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Novus Reports Q1 Results And Key Success Factors Following DEA Rescheduling

Novus Acquisition & Development Corp

Miami, Florida - ( ThriveNewsWire ) - Novus Acquisition & Development Corp d/b/a Novus Cannabis MedPlan (OTC Markets: ( NDEV ) is a leading national supplemental health insurance carrier and pioneer in offering cannabis in health plans for recreational and medicinal users. It released its update on its Q1 2024 results, Rx Dispensing Platform, and Key Elements that fuel its success after the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) announced that cannabis will be rescheduled. Novus Cannabis MedPlan (Novus) has been integrating cannabis into health plans since 2015. With a network of over 1,200 agents, brokers, and dispensaries, Novus aims to make cannabis-based treatments more affordable and accessible through insurance plans, benefitting a wider range of consumers. Here are three key highlights that contribute to Novus' success. 1) Financial Snapshot: The company utilizes a receivable-based business model with minimal overhead and no convertible debt, demonstrating consistent organic growth year over year. No Dilution: No common stock has been issued after June 15, 2021. No Sales of Insider Shares: For close to 3 years Gross Revenue Increase: During this reporting period, Gross Revenue increased by 6.8% compared to March 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, Net Revenue Increase: During this reporting period, EBITDA increased by 19.47% compared to March 31, 2024, and 2023. Profit Margin: During the reporting period, the company experienced a gradual increase in gross profit margins, with margins of 43.14% in 2023 and 45.2% in 2024 Cash and Cash Equivalents: There was an increase of 1.8% compared to the financial reporting periods on March 31, 2024, and December 31, 2023. This is in contrast to the higher increase of 6.84% in the period from March 31, 2023, to 2024. Debt Transparency: Frank Labrozzi, the CEO, is owed $158,061. He has no plans to exercise the call provision, and this debt instrument has no equity conversion provision. Leak Out Vendor Shares: All vendors who received treasury-issued stock must gradually sell their shares. The selling amount is determined based on 15% of the average daily trading volume over the past 30 days. 2) Introducing the Rx Dispensing Platform Novus is strategically positioning its cannabis health plans to become a prominent player in mainstream healthcare insurance by acquiring an Rx Dispensing Platform tech stack. Frank Labrozzi, CEO of Novus, stated, "This advancement will significantly impact cannabis in health plans. By promoting collaboration between brands and dispensaries, we aim to empower policyholders with more choices, enabling them to purchase the brands they prefer at any dispensary. Cannabis brands can use the platform to connect directly with dispensaries and showcase their products at no cost. This will improve product distribution efficiency, increase brand visibility, provide real-time inventory data, and facilitate product research for the policyholder. An added bonus to For Rec Users: This platform serves recreational users who prefer not to disclose personal information like their policyholder status to access plan benefits. Instead, users can discreetly order services for a small subscription or transaction fee. 3) Key Success Factors Midwest Expansion: Novus has partnered with Heya Wellness, a prominent cannabis company in Missouri, to offer MedPlans to 4.3 million potential policyholders in the Midwest. By leveraging Missouri's favorable reciprocity laws, Novus aims to maximize the benefits for our sales hub based in St. Louis. Health Carrier Alliances Integration with Traditional Healthcare: By treating cannabis as a traditional pharmaceutical product and including it in insurance plans, Novus could help normalize cannabis use for medical, recreational, and non-users. Now that there is federal approval, Novus bridges traditional healthcare and the cannabis industry, enhancing major healthcare carriers who have expressed interest in integrating Novus' cannabis-based prescription plans into their benefits packages, establishing a connection between the two industries. Compassionate Care Act (CCA): The CCAs, which the Supreme Court sanctions, typically focus on making medical marijuana accessible to workplace patients with specific conditions. Human Resources departments are revising workplace policies to allow employees to access medical marijuana through employer-sponsored health plans. Novus plans to cover some costs through tax-deductible health savings and health reimbursement accounts. Opioid Settlement Framework: The opioid settlement framework is a legal agreement aimed at resolving litigation against pharmaceutical companies and health carriers accused of contributing to the opioid crisis. It includes $50 billion for prevention, treatment, and recovery programs with the goal of mitigating the crisis' impact and preventing future misuse. Novus is playing a crucial role in reducing opioid use by offering states and private organizations alternative treatment options through our developed health plans that help patients transition from opioids to medical