Quanterix Corp
For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Mar 17, 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 17, 2025
QTRX$2.90+4.9%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 2024-02-29.
0001558370-24-002205
Item 1A. Risk FactorsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-03-17.
0001503274-25-000031
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 120 previous paragraphs and 267 current paragraphs.
65 unchanged; 48 reworded; 140 added; 2 removed; 5 previous and 14 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 76 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 (140)
Current report
Risks Related to the Merger and the Combined Company
Current report
•The market price for shares of our common stock may be affected by factors different from, or in addition to, those that historically have affected or currently affect the market price of shares of Akoya common stock.
Current report
•Actions of activist or dissident stockholders could delay or prevent the approval of the Merger and negatively affect our business and operations.
Current report
•The issuance of shares of our common stock to Akoya stockholders in connection with the Merger may cause the market price of our common stock to decline.
Current report
•The Merger, and uncertainty regarding the Merger, may cause our customers, service providers, partners, vendors, suppliers and other business relationships to delay or defer decisions concerning us and adversely affect our ability to effectively manage our business, which could adversely affect our operating results and financial position and, following the completion of the Merger, the business, operating results and financial position of us and Akoya as a combined company (the “Combined Company”).
Current report
•Whether or not the Merger is completed, the announcement and pendency of the Merger could cause disruptions in our business, which could have an adverse effect on our business and financial results.
Current report
•The Merger Agreement contains provisions that could discourage a potential acquirer from acquiring or merging with us.
Current report
•We expect to incur substantial costs related to the Merger and integration.
Current report
•Combining our business and the business of Akoya may be more difficult, costly or time-consuming than expected and the Combined Company may fail to realize the anticipated benefits of the Merger, which may adversely affect the Combined Company’s business results and negatively affect the value of our common stock following completion of the Merger.
Current report
•The restatement of our financial statements as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 and for each of the three years in the period ended December, 31 2023 and for the quarterly and year-to-date (as applicable) periods ended March 31, 2022, June 30, 2022, September 30, 2022, March 31, 2023, June 30, 2023, September 30, 2023, March 31, 2024, and June 30, 2024 (the “Restatement”) may affect stockholder and investor confidence in us or harm our reputation, and may subject us to additional risks and uncertainties, including increased costs and the increased possibility of legal proceedings and regulatory inquiries, sanctions or investigations.
Current report
•We may experience delays in launching our next-generation instrument, Simoa ONE, on our anticipated timeline, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, and results of operations.
Current report
•Changes in U.S. government policies, including increased tariffs and potential reductions in federal research funding, could adversely affect our business.
Current report
The Merger is subject to a number of conditions that must be satisfied (or waived, to the extent permitted), including (i) receipt of the approval of the issuance of shares of our common stock in the Merger by our stockholders; (ii)
Current report
receipt of the approval of the Merger by Akoya stockholders; (iii) the effectiveness of the registration statement on Form S-4 filed with the SEC in connection with the Merger; (iv) the absence of any order issued or entered, or any law enacted or promulgated having the effect of restraining, enjoining, making illegal or otherwise prohibiting the consummation of the Merger; (v) the submission by us to Nasdaq of a notification of shares of our common stock to be issued in connection with the Merger; (vi) performance by each party of its respective obligations under the Merger Agreement; and (vii) the absence of a material adverse effect with respect to each of Akoya and us. These conditions to the completion of the Merger, some of which are beyond our control, may not be satisfied or waived in a timely manner or at all, and, accordingly, the Merger may be delayed or not completed. Additionally, either we or Akoya may terminate the Merger Agreement under certain circumstances, subject to the payment of a termination fee of $9 million by us to Akoya or $7 million by Akoya to us in certain cases. These termination fees may have the effect of discouraging alternative transaction proposals. We have incurred and will incur costs in connection with entering into the Merger Agreement and consummating the Merger, many of which will be payable by us whether or not the Merger is completed. Even if the Merger Agreement is terminated under circumstances that would require Akoya to pay us a $7 million termination fee, it may not cover all of the expenses and costs we have incurred.
Current report
Failure to complete the Merger could negatively impact our future business and financial results and the trading price of our common stock.
Current report
If the Merger is not completed for any reason, our ongoing business may be adversely affected and, without realizing any of the expected benefits of having completed the Merger, we would be subject to a number of risks, including the following:
Current report
•we may experience negative reactions from our customers, service providers, partners, vendors, suppliers and employees;
Current report
•it could negatively impact our ability to achieve future growth, expand our addressable market and achieve scale and profitability on expected timelines;
Current report
•we will have incurred substantial costs towards completion of the Merger and will generally be required to pay our costs relating to the Merger, such as financial advisory, legal, strategic advisory, accounting costs and associated fees and expenses, whether or not the Merger is completed;
Current report
•we may provide up to $30 million in bridge financing to Akoya, which would be subordinated to Akoya’s existing credit facility, and if the Merger is not completed for any reason, Akoya may not have the financial resources to repay the bridge financing when due, or at all; and
Current report
•we will have committed substantial time and resources to matters relating to the Merger (including integration planning) which would otherwise have been devoted to day-to-day operations and other opportunities that may have been beneficial to us as an independent company.
Current report
Actions of activist or dissident stockholders could delay or prevent the approval of the Merger and negatively affect our business and operations.
Current report
Recently one of our stockholders has indicated that it intends to oppose the Merger. In addition, on March 3, 2025, the same stockholder announced that it is nominating three directors for election to the Board at our 2025 annual meeting of stockholders. As a result of these actions, we will incur significant expenses even if we are successful in completing the Merger or are successful in a potential proxy contest.
Current report
In addition, perceived uncertainties as to our future direction, strategy, or leadership, and the diversion of management's and our board of director's attention and resources from our business, created by such activism may result in the loss of business opportunities and make it more difficult to complete strategic transactions or attract and retain investors, customers, employees, and other business partners. Such stockholder activism may also cause significant fluctuation in our stock price based on temporary or speculative market perceptions or other factors that do not necessarily reflect the underlying fundamentals and prospects of our business. We cannot predict the outcome or timing of any matters relating to stockholder activism or potential proxy contests or the ultimate impact that such matters may have on our business, liquidity, financial condition, or results of operations.
Current report
The issuance of shares of our common stock to Akoya stockholders in connection with the Merger may cause the market price of our common stock to decline.
Current report
Upon completion of the Merger, Akoya stockholders will receive 0.318 (the “Exchange Ratio”) shares of our common stock for each share of Akoya common stock they hold. Based on 49,588,743 shares of Akoya common stock issued and outstanding as of February 1, 2025 and the Exchange Ratio, it is expected that we will issue approximately 15,769,220 shares of our common stock to Akoya stockholders in connection with the Merger. In addition, Akoya restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and options to purchase Akoya common stock will be converted into RSUs for our common stock and options to purchase our common stock based on the Exchange Ratio upon completion of the Merger. Former Akoya stockholders may decide not to hold the shares of our common stock that they will receive in the Merger, and our stockholders may decide to reduce their investment in Quanterix as a result of the changes to our investment profile as a result of the Merger. Both the issuance of this amount of new shares in the Merger and any subsequent sales of these shares may cause the market price of our common stock to decline.
Current report
After the Merger, our stockholders will have a reduced ownership and voting interest in the Combined Company and may not realize a benefit from the Merger commensurate with their ownership dilution.
Current report
The Merger will dilute the ownership position of our stockholders and result in Akoya stockholders having an ownership stake in the Combined Company. Based on the number of shares of our common stock and Akoya common stock outstanding as of February 1, 2025, upon completion of the Merger, our current stockholders are expected to own approximately 71% of our outstanding common stock and former Akoya stockholders are expected to own approximately 29% of our outstanding common stock.
Current report
If the Combined Company is unable to fully and timely realize the strategic and financial benefits currently anticipated from the Merger, our stockholders will have experienced substantial dilution of their ownership interests without receiving any commensurate benefit, or only receiving part of the commensurate benefit to the extent the Combined Company is able to realize only part of the strategic and financial benefits currently anticipated from the Merger.
Current report
Until the completion of the Merger or the termination of the Merger Agreement pursuant to our terms, we are prohibited from entering into certain transactions and taking certain actions that might otherwise be beneficial to us and our stockholders.
Current report
From and after the date of the Merger Agreement and prior to the completion of the Merger or the termination of the Merger Agreement pursuant to our terms, the Merger Agreement restricts us from taking specified actions without the consent of Akoya and requires that our business be conducted in the ordinary course, subject to certain exceptions. These restrictions may prevent us from taking actions during the pendency of the Merger that would have been beneficial. Adverse effects arising from these restrictions during the pendency of the Merger could be exacerbated by any delays in the completion of the Merger or termination of the Merger Agreement.
Current report
Obtaining required approvals and satisfying closing conditions may prevent or delay completion of the Merger, and regulatory approvals may not be received, may take longer than expected or may impose conditions that are not presently anticipated or cannot be met.
Current report
The Merger is subject to a number of conditions to closing. No assurance can be given that the required stockholder approvals can be obtained or that the required conditions to closing will be satisfied, and, if all required approvals are obtained and the required conditions are satisfied, no assurance can be given as to the terms, conditions and timing of such approvals. Any delay in completing the Merger could cause the Combined Company not to realize, or to be delayed in realizing, some or all of the benefits that we expect to achieve if the Merger is successfully completed within our expected time frame. Additionally, any delays in receipt of required regulatory approvals or satisfaction of the closing conditions will increase the length of time that we are subject to certain restrictive covenants under the Merger Agreement during the pendency of the Merger and increases the risk of disruptions to our operations and business relationships and the impediments to our ability to pursue certain business opportunities or strategic initiatives, which may in turn cause the Combined Company to not realize some or all of the expected benefits of the Merger or adversely impact our future financial and strategic conditions on a standalone basis if the required approvals and conditions to closing are not obtained or satisfied.
