indications and primary endpoint assessments relating to the proposed indications of our product candidates by the FDA and comparable foreign regulatory authorities, including the use of non-invasive or other novel endpoints to initially obtain market authorization for our product candidates or any future product candidates;

Previous wording

Prior to obtaining approval to commercialize any product candidate in the United States or abroad, we must demonstrate with sufficient evidence from adequate and well-controlled clinical trials, and to the satisfaction of the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities, that such product candidates are safe and effective for their intended uses. Results from preclinical studies and clinical trials can be interpreted in different ways. Even if we believe the preclinical or clinical data for our product candidates are promising, such data may not be sufficient to support approval by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities. Our approach is designed to target biological pathways associated with alleviating hunger, specifically by developing selective compounds targeting TAS2Rs, is unproven and may not result in marketable products. Although multiple studies have been conducted and are planned, to date, this mechanism has not been definitively proven to successfully treat hunger-associated conditions. Targeting TAS2Rs is a novel approach in a rapidly developing field, and there can be no assurance that we will not experience currently unknown problems or delays in developing our product candidates, that such problems or delays will not result in unanticipated costs, or that any such development problems can be solved. The FDA may also require us to conduct additional preclinical studies, clinical trials or other studies for our product candidates either prior to or after approval, or it may object to elements of our clinical development programs.

Current wording

Prior to obtaining approval to commercialize any product candidate in the United States or abroad, we must demonstrate with sufficient evidence from adequate and well-controlled clinical trials, and to the satisfaction of the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities, that such product candidates are safe and effective for their intended uses. Results from preclinical studies and clinical trials can be interpreted in different ways. Even if we believe the preclinical or clinical data for our product candidates are promising, such data may not be sufficient to support approval by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities. Our approach of targeting biological pathways associated with alleviating hunger, specifically by developing selective compounds targeting TAS2Rs, is unproven and may not result in marketable products. Although multiple studies have been conducted and are planned, to date, this mechanism has not been definitively proven to successfully treat hunger-associated conditions. Targeting TAS2Rs is a novel approach in a rapidly developing field, and there can be no assurance that we will not experience currently unknown problems or delays in developing our product candidates, that such problems or delays will not result in unanticipated costs, or that any such development problems can be solved. The FDA may also require us to conduct additional preclinical studies, clinical trials or other studies for our product candidates either prior to or after approval, or it may object to elements of our clinical development programs.

Previous wording

We may incur additional costs and experience delays in ongoing clinical trials for our product candidates, and we do not know whether future clinical trials, if any, will begin on time, need to be redesigned, enroll an adequate number of subjects on time or be completed on schedule, if at all. We may experience numerous unforeseen events during or as a result of clinical trials that could delay or prevent our ability to receive marketing approval or commercialize our product candidates, including:

Current wording

We may incur additional costs and experience delays in planned clinical trials for our product candidates, and we do not know whether future clinical trials, if any, will begin on time, need to be redesigned, enroll an adequate number of subjects on time or be completed on schedule, if at all. We may experience numerous unforeseen events during or as a result of clinical trials that could delay or prevent our ability to receive marketing approval or commercialize our product candidates, including:

Previous wording

our product candidates may have undesirable side effects, unforeseen adverse events, or other unexpected characteristics, causing us or our investigators, regulators or IRBs or ECs to suspend or terminate the trials. For example, in February 2026, we voluntarily paused enrollment and dosing in the Phase 3 HERO trial and the OLE trial for ARD-101, and the POWER and STRENGTH clinical trials for ARD-201, based on reversible cardiac observations in a healthy volunteer study of ARD-101;

Current wording

our product candidates may have undesirable side effects, unforeseen adverse events, or other unexpected characteristics, causing us or our investigators, regulators or IRBs or ECs to suspend or terminate the trials. For example, in February 2026, we voluntarily paused enrollment and dosing in the Phase 3 HERO trial and the OLE trial for ARD-101, and the POWER and STRENGTH clinical trials for ARD-201, based on reversible cardiac observations in a healthy volunteer study of ARD-101, and the FDA placed a full clinical hold on our IND for ARD-101 in May 2026, and we terminated the HERO and OLE trials in June 2026;

Previous wording

We may not be able to initiate or continue our planned clinical trials for our product candidates if we are unable to identify and enroll a sufficient number of eligible subjects to participate in these trials. For example, we are developing ARD-101 for the treatment of hyperphagia associated with PWS. PWS is a rare disease with a limited patient pool from which to draw. In February 2026, we voluntarily paused enrollment and dosing in the Phase 3 HERO trial and the OLE trial for ARD-101, and the POWER and STRENGTH clinical trials for ARD-201 based on reversible cardiac observations in a healthy volunteer study of ARD-101. We are conducting a comprehensive review of the data and collaborating with the FDA to determine next steps and expect to provide further guidance in the second quarter of 2026. There can be no assurance that we will be able to resume enrollment or dosing in these trials on a timely basis, or at all, which could further delay our clinical development timelines. Moreover, there is no guarantee that, if and when we resume any clinical trials, we may encounter further delays or difficulties in resuming enrollment and/or dosing, including due to our announcement of having voluntarily paused our clinical programs.

Current wording

We may not be able to initiate or continue our planned clinical trials for our product candidates if we are unable to identify and enroll a sufficient number of eligible subjects to participate in these trials. For example, we are developing ARD-101 for the treatment of hyperphagia associated with PWS. PWS is a rare disease with a limited patient pool from which to draw. In February 2026, we voluntarily paused enrollment and dosing in the Phase 3 HERO trial and the OLE trial for ARD-101, and the POWER and STRENGTH clinical trials for ARD-201, based on reversible cardiac observations in a healthy volunteer study of ARD-101, and the FDA placed a full clinical hold on our IND for ARD-101 in May 2026. In June 2026, we terminated the HERO trial and the OLE trial and do not currently intend to resume these clinical trials as previously designed. We are evaluating whether and how to pursue further clinical development of ARD-101 in PWS, including a potentially redesigned trial. We are conducting a comprehensive review of the data, including initiating the unblinding and analysis of program-wide data related to the partially completed HERO trial, developing additional clinical study protocols and evaluating updates to our program-wide safety strategy to support future discussions with the FDA regarding potential next steps for the ARD-101 clinical development program in PWS, and expect to provide further guidance in the third quarter of 2026. There can be no assurance that we will be able to commence enrollment or dosing in any new clinical trials for ARD-101 on a timely basis, or at all, which could further delay our clinical development timelines. Moreover, there is no guarantee that, if and when we commence any new clinical trials, we will not encounter further delays or difficulties in commencing enrollment and/or dosing, including due to our announcement of having voluntarily paused our clinical programs and the full clinical hold on our IND for ARD-101, and the termination of the HERO and OLE clinical trials in June 2026.