cannabis. Compliance with the Veteran’s Affairs (VA): Veterans are increasingly interested in utilizing cannabis for treatment—over 88% support medical cannabis programs. Novus has developed health plans following VA guidelines to integrate cannabis benefits for veterans. In closing: As Novus adjusts to the positive changes in federal cannabis regulation, we are prepared to utilize our niche approach to cannabis in health plans, which utilizes a receivables-based business model. This approach strategically enables us to organically invest in critical areas such as marketing, improving engagement with policyholders and providers, and establishing a reliable cash flow management system. This positions Novus as a significant player in the fast-evolving cannabis integrated into health insurance plans. Do your research on our company to understand our potential in shaping the future of healthcare. Visit our Investor Relations page to see for yourself. About Novus Further Research: Financial Filings: Click Here Quote: Click Here Website Click Here Investor's Page Click Here Video Of Investment Highlights: Click Here Novus Acquisition & Development Corp. (NDEV) operates through its subsidiary, WCIG Insurance Services, Inc., offering health insurance and related insurance solutions in states with legal medical marijuana programs. With a robust infrastructure covering various insurance lines, including health, life, and fixed annuities, Novus is a leading health insurance carrier, using two key indicators to gauge value and performance. The Benefit Monetization Ratio measures the annual total of monetized policies, offset by the operating cost ratio, a Balance Sheet line item derived from Net Asset Value and calculated to the Price Book Value. Novus' medical cannabis benefits package operates as an outside developer. It does not engage in any activities related to the cultivation, handling, transportation, growth, extraction, dispensing, sale, marketing, vending, delivery, supply, circulation, or trade of cannabis or any substances violating United States law or the Controlled Substances Act. The company adheres strictly to state and federal laws and has no intentions to violate them in the future. It is important to note that statements regarding specific products have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and should not be interpreted as intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. The information provided in press releases and product labels is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for advice from qualified healthcare professionals. Novus respects the individual transactions involving cannabis, which are solely between state-licensed dispensaries and registered patients. However, it's worth noting that state laws may conflict with the federal Controlled Substances Act. The current administration has indicated that federal law enforcement agencies will not prioritize prosecuting those complying with state-designated laws concerning medical marijuana usage and distribution. Nevertheless, changes in government policies and consolidation could impact the provider network, and there is no assurance that future administrations will not alter this stance. While Novus does not engage in the harvest, distribution, or sale of cannabis or cannabis-related products, the company could be affected if there were any shifts in enforcement by federal or state governments concerning existing laws. Such changes could result in significant financial implications for Novus and other industry players. Forward-Looking Statements This release includes forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and reflect management's current expectations. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations. Some of these factors include general global economic conditions; general industry and market conditions and growth rates; uncertainty as to whether our strategies and business plans will yield the expected benefits; increasing competition; availability and cost of capital; the ability to identify and develop and achieve commercial success; the level of expenditures necessary to maintain and improve the quality of services; changes in the economy; changes in laws and regulations, includes codes and standards, intellectual property rights, and tax matters; or other matters not anticipated; our ability to secure and maintain strategic relationships and distribution agreements. Dilution, if any, would be for the purposes of management taking stock in lieu of cash salary. Novus disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Additionally, this press release that is not statements of historical fact may be considered to be forward-looking statements. Written words such as "may," "will," "expect," "believe," "anticipate," "estimate," "intends," "goal," "objective," "seek," "attempt," or variations of these or similar words, identify forward-looking statements. By their nature, forward-looking statements and forecasts involve risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will occur in the near future. Investor Contact Information Investor Website 855-228-7355 Email: pr@getnovusnow.com Contact Details Novus Acquisition Frank Labrozzi +1 305-467-6699 frank@ndev.biz Company Website https://getnovusnow.com/