Current report
The success of the Merger will depend in part on the Combined Company’s ability to retain the talent and dedication of key employees of each company. It is possible that these employees may decide not to remain with us or Akoya, as applicable, while the Merger is pending, or with the Combined Company following consummation of the Merger. If key employees of either company terminate their employment, or if an insufficient number of employees or sales representatives are retained to maintain effective operations, the Combined Company’s business activities may be adversely affected and management’s attention may be diverted from successfully integrating Quanterix and Akoya to hiring suitable replacements, all of which may cause the Combined Company’s business to suffer. In addition, we and Akoya may not be able to locate suitable replacements for any key employees that leave either company or offer employment to potential replacements on reasonable terms. Moreover, there could be disruptions to or distractions for the workforce and management, including disruptions associated with integrating employees into the Combined Company. No assurance can be given that the Combined Company will be able to attract or retain key employees to the same extent that those companies have been able to attract or retain their own employees in the past.
Current report
The Merger, and uncertainty regarding the Merger, may cause our customers, service providers, partners, vendors, suppliers and other business relationships to delay or defer decisions and adversely affect our ability to effectively manage our business, which could adversely affect our business, operating results and financial position and, following the completion of the Merger, the Combined Company’s business, operating results and financial position.
Current report
The Merger will happen only if certain stated conditions are met. Accordingly, there may be uncertainty regarding the completion of the Merger. This uncertainty may cause existing or prospective customers, service providers, partners, vendors, suppliers and other business relationships to delay or defer other decisions, including entering into contracts or making other decisions, or seek to change or cancel existing business relationships. Additionally, we are subject to certain restrictive covenants under the Merger Agreement during the pendency of the Merger that may (i) cause us to delay or defer other decisions including entering into contracts or arrangements with existing or prospective customers, service providers, partners, vendors, suppliers and other business relationships or (ii) inhibit our ability to take advantage of certain business opportunities or strategic initiatives. Any such disruptions such as delays or deferrals of those decisions or changes in existing agreements could adversely affect our business, operating results and financial position, whether the Merger is ultimately completed, and following the completion of the Merger, the Combined Company, including an adverse effect on the Combined Company’s ability to realize the anticipated synergies and other benefits of the Merger. The risk, and adverse effect, of any such disruptions could be exacerbated by a delay in completion of the Merger or termination of the Merger Agreement.
Current report
Whether or not the Merger is completed, the announcement and pendency of the Merger could cause disruptions in our business, which could have an adverse effect on our business and financial results.
Current report
Whether or not the Merger is completed, the announcement and pendency of the Merger could cause disruptions in our business, including by diverting the attention of our management and employee team, such as those involved in day-to-day operations, toward the completion of the Merger. In addition, we have diverted significant management resources in an effort to complete the Merger and are each subject to restrictions contained in the Merger Agreement on the conduct of our business. If the Merger is not completed, we will have incurred significant costs, including the diversion of management resources, for which we will have received little or no benefit.
Current report
The Merger Agreement contains provisions that could discourage a potential competing acquirer that might be willing to pay more to acquire or merge with us.
Showing the first 40 of 140 passages. Open the source sections for the rest.
Removed paragraphs (2)
Previous report
Our business is subject to numerous risks and uncertainties. The following summary highlights some of the risks to be considered with respect to our business and prospects. This summary is not complete and the risks summarized below are not the only risks we face. Readers should review and carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described in more detail below, which includes a more complete discussion of these risks.
Previous report
During 2023, we took a number of actions designed to improve our internal control over financial reporting to remediate these material weaknesses. Based on these efforts, and after demonstrating the operating effectiveness of the related internal controls for a sufficient period of time, our management has concluded that the Financial Statement Close Process MW and Compensation MW were remediated as of December 31, 2023. However, management also concluded that control deficiencies did exist as of December 31, 2023, and that these control deficiencies constituted material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting. Specifically, management concluded that a portion of the Inventory MW related to the valuation of our inventory, including excess and obsolescence reserves (the “Inventory Valuation MW”) and the Property and Equipment MW continued to exist as of December 31, 2023. The primary cause of the Inventory Valuation MW is our reliance on manual processes to verify the completeness and accuracy of information used in our inventory valuation outputs, and the adequacy and documentation of reviews over these outputs. For the Property and Equipment MW, while the related internal controls were implemented and effective as of December 31, 2023, they were not in all cases in place for a sufficient period of time to demonstrate operating effectiveness as of December 31, 2023. For a discussion of these material weaknesses and our efforts to remediate them, please see “Item 9A. Controls and Procedures”.
Reworded paragraphs (48)
Previous wording
Failure to remediate material weaknesses in, or inherent limitations associated with, internal control over financial reporting could result in material misstatements in our financial statements.
Current wording
•Failure to remediate material weaknesses in, or inherent limitations associated with, our internal control over financial reporting have resulted in, and in the future could result in, material misstatements in our financial statements.
Previous wording
We rely on a single contract manufacturer to manufacture and supply our Simoa HD-X instrument and rely on a different single contract manufacturer to manufacture and supply our Simoa SR-X instrument. If either of these manufacturers should fail to perform, or not perform satisfactorily, our ability to supply these instruments would be negatively and adversely affected.
Current wording
•We rely on a single contract manufacturer for our Simoa HD-X instrument and on a different single contract manufacturer for our Simoa SR-X instrument, and we expect to rely on a different single contract manufacturer for our new Simoa ONE instrument. If any of these manufacturers should fail to perform, or not perform satisfactorily, our ability to supply these instruments would be negatively and adversely affected.
Previous wording
If the FDA determines that our products are subject to regulation as medical devices, if the FDA modifies its regulations to require that our LDTs are subject to regulation as devices, or if we seek to market our products for clinical diagnostic or health screening use, we will be required to obtain regulatory clearance(s) or approval(s). Any such regulatory process would be expensive, time-consuming and uncertain both in timing and in outcome.
Current wording
•If the FDA determines that our products are subject to regulation as medical devices, if the FDA modifies its regulations to require that our LDTs are subject to regulation as devices, or if we seek to market our products for clinical diagnostic or health screening use, we will be required to comply with medical device law, including in some cases a requirement to obtain regulatory clearance(s) or approval(s). Any such regulatory process would be expensive, time-consuming and uncertain both in timing and in outcome.
Current wording
Risks Related to our Financial Condition and Financial Reporting Matters
Previous wording
In our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, we identified four material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, relating to the operating effectiveness of our internal controls associated with: (i) the accounting for inventory, including excess and obsolescence reserves (the “Inventory MW”), (ii) the accounting for salaries and commissions expense (the “Compensation MW”), (iii) the financial statement close process, including financial reporting, share-based compensation and non-recurring transactions such as impairment of assets and accounting for leases (the “Financial Statement Close Process MW”), and (iv) the accounting for property and equipment, net (the “Property and Equipment MW”).
Current wording
In our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2022, filed with the SEC on March 6, 2023, we identified four material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting relating to the operating effectiveness of our internal controls, including a material weakness associated with (i) the accounting for inventory, including excess and obsolescence reserves (the “Inventory MW”), (ii) the accounting for salaries and commissions expense (the “Compensation MW”), (iii) the financial statement close process, including financial reporting, share-based compensation and non-recurring transactions such as impairment of assets and accounting for leases (the “Financial Statement Close Process MW”), and (iv) the accounting for property and equipment, net (the “Property and Equipment MW”). In our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 (the “2023 Original Report”), filed with the SEC on February 29, 2024, we indicated that our management concluded that the Financial Statement Close Process MW and Compensation MW were remediated. However, we also concluded that control deficiencies existed as of December 31, 2023, and that these control deficiencies constituted material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting. Specifically, management concluded that a portion of the Inventory MW related to the valuation of our inventory, including excess and obsolescence reserves (the “Inventory Valuation MW”) and the Property and Equipment MW continued to exist as of December 31, 2023. Subsequent to the filing of the 2023 Original Report, in Amendment No. 1 to our Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the SEC on December 26, 2024 (the “Amended Annual Report on Form 10-K/A”), we indicated that our management concluded that the Restatement in the Amended Annual Report on Form 10-K/A was a result of a newly identified design deficiency associated with the Inventory Valuation MW, related to the Company's internal controls over the capitalization of labor and overhead costs.
Previous wording
Our efforts to remediate the outstanding material weaknesses, and to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting, are ongoing; however, there are inherent limitations in all control systems and no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all deficiencies have been detected. We cannot assure you that additional material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting will not arise or be identified in the future. If after having remediated the remaining material weaknesses we are unable to maintain the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting or our disclosure controls and procedures, we could lose investor confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports, the market price of our common stock could decline, and we could be subject to regulatory scrutiny, civil or criminal penalties or litigation. Continued or future failure to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting could also result in financial statements that do not accurately reflect our financial condition or results of operations, may result in material misstatements in our financial statements and may also restrict our future access to the capital markets.
Current wording
Our efforts to remediate outstanding material weaknesses, and to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting, are ongoing; however, there are inherent limitations in all control systems and no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all deficiencies have been detected. We cannot assure you that additional material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting will not arise or be identified in the future. If after having remediated outstanding material weaknesses we are unable to maintain the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting or our disclosure controls and procedures, we could lose investor confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports, the market price of our common stock could decline, and we could be subject to regulatory scrutiny, civil, or criminal penalties or litigation. Continued or future failure to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting could also result in financial statements that do not accurately reflect our financial condition or results of operations, may result in material misstatements in our financial statements, and may also restrict our future access to the capital markets.
Previous wording
During the year ended December 31, 2023, we incurred significant expense and dedicated significant internal resources to address the material weaknesses described above, and we expect that the continued execution of the plan to remediate the remaining material weaknesses will be costly and will distract management from other activities. There can be no assurance that we will conclude in the future that we have effectively remediated the remaining material weaknesses or that we will not identify any significant deficiencies or other material weaknesses that will impair our ability to report our financial condition and results of operations accurately or on a timely basis.