Previous wording

Our Phase 3 HERO trial, evaluating the effect of ARD-101 on hyperphagia-related behavior in PWS, was limited to subjects 10 years of age and older after reaching alignment with the FDA in October 2025 on a protocol amendment to change the minimum age of eligibility to participate in the trial from 13 to 10 years of age or older. In December 2025, we submitted an additional protocol amendment seeking to further lower the minimum age of eligibility to participate in the trial to 7 years of age. If we restart HERO or another trial to evaluate ARD-101 in PWS patients, certain factors may preclude us from receiving regulatory approval to treat younger pediatric subjects, including potential disagreements regarding appropriate dose and dose escalation, product presentation for possibly lower doses, validity of patient-reported outcomes in younger, actively growing patients, and avoiding inappropriate hunger suppression in these growing individuals. We can neither predict if the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities will approve the use of our product candidates or programs in younger pediatric subjects, nor provide an estimate for the timing of such approval, if any. Furthermore, if the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities do not approve the use of our product candidates or programs in this population, such product candidates or programs will not be labeled for use in these subjects. Given that the median lifespan of PWS patients is currently 30 years, the size of our market opportunity in this indication will be more limited if ARD-101 is not ultimately approved in pediatric patients and does not result in a significant increase in patient lifespan. Following the voluntary pause of our clinical programs in February 2026, we are reviewing the HERO trial design and protocol in collaboration with the FDA and the previously agreed protocol elements may be revisited.

Current wording

Our Phase 3 HERO trial, evaluating the effect of ARD-101 on hyperphagia-related behavior in PWS, was limited to subjects 10 years of age and older after reaching alignment with the FDA in October 2025 on a protocol amendment to change the minimum age of eligibility to participate in the trial from 13 to 10 years of age or older. In December 2025, we submitted an additional protocol amendment seeking to further lower the minimum age of eligibility to participate in the trial to 7 years of age. Following the voluntary pause of our clinical programs in February 2026 and the subsequent full clinical hold on our IND for ARD-101, we are reviewing the HERO trial design and protocol for any potential new trial in collaboration with the FDA. If we commence a new trial to evaluate ARD-101 in PWS patients, certain factors may preclude us from receiving regulatory approval to treat younger pediatric subjects, including potential disagreements regarding appropriate dose and dose escalation, product presentation for possibly lower doses, validity of patient-reported outcomes in younger, actively growing patients, and avoiding inappropriate hunger suppression in these growing individuals. We can neither predict if the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities will approve the use of our product candidates or programs in younger pediatric subjects, nor provide an estimate for the timing of such approval, if any. Furthermore, if the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities do not approve the use of our product candidates or programs in this population, such product candidates or programs will not be labeled for use in these subjects. Given that the median lifespan of PWS patients is currently 30 years, the size of our market opportunity in this indication will be more limited if ARD-101 is not ultimately approved in pediatric patients and does not result in a significant increase in patient lifespan.

Previous wording

In February 2026, we voluntarily paused enrollment and dosing in the HERO trial following reversible cardiac observations identified in a healthy volunteer study of ARD-101. While these observations were not reported as serious adverse events, they may nevertheless lead to additional regulatory scrutiny or changes to our development program.

Current wording

In February 2026, we voluntarily paused enrollment and dosing in the HERO trial, and the POWER and STRENGTH clinical trials for ARD-201, following reversible cardiac observations identified in a healthy volunteer study of ARD-101, and the FDA placed a full clinical hold on our IND for ARD-101 in May 2026. In June 2026, we terminated the HERO trial and the OLE trial and do not currently intend to resume these clinical trials as previously designed. While these observations were not reported as serious adverse events, they may nevertheless lead to additional regulatory scrutiny or changes to our development program.

Previous wording

If our product candidates are associated with adverse events in clinical trials or have side effects or other characteristics that are serious or unexpected, we may need to abandon their development or limit development to more narrow uses in which the adverse events, side effects or other characteristics are less prevalent, less severe or more acceptable from a risk-benefit perspective. We may also be required to modify our trial plans based on findings in our ongoing clinical trials. The FDA may also require that we conduct additional studies regarding the safety and efficacy of our product candidates, which we have not planned or anticipated. Such findings could further result in regulatory authorities failing to provide marketing authorization for our product candidates or limiting the scope of the approved indication, if approved. Many product candidates that initially showed promise in early stage testing have later been found to cause side effects that prevented further development of such product candidates.

Current wording

If our product candidates are associated with adverse events in clinical trials or have side effects or other characteristics that are serious or unexpected, we may need to abandon their development or limit development to more narrow uses in which the adverse events, side effects or other characteristics are less prevalent, less severe or more acceptable from a risk-benefit perspective. We may also be required to modify our trial plans based on findings in our clinical trials. The FDA may also require that we conduct additional studies regarding the safety and efficacy of our product candidates, which we have not planned or anticipated. Such findings could further result in regulatory authorities failing to provide marketing authorization for our product candidates or limiting the scope of the approved indication, if approved. Many product candidates that initially showed promise in early stage testing have later been found to cause side effects that prevented further development of such product candidates.

Previous wording

We will need to successfully complete pivotal clinical trials in order to obtain product approval from the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities to market ARD-101 or any other current or future product candidate. Carrying out pivotal clinical trials is a complicated process. We initiated a Phase 3 HERO clinical trial in hyperphagia associated with PWS in December 2024. In February 2026, we voluntarily paused enrollment and dosing in the HERO trial based on reversible cardiac observations in a healthy volunteer study. We are conducting a comprehensive review of the data and collaborating with the FDA to determine next steps. If the FDA determines that additional nonclinical studies, dose modifications, enhanced monitoring or other protocol changes are required, our clinical development timelines could be significantly delayed. We no longer anticipate topline data from the HERO trial in the third quarter of 2026, and the timing of additional staffing and operational expansion may be delayed as we evaluate next steps following the voluntary pause of our clinical programs. We expect to provide further guidance in the second quarter of 2026. Additionally, because ARD-201 contains ARD-101 as a component, we have also voluntarily paused the POWER and STRENGTH clinical trials for ARD-201.