June 04, 2024 08:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

AGC Biologics Completes Copenhagen Campus Expansion, Doubling Single-use Mammalian Bioreactor Capacity at Site

AGC Biologics

AGC Biologics, a leading global Biopharmaceutical Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), today announced at BIO International the completion of its new manufacturing building at the AGC Biologics Copenhagen campus. The completed work doubles the site’s single-use bioreactor capacity for mammalian services and allows it to produce 150 more batches of drug product each year. The expansion adds 19,000 m2 of space in an ultramodern building that houses a large manufacturing floor, expanded quality control and process development lab space, utilities to support all operations and prevent outages caused by natural disasters, and a fully dedicated warehouse to serve the entire AGC Biologics Copenhagen campus. The new AGC Biologics Copenhagen manufacturing building is already in production with its first customer, a phase II/III clinical product. AGC Biologics announced the planned expansion in November 2020, investing roughly $200 million into the work. One-of-a-kind single-use manufacturing offering The new manufacturing area offers 8 x 2,000 L single-use bioreactors with two seed trains, as well as two independent downstream suites – [CW1] more than doubling the existing capacity offered at this site for mammalian-based projects. AGC Biologics Copenhagen is now one of the only sites in the world with multiple single-use bioreactor systems of this magnitude capable of producing batches at high-levels of clinical and commercial production. Further, for developers needing to transfer in an existing process, AGC Biologics Copenhagen’s multiple single-use suites give the site greater flexibility to take on technical transfers and perform like-for-like process and knowledge activities for products entering the facility, eliminating lag time associated with onboarding a new CDMO. AGC Biologics has been a leader in single-use technology over the last decade, and it is one of the largest CDMO networks in the industry offering flexible and scalable single-use bioreactors systems. The news comes after AGC Biologics announced an end-to-end protein biologics drug product partnership with Dutch-based BioConnection in late May. The alliance provides a secure and full-service “gene-to-vial” offering for biopharma developers with drug substance development, manufacturing and aseptic fill and finish capabilities for drug products. “AGC Biologics Copenhagen site continues to be one of the most active in our network with all the necessary commercial approvals – FDA, EMA, HCA, PMDA, ANVISA etc. – and we are more than happy to offer the capacity and capabilities our current and future customers will look for with this completed expansion,” said Christoph Winterhalter, CBO, AGC Biologics. “The expansion, combined with our new drug product alliance, demonstrates AGC Biologics’ agility to meet all the needs developers may have, from pre-clinical through commercial.” AGC Biologics’ Copenhagen site core teams of scientists have more than 25 years of expertise in biopharmaceutical development and manufacturing, including seven commercial products brought to market. The site offers pre-clinical through commercial production for protein biologics services using mammalian and microbial systems. It has a gold EcoVadis Sustainability Rating for its environmental, health and sustainability practices. “I am extremely proud of the work and collaboration of everyone at our site over the last several years, it is truly remarkable to see what we can accomplish by working together. We are eager to offer more of the important capabilities the industry is looking for to support patients in need,” said Andrea C. Porchia, General Manager, AGC Biologics Copenhagen. To learn more about AGC Biologics Copenhagen, visit www.agcbio.com/facilities/copenhagen. For more information about AGC Biologics’ global CDMO services go to www.agcbio.com. About AGC Biologics: AGC Biologics is a leading global biopharmaceutical Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) with a strong commitment to delivering the highest standard of service as we work side-by-side with our clients and partners, every step of the way. We provide world-class development and manufacture of mammalian and microbial-based therapeutic proteins, plasmid DNA (pDNA), messenger RNA (mRNA), viral vectors, and genetically engineered cells. Our global network spans the U.S., Europe, and Asia, with cGMP-compliant facilities in Seattle, Washington; Boulder and Longmont, Colorado; Copenhagen, Denmark; Heidelberg, Germany; Milan, Italy; and Chiba, Japan. We currently employ more than 2,500 Team Members worldwide. Our commitment to continuous innovation fosters the technical creativity to solve our clients’ most complex challenges, including specialization in fast-track projects and rare diseases. AGC Biologics is a part of AGC Inc.’s Life Science Company. The Life Science company runs more than 10 global facilities focused on biopharmaceuticals, advanced therapies, small molecule active pharmaceutical ingredients, and agrochemicals. To learn more, visit www.agcbio.com. Contact Details Nick McDonald +1 425-419-3555 nmcdonald@agcbio.com Company Website https://www.agcbio.com/