Current wording
We have incurred significant expense and dedicated significant internal resources to address the material weaknesses described above, and we expect that the continued execution of the plan to remediate the remaining material weaknesses will continue to be costly and will distract management from other activities. There can be no assurance that we will conclude in the future that we have effectively remediated outstanding material weaknesses or that we will not identify any additional significant deficiencies or material weaknesses that will impair our ability to report our financial condition and results of operations accurately or on a timely basis.
Previous wording
We incurred net losses of $32.3 million, $96.7 million and $57.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. As of December 31, 2023, we had an accumulated deficit of $434.5 million. We cannot predict if or when we will achieve profitability or if or when we will be able to sustain profitability once achieved. We expect that our losses will continue at least through the next 24 months as weexecute our strategy for our entry into translational pharma and clinical diagnostic markets. We may incur significant losses in the future for a number of reasons, many of which are beyond our control, including the other risks described in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the market acceptance of our products, competitive products, future product development and our market penetration and margins.
Current wording
We incurred net losses of $38.5 million, $28.4 million, and $99.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. As of December 31, 2024, we had an accumulated deficit of $470.1 million. We cannot predict if or when we will achieve profitability or if or when we will be able to sustain profitability once achieved. We expect that our losses will continue at least through the next 24 months as we execute our strategy for our entry into translational pharma and clinical diagnostic markets. We may incur significant losses in the future for a number of reasons, many of which are beyond our control, including the other risks described in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the market acceptance of our products, competitive products, future product development and our market penetration and margins.
Previous wording
As of December 31, 2023, we had federal net operating loss (“NOLs”) carryforwards to offset future taxable income of approximately $313.4 million, which begin to expire in 2026. A lack of future taxable income would adversely affect our ability to utilize these NOLs. In addition, under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), a corporation that undergoes an “ownership change” is subject to limitations on its ability to utilize its NOLs to offset future taxable income. We have already experienced ownership changes as defined under Section 382 of the Code. Depending on the timing of any future utilization of our NOLs, the amount that can be utilized each year may be limited as a result of such previous ownership changes. In addition, future changes in our stock ownership, including changes that may be outside of our control, could result in additional ownership changes under Section 382 of the Code. Our NOLs may also be impaired under similar provisions of state law. We have recorded a full valuation allowance related to our NOLs and other deferred tax assets due to the uncertainty of the ultimate realization of the future benefits of those assets.
Current wording
As of December 31, 2024, we had federal net operating loss (“NOLs”) carryforwards to offset future taxable income of approximately $320.0 million, of which approximately $108.5 million begin to expire in 2026. A lack of future taxable income would adversely affect our ability to utilize these NOLs. In addition, under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), a corporation that undergoes an “ownership change” is subject to limitations on our ability to utilize our NOLs to offset future taxable income. We may have already experienced ownership changes as defined under Section 382 of the Code. Depending on the timing of any future utilization of our NOLs, the amount that can be utilized each year may be limited as a result of such previous ownership changes. In addition, future changes in our stock ownership, including changes that may be outside of our control, could result in additional ownership changes under Section 382 of the Code. Our NOLs may also be impaired under similar provisions of state law. We have recorded a full valuation allowance related to our NOLs and other deferred tax assets due to the uncertainty of the ultimate realization of the future benefits of those assets.
Previous wording
technology platform and products and other platforms and products we may develop in the future will depend on many factors, including our ability to convince potential customers that our technology is an attractive alternative to other available technologies. If we are unable to continue to motivate customers to use Simoa technology or other technologies we may develop, adoption of our technology may be slowed and our ability to retain and grow our customer base and increase our revenue would be adversely affected.
Current wording
Our success depends on our ability to develop and market products that are recognized and accepted by our customers and potential customers as reliable, enabling and cost-effective. Continued market acceptance of our Simoa technology platform and products and other platforms and products we may develop in the future, such as Simoa ONE, will depend on many factors, including our ability to convince potential customers that our technology is an attractive alternative to other available technologies. If we are unable to continue to motivate customers to use Simoa technology or other technologies we may develop, adoption of our technology may be slowed and our ability to retain and grow our customer base and increase our revenue would be adversely affected.
Previous wording
The sales process for our Simoa instruments generally involves numerous interactions with multiple individuals within an organization, and often includes in-depth analysis by potential customers of our technology and products and a lengthy review process. Our customers’ evaluation processes often involve a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control. As a result of these factors, the capital investment required to purchase our systems, and the budget cycles of our customers, the time from initial contact with a customer to our receipt of a purchase order can vary significantly. In 2023, these factors resulted in softness in sales of our instruments. Given the length and uncertainty of our sales cycle, we have in the past experienced, and expect in the future to experience, fluctuations in our sales on a period-to-period basis. In addition, any failure to meet customer expectations could result in customers choosing to retain their existing systems, using existing assays not requiring capital equipment, or purchasing systems other than ours.
Current wording
The sales process for our Simoa instruments generally involves numerous interactions with multiple individuals within an organization, and often includes in-depth analysis by potential customers of our technology and products and a lengthy review process. Our customers’ evaluation processes often involve a number of factors, many of which are beyond our control. As a result of these factors, the capital investment required to purchase our systems, and the budget cycles of our customers, the time from initial contact with a customer to our receipt of a purchase order can vary significantly. Given the length and uncertainty of our sales cycle, we have in the past experienced, and expect in the future to experience, fluctuations in our sales on a period-to-period basis. In addition, any failure to meet customer expectations could result in customers choosing to retain their existing systems, using existing assays not requiring capital equipment, or purchasing systems other than ours.
Previous wording
One customer accounted for greater than 10% of our total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2023, and several other customers accounted for a significant portion of our total revenue. The loss of a significant amount of business from one or more of our major customers would have a material adverse effect on our business. There can be no assurance that there will not be a loss or reduction in business from one or more of our major customers. In addition, we cannot assure that net sales from customers that have accounted for significant net sales in the past, either individually or as a group, will reach or exceed historical levels in any future period.
Current wording
For the year ended December 31, 2024, our top five customers accounted for approximately 21% of our total revenue. The loss of a significant amount of business from one or more of our major customers would have a material adverse effect on our business. There can be no assurance that there will not be a loss or reduction in business from one or more of our major customers. In addition, we cannot assure that net sales from customers that have accounted for significant net sales in the past, either individually or as a group, will reach or exceed historical levels in any future period.
Previous wording
Our long-term results depend upon our ability to improve existing products and introduce and market new products successfully.
Current wording
Our long-term results depend upon our ability to improve existing products and introduce and market new products successfully and timely.
Previous wording
Our Simoa products are complex and may contain undetected errors or defects, especially when first introduced or as new versions or new products are released. We have in the past devoted, and will continue to devote, funding and resources to technology development, quality assurance and manufacturing initiatives designed to ensure or improve quality, such as the assay redevelopment program initiated in 2022. However, there can be no assurance that we will be successful in our efforts to manufacture products at a level of quality necessary for our customers or to avoid our products containing undiscovered defects or quality issues. Defects, errors or quality issues in our products may discourage customers from purchasing our products and could harm our reputation. We may also be subject to warranty claims and litigation involving claims for damages or incur additional costs, in each case due to errors or defects in our products. In addition, if we do not meet industry or quality standards, if applicable, our products may be subject to recall, andproducts subject to the FDA’s medical device regulations could be required to be recalled under such regulations. A material liability claim, recall or other occurrence that harms our reputation or decreases market acceptance of our products could harm our business and operating results.
Current wording
Our Simoa products are complex and may contain undetected errors or defects, especially when first introduced or as new versions or new products are released. We have in the past devoted, and will continue to devote, funding and resources to technology development, quality assurance and manufacturing initiatives designed to ensure or improve quality, such as the assay redevelopment program which was initiated in 2022 and substantially completed in the fourth quarter of 2023. However, there can be no assurance that we will be successful in our efforts to manufacture products at a level of quality necessary for our customers or to avoid our products containing undiscovered defects or quality issues. Defects, errors or quality issues in our products may discourage customers from purchasing our products and could harm our reputation. We may also be subject to warranty claims and litigation involving claims for damages or incur additional costs, in each case due to errors or defects in our products. In addition, if we do not meet industry or quality standards, if applicable, our products may be subject to recall, and products subject to the FDA’s medical device regulations could be required to be recalled under such regulations. A material liability claim, recall or other occurrence that harms our reputation or decreases market acceptance of our products could harm our business and operating results.
Previous wording
For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, approximately 37%, 38% and 36%, respectively, of our total revenue was generated from customers located outside of North America. We believe that a substantial percentage of our future revenue will continue to come from international sources as we expand our overseas operations and develop opportunities in additional areas. Engaging in international business involves a number of difficulties and risks, including:
Current wording
For the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, approximately 36%, 38%, and 38%, respectively, of our total revenue was generated from customers located outside of North America. We believe that a substantial percentage of our future revenue will continue to come from international sources as we expand our overseas operations and develop opportunities in additional areas. Engaging in international business involves a number of difficulties and risks, including:
Previous wording
We currently rely on a single contract manufacturer, STRATEC, an analytical and diagnostic systems manufacturer located in Germany, to manufacture and supply all of our Simoa HD-X instruments. In addition, we currently rely on a single contract manufacturer, Paramit, a contract manufacturer located in California, to manufacture and supply all of our SR-X instruments. Since our contract with STRATEC does not commit them to supply quantities beyond the amounts included in our forecasts and our contract with Paramit does not commit them to carry inventory or make available any particular quantities, we may not be able to obtain adequate supplies in a timely manner or on commercially reasonable terms. If either of these manufacturers were not able to supply instruments, our business would be harmed.