Current wording

We will need to successfully complete pivotal clinical trials in order to obtain product approval from the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities to market ARD-101 or any other current or future product candidate. Carrying out pivotal clinical trials is a complicated process. We initiated a Phase 3 HERO clinical trial in hyperphagia associated with PWS in December 2024. In February 2026, we voluntarily paused enrollment and dosing in the HERO trial based on reversible cardiac observations in a healthy volunteer study, and the FDA placed a full clinical hold on our IND for ARD-101 in May 2026. In June 2026, we terminated the HERO trial and the OLE trial and do not currently intend to resume these clinical trials as previously designed. We are evaluating whether and how to pursue further clinical development of ARD-101 in PWS, including a potentially redesigned trial. We are conducting a comprehensive review of the data, including initiating the unblinding and analysis of program-wide data related to the partially completed HERO trial, developing additional clinical study protocols and evaluating updates to our program-wide safety strategy to support future discussions with the FDA regarding potential next steps for the ARD-101 clinical development program in PWS. If the FDA determines that additional nonclinical studies, dose modifications, enhanced monitoring or other protocol changes are required, our clinical development timelines could be significantly delayed. We expect to provide further guidance in the third quarter of 2026. Additionally, because ARD-201 contains ARD-101 as a component, we have also voluntarily paused the POWER and STRENGTH clinical trials for ARD-201.

Previous wording

As an organization, we have not previously successfully conducted any later stage or pivotal clinical trials. In order to do so, we have expanded our clinical management and regulatory capabilities, including hiring clinical, regulatory and quality personnel, and we expect to potentially need to expand our clinical management and regulatory capabilities, but may be unable to recruit and train qualified personnel. We also expect to continue to rely on third parties to conduct our later stage or pivotal clinical trials. See the subsection titled “—Risks Related to Our Dependence on Third Parties—We have relied and expect to continue to rely on third parties to conduct our preclinical studies and clinical trials, as well as investigator-initiated trials. If those third parties do not perform as contractually required, fail to satisfy legal or regulatory requirements, miss expected deadlines or terminate the relationship, our development programs could be delayed, more costly or unsuccessful, and we may never be able to seek or obtain regulatory approval for or commercialize our product candidates.” Consequently, we may be unable to successfully and efficiently execute and complete necessary clinical trials in a way that leads to submission of an NDA and approval of ARD-101 or any other current or future product candidates. In addition, no product candidate can receive FDA approval unless clinical trials show both safety and efficacy for each target indication in accordance with FDA or foreign country standards. We plan to conduct a number of clinical trials for multiple product candidates in parallel over the next several years depending on the outcome of our ongoing evaluation of our voluntarily paused clinical programs. This may be a difficult process to manage with our limited resources and may divert the attention of management. We may require more time and incur greater costs than our competitors and may not succeed in obtaining regulatory approvals of product candidates that we develop. Failure to commence or complete, or delays in, our planned clinical trials, could prevent us from or delay us in commercializing our product candidates, which could adversely affect our business, operating results, prospects or financial condition.

Current wording

As an organization, we have not previously successfully conducted any later stage or pivotal clinical trials. In order to do so, we have expanded our clinical management and regulatory capabilities, including hiring clinical, regulatory, CMC and quality personnel, and we expect to potentially need to expand our clinical management and regulatory capabilities, but may be unable to recruit and train qualified personnel. We also expect to continue to rely on third parties to conduct our later stage or pivotal clinical trials. See the subsection titled “—Risks Related to Our Dependence on Third Parties—We have relied and expect to continue to rely on third parties to conduct our preclinical studies and clinical trials, as well as investigator-initiated trials. If those third parties do not perform as contractually required, fail to satisfy legal or regulatory requirements, miss expected deadlines or terminate the relationship, our development programs could be delayed, more costly or unsuccessful, and we may never be able to seek or obtain regulatory approval for or commercialize our product candidates.” Consequently, we may be unable to successfully and efficiently execute and complete necessary clinical trials in a way that leads to submission of an NDA and approval of ARD-101 or any other current or future product candidates. In addition, no product candidate can receive FDA approval unless clinical trials show both safety and efficacy for each target indication in accordance with FDA or foreign country standards. We plan to conduct a number of clinical trials for multiple product candidates in parallel over the next several years depending on the outcome of our ongoing evaluation of potential future clinical development of ARD-101 following the termination of the HERO and OLE trials, including any redesigned trial, and our other clinical programs. This may be a difficult process to manage with our limited resources and may divert the attention of management. We may require more time and incur greater costs than our competitors and may not succeed in obtaining regulatory approvals of product candidates that we develop. Failure to commence or complete, or delays in, our planned clinical trials, could prevent us from or delay us in commercializing our product candidates, which could adversely affect our business, operating results, prospects or financial condition.

Previous wording

Because we have limited financial and management resources, we focus on development programs and product candidates that we identify for specific indications. As such, we are currently primarily focused on the development of ARD-101 for the treatment of hyperphagia associated with PWS. As a result, we may forgo or delay pursuit of opportunities with other product candidates or for other indications for our product candidates that later prove to have greater commercial potential. Moreover, in February 2026, we voluntarily paused enrollment and dosing in the Phase 3 HERO trial and the OLE trial for ARD-101, and the POWER and STRENGTH clinical trials for ARD-201, based on reversible cardiac observations in a healthy volunteer study of ARD-101. We are conducting a comprehensive review of the data and collaborating with the FDA to determine next steps and expect to provide further guidance in the second quarter of 2026. Our resource allocation decisions may cause us to fail to capitalize on viable commercial products or profitable market opportunities. Our spending on current and future development programs and product candidates for specific indications may not yield any commercially viable products. We must continually assess the potential commercial viability of our research programs and product candidates, and we may decide to pause, discontinue or deprioritize development of any of our product candidates based upon such assessments, even if we obtain positive data from our product candidates in preclinical studies and clinical trials. If we do not accurately evaluate the commercial potential or target market for a particular product candidate, we may relinquish valuable rights to that product candidate through collaboration, licensing or other royalty arrangements in cases in which it would have been more advantageous for us to retain sole development and commercialization rights to such product candidate.