June 04, 2024 12:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time

Mphasis and Classiq Partner to Drive Quantum Innovation

Classiq Technologies

Mphasis, (BSE: 526299; NSE: MPHASIS), an Information Technology (IT) solutions provider specializing in cloud and cognitive services, today announced its strategic partnership with Classiq, a leading quantum software company to demonstrate and commercialize industry solutions powered by Quantum. The strategic partnership aims to accelerate the adoption of quantum solutions for enterprises by integrating them into its operations. The collaboration is committed to fostering innovation and redefining technological boundaries and paving the way for a quantum-powered future. Classiq leads in quantum computing software and has developed a platform for faster and more efficient quantum algorithm design. Mphasis will focus on building industry solutions in sectors such as BFSI, Lifesciences, Healthcare, Supply Chain & Logistics, Chemistry, utilizing these advanced algorithms. By leveraging Classiq’s quantum platform, Mphasis will develop industry-specific intellectual properties (IPs) and will also jointly market and implement customer IPs, execute customer projects, and provide support for the commercialization of Classiq’s platform and IPs. Additionally, Mphasis’ Quantum Initiative, launched in 2020 within the Applied R&D division, NEXT Labs, aims to facilitate our client's transition to the quantum era. The adoption model comprises awareness-building, assessment, and consulting workshops, as well as the development and implementation of quantum solutions in key domains such as optimization, artificial intelligence, simulation, and cybersecurity. Within the realm of quantum computing, the company’s priorities include applied research, the creation of industry-specific solutions and intellectual properties, thought leadership dissemination, building robust partnerships, and leveraging a design thinking approach to drive adoption. “We are thrilled to announce our collaboration with Classiq and leveraging their expertise to unlock the vast potential of quantum computing. This partnership enables us to combine our industry knowledge with cutting-edge quantum technology, to innovative solutions tailored to our clients' needs. Together we hope to lead the way in initiating and implementing state-of-the-art quantum solutions that redefine the boundaries of our field," said Srikumar Ramanathan, Chief Solutions Officer, Mphasis. "Classiq is proud to be partnering with Mphasis to support scalable enterprise quantum computing software development. Together we combine depth of industry domain knowledge and quantum expertise with the technology needed to implement sophisticated optimized quantum computing programs for our clients," said Nir Minerbi, CEO and Co-Founder, Classiq Technologies. By synergizing Mphasis' domain expertise with Classiq's quantum computing acumen, the collaboration is poised to unlock newer possibilities and redefine industry benchmarks. Quantum computing's ability to tackle previously unsolvable problems opens doors for entirely new discoveries and innovations. National Institute of Standards and Technology’s report states that quantum computing could lead to breakthroughs in areas like materials science, drug discovery, and financial modelling. McKinsey & Company estimates a $106B potential quantum technology market size by 2040. The alliance between Mphasis and Classiq represents a fusion of expertise and innovation, with Classiq's cutting-edge quantum development platform complemented by Mphasis' extensive industry knowledge. Together, the companies aim to pioneer groundbreaking quantum solutions that will reshape sectors primed for transformative change. Classiq’s platform enables