Current wording
We currently rely on a single contract manufacturer, STRATEC Biomedical AG (“STRATEC”), an analytical and diagnostic systems manufacturer located in Germany, to manufacture and supply all of our Simoa HD-X instruments. In addition, we currently rely on a single contract manufacturer, Paramit Corporation (“Paramit”), a contract manufacturer located in California, to manufacture and supply all of our SR-X instruments. We also expect to rely on a single contract manufacturer to supply our new Simoa ONE instrument. Our contract with STRATEC does not commit them to supply quantities beyond the amounts included in our forecasts, and our contract with Paramit does not commit them to carry inventory or make available any particular quantities Accordingly, we may not be able to obtain adequate supplies in a timely manner or on commercially reasonable terms. If either of these manufacturers are not able to supply instruments, our business would be harmed.
Previous wording
In the event it becomes necessary to utilize a different contract manufacturer for the HD-X instrument or the SR-X instrument, we would experience additional costs, delays and difficulties in doing so as a result of needing to identify and enter into an agreement with a new supplier as well as needing to prepare such new supplier to meet the logistical requirements associated with manufacturing our instruments, and our business would suffer. We may also experience additional costs and delays in the event we need access to or rights under any intellectual property of STRATEC.
Current wording
In the event it becomes necessary to utilize a different contract manufacturer for an instrument, we would experience additional costs, delays and difficulties in doing so as a result of needing to identify and enter into an agreement with a new supplier as well as needing to prepare such new supplier to meet the logistical requirements associated with manufacturing our instruments, and our business would suffer. We may also experience additional costs and delays in the event we need access to or rights under any intellectual property of STRATEC.
Previous wording
We rely on limited or sole suppliers for certain reagents and other materials and components that are used in our consumable products and services and in our SP-X instrument. While we have long-term contracts with some critical suppliers, we do not have contracts with all suppliers and instead rely on periodically forecasting our needs for such materials and entering into standard purchase orders with our suppliers. In addition, our use of many of the materials used in our consumable products is limited to research use only. As we expand into diagnostic applications for our products, we will need to secure diagnostic rights to such materials. If we were to lose suppliers or were unable to secure required rights for materials from suppliers, there can be no assurance that we will be able to identify or enter into agreements with alternative suppliers on a timely basis and on acceptable terms, if at all. An interruption in our operations could occur if we encounter delays or difficulties in securing these materials or any required rights to these materials, if the quality of the materials supplied do not meet our requirements, or if we cannot then obtain an acceptable substitute. The time and effort required to qualify a new supplier and ensure that the new materials provide the same or better quality results could result in significant additional costs. Any such interruption could significantly affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and reputation.
Current wording
We rely on limited or sole suppliers for certain reagents and other materials and components that are used in our consumable products and services and in our SP-X instrument. While we have long-term contracts with some critical suppliers, we do not have contracts with all suppliers and instead relies on periodically forecasting our needs for such materials and entering into standard purchase orders with our suppliers. In addition, our use of many of the materials used in our consumable products is limited to research use only. As we expand into diagnostic applications for our products, we will need to secure diagnostic rights to such materials. If we were to lose suppliers or were unable to secure required rights for materials from suppliers, there can be no assurance that we will be able to identify or enter into agreements with alternative suppliers on a timely basis and on acceptable terms, if at all. An interruption in our operations could occur if we encounter delays or difficulties in securing these materials or any required rights to these materials, if the quality of the materials supplied do not meet our requirements, or if we cannot then obtain an acceptable substitute. The time and effort required to qualify a new supplier and ensure that the new materials provide the same or better quality results could result in significant additional costs. Any such interruption could significantly affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and reputation.
Previous wording
We are subject to the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the “FCPA”), which prohibits companies and individuals from corruptly making payments, directly or indirectly through third parties, to non-U.S. government officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business or securing any other improper advantage. We are also subject to the FCPA’s accounting provisions, which require us to keep accurate books and records and to maintain a system of internal accounting controls sufficient to assure management’s control, authority and responsibility over our assets. Our reliance on independent distributors to sell our products internationally demands a high degree of vigilance in maintaining our policy against participation in corrupt activity, because there are circumstances under which we could be held responsible for their actions. Other U.S. companies in the medical device and pharmaceutical fields have faced criminal penalties under the FCPA for allowing their distributors and other third parties to deviate from appropriate practices in doing business with these individuals. We are also subject to similar anti-bribery laws in the jurisdictions in which we operate, including the United Kingdom’s Bribery Act of 2010, which also prohibits commercial bribery and makes it a crime for companies to fail to prevent bribery. These laws are complex and far-reaching in nature, and any violations of these laws, or allegations of such violations, could disrupt our operations, involve significant management distraction, involve significant costs and expenses, including legal fees, and could result in a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition, or results of operations. We could also incur severe penalties, including criminal and civil penalties, disgorgement and other remedial measures.
Current wording
We are subject to the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the “FCPA”), which prohibits companies and individuals from corruptly making payments, directly or indirectly through third parties, to non-U.S. government officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business or securing any other improper advantage. We are also subject to the FCPA’s accounting provisions, which requires us to keep accurate books and records and to maintain a system of internal accounting controls sufficient to assure management’s control, authority and responsibility over our assets. Our reliance on independent distributors to sell our products internationally demands a high degree of vigilance in maintaining our policy against participation in corrupt activity, because there are circumstances under which we could be held responsible for their actions. Other U.S. companies in the medical device and pharmaceutical fields have faced criminal penalties under the FCPA for allowing their distributors and other third parties to deviate from appropriate practices in doing business with these individuals. We are also subject to similar anti-bribery laws in the jurisdictions in which we operate, including the United Kingdom’s Bribery Act of 2010, which also prohibits commercial bribery and makes it a crime for companies to fail to prevent bribery. These laws are complex and far-reaching in nature, and any violations of these laws, or allegations of such violations, could disrupt our operations, involve significant management distraction, involve significant costs and expenses, including legal fees, and could result in a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition, or results of operations. We could also incur severe penalties, including criminal and civil penalties, disgorgement and other remedial measures.
Previous wording
We may acquire other businesses, products or technologies as well as pursue strategic alliances, joint ventures, technology licenses or investments in complementary businesses. Our ability to successfully integrate any business, product or technology we acquire depends on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, our ability to:
Current wording
We have acquired, and may in the future acquire other businesses, products or technologies as well as pursue strategic alliances, joint ventures, technology licenses or investments in complementary businesses. Our ability to successfully integrate any business, product or technology we acquire depends on a number of factors, including, but not limited to, our ability to:
Previous wording
We focused initially on the life sciences research market. This includes offering products for use by laboratories associated with academic and governmental research institutions, as well as pharmaceutical, biotechnology and contract research companies. Accordingly, the majority of our products are labeled as “Research Use Only”. While we focused initially on the life sciences research market and RUO products only, our strategy includes expanding our product line to encompass products that are intended to be used for the diagnosis of disease, including LDTs and IVD devices, either alone or in collaboration with third parties. IVD products are subject to regulation by the FDA, or comparable international agencies, as medical devices including requirements for regulatory clearance or approval of such products before they can be marketed.
Current wording
We focused initially on the life sciences research market. This includes offering products for use by laboratories associated with academic and governmental research institutions, as well as pharmaceutical, biotechnology and contract research companies. Accordingly, the majority of our products are labeled as “Research Use Only” (“RUO”). While we focused initially on the life sciences research market and RUO products only, our strategy includes expanding our product line to encompass products that are intended to be used for the diagnosis of disease, including LDTs and in vitro diagnostic (“IVD”) devices, either alone or in collaboration with third parties. IVD products are subject to regulation by the FDA, or comparable international agencies, as medical devices including requirements for regulatory clearance or approval of such products before they can be marketed.
Previous wording
The process of obtaining regulatory clearances to market a medical device can be costly and time consuming, and we or our collaborators may not be able to obtain these clearances or approvals on a timely basis, if at all. In general, the FDA permits commercial distribution of a new medical device only after the device has received clearance under Section 510(k) of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (“FDCA”), or is the subject of an approved PMA, unless the device is specifically exempt from those requirements. The FDA will clear marketing of a lower risk medical device through the 510(k) process if the manufacturer demonstrates that the new product is substantially equivalent to a legally marketed predicate device, which can include pre-amendment, 510(k)-exempt, 510(k) cleared products, or PMA-approved products that have subsequently been down-classified. If the FDA determines that the device is not “substantially equivalent” to a predicate device, or if the device is novel, it is automatically classified into Class III, and the device sponsor must then fulfill the much more rigorous premarketing requirements of the PMA approval process, or seek classification of the device through the de novo classification process. The PMA process is more costly, lengthy and uncertain than the 510(k) clearance process. A PMA application must be supported by extensive data, including, but not limited to, technical, preclinical, clinical trial, manufacturing and labeling data, to demonstrate to the FDA’s satisfaction the safety and efficacy of the device for its intended use.
Current wording
The process of obtaining regulatory clearances to market a medical device can be costly and time consuming, and we or our collaborators may not be able to obtain these clearances or approvals on a timely basis, if at all. In general, the FDA permits commercial distribution of a new medical device only after the device has received clearance under Section 510(k) of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act (“FDCA”), or is the subject of an approved Premarket Approval (“PMA”), unless the device is specifically exempt from those requirements. The FDA will clear marketing of a lower risk medical device through the 510(k) process if the manufacturer demonstrates that the new product is substantially equivalent to a legally marketed predicate device, which can include pre-amendment, 510(k)-exempt, 510(k) cleared products, or PMA-approved products that have subsequently been down-classified. If the FDA determines that the device is not “substantially equivalent” to a predicate device, or if the device is novel, it is automatically classified into Class III, and the device sponsor must then fulfill the much more rigorous premarketing requirements of the PMA approval process, or seek classification of the device through the de novo classification process. The PMA process is more costly, lengthy and uncertain than the 510(k) clearance process. A PMA application must be supported by extensive data, including, but not limited to, technical, preclinical, clinical trial, manufacturing and labeling data, to demonstrate to the FDA’s satisfaction the safety and efficacy of the device for our intended use.