Current wording

Because we have limited financial and management resources, we focus on development programs and product candidates that we identify for specific indications. As such, we are currently primarily focused on the development of ARD-101 for the treatment of hyperphagia associated with PWS. As a result, we may forgo or delay pursuit of opportunities with other product candidates or for other indications for our product candidates that later prove to have greater commercial potential. Moreover, in February 2026, we voluntarily paused enrollment and dosing in the Phase 3 HERO trial and the OLE trial for ARD-101, and the POWER and STRENGTH clinical trials for ARD-201, based on reversible cardiac observations in a healthy volunteer study of ARD-101, and the FDA placed a full clinical hold on our IND for ARD-101 in May 2026. In June 2026, we terminated the HERO trial and the OLE trial and do not currently intend to resume these clinical trials as previously designed. We are evaluating whether and how to pursue further clinical development of ARD-101 in PWS, including a potentially redesigned trial. We are conducting a comprehensive review of the data, including initiating the unblinding and analysis of program-wide data related to the partially completed HERO trial, developing additional clinical study protocols and evaluating updates to our program-wide safety strategy to support future discussions with the FDA regarding potential next steps for the ARD-101 clinical development program in PWS, and expect to provide further guidance in the third quarter of 2026. Our resource allocation decisions may cause us to fail to capitalize on viable commercial products or profitable market opportunities. Our spending on current and future development programs and product candidates for specific indications may not yield any commercially viable products. We must continually assess the potential commercial viability of our research programs and product candidates, and we may decide to pause, discontinue or deprioritize development of any of our product candidates based upon such assessments, even if we obtain positive data from our product candidates in preclinical studies and clinical trials. If we do not accurately evaluate the commercial potential or target market for a particular product candidate, we may relinquish valuable rights to that product candidate through collaboration, licensing or other royalty arrangements in cases in which it would have been more advantageous for us to retain sole development and commercialization rights to such product candidate.

Previous wording

Prior to the voluntary pause of our clinical programs, we were conducting, and potentially plan to conduct again, certain clinical trials of ARD-101 outside the United States, including, but not limited to, in the United Kingdom, South Korea, Canada and Australia. The acceptance of study data from clinical trials conducted outside the United States or another jurisdiction by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authority may be subject to certain conditions or may not be accepted at all. In cases where data from foreign clinical trials are intended to serve as the basis for marketing approval in the United States, the FDA will generally not approve the application on the basis of foreign data alone unless (i) the data are applicable to the U.S. population and U.S. medical practice; (ii) the trials were performed by clinical investigators of recognized competence; and (iii) the data may be 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. Additionally, the FDA’s clinical trial requirements, including sufficient size of patient populations and statistical power, must be met. Many foreign regulatory authorities have similar approval requirements. In addition, such foreign trials would be subject to the applicable local laws of the foreign jurisdictions where the trials are conducted. There can be no assurance that the FDA or any comparable foreign regulatory authority will accept data from trials conducted outside of the United States or the applicable jurisdiction. If the FDA or any comparable foreign regulatory authority does not accept such data, we would need to conduct additional trials, which could be costly and time-consuming.

Current wording

The acceptance of study data from clinical trials conducted outside the United States or another jurisdiction by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authority may be subject to certain conditions or may not be accepted at all. In cases where data from foreign clinical trials are intended to serve as the basis for marketing approval in the United States, the FDA will generally not approve the application on the basis of foreign data alone unless (i) the data are applicable to the U.S. population and U.S. medical practice; (ii) the trials were performed by clinical investigators of recognized competence; and (iii) the data may be 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. Additionally, the FDA’s clinical trial requirements, including sufficient size of patient populations and statistical power, must be met. Many foreign regulatory authorities have similar approval requirements. In addition, such foreign trials would be subject to the applicable local laws of the foreign jurisdictions where the trials are conducted. There can be no assurance that the FDA or any comparable foreign regulatory authority will accept data from trials conducted outside of the United States or the applicable jurisdiction. If the FDA or any comparable foreign regulatory authority does not accept such data, we would need to conduct additional trials, which could be costly and time-consuming.

Previous wording

suspending or modifying any ongoing clinical trials or requirement to conduct additional clinical trials;

Current wording

suspending or modifying any planned clinical trials or requirement to conduct additional clinical trials;

Previous wording

In the United States, Orphan Drug Designation entitles a party to financial incentives such as opportunities for granting funding towards clinical trial costs, tax advantages and application fee waivers. If a drug or biologic with an Orphan Drug Designation subsequently receives marketing approval for the indication for which it has such designation, the product may be entitled to an expanded period of marketing exclusivity, which precludes the FDA from approving another marketing application for the same drug and indication for that time period, except in limited circumstances. The applicable period is seven years in the United States. An orphan drug benefiting pediatric patients can qualify as a drug for a Rare Pediatric Disease Designation as well. If so designated, the sponsor of the Rare Pediatric Disease designated product may be eligible for a rare pediatric disease priority review voucher, which would be issued in connection with FDA approval for the designated product. Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (the FDCA), a rare pediatric disease product application may be eligible for a rare pediatric disease priority review voucher if the drug receives marketing approval before September 30, 2029.

Current wording

In the United States, Orphan Drug Designation entitles a party to financial incentives such as opportunities for grant funding towards clinical trial costs, tax advantages and application fee waivers. If a drug or biologic with an Orphan Drug Designation subsequently receives marketing approval for the indication for which it has such designation, the product may be entitled to an expanded period of marketing exclusivity, which precludes the FDA from approving another marketing application for the same drug and indication for that time period, except in limited circumstances. The applicable period is seven years in the United States. An orphan drug benefiting pediatric patients can qualify as a drug for a Rare Pediatric Disease Designation as well. If so designated, the sponsor of the Rare Pediatric Disease designated product may be eligible for a rare pediatric disease priority review voucher, which would be issued in connection with FDA approval for the designated product. Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (the FDCA), a rare pediatric disease product application may be eligible for a rare pediatric disease priority review voucher if the drug receives marketing approval before September 30, 2029.

Previous wording

Furthermore, although we may pursue additional opportunities to accelerate the development of certain of our product candidates through one or more of the FDA’s expedited program designations, we cannot be assured that any of our product candidates will qualify for such programs. The FDA may determine that our proposed target indication or other aspects of our clinical development plans do not qualify for such expedited program.

Current wording

Furthermore, although we may pursue additional opportunities to accelerate the development of certain of our product candidates through one or more of the FDA’s expedited program designations, we cannot be assured that any of our product candidates will qualify for such programs. The FDA may determine that our proposed target indication or other aspects of our clinical development plans do not qualify for such expedited programs.