both beginner and expert designers to rapidly generate, analyze, and execute quantum circuits. The collaboration reflects the shared dedication of Mphasis and Classiq, showcasing a commitment to pioneering quantum computing applications across diverse industry sectors. Apart from this, in June 2021, Mphasis along with the Government of Alberta, and the University of Calgary signed an MoU to announce the launch of the world-leading Quantum City - Canada. The strategic partnerships were to accelerate talent development and the development of a quantum computing ecosystem in Calgary, driving R&D in the technology sector. In June 2022, Mphasis deepened its commitment to Canada by announcing a delivery center in Calgary, opening the center in Alberta for business. The Mphasis business ecosystem was positioned to reinforce the region's reputation as a leading hub for digital transformation, AI, quantum computing, and more, and contribute to Canada's growing digital sector. About Mphasis Mphasis’ purpose is to be the “Driver in Driverless Car” for Global Enterprises by applying next-generation design, architecture, and engineering services, to deliver scalable and sustainable software and technology solutions. Customer centricity is foundational to Mphasis, and is reflected in the Mphasis’ Front2Back ™ Transformation approach. Front2Back™ uses the exponential power of cloud and cognitive to provide hyper-personalized (C= X2C2TM =1) digital experience to clients and their end customers. Mphasis’ Service Transformation approach helps ‘shrink the core’ through the application of digital technologies across legacy environments within an enterprise, enabling businesses to stay ahead in a changing world. Mphasis’ core reference architectures and tools, speed and innovation with domain expertise and specialization, combined with an integrated sustainability and purpose-led approach across its operations and solutions are key to building strong relationships with marquee clients. Click here to know more. ( BSE: 526299; NSE: MPHASIS ) About Classiq Classiq Technologies, the leading quantum software company, provides an all-encompassing software platform (IDE, compiler and OS) with a single point of entry into quantum computing, from algorithm design to execution. Tailored to all levels of developer proficiency, Classiq aims to democratize access to quantum computing with software that equips customers to take full advantage of the quantum computing revolution. A low-code development environment that automates quantum programming ensures that a broader range of talents, including those with backgrounds in AI, ML and linear algebra, can harness quantum computing without requiring deep, specialized knowledge of how to program quantum computer hardware. Classiq also works closely with advanced computation hardware providers providing software for use with quantum computers, HPC and quantum simulators. Backed by powerful investors such as HPE, HSBC, Samsung, Intesa Sanpaolo and NTT, Classiq’s world-class team of scientists and engineers has distilled decades of quantum expertise into its groundbreaking software development platform. Follow Classiq on LinkedIn, X (formerly Twitter) or YouTube, join the Slack community, or try the Classiq platform. Contact Details Rainier Communications Michelle Allard McMahon +1 781-718-3248 classiqPR@rainierco.com Mphasis Corporate Communications Deepa Nagaraj +1 646-424-5160 deepa.nagaraj@mphasis.com Mphasis Corporate Communications Sumana Bhat +91 99029 80980 sumana.bhat@mphasis.com Company Website http://www.classiq.io/

June 04, 2024 02:04 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Candel Therapeutics (NASDAQ: CADL) Reports Positive Data From Phase 2 Trial Of CAN-2409 In Borderline Resectable Pancreatic Cancer