Previous wording
post-market surveillance, post-approval studies, adverse event reporting, and correction and removal (recall) regulations. One or more of the products we may develop using our technology may also require clinical trials in order to generate the data required for a PMA, de novo classification request or 510(k) premarket notification. Complying with these requirements may be time-consuming and expensive. We may be required to expend significant resources to ensure ongoing compliance with the FDA regulations. Failure to comply with these requirements may subject us to a range of enforcement actions, such as warning letters, injunctions, civil monetary penalties, criminal prosecution, recall and/or seizure of products, and revocation of marketing authorization, as well as significant adverse publicity. If we fail to obtain, or experience significant delays in obtaining, regulatory approvals for IVD products, such products may not be able to be launched or successfully commercialized in a timely manner, or at all.
Current wording
If any of our products are subject to medical device regulation, we would be subject to a substantial number of additional requirements for medical devices, including establishment registration, device listing, quality system regulations — which cover the design, testing, production, control, quality assurance, labeling, packaging, servicing, sterilization (if required), and storage and shipping of medical devices (among other activities) — product labeling, advertising, recordkeeping, post-market surveillance, post-approval studies, adverse event reporting, and correction and removal (recall) regulations. One or more of the products we may develop using our technology may also require clinical trials in order to generate the data required for a PMA, de novo classification request or 510(k) premarket notification. Complying with these requirements may be time- consuming and expensive. We may be required to expend significant resources to ensure ongoing compliance with the FDA regulations. Failure to comply with these requirements may subject us to a range of enforcement actions, such as warning letters, injunctions, civil monetary penalties, criminal prosecution, recall and/or seizure of products, and revocation of marketing authorization, as well as significant adverse publicity. If we fail to obtain, or experience significant delays in obtaining, regulatory approvals for IVD products, such products may not be able to be launched or successfully commercialized in a timely manner, or at all.
Previous wording
LDTs are a subset of IVD tests that are offered as services by CLIA-certified high complexity clinical laboratories and designed, manufactured and used within a single laboratory. In July 2022, we launched an LDTto quantitatively measure p-Tau 181 in plasma as an aid in diagnostic evaluation of Alzheimer’s disease, and in January 2023, we launched an LDT to quantitatively measure NfL in serum as an aid in the evaluation of individuals for possible neurodegenerative conditions or other causes of neuronal or central nervous system damage. The FDA maintains that LDTs are medical devices and has, for the most part, exercised enforcement discretion for most LDTs, meaning that the FDA has not required LDTs to obtain premarket approval or clearance or comply with post-market medical device requirements. A significant change in the way that the FDA regulates LDTs could affect our business. Most recently, in September 2023, FDA announced a proposed rule regarding LDTs that would make explicit that in vitro diagnostic products are devices under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, including when the manufacturer is a laboratory. The proposed rule also describes a policy under which FDA would provide greater oversight of LDTs by phasing out its general enforcement discretion approach, and phase in medical device regulation, for LDTs over a period of four years. FDA requested comment on several aspects of its proposal and approach, including whether certain types of LDTs should remain under enforcement discretion. Currently FDA’s target date for final action on this rule is April 2024, but we cannot predict the ultimate timing or form of FDA guidance or regulation, legislative action or their potential impact. Any new regulatory approach for LDTs by the FDA, including as described in the September 2023 proposed rule, would likely lead to an increased regulatory burden, including additional costs and delays in introducing new tests, and potentially a requirement for our current LDTs to receive premarket clearance or approval from FDA to continue offering them after the enforcement discretion phaseout is complete. Any new regulatory approach could also result in our tests being removed from the market if we are not able to secure regulatory clearance or approval from FDA. FDA’s rule could also have impacts on our business more broadly, given that many of our customers would be subject to additional regulation and delays, which could potentially affect the development of new diagnostics that incorporate our instruments or consumables. This also may increase costs and regulatory burdens on laboratories that develop LDTs, thereby reducing the financial incentive for laboratories to develop new LDTs or invest in instruments, which could reduce demand for our instruments and our other products.
Current wording
LDTs are a subset of IVD tests that are offered as services by Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (“CLIA”)-certified high complexity clinical laboratories and designed, manufactured and used within a single laboratory. In July 2022, we launched an LDT to quantitatively measure p-Tau 181 in plasma as an aid in diagnostic evaluation of Alzheimer’s disease, and in January 2023, we launched an LDT to quantitatively measure neurofilament light chain (“NfL”) in serum as an aid in the evaluation of individuals for possible neurodegenerative conditions or other causes of neuronal or central nervous system damage. In October 2023, FDA issued a proposed rule regarding LDTs that would make explicit that in vitro diagnostic products are devices under the FDCA, including when the manufacturer is a laboratory. FDA finalized this rule in April 2024. Under the Final Rule, FDA will increase our regulation of LDTs by phasing out our general enforcement discretion approach, and phase in medical device regulation, for most LDTs over a period of four years. However, FDA intends to exercise continued enforcement discretion from certain aspects of medical device regulation for certain types of LDTs. For example, FDA intends to exercise regulatory discretion to not require premarket review or most quality system requirements for “currently marketed” LDTs, which include LDTs that were offered as of May 6, 2024, which is the date the FDA’s rule was finalized. Because our LDTs were offered as of May 6, 2024, they may qualify as “currently marketed” LDTs, which means they would not be subject to premarket review or certain quality system requirements, although compliance with other aspects of medical device regulation would apply. Certain groups have challenged the legality of FDA’s Final Rule regarding LDTs, asserting (among other things) that the rule exceeds FDA’s statutory authority to regulate medical devices. That lawsuit is pending, with a decision from the District Court expected sometime in 2025. It is also possible that the federal government will modify, delay, or revoke the Final Rule. If the Final Rule is not modified, delayed, revoked, or invalidated when the requirements of the rule go into effect, the rule will result in an increased regulatory burden, including additional costs and delays in introducing new tests. FDA’s rule could also have impacts on our business more broadly, given that many of our customers would be subject to additional regulation and delays, which could potentially affect the development of new diagnostics that incorporate our instruments or consumables. This also may increase costs and regulatory burdens on laboratories that develop LDTs, thereby reducing the financial incentive for laboratories to develop new LDTs or invest in instruments, which could reduce demand for our instruments and our other products.
Previous wording
From time to time, legislation is drafted and introduced in Congress that could significantly change the statutory provisions governing the regulatory approval, manufacture and marketing of regulated products or the reimbursement thereof. For example, in December 2022, Congress enacted the Food and Drug Omnibus Reform Act of 2022 (“FDORA”). FDORA reauthorized the FDA to collect device user fees and contained substantive amendments to the device provisions of the FDCA, including imposing new cybersecurity and clinical trial requirements for devices. Congress has also considered, but not yet passed, legislation to impose a new FDA regulatory framework for all diagnostics, including IVD devices and LDTs. Any new regulations or revisions or reinterpretations of existing regulations may impose additional costs or lengthen review times of future products. In addition, FDA regulations and guidance are often revised or reinterpreted by the agency in ways that may significantly affect our business and our products. For example, in September 2023, the FDA issued a proposed rule to change the FDA’s regulatory approach to LDTs. Under the proposed rule, FDA would phase out its current enforcement discretion approach for LDTs, and phase in medical device regulation, over a period of four years. It is impossible to predict whether legislative changes will be enacted or FDA regulations, guidance or interpretations changed, and what the impact of such changes, if any, may be. Any change in the laws or regulations that govern the clearance and approval processes relating to our current and future products could make it more difficult and costly to obtain clearance or approval for new products, or to produce, market and distribute existing products. Significant delays in receiving clearance or approval, or the failure to receive clearance or approval for our new products would have an adverse effect on our ability to expand our business.
Current wording
From time to time, legislation is drafted and introduced in Congress that could significantly change the statutory provisions governing the regulatory approval, manufacture and marketing of regulated products or the reimbursement thereof. For example, in December 2022, Congress enacted the Food and Drug Omnibus Reform Act of 2022 (“FDORA”). FDORA reauthorized the FDA to collect device user fees and contained substantive amendments to the device provisions of the FDCA, including imposing new cybersecurity and clinical trial requirements for devices. Congress has also considered, but not yet passed, legislation to impose a new FDA regulatory framework for all diagnostics, including IVD devices and LDTs. Any new regulations or revisions or reinterpretations of existing regulations may impose additional costs or lengthen review times of future products. In addition, FDA regulations and guidance are often revised or reinterpreted by the agency in ways that may significantly affect our business and our products. It is impossible to predict whether legislative changes will be enacted or FDA regulations, guidance or interpretations changed, and what the impact of such changes, if any, may be. Any change in the laws or regulations that govern the clearance and approval processes relating to our current and future products could make it more difficult and costly to obtain clearance or approval for new products, or to produce, market and distribute existing products. Significant delays in receiving clearance or approval, or the failure to receive clearance or approval for our new products would have an adverse effect on our ability to expand our business.
Previous wording
In addition, in the E.U. new regulations recently entered into force that result in greater regulation of medical devices and IVDs. The IVD Regulation is significantly different from the IVD Directive that it replaces in that it ensures that the new requirements apply uniformly and on the same schedule across the member states, includes a risk-based classification system and increases the requirements for conformity assessment. The CE registration for Uman’s NfL ELISA assay kit for cerebral spinal fluid was approved in March 2014 under the IVD Directive. Under the IVD Directive the assay is classified as a general IVD product, and required self-certification with no involvement of a notified body/authority. The IVD Regulation introduces a new classification system for IVDs and assessment by a notified body is required for class B, C and D products. Uman’s NfL ELISA assay kit for CSF is classified as a class B product and must fully comply with (and have a CE mark issued under) the IVD Regulation by May 2027 (subject to proposed extension of the transitional periods in the IVD Regulation). The new requirements include an ISO 13485 certification of the quality system (which Uman received in July 2018) and increased technical evidence and follow-up of performance of the specific product (e.g. clinical evidence and post-market activities). The work to evaluate and to meet the new technical requirements is on-going.