Previous wording

Our reliance on these third parties for development activities will reduce our control over these activities. Nevertheless, we are responsible for ensuring that each of our clinical trials is conducted in accordance with the applicable trial protocol and legal, regulatory and scientific standards, and our reliance on the CROs, clinical trial sites, and other third parties does not relieve us of these responsibilities. For example, we will remain responsible for ensuring that each of our preclinical studies is conducted in accordance with GLPs, and clinical trials are conducted in accordance with GCPs. Moreover, the FDA and comparable foreign regulatory authorities require us to comply with GCPs for conducting, recording and reporting the results of clinical trials to assure that data and reported results are credible and accurate and that the rights, integrity and confidentiality of trial participants are protected. Regulatory authorities enforce these requirements through periodic inspections (including pre-approval inspections once an NDA or biologics license application is submitted to the FDA) of trial sponsors, clinical investigators, trial sites and certain third parties including CROs. In addition, our manufacturers are required to adhere to cGMPs, which include testing, control, and documentation requirements. If we, our CROs, clinical trial sites, manufacturers or other third parties fail to comply with applicable GCP, cGMPs or other regulatory requirements, we or they may be subject to enforcement or other legal actions, the clinical data generated in our clinical trials may be deemed unreliable and the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities may require us to perform additional clinical trials. We cannot assure you that upon inspection by a given regulatory authority, such regulatory authority will determine that any of our clinical trials complies with GCP or cGMP regulations. Failure to comply with these regulatory requirements could result in, among other things, warning letters, fines, injunctions, civil penalties, recall or seizure of products, total or partial suspension of production, withdrawal of approvals previously obtained and criminal prosecution. The restriction, suspension or revocation of regulatory approvals or any other failure to comply with regulatory requirements would limit our ability to operate and could increase our costs which may have a material adverse effect on our business. Moreover, our business may be significantly impacted if our CROs, clinical investigators or other third parties violate federal or state healthcare fraud and abuse or false claims laws and regulations or healthcare privacy and security laws.

Current wording

Our reliance on these third parties for development activities will reduce our control over these activities. Nevertheless, we are responsible for ensuring that each of our clinical trials is conducted in accordance with the applicable trial protocol and legal, regulatory and scientific standards, and our reliance on the CROs, clinical trial sites, and other third parties does not relieve us of these responsibilities. For example, we will remain responsible for ensuring that each of our preclinical studies is conducted in accordance with GLPs, and clinical trials are conducted in accordance with GCPs. Moreover, the FDA and comparable foreign regulatory authorities require us to comply with GCPs for conducting, recording and reporting the results of clinical trials to assure that data and reported results are credible and accurate and that the rights, safety and well-being of trial participants are protected. Regulatory authorities enforce these requirements through periodic inspections (including pre-approval inspections once an NDA or biologics license application is submitted to the FDA) of trial sponsors, clinical investigators, trial sites and certain third parties including CROs. In addition, our manufacturers are required to adhere to cGMPs, which include testing, control, and documentation requirements. If we, our CROs, clinical trial sites, manufacturers or other third parties fail to comply with applicable GCP, cGMPs or other regulatory requirements, we or they may be subject to enforcement or other legal actions, the clinical data generated in our clinical trials may be deemed unreliable and the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities may require us to perform additional clinical trials. We cannot assure you that upon inspection by a given regulatory authority, such regulatory authority will determine that any of our clinical trials complies with GCP or cGMP regulations. Failure to comply with these regulatory requirements could result in, among other things, warning letters, fines, injunctions, civil penalties, recall or seizure of products, total or partial suspension of production, withdrawal of approvals previously obtained and criminal prosecution. The restriction, suspension or revocation of regulatory approvals or any other failure to comply with regulatory requirements would limit our ability to operate and could increase our costs which may have a material adverse effect on our business. Moreover, our business may be significantly impacted if our CROs, clinical investigators or other third parties violate federal or state healthcare fraud and abuse or false claims laws and regulations or healthcare privacy and security laws.

Previous wording

If any of our relationships with these third parties terminate, we may not be able to enter into alternative arrangements or do so on commercially reasonable terms. Switching or adding additional contractors involves additional cost and time and requires management's time and focus. In addition, there is a natural transition period when a new third party commences work. As a result, delays could occur, which could compromise our ability to meet our desired development timelines. In addition, if an agreement with any of our collaborators terminates, our access to technology and intellectual property licensed to us by that collaborator may be restricted or terminate entirely, which may delay our continued development of our product candidates utilizing the collaborator’s technology or intellectual property or require us to stop development of those product candidates completely.

Current wording

If any of our relationships with these third parties terminates, we may not be able to enter into alternative arrangements or do so on commercially reasonable terms. Switching or adding additional contractors involves additional cost and time and requires management's time and focus. In addition, there is a natural transition period when a new third party commences work. As a result, delays could occur, which could compromise our ability to meet our desired development timelines. In addition, if an agreement with any of our collaborators terminates, our access to technology and intellectual property licensed to us by that collaborator may be restricted or terminated entirely, which may delay our continued development of our product candidates utilizing the collaborator’s technology or intellectual property or require us to stop development of those product candidates completely.

Previous wording

Under recent legislation, certain third-party manufacturers and other third parties (frequently China-based companies) may be considered a “biotechnology company of concern.” If a third-party manufacturer receives such a designation, it may restrict the ability of U.S. companies like us to purchase services or products from, collaborate with, or otherwise work with such manufacturers. For example, it may delay the procurement or supply of such material or have an adverse effect on our ability to secure significant commitments from governments to purchase our potential therapies. Such disruption could have adverse effects on the development of our product candidates.

Current wording

Under recent legislation, certain third-party manufacturers and other third parties (frequently China-based companies) may be considered “biotechnology companies of concern.” If a third-party manufacturer receives such a designation, it may restrict the ability of U.S. companies like us to purchase services or products from, collaborate with, or otherwise work with such manufacturers. For example, it may delay the procurement or supply of such material or have an adverse effect on our ability to secure significant commitments from governments to purchase our potential therapies. Such disruption could have adverse effects on the development of our product candidates.

Previous wording

The market for pharmaceuticals and biopharmaceuticals is highly competitive and subject to rapid technological change. Our success depends, in part, upon our ability to maintain a competitive position in the development and protection of technologies and any future product candidates for use in these fields and upon our ability to obtain, maintain and enforce our intellectual property rights. We seek to obtain and maintain patents and other intellectual property rights to restrict the ability of others to market products that misappropriate our technology and/or infringe our intellectual property to unfairly and illegally compete with any of our product candidates. Given the amount of time required for the development, testing and regulatory review of new planned products, patents protecting such products might expire before or shortly after such products are commercialized. If we are unable to protect our intellectual property and proprietary rights, our competitive position and our business could be harmed, as third parties may be able to make, use or sell products that are substantially the same as any product candidates we may sell without incurring the sizeable development and licensing costs that we have incurred, which would adversely affect our ability to compete in the market. We use a combination of patents, trademarks, know-how, confidentiality procedures and contractual provisions to protect our proprietary technology and that of our licensors. However, these protections may not be adequate and may not provide us with any competitive advantage. For example, patents may not issue from any of our or our licensors’ currently pending or any future patent applications, and our or our licensors’ issued patents and any future patents that may issue may not survive legal challenges to their scope, validity or enforceability or provide significant protection for us.