Candel Therapeutics

By Jeremy Golden, Benzinga Clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company Candel Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: CADL) reported updated survival data from its randomized phase 2 clinical trial of CAN-2409 in borderline resectable pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S. The disease accounts for approximately 3% of all cancers, with an estimated 64,050 patients diagnosed in 2023. The randomized, controlled clinical trial is specifically looking into the safety and efficacy of CAN-2409 plus valacyclovir (prodrug), together with standard of care (SoC) chemoradiation, followed by resection – if possible – in borderline resectable pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Very encouraging results were recently reported by the Needham, Massachusetts-based company. Patients reached an estimated median overall survival of 28.8 months after experimental treatment with CAN-2409 versus only 12.5 months in the control group in PDAC. At 24 months, the survival rate was 71.4% in CAN-2409 treated patients compared to only 16.7% in the control group after chemoradiation. Thus, prolonged and sustained survival was observed after experimental treatment with CAN-2409 in patients with borderline resectable PDAC. Importantly, 4 out of 7 patients who received CAN-2409 were still alive at the time of data cut-off, with 2 patients surviving more than 50.0 months from enrollment. Only 1 out of 6 patients in the randomized control SoC chemotherapy group remained alive at the data cut-off (50.6 months). No new safety signals were observed, providing further support that multiple injections of CAN-2409 are generally well tolerated. Additionally, there were no dose-limiting toxicities or cases of pancreatitis reported. Previous analysis of resected tumors showed dense aggregates of immune cells – including CD8+, cytotoxic tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes and dendritic cells – in PDAC tissue after CAN-2409 administration. This reinforces the potential of CAN-2409 to activate a robust antitumoral immune response in patients with cancer also in ‘cold’, immunosuppressive tumors like PDAC. “Given the frequent recurrence and short survival with SoC chemotherapy for non-metastatic PDAC, effective new treatment options are urgently needed,” said Garrett Nichols, MD, MS, Chief Medical Officer of Candel. “We are very encouraged by the improved survival associated with CAN-2409, which has been shown to be durable after prolonged follow-up based on the updated data in this randomized clinical trial. CAN-2409 was generally well tolerated without significant additional local or systemic toxicity when added to SoC chemoradiation.” Candel’s most advanced viral immunotherapy candidate, CAN-2409, is an investigational off-the-shelf, replication-defective adenovirus designed to induce an individualized, systemic immune response against the tumor. Because of its versatility, CAN-2409 has the potential to treat a broad range of solid tumors. More than 1,000 patients have been dosed with CAN-2409 to date, with a favorable reported tolerability profile and proof of concept in each indication that the company is currently pursuing. CAN-2409 is injected directly into the tumor or target tissue using a localized injection method that is akin to the standard approach for in situ vaccination to elicit an immune response against the injected tumor and uninjected metastases. Long-term survival data in PDAC was recently updated with eight months of further follow-up since the first analysis was presented at the 2023 Society for Immunotherapy (SITC) Annual Meeting. Based on the data presented at SITC, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted Fast Track Designation to Candel Therapeutics for CAN-2409 in combination with valacyclovir for the treatment of patients with PDAC in December 2023. More recently, the FDA also granted Orphan Drug Designation. “The failure of conventional immunotherapy to improve outcomes in pancreatic cancer is attributed to the highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment, which is largely devoid of immune cells,” said Paul Peter Tak, MD, PhD, FMedSci, President and Chief Executive Officer of