Current wording
In addition, in the E.U. new regulations recently entered into force that result in greater regulation of medical devices and IVDs. The new IVD regulation (the “IVD Regulation”) is significantly different from European directive for IVD medical devices (the “IVD Directive”) that it replaces in that it ensures that the new requirements apply uniformly and on the same schedule across the member states, includes a risk-based classification system and increases the requirements for conformity assessment. The CE registration for UmanDiagnostics AB’s (“Uman’s”) NfL enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (“ELISA”) kit for cerebral spinal fluid was approved in March 2014 under the IVD Directive. Under the IVD Directive the assay is classified as a general IVD product, and required self-certification with no involvement of a notified body/authority. The IVD Regulation introduces a new classification system for IVDs and assessment by a notified body is required for class B, C and D products. Uman’s NfL ELISA kit for cerebrospinal fluid (“CSF”) is classified as a class B product and must fully comply with (and have a CE mark issued under) the IVD Regulation by May 2027 (subject to extension of the transitional periods in the IVD Regulation). The new requirements include an ISO 13485 certification of the quality system (which Uman received in July 2018) and increased technical evidence and follow-up of performance of the specific product (e.g. clinical evidence and post-market activities). The work to evaluate and to meet the new technical requirements is on-going.
Previous wording
CLIA is a federal law that regulates clinical laboratories that perform examination of human specimens for the purpose of providing information for the diagnosis, prevention or treatment of any disease or impairment of, or the assessment of health of, human beings. The operation of our CLIA-certified laboratory is subject to regulation by numerous federal, state and local governmental authorities in the United States. This laboratory holds a CLIA certificate of compliance for high-complexity testing and is licensed by California, Maryland, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island, and we may obtain other state licenses if required in the future. Failure to comply with federal or state regulations or changes in those regulatory requirements could result in a substantial curtailment or even prohibition of the operations of our laboratory and could have an adverse effect on our business. To maintain CLIA certification, laboratories are subject to survey and inspection every two years. Moreover, CLIA inspectors may make unannounced
Current wording
CLIA is a federal law that regulates clinical laboratories that perform examination of human specimens for the purpose of providing information for the diagnosis, prevention or treatment of any disease or impairment of, or the assessment of health of, human beings. The operation of our CLIA-certified laboratory is subject to regulation by numerous federal, state and local governmental authorities in the United States. This laboratory holds a CLIA certificate of compliance for high- complexity testing and is licensed by California, Maryland, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island, and has applied for a license in the State of New York. We may seek to obtain other state licenses if required in the future. Failure to comply with federal or state regulations or changes in those regulatory requirements could result in a substantial curtailment or even prohibition of the operations of our laboratory and could have an adverse effect on our business. To maintain CLIA certification, laboratories are subject to survey and inspection every two years. Moreover, CLIA inspectors may make unannounced inspections of these laboratories. If we were to lose our CLIA certification or any required state licenses, whether as a result of a revocation, suspension or limitation, we could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Previous wording
We do not have the ability to independently conduct clinical trials or other studies that may be required to obtain FDA and other regulatory clearance or approval for future diagnostic products. Accordingly, we expect that we would rely on third parties, such as clinical investigators, contract research organizations, consultants, and collaborators to conduct such studies if needed. For example, we are currently working with the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation and the Global Alzheimer’s Platform Foundation on prospective clinical trials for our assays. Our reliance on these third parties for clinical and other development activities would reduce our control over these activities. If these third parties do not successfully carry out their contractual duties or regulatory obligations or meet expected deadlines, if the third parties need to be replaced or if the quality or accuracy of the data they obtain is compromised, we may not be able to obtain regulatory clearance or approval.
Current wording
We do not have the ability to independently conduct clinical trials or other studies that may be required to obtain FDA and other regulatory clearance or approval for future diagnostic products. Accordingly, we expect that we would rely on third parties, such as clinical investigators, CROs, consultants, and collaborators to conduct such studies if needed. For example, we are currently working with the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation and the Global Alzheimer’s Platform Foundation on prospective clinical trials for our assays. Our reliance on these third parties for clinical and other development activities would reduce our control over these activities. If these third parties do not successfully carry out their contractual duties or regulatory obligations or meet expected deadlines, if the third parties need to be replaced or if the quality or accuracy of the data they obtain is compromised, we may not be able to obtain regulatory clearance or approval.
Previous wording
The ability of us, our customers or our collaborators to commercialize diagnostic tests based on our technology, including our recently launched LDTs, will depend in part on the extent to which coverage and reimbursement for these tests will be available from government health care programs, private health insurers and other third-party payors. In the United States, the principal decisions about reimbursement for new technologies are often made by CMS. Private payors often follow CMS’s reimbursement policies to a substantial degree. It is difficult to predict what CMS will decide with respect to reimbursement. A primary trend in the U.S. healthcare industry and elsewhere is cost containment. Government authorities and third-party payors have attempted to control costs by limiting coverage and the amount of payments for particular products and procedures. We cannot be sure that coverage will be available for any diagnostic tests based on our technology, and, if coverage is available, the level of reimbursement. Payor coverage and reimbursement decisions may impact the demand for those tests. If coverage is not available or the reimbursement amount is inadequate, any tests for which marketing authorization is received may not be able to be successfully commercialized.
Current wording
The ability of us, our customers or our collaborators to commercialize diagnostic tests based on our technology, including LDTs that we have launched or may launch in the future, will depend in part on the extent to which coverage and reimbursement for these tests will be available from government health care programs, private health insurers and other third-party payors. In the United States, the principal decisions about reimbursement for new technologies are often made by the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (“CMS”). Private payors often follow CMS’s reimbursement policies to a substantial degree. It is difficult to predict what CMS will decide with respect to reimbursement. However, a significant trend in the U.S. healthcare industry and elsewhere is cost containment. Government authorities and third-party payors have attempted to control costs by limiting coverage and the amount of payments for particular products and procedures. We cannot be sure that coverage will be available for any diagnostic tests based on our technology, and, if coverage is available, the level of reimbursement. Payor coverage and reimbursement decisions may impact the demand for those tests. If coverage is not available or the reimbursement amount is inadequate, any tests for which marketing authorization is received may not be able to be successfully commercialized.
Previous wording
We depend on information technology and telecommunications systems to operate our business. Our enterprise software systems affect a broad range of business processes and functional areas, including, for example, systems handling human resources, accounting, manufacturing, inventory control, financial controls and reporting, sales administration, and other infrastructure operations. We maintain preventative and detective security controls and seek to enhance such controls by, for example, augmenting the monitoring and alerting functions, network design, and automatic countermeasure operations of our technical systems. We also periodically assess the adequacy of our hardware and systems and are planning to upgrade hardware and systems where appropriate. These information technology and telecommunications systems support a variety of functions, including manufacturing operations, quality control, customer service support, finance, and other general administrative activities.
Current wording
We depend on information technology and telecommunications systems to operate our business. Our enterprise software systems affect a broad range of business processes and functional areas, including, for example, systems handling human resources, accounting, manufacturing, inventory control, financial controls and reporting, sales administration, and other infrastructure operations. We maintain preventive and detective security controls and seek to enhance such controls by, for example, augmenting the monitoring and alerting functions, network design, and automatic countermeasure operations of our technical systems. We also periodically assess the adequacy of our hardware and systems and are planning to upgrade hardware and systems where appropriate. These information technology and telecommunications systems support a variety of functions, including manufacturing operations, quality control, customer service support, finance, and other general administrative activities.
Previous wording
Information technology and telecommunications systems are vulnerable to damage from a variety of sources, including telecommunications, systems or network failures, malicious human acts, and natural disasters. Moreover, despite network security and back-up measures, some of our servers are potentially vulnerable to physical or electronic break-ins, computer viruses, and similar disruptive problems. Despite the precautionary measures we have taken to prevent unanticipated problems that could affect our information technology and telecommunications systems, those measures may be inadequate and failures or significant downtime of our information technology or telecommunications systems or those used by our third-party suppliers could prevent us from operating our business and managing the administrative aspects of our business. Loss of data or a material delay in our access to our data due to a security breach
Current wording
Information technology and telecommunications systems are vulnerable to damage from a variety of sources, including telecommunications, systems or network failures, malicious human acts, and natural disasters. Moreover, despite network security and back-up measures, some of our servers are potentially vulnerable to physical or electronic break-ins, computer viruses, and similar disruptive problems. Despite the precautionary measures we have taken to prevent unanticipated problems that could affect our information technology and telecommunications systems, those measures may be inadequate and failures or significant downtime of our information technology or telecommunications systems or those used by our third-party suppliers could prevent us from operating our business and managing the administrative aspects of our business. Loss of data or a material delay in our access to our data due to a security breach or other interruption could also prevent us from operating our business. Any disruption or loss of information technology or telecommunications systems on which critical aspects of our operations depend could have an adverse effect on our business.
Previous wording
In the ordinary course of our business, we collect and store sensitive data, and intellectual property and proprietary business information owned or controlled by ourselves or our customers. This data encompasses a wide variety of business-critical information including research and development information, operational information, commercial information, and business and financial information. We face four primary risks relative to protecting this critical information: loss of access; inappropriate disclosure; inappropriate modification; and inadequate monitoring of our controls over the first three risks.
Current wording
In the ordinary course of our business, we collect and store sensitive data, and intellectual property and proprietary business information owned or controlled by us or our customers. This data encompasses a wide variety of business-critical information including research and development information, operational information, commercial information, and business and financial information. We face four primary risks relative to protecting this critical information: loss of access; inappropriate disclosure; inappropriate modification; and inadequate monitoring of our controls over the first three risks.