Current wording

The market for pharmaceuticals and biopharmaceuticals is highly competitive and subject to rapid technological change. Our success depends, in part, upon our ability to maintain a competitive position in the development and protection of technologies and any future product candidates for use in these fields and upon our ability to obtain, maintain and enforce our intellectual property rights. We seek to obtain and maintain patents and other intellectual property rights to restrict the ability of others to market products that misappropriate our technology and/or infringe our intellectual property to unfairly and illegally compete with any of our product candidates. Given the amount of time required for the development, testing and regulatory review of new product candidates, patents protecting such products might expire before or shortly after such products are commercialized. If we are unable to protect our intellectual property and proprietary rights, our competitive position and our business could be harmed, as third parties may be able to make, use or sell products that are substantially the same as any product candidates we may sell without incurring the sizeable development and licensing costs that we have incurred, which would adversely affect our ability to compete in the market. We use a combination of patents, trademarks, know-how, confidentiality procedures and contractual provisions to protect our proprietary technology and that of our licensors. However, these protections may not be adequate and may not provide us with any competitive advantage. For example, patents may not issue from any of our or our licensors’ currently pending or any future patent applications, and our or our licensors’ issued patents and any future patents that may issue may not survive legal challenges to their scope, validity or enforceability or provide significant protection for us.

Previous wording

We or our licensors may in the future rely on third-party consultants or collaborators or on funds from third parties, such as the U.S. government, such that we or our licensors are not the sole and exclusive owners of the patents we in-licensed. If other third parties have ownership rights or other rights to our patents, including in-licensed patents, they may be able to license such patents to our competitors, and our competitors could market competing products and technology. This could have a material adverse effect on our competitive position, business, financial conditions, results of operations and prospects.

Current wording

We or our licensors may in the future rely on third-party consultants or collaborators or on funds from third parties, such as the U.S. government, such that we or our licensors are not the sole and exclusive owners of the patents we in-licensed. If other third parties have ownership rights or other rights to our patents, including in-licensed patents, they may be able to license such patents to our competitors, and our competitors could market competing products and technology. This could have a material adverse effect on our competitive position, business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

Previous wording

We are and may become a party to licenses and other agreements that give us rights to third-party intellectual property that are necessary or valuable for our business, and we may enter into additional licenses or other agreements in the future. Under these agreements, we are or may be obligated to pay the counterparties' fees, which may include annual license fees, milestone payments, royalties, a percentage of revenues associated with the applicable technology and a percentage of sublicensing revenue. In addition, under certain of such agreements, we are or may be required to diligently pursue the development of products using the applicable technology. If we fail to comply with these obligations and fail to cure our breach within a specified period of time, the counterparty may have the right to terminate the applicable agreement. Termination of this agreement, or reduction or elimination of our rights under it or any other agreement, may result in our having to negotiate new or reinstated arrangements on less favorable terms, or our not having sufficient intellectual property rights to operate our business. The occurrence of such events could adversely affect our business, operating results, prospects or financial condition.

Current wording

We are and may become a party to licenses and other agreements that give us rights to third-party intellectual property that are necessary or valuable for our business, and we may enter into additional licenses or other agreements in the future. Under these agreements, we are or may be obligated to pay the counterparties' fees, which may include annual license fees, milestone payments, royalties, a percentage of revenues associated with the applicable technology and a percentage of sublicensing revenue. In addition, under certain of such agreements, we are or may be required to diligently pursue the development of products using the applicable technology. If we fail to comply with these obligations and fail to cure our breach within a specified period of time, the counterparty may have the right to terminate the applicable agreement. Termination of the applicable agreement, or reduction or elimination of our rights under it or any other agreement, may result in our having to negotiate new or reinstated arrangements on less favorable terms, or our not having sufficient intellectual property rights to operate our business. The occurrence of such events could adversely affect our business, operating results, prospects or financial condition.

Previous wording

Our patents or pending patent applications may be challenged in the courts or patent offices in the United States and other foreign jurisdictions. For example, we may be subject to a third-party pre-issuance submission of prior art to the USPTO or become involved in PGR procedures, derivations, reexaminations, or inter parties review proceedings, in the United States or oppositions or similar proceedings in foreign jurisdictions, challenging our patent rights. The legal threshold for initiating such proceedings may be low, so that even proceedings with a low probability of success might be initiated. An adverse determination in any such challenges may result in loss of exclusivity or in patent claims being narrowed, invalidated, or held unenforceable, in whole or in part, which could limit our ability to stop others from using or commercializing similar or identical technology and products, or limit the duration of the patent protection of our technology and products.

Current wording

Our patents or pending patent applications may be challenged in the courts or patent offices in the United States and other foreign jurisdictions. For example, we may be subject to a third party pre-issuance submission of prior art to the USPTO or become involved in PGR procedures, derivations, reexaminations, or inter partes review proceedings, in the United States or oppositions or similar proceedings in foreign jurisdictions, challenging our patent rights. The legal threshold for initiating such proceedings may be low, so that even proceedings with a low probability of success might be initiated. An adverse determination in any such challenges may result in loss of exclusivity or in patent claims being narrowed, invalidated, or held unenforceable, in whole or in part, which could limit our ability to stop others from using or commercializing similar or identical technology and products, or limit the duration of the patent protection of our technology and products.

Previous wording

Competitors may infringe our intellectual property rights or those of our licensors. To prevent infringement or unauthorized use, we may be required to file infringement claims, which can be expensive and time-consuming. In addition, in a patent infringement proceeding, a court may decide that one or more patent of ours or any of our current licensors or future licensors is not valid or is unenforceable, in whole or in part, or may refuse to stop the other party from using the technology at issue on the grounds that our or our licensors’ patents do not cover the technology in question. An adverse result in any litigation or defense proceedings could put one or more of our or our licensors’ patents at risk of being invalidated or interpreted narrowly, which may curtail or preclude our ability to exclude third parties from making and selling similar or competitive products, and could put our or our licensors’ patent applications at risk of not issuing. If we or any of our potential future collaborators were to initiate legal proceedings against a third party to enforce a patent directed at our products, the defendant could counterclaim that our or our licensors’ patent is invalid and/or unenforceable in whole or in part. In patent litigation in the United States, defendant counterclaims alleging invalidity and/or unenforceability are commonplace. Grounds for a validity challenge include an alleged failure to meet any of several statutory requirements, including lack of novelty, obviousness or non-enablement. Grounds for an unenforceability assertion could also include an allegation that someone connected with prosecution of the patent withheld relevant information from the USPTO or made a misleading statement during prosecution.