Candel. “The immunological changes induced by CAN-2409, evident in the pancreatic tissue and the peripheral blood after administration, suggest that CAN-2409 is able to change the balance between the tumor and the patient’s anti-tumor immune response, which can convert progressive cancer into a chronic disease associated with improved survival.” Featured photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash. Candel is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing off-the-shelf multimodal biological immunotherapies that elicit an individualized, systemic anti-tumor immune response to help patients fight cancer. Candel has established two clinical stage multimodal biological immunotherapy platforms based on novel, genetically modified adenovirus and herpes simplex virus (HSV) gene constructs, respectively. CAN-2409 is the lead product candidate from the adenovirus platform and is currently in ongoing clinical trials in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (phase 2), borderline resectable pancreatic cancer (phase 2), and localized, non-metastatic prostate cancer (phase 2 and phase 3). CAN-3110 is the lead product candidate from the HSV platform and is currently in an ongoing investigator-sponsored phase 1 clinical trial in recurrent high-grade glioma (HGG). Finally, Candel’s enLIGHTEN™ Discovery Platform is a systematic, iterative HSV-based discovery platform leveraging human biology and advanced analytics to create new viral immunotherapies for solid tumors. This article includes certain disclosures that contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, including, without limitation, express or implied statements regarding the timing and advancement of development programs, including the timing and availability of additional data, key data readout milestones, including CAN-3110 in HGG; expectations regarding the potential benefits conferred by Fast Track Designation; expectations regarding the therapeutic benefit of its programs, including the potential for its programs to extend patient survival; and expectations regarding cash runway and expenditures. The words “may,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “project,” “potential,” “continue,” “target” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these identifying words. Any forward-looking statements in this press release are based on management’s current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and important factors that may cause actual events or results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by any forward-looking statements contained in this press release, including, without limitation, those risks and uncertainties related to the timing and advancement of development programs; expectations regarding the therapeutic benefit of the Company’s programs; that final data from our pre-clinical studies and completed clinical trials may differ materially from reported interim data from ongoing studies and trials; the Company’s ability to efficiently discover and develop product candidates; the Company’s ability to obtain and maintain regulatory approval of product candidates; the Company’s ability to maintain its intellectual property; the implementation of the Company’s business model, and strategic plans for the Company’s business and product candidates, and other risks identified in the Company’s SEC filings, including the Company’s most recent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC, and subsequent filings with the SEC. The Company cautions you not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made. The Company disclaims any obligation to publicly update or revise any such statements to reflect any change in expectations or in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements may be based, or that may affect the likelihood that actual results will differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statements contained in this press release represent the Company’s views only as of the date hereof and should not be relied upon as representing its views as of any subsequent date. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Aljanae Reynolds +1 617-916-5445 areynolds@wheelhouselsa.com Company Website https://www.candeltx.com/