Previous wording
The secure processing, storage, maintenance, and transmission of this critical information is vital to our operations and business strategy, and we devote significant resources to protecting such information. Although we take measures to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access or disclosure, our information technology and infrastructure may be vulnerable to attacks by hackers or viruses, breaches, interruptions due to employee error, malfeasance, faulty password management, lapses in compliance with privacy and security mandates, or other disruptions. The risk of a security breach or disruption, particularly through cyber-attack or cyber intrusion, including by computer hackers, foreign governments, and cyber terrorists, has generally increased as the number, intensity and sophistication of attempted attacks and intrusions from around the world have increased. Our IT networks and related systems are essential to the operation of our business and our ability to perform day-to-day operations. Although we make efforts to maintain the security and integrity of these types of IT networks and related systems, and we have implemented various measures to manage the risk of a security breach or disruption, no security measure is infallible and there can be no assurance that our security efforts and measures will be effective or that attempted security breaches or disruptions will not be successful or damaging. Our information technology systems may have vulnerabilities, and we may not have the resources or technical sophistication to anticipate or prevent rapidly evolving types of cyberattacks, such as ransomware attacks. Although we have experienced cybersecurity incidents from time to time that have not had a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations, there can be no assurance that a cyber-attack, security breach, or other cybersecurity incident will not have a material adverse effect on us in the future. A significant cyber incident, including system failure, security breach, disruption by malware or other damage, could interrupt or delay our operations, result in a violation of applicable cybersecurity and privacy and other laws, damage our reputation, cause a loss of customers, or expose sensitive customer data, or give rise to monetary fines and other penalties, which could be significant.
Current wording
The secure processing, storage, maintenance, and transmission of critical information is vital to our operations and business strategy, and we devote significant resources to protecting such information. Although we take measures to protect sensitive information from unauthorized access or disclosure, our information technology and infrastructure may be vulnerable to attacks by hackers or viruses, breaches, interruptions due to employee error, malfeasance, faulty password management, lapses in compliance with privacy and security mandates, or other disruptions. The risk of a security breach or disruption, particularly through cyber-attack or cyber intrusion, including by computer hackers, foreign governments, and cyber terrorists, has generally increased as the number, intensity and sophistication of attempted attacks and intrusions from around the world have increased. Our IT networks and related systems are essential to the operation of our business and our ability to perform day-to-day operations. Although we make efforts to maintain the security and integrity of these types of IT networks and related systems, and we have implemented various measures to manage the risk of a security breach or disruption, no security measure is infallible and there can be no assurance that our security efforts and measures will be effective or that attempted security breaches or disruptions will not be successful or damaging. Our information technology systems may have vulnerabilities, and we may not have the resources or technical sophistication to anticipate or prevent rapidly evolving types of cyberattacks, such as ransomware attacks. Although we have experienced cybersecurity incidents from time to time that have not had a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations, there can be no assurance that a cyber-attack, security breach, or other cybersecurity incident will not have a material adverse effect on us in the future. A significant cyber incident, including system failure, security breach, disruption by malware or other damage, could interrupt or delay our operations, result in a violation of applicable cybersecurity and privacy and other laws, damage our reputation, cause a loss of customers, or expose sensitive customer data, or give rise to monetary fines and other penalties, which could be significant.
Previous wording
In the ordinary course of our business we collect, store, transfer, use or process sensitive data, including personally identifiable information of employees, and intellectual property and proprietary business information owned or controlled by ourselves and other parties. The secure processing, storage, maintenance, and transmission of this critical information are vital to our operations and business strategy. We are, and may increasingly become, subject to various laws and regulations, as well as contractual obligations, relating to data privacy and security in the jurisdictions in which we operate. The regulatory environment related to data privacy and security is increasingly rigorous, with new and constantly changing requirements applicable to our business, and enforcement practices are likely to remain uncertain for the foreseeable future. These laws and regulations may be interpreted and applied differently over time and from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, and it is possible that they will be interpreted and applied in ways that may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Current wording
In the ordinary course of our business, we collect, store, transfer, use or process sensitive data, including personally identifiable information of employees and others, and intellectual property and proprietary business information owned or controlled by itself and other parties. The secure processing, storage, maintenance, and transmission of this critical information are vital to our operations and business strategy. We are, and may increasingly become, subject to various laws and regulations, as well as contractual obligations, relating to data privacy and security in the jurisdictions in which we operate. The regulatory environment related to data privacy and security is increasingly rigorous, with new and constantly changing requirements applicable to our business, and enforcement practices are likely to remain uncertain for the foreseeable future. These laws and regulations may be interpreted and applied differently over time and from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, and it is possible that they will be interpreted and applied in ways that may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.
Previous wording
In the United States, various federal and state regulators, including governmental agencies like the Federal Trade Commission, have adopted, or are considering adopting, laws and regulations concerning personal information and data security. Certain state laws may be more stringent or broader in scope, or offer greater individual rights, with respect to personal information than federal, international, or other state laws, and such laws may differ from each other, all of which may complicate compliance efforts. For example, the California Consumer Privacy Act (the “CCPA”), which increases privacy rights for California residents and imposes obligations on companies that process their personal information, came into effect on January 1, 2020. Among other things, the CCPA requires covered companies to provide disclosures to California consumers regarding the processing of their personal data, as well as data protection and privacy rights, including the ability to opt-out of certain sales or sharing of personal information. The CCPA provides for civil penalties for violations, as well as a private right of action for certain data breaches that result in the loss of personal information. This private right of action may increase the likelihood of, and risks associated with, data breach litigation. In November 2020, California also passed the California Privacy Rights Act (the “CPRA”), which became effective on January 1, 2023 and significantly expands the CCPA, including by introducing additional obligations such as data minimization and storage limitations and granting additional rights to consumers. More recently, other states, including Connecticut, Colorado, Utah and Virginia have passed comprehensive state data privacy laws, and states like Washington and Nevada have enacted consumer health privacy laws. Most of these laws are enforced by state attorneys general, but there is the potential for private actions by plaintiffs in some circumstances under certain laws. In addition, laws in all 50 U.S. states require businesses to provide notice to consumers whose personal information has been disclosed as a result of a data breach. State laws are changing rapidly and there is discussion in the U.S. Congress of a new comprehensive federal data privacy law to which we would become subject if it is enacted. These and future laws and regulations may increase our compliance costs and potential liability.
Current wording
In the United States, various federal and state regulators, including governmental agencies like the Federal Trade Commission, have adopted, or are considering adopting, laws and regulations concerning personal information and data security. Certain state laws may be more stringent or broader in scope, or offer greater individual rights, with respect to personal information than federal, international, or other state laws, and such laws may differ from each other, all of which may complicate compliance efforts. For example, the California Consumer Privacy Act (the “CCPA”), which increases privacy rights for California residents and imposes obligations on companies that process their personal information, came into effect on January 1, 2020. Among other things, the CCPA requires covered companies to provide disclosures to California consumers regarding the processing of their personal data, as well as data protection and privacy rights, including the ability to opt-out of certain sales or sharing of personal information. The CCPA provides for civil penalties for violations, as well as a private right of action for certain data breaches that result in the loss of personal information. This private right of action may increase the likelihood of, and risks associated with, data breach litigation. In November 2020, California also passed the California Privacy Rights Act (the “CPRA”), which became effective on January 1, 2023 and significantly expands the CCPA, including by introducing additional obligations such as data minimization and storage limitations and granting additional rights to consumers. More recently, other states, including Connecticut, Colorado, Utah and Virginia have passed comprehensive state data privacy laws, and states like Washington and Nevada have enacted consumer health privacy laws. Most of these laws are enforced by state attorneys general, but there is the potential for private actions by plaintiffs in some circumstances under certain laws, including under Washington’s consumer health data privacy law. In addition, laws in all 50 U.S. states require businesses to provide notice to consumers whose personal information has been disclosed as a result of a data breach. State laws are changing rapidly and there is discussion in the U.S. Congress of a new comprehensive federal data privacy law to which we would become subject if it is enacted. These and future laws and regulations may increase our compliance costs and potential liability.
Previous wording
Furthermore, regulations promulgated pursuant to HIPAA establish privacy and security standards that limit the use and disclosure of individually identifiable health information (known as “protected health information”) and require the implementation of administrative, physical, and technological safeguards to protect the privacy of protected health information and ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of electronic protected health information. Determining whether protected health information has been handled in compliance with applicable privacy standards and our contractual obligations can require complex factual and statistical analyses and may be subject to changing interpretation. Although we take measures to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access, use or disclosure, our information technology and infrastructure may be vulnerable to attacks by hackers or viruses or breached due to employee error, malfeasance or other malicious or inadvertent disruptions. Any such breach or interruption could compromise our networks and the information stored there could be accessed by unauthorized parties, manipulated, publicly disclosed, lost, or stolen. Any such access, breach or other loss of information could result in legal claims or proceedings, and liability under federal or state laws that protect the privacy of personal information, such as the HIPAA, HITECH, and regulatory penalties. Notice of breaches must be made to affected individuals, the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, and for extensive breaches, notice may need to be made to the media. Such a notice could harm our reputation and our ability to compete.
Current wording
Furthermore, regulations promulgated pursuant to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (“HIPAA”) establish privacy and security standards that limit the use and disclosure of individually identifiable health information (known as “protected health information”) and require the implementation of administrative, physical, and technological safeguards to protect the privacy of protected health information and ensure the confidentiality, integrity and availability of electronic protected health information. Determining whether information constitutes protected health information has been handled in compliance with applicable privacy standards and our contractual obligations can require complex factual and statistical analyses and may be subject to changing interpretation. Although we take measures to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access, use or disclosure, our information technology and infrastructure may be vulnerable to attacks by hackers or viruses or breached due to employee error, malfeasance or other malicious or inadvertent disruptions. Any such breach or interruption could compromise our networks and the information stored there could be accessed by unauthorized parties, manipulated, publicly disclosed, lost, or stolen. Any such access, breach or other loss of information could result in legal claims or proceedings, and liability under federal or state laws that protect the privacy of personal information, such as, if applicable, the HIPAA, the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act of 2009 (“HITECH”), and regulatory penalties. Where such laws are applicable, notice of breaches must be made to affected individuals, the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, and for extensive breaches, notice may need to be made to the media. Such a notice could harm our reputation and our ability to compete.