Current wording

Competitors may infringe our intellectual property rights or those of our licensors. To prevent infringement or unauthorized use, we may be required to file infringement claims, which can be expensive and time-consuming. In addition, in a patent infringement proceeding, a court may decide that one or more patents of ours or any of our current licensors or future licensors is not valid or is unenforceable, in whole or in part, or may refuse to stop the other party from using the technology at issue on the grounds that our or our licensors’ patents do not cover the technology in question. An adverse result in any litigation or defense proceedings could put one or more of our or our licensors’ patents at risk of being invalidated or interpreted narrowly, which may curtail or preclude our ability to exclude third parties from making and selling similar or competitive products, and could put our or our licensors’ patent applications at risk of not issuing. If we or any of our potential future collaborators were to initiate legal proceedings against a third party to enforce a patent directed at our products, the defendant could counterclaim that our or our licensors’ patent is invalid and/or unenforceable in whole or in part. In patent litigation in the United States, defendant counterclaims alleging invalidity and/or unenforceability are commonplace. Grounds for a validity challenge include an alleged failure to meet any of several statutory requirements, including lack of novelty, obviousness or non-enablement. Grounds for an unenforceability assertion could also include an allegation that someone connected with prosecution of the patent withheld relevant information from the USPTO or made a misleading statement during prosecution.

Previous wording

Patent terms may be inadequate to establish our competitive position on our product candidates for an adequate amount of time. If we do not obtain patent term extension for our product candidates, our business may be materially harmed.

Current wording

Patent terms may be inadequate to establish our competitive position with respect to our product candidates for an adequate amount of time. If we do not obtain patent term extension for our product candidates, our business may be materially harmed.

Previous wording

Similarly, changes in patent law and regulations in other countries or jurisdictions or changes in the governmental bodies that enforce them or changes in how the relevant governmental authority enforces patent laws or regulations may weaken our ability to obtain new patents or to enforce patents that we have licensed or that we may obtain in the future. For example, the complexity and uncertainty of European patent laws have also increased in recent years. In Europe, in June 2023, a new unitary patent system was introduced. Under the unitary patent system, after a European patent is granted, the patent proprietor can request unitary effect, thereby getting a European patent with unitary effect (the Unitary Patent). Each Unitary Patent is subject to the jurisdiction of the Unitary Patent Court (the UPC). As the UPC is a relatively new court system, there is little precedent for the court, increasing the uncertainty of any litigation. Patents granted before the implementation of the UPC will have the option of opting out of the jurisdiction of the UPC and remaining as national patents in the UPC countries. Patents that remain under the jurisdiction of the UPC may be potentially vulnerable to a single UPC-based revocation challenge that, if successful, could invalidate the patent in all countries who are signatories to the UPC. We cannot predict with certainty the long-term effects of the unitary patent system.

Current wording

Similarly, changes in patent law and regulations in other countries or jurisdictions or changes in the governmental bodies that enforce them or changes in how the relevant governmental authority enforces patent laws or regulations may weaken our ability to obtain new patents or to enforce patents that we have licensed or that we may obtain in the future. For example, the complexity and uncertainty of European patent laws have also increased in recent years. In Europe, in June 2023, a new unitary patent system was introduced. Under the unitary patent system, after a European patent is granted, the patent proprietor can request unitary effect, thereby getting a European patent with unitary effect (the Unitary Patent). Each Unitary Patent is subject to the jurisdiction of the Unified Patent Court (the UPC). As the UPC is a relatively new court system, there is little precedent for the court, increasing the uncertainty of any litigation. Patents granted before the implementation of the UPC will have the option of opting out of the jurisdiction of the UPC and remaining as national patents in the UPC countries. Patents that remain under the jurisdiction of the UPC may be potentially vulnerable to a single UPC-based revocation challenge that, if successful, could invalidate the patent in all countries that are signatories to the UPC. We cannot predict with certainty the long-term effects of the unitary patent system.

Previous wording

Healthcare providers, physicians and third-party payors in the United States and elsewhere play a primary role in the recommendation and prescription of pharmaceutical products. Our current and future arrangements with healthcare providers, third-party payors and customers can expose us to broadly applicable fraud and abuse and other healthcare laws and regulations, which may constrain the business or financial arrangements and relationships through which we research and, if approved, sell, market and distribute our products. In particular, the research of our product candidates, as well as the promotion, sales, marketing and business arrangements of our product candidates, is subject to extensive laws designed to prevent fraud, misconduct, kickbacks, self-dealing and other abusive practices. These laws and regulations may restrict or prohibit a wide range of pricing, discounting, marketing and promotion, sales commission(s), certain customer incentive programs and other business arrangements generally. Activities subject to these laws also involve the improper use of information obtained in the course of patient recruitment for clinical trials, which could result in regulatory sanctions and serious harm to our reputation. The applicable federal, state and foreign healthcare laws and regulations laws that may affect our ability to operate include, but are not limited to:

Current wording

Healthcare providers, physicians and third-party payors in the United States and elsewhere play a primary role in the recommendation and prescription of pharmaceutical products. Our current and future arrangements with healthcare providers, third-party payors and customers can expose us to broadly applicable fraud and abuse and other healthcare laws and regulations, which may constrain the business or financial arrangements and relationships through which we research and, if approved, sell, market and distribute our products. In particular, the research of our product candidates, as well as the promotion, sales, marketing and business arrangements of our product candidates, is subject to extensive laws designed to prevent fraud, misconduct, kickbacks, self-dealing and other abusive practices. These laws and regulations may restrict or prohibit a wide range of pricing, discounting, marketing and promotion, sales commission(s), certain customer incentive programs and other business arrangements generally. Activities subject to these laws also involve the improper use of information obtained in the course of patient recruitment for clinical trials, which could result in regulatory sanctions and serious harm to our reputation. The applicable federal, state and foreign healthcare laws and regulations that may affect our ability to operate include, but are not limited to:

Previous wording

HIPAA, as amended by the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act of 2009 (HITECH), and its implementing regulations, mandates, and, among other things, the adoption of uniform standards for the electronic exchange of information in common healthcare transactions, as well as standards relating to the privacy and security of protected health information (PHI), including individually identifiable health information, as defined under HIPAA, which require the adoption of administrative, physical and technical safeguards to protect such information. Among other things, HITECH makes HIPAA’s security standards directly applicable to business associates, defined as independent contractors or agents of covered entities, which include certain health care providers, health plans and healthcare clearinghouses, that create, receive or obtain protected health information in connection with providing a service for or on behalf of a covered entity. HITECH also increased the civil and criminal penalties that may be imposed against covered entities and business associates, and gave state attorneys general new authority to file civil actions for damages or injunctions in federal courts to enforce the federal HIPAA laws and seek attorney’s fees and costs associated with pursuing federal civil actions. In addition, certain state laws govern the privacy and security of health information and other personal data in certain circumstances, some of which are more stringent or otherwise different than HIPAA and many of which differ from each other in significant ways and may not have the same effect, thus complicating compliance efforts. Failure to comply with these laws, where applicable, can result in the imposition of significant civil and criminal penalties;