June 03, 2024 08:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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News Release

Sector Spotlight: Orphan Drug Developers With Significant Upside

RazorPitch CRDL, KNSA

The biotech sector is finally beginning to recover following a two year stretch of underperformance that was largely driven by rising interest rates and other macro factors. Biotech has a track record of strong recoveries, with the sector typically seeing double-digit gains after a downturn. This is something investors shouldn’t ignore. This recent turnaround can be credited to a robust increase in fundraising efforts and an uptick in IPOs, reaching levels not seen since the peak of the mid-pandemic market boom. According to the Financial Times, drug developers raised $6 billion in equity capital markets in January, the largest total since February 2021 – a period when biotech stocks hit their all-time high. Moreover, the SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) returned 28.7% over the past six months alone, clearly illustrating investors' rising confidence in the biotech rebound. Identifying biotech stocks with the potential to deliver superior returns is no easy feat. There are specific milestones that companies can achieve to signal positive momentum to investors. For example, smaller biotech companies may have received the nod from regulatory authorities such as the FDA, or new breakthroughs from clinical trials, to offer a compelling investment opportunity. With that in mind, two stocks that investors should consider looking at are Cardiol Therapeutics (NASDAQ:CRDL) (TSX:CRDL) and Kiniksa Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:KNSA). Cardiol Therapeutics lead product is CardiolRx™, a small molecule therapy that appears on track to bring major disruption to the pericarditis market. CardiolRx™ received a vote of confidence as it was granted Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) by the FDA for the treatment of pericarditis back in February, illustrating the potential of the drug. Apart from providing a seven-year term of market exclusivity upon final FDA approval, the ODD also positions Cardiol Therapeutics (NASDAQ:CRDL) (TSX:CRDL) to be able to leverage a wide range of financial and regulatory benefits, including government grants for conducting clinical trials, waiver of expensive FDA user fees, and certain tax credits. The U.S. Orphan Drug Act is intended to assist and encourage companies to develop safe and effective therapies for the treatment of rare diseases and disorders, defined as one that affects fewer than 200,000 people in the U.S. There are approximately 160,000 cases of recurrent pericarditis in the U.S. annually, which includes 38,000 cases with a recurrence. Having secured FDA approval, Cardiol Therapeutics is an exemplary company likely to attract biotech investors seeking assurance in smaller firms. While the stock had a significant rally on the backdrop of this news and continues to show strength, we believe that there is still potential for further upside. Cardiol Therapeutics (NASDAQ:CRDL) (TSX:CRDL) is expected to release topline data in June for its Phase 2 MAvERIC-Pilot clinical trial, which if positive, could unlock significant shareholder value. Several analysts have already indicated that they are highly optimistic that the data could be a catalyst, with one analyst noting that “CardiolRx’s potential to be a safe, new approach to RP (recurrent pericarditis) treatment is underappreciated.” CardiolRx™ stands out when compared to the only FDA-approved therapy because it is administered orally and expected to be offered as a first-line therapy for pericarditis, opening it up to an even bigger opportunity as it could be prescribed at the first occurrence. Orphan drugs have become lucrative business opportunities because these drugs command premium drug pricing, with the average price for an orphan drug at $32,000 per year per patient according to a 2021 study published in the journal Rare Diseases & Journal of Orphan Drugs. That could explain why analysts who have been tracking CRDL are so bullish on the stock. For instance, Joe Gantoss of Chimera Research Group says he won’t be surprised to see Cardiol’s price break past the 3-year high at $4.96, while analyst Vernon Bernardino of H.C. Wainwright & Co. reiterated their Buy rating and issued a $9.00 price target. That would imply that Cardiol Therapeutics (NASDAQ:CRDL) (TSX:CRDL) has a potential upside of about 300% from its current share price. Kiniksa Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:KNSA) offers some insight into the revenue potential of an orphan drug that treats recurrent pericarditis. So far, KNSA has had a great run, gaining about 36% over the past year and trading at about $18.00 per share despite challenges in the sector. It is currently valued at $1.3 billion. Kiniksa’s portfolio of assets includes ARCALYST®, the first and only FDA-approved therapy for recurrent pericarditis. For some context, the FDA granted Breakthrough Therapy designation to ARCALYST® for recurrent pericarditis in 2019; the FDA granted Orphan Drug exclusivity to ARCALYST® in March 2021 for the treatment of recurrent pericarditis and a reduction in the risk of recurrence in adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older. The European Commission granted Orphan Drug Designation to ARCALYST for the treatment of idiopathic pericarditis in 2021. Sales of ARCALYST® were $38.5 million in 2021; $122.5 million in 2022; $233.2 million in 2023 further reaffirming the massive revenue potential for treating recurrent pericarditis. For the first quarter of 2024, ARCALYST® sales were $78.9 million representing 85% year-over-year growth. Furthermore, since its launch in April 2021, approximately 2,000 prescribers have written ARCALYST® prescriptions for recurrent pericarditis, illustrating the massive demand for effective recurrent pericarditis therapies. Going forward, Kiniksa anticipates that it will bring in between $370 million and $390 million in 2024, up from the earlier guidance of $360 million to $380 million. The revised outlook represents roughly 63% year-over-year growth at the midpoint. Disclaimers: RazorPitch Inc. "RazorPitch" is not operated by a licensed broker, a dealer, or a registered investment adviser. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investment advice. The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides investors a safe harbor in regard to forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, goals, assumptions, or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact may be forward looking statements. Forward looking statements are based on expectations, estimates, and projections at the time the statements are made that involve a number of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those presently anticipated. Forward looking statements in this action may be identified through use of words such as projects, foresee, expects, will, anticipates, estimates, believes, understands, or that by statements indicating certain actions & quote; may, could, or might occur. Understand there is no guarantee past performance will be indicative of future results. Investing in micro-cap and growth securities is highly speculative and carries an extremely high degree of risk. It is possible that an investors investment may be lost or impaired due to the speculative nature of the companies profiled. RazorPitch has been retained and compensated by Cardiol Therapeutics to