Previous wording
Outside of the United States, many countries have privacy and data security laws and regulations concerning the collection and use of personal data, including but not limited to the GDPR and China’s Personal Information Protection Law (“PIPL”). The GDPR, which governs the collection and use of personal data in the E.U. and is wide-ranging in scope, imposes several requirements relating to the consent of the individuals to whom the personal data relates, the information provided to the individuals, the security and confidentiality of the personal data, data breach notification and the use of third-party processors in connection with the processing of the personal data. The GDPR also imposes strict rules on the transfer of personal data out of the E.U. to the United States, enhances enforcement authority and imposes large penalties for noncompliance, including the potential for fines of up to €20 million or 4% of the annual global revenues of the infringer, whichever is greater. While we have taken steps to comply with the GDPR, including reviewing our security procedures and entering into data processing agreements with relevant contractors, we cannot guarantee that our compliance efforts will be fully successful.
Current wording
Outside of the United States, many countries have privacy and data security laws and regulations concerning the collection and use of personal data, including but not limited to the GDPR and China’s Personal Information Protection Law. The GDPR, which governs the collection and use of personal data in the E.U. and is wide-ranging in scope, imposes several requirements relating to the consent of the individuals to whom the personal data relates, the information provided to the individuals, the security and confidentiality of the personal data, data breach notification and the use of third-party processors in connection with the processing of the personal data. The GDPR also imposes strict rules on the transfer of personal data out of the E.U. to the United States, enhances enforcement authority and imposes large penalties for noncompliance, including the potential for fines of up to €20 million or 4% of the annual global revenues of the infringer, whichever is greater. While we have taken steps to comply with the GDPR, including reviewing our security procedures and entering into data processing agreements with relevant contractors, we cannot guarantee that our compliance efforts will be fully successful.
Previous wording
Some of the intellectual property rights we own and have in-licensed have been generated through the use of U.S. government funding and are therefore subject to certain federal regulations. For example, some of the issued U.S. patents we own and all of the intellectual property rights licensed to us under our license agreement with Tufts have been generated using U.S. government funds. As a result, the U.S. government has certain rights to intellectual property embodied in our current or future products pursuant to the Bayh-Dole Act of 1980. These U.S. government rights in certain inventions developed under a government-funded program include a non-exclusive, non-transferable, irrevocable worldwide license to use inventions for any governmental purpose. In addition, the U.S. government has the right to require us to grant exclusive, partially exclusive, or non-exclusive licenses to any of these inventions to a third party if the government determines that: (i) adequate steps have not been taken to commercialize the invention; (ii) government action is necessary to meet public health or safety needs; or (iii) government action is necessary to meet requirements for public use under federal regulations (also referred to as “march-in rights”). The U.S. government also has the right to take title to these inventions if we fail, or the applicable licensor fails, to disclose the invention to the government, elect title, and file an application to register the intellectual property within specified time limits. In addition, the U.S. government may acquire title to these inventions in any country in which a patent application is not filed within specified time limits. Intellectual property generated under a government funded program is also subject to certain reporting requirements, compliance with which may require us, or the applicable licensor, to expend substantial resources. In addition, the U.S. government requires that any products embodying the subject invention or produced through the use of the subject invention be manufactured substantially in the United States. The manufacturing preference requirement can be waived if the owner of the intellectual property can show that reasonable but unsuccessful efforts have been made to grant licenses on similar terms to potential licensees that would be likely to manufacture substantially in the United States or that under the circumstances domestic manufacture is not commercially feasible. This preference for U.S. manufacturing may limit our ability to license the applicable patent rights on an exclusive basis under certain circumstances.
Current wording
Some of the intellectual property rights we own and have in-licensed has been generated through the use of U.S. government funding and are therefore subject to certain federal regulations. For example, some of the issued U.S. patents we own and all of the intellectual property rights licensed to us under our license agreement with Tufts University (“Tufts”) have been generated using U.S. government funds. As a result, the U.S. government has certain rights to intellectual property embodied in our current or future products pursuant to the Bayh-Dole Act of 1980. These U.S. government rights in certain inventions developed under a government-funded program include a non-exclusive, non-transferable, irrevocable worldwide license to use inventions for any governmental purpose. In addition, the U.S. government has the right to require us to grant exclusive, partially exclusive, or non-exclusive licenses to any of these inventions to a third party if the government determines that: (i) adequate steps have not been taken to commercialize the invention; (ii) government action is necessary to meet public health or safety needs; or (iii) government action is necessary to meet requirements for public use under federal regulations (also referred to as “march-in rights”). The U.S. government also has the right to take title to these inventions if we fail, or the applicable licensor fails, to disclose the invention to the government, elect title, and file an application to register the intellectual property within specified time limits. In addition, the U.S. government may acquire title to these inventions in any country in which a patent application is not filed within specified time limits. Intellectual property generated under a government funded program is also subject to certain reporting requirements, compliance with which may require us, or the applicable licensor, to expend substantial resources. In addition, the U.S. government requires that any products embodying the subject invention or produced through the use of the subject invention be manufactured substantially in the United States. The manufacturing preference requirement can be waived if the owner of the intellectual property can show that reasonable but unsuccessful efforts have been made to grant licenses on similar terms to potential licensees that would be likely to manufacture substantially in the United States or that under the circumstances domestic manufacture is not commercially feasible. This preference for U.S. manufacturing may limit our ability to license the applicable patent rights on an exclusive basis under certain circumstances.
Previous wording
Our Simoa bead-based technology is licensed to us by Tufts University. Any loss of our rights to this technology or other technologies we license could prevent us from selling our products.
Current wording
Our Simoa bead-based technology is licensed to us by Tufts. Any loss of our rights to this technology or other technologies we license could prevent us from selling our products.
Previous wording
Our Simoa bead-based technology is licensed exclusively to us from Tufts University (“Tufts”). We do not own the patents that underlie this license. Our rights to use this technology and employ the inventions claimed in the licensed patents are subject to the continuation of and compliance with the terms of the license. Our principal obligations under our license agreement with Tufts are as follows:
Current wording
Our Simoa bead-based technology is licensed exclusively to us from Tufts. We do not own the patents that underlie this license. Our rights to use this technology and employ the inventions claimed in the licensed patents are subject to the continuation of and compliance with the terms of the license. Our principal obligations under our license agreement with Tufts are as follows:
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•Our long-term results depend upon our ability to improve existing products, develop or acquire new technology, and develop, introduce and market new products successfully.
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•We rely on a limited number of suppliers or, in some cases, one supplier, for some of our materials and components used in our consumable products and our SP-X instrument, and we may not be able to find replacements or immediately transition to alternative suppliers if any of these suppliers fail to perform, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and reputation.
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•We face significant competition in the life sciences research and diagnostic markets.
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Failure to remediate material weaknesses in, or inherent limitations associated with, our internal control over financial reporting have resulted in, and in the future could result in, material misstatements in our financial statements.
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Our quarterly and annual operating results and cash flows have fluctuated in the past and might continue to fluctuate, which could cause the value of our common stock to fluctuate or decline significantly.
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We have incurred annual losses since we were formed and expect to incur losses in the future. We cannot be certain that we will achieve or sustain profitability.
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If our products fail to achieve and sustain sufficient market acceptance, our revenue will be adversely affected.
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Sales of our assays for neurological indications have become increasingly important to our business, and any significant decrease in sales of such assays could have a material adverse effect on our business.
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We may not be successful in penetrating the diagnostics market.
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Because a significant portion of our revenue comes from a few large customers, any significant decrease in sales to these customers, due to industry consolidation or otherwise, could harm our operating results.
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Defects or other quality issues in our products could lead to unforeseen costs, product recalls, adverse regulatory actions, negative publicity, and litigation, including product liability claims, any of which could cause customers to decide not to purchase our products, harm our reputation, and negatively affect our sales, operating results and financial condition.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
We rely on a single contract manufacturer for our Simoa HD-X instrument and on a different single contract manufacturer for our Simoa SR-X instrument, and we expect to rely on a different single contract manufacturer for our new Simoa ONE instrument. If any of these manufacturers should fail to perform, or not perform satisfactorily, our ability to supply these instruments would be negatively and adversely affected.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
If the FDA determines that our products are subject to regulation as medical devices, if the FDA modifies its regulations to require that our LDTs are subject to regulation as devices, or if we seek to market our products for clinical diagnostic or health screening use, we will be required to comply with medical device law, including in some cases a requirement to obtain regulatory clearance(s) or approval(s). Any such regulatory process would be expensive, time-consuming and uncertain both in timing and in outcome.
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If we are unable to protect our intellectual property, our ability to maintain any technological or competitive advantage over our competitors and potential competitors may be reduced, and our business may be harmed.
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products, which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Any such regulatory process would be expensive, time-consuming and uncertain both in timing and in outcome.
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Our success depends on our ability to develop and market products that are recognized and accepted by our customers and potential customers as reliable, enabling and cost-effective. Continued market acceptance of our Simoa
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If any of our products are subject to medical device regulation, we would be subject to a substantial number of additional requirements for medical devices, including establishment registration, device listing, QSRs —which cover the design, testing, production, control, quality assurance, labeling, packaging, servicing, sterilization (if required), and storage and shipping of medical devices (among other activities) —product labeling, advertising, recordkeeping,
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inspections of these laboratories. If we were to lose our CLIA certification or any required state licenses, whether as a result of a revocation, suspension or limitation, it could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
or other interruption could also prevent us from operating our business. Any disruption or loss of information technology or telecommunications systems on which critical aspects of our operations depend could have an adverse effect on our business.