Current wording

HIPAA, as amended by the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act of 2009 (HITECH), and its implementing regulations, mandates, among other things, the adoption of uniform standards for the electronic exchange of information in common healthcare transactions, as well as standards relating to the privacy and security of protected health information (PHI), including individually identifiable health information, as defined under HIPAA, which require the adoption of administrative, physical and technical safeguards to protect such information. Among other things, HITECH makes HIPAA’s security standards directly applicable to business associates, defined as independent contractors or agents of covered entities, which include certain health care providers, health plans and healthcare clearinghouses, that create, receive or obtain protected health information in connection with providing a service for or on behalf of a covered entity. HITECH also increased the civil and criminal penalties that may be imposed against covered entities and business associates, and gave state attorneys general new authority to file civil actions for damages or injunctions in federal courts to enforce the federal HIPAA laws and seek attorney’s fees and costs associated with pursuing federal civil actions. In addition, certain state laws govern the privacy and security of health information and other personal data in certain circumstances, some of which are more stringent or otherwise different than HIPAA and many of which differ from each other in significant ways and may not have the same effect, thus complicating compliance efforts. Failure to comply with these laws, where applicable, can result in the imposition of significant civil and criminal penalties;

Previous wording

Further, changes in regulatory requirements and guidance may occur and we may need to amend clinical trial protocols to reflect these changes. Amendments may require us to resubmit our clinical trial protocols to IRBs for re-examination, which may impact the costs, timing or successful completion of a clinical trial. In light of widely publicized events concerning the safety risk of certain drug products, regulatory authorities, members of Congress, the Governmental Accounting Office, medical professionals and the general public have raised concerns about potential drug safety issues. These events have resulted in the recall and withdrawal of drug products, revisions to drug labeling that further limit use of the drug products and establishment of risk management programs that may, for instance, restrict distribution of drug products or require safety surveillance or patient education. The increased attention to drug safety issues may result in a more cautious approach by the FDA to clinical trials and the drug approval process. Data from clinical trials may receive greater scrutiny with respect to safety, which may make the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities more likely to terminate or suspend clinical trials before completion or require longer or additional clinical trials that may result in substantial additional expense and a delay or failure in obtaining approval or approval for a more limited indication than originally sought.

Current wording

Further, changes in regulatory requirements and guidance may occur and we may need to amend clinical trial protocols to reflect these changes. Amendments may require us to resubmit our clinical trial protocols to IRBs for re-examination, which may impact the costs, timing or successful completion of a clinical trial. In light of widely publicized events concerning the safety risk of certain drug products, regulatory authorities, members of Congress, the Government Accountability Office, medical professionals and the general public have raised concerns about potential drug safety issues. These events have resulted in the recall and withdrawal of drug products, revisions to drug labeling that further limit use of the drug products and establishment of risk management programs that may, for instance, restrict distribution of drug products or require safety surveillance or patient education. The increased attention to drug safety issues may result in a more cautious approach by the FDA to clinical trials and the drug approval process. Data from clinical trials may receive greater scrutiny with respect to safety, which may make the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities more likely to terminate or suspend clinical trials before completion or require longer or additional clinical trials that may result in substantial additional expense and a delay or failure in obtaining approval or approval for a more limited indication than originally sought.

Previous wording

In December 2021, Regulation No. 2021/2282 on HTA, amending Directive 2011/24/EU, was adopted in the European Union. This Regulation, which entered into force in January 2022 and went into effect in January 2025, is intended to boost cooperation among EEA Member States in assessing health technologies, including new medicinal products, and providing the basis for cooperation at European Union level for joint clinical assessments in these areas. The Regulation permits EEA Member States to use common HTA tools, methodologies, and procedures across the European Union, working together in four main areas, including joint clinical assessment of the innovative health technologies with the most potential impact for patients, joint scientific consultations whereby developers can seek advice from HTA authorities, identification of emerging health technologies to identify promising technologies early, and continuing voluntary cooperation in other areas. Individual EEA Member States will continue to be responsible for assessing non-clinical (e.g., economic, social, ethical) aspects of health technologies, and making decisions on pricing and reimbursement. If we are unable to maintain favorable pricing and reimbursement status in EEA Member States for product candidates that we may successfully develop and for which we may obtain regulatory approval, any anticipated revenue from and growth prospects for those products in the European Union could be negatively affected.

Current wording

In December 2021, Regulation No. 2021/2282 on HTA, amending Directive 2011/24/EU, was adopted in the European Union. This Regulation, which entered into force in January 2022 and became applicable as of January 2025, is intended to boost cooperation among EEA Member States in assessing health technologies, including new medicinal products, and providing the basis for cooperation at European Union level for joint clinical assessments in these areas. The Regulation permits EEA Member States to use common HTA tools, methodologies, and procedures across the European Union, working together in four main areas, including joint clinical assessment of the innovative health technologies with the most potential impact for patients, joint scientific consultations whereby developers can seek advice from HTA authorities, identification of emerging health technologies to identify promising technologies early, and continuing voluntary cooperation in other areas. Individual EEA Member States will continue to be responsible for assessing non-clinical (e.g., economic, social, ethical) aspects of health technologies, and making decisions on pricing and reimbursement. If we are unable to maintain favorable pricing and reimbursement status in EEA Member States for product candidates that we may successfully develop and for which we may obtain regulatory approval, any anticipated revenue from and growth prospects for those products in the European Union could be negatively affected.

Previous wording

trade privileges, debarment, tax reassessments, breach of contract and fraud litigation, reputational harm, and other consequences. We have direct or indirect interactions with officials and employees of government authorities or government-affiliated hospitals, universities, and other organizations.

Current wording

Among other matters, U.S. and foreign anti-corruption, anti-money laundering, export control, sanctions, and other trade laws and regulations, which are collectively referred to as Trade Laws, prohibit companies and their employees, agents, clinical research organizations, legal counsel, accountants, consultants, contractors, and other partners from authorizing, promising, offering, providing, soliciting, or receiving, directly or indirectly, corrupt or improper payments or anything else of value to or from recipients in the public or private sector. Violations of Trade Laws can result in substantial criminal fines and civil penalties, imprisonment, the loss of trade privileges, debarment, tax reassessments, breach of contract and fraud litigation, reputational harm, and other consequences. We have direct or indirect interactions with officials and employees of government authorities or government-affiliated hospitals, universities, and other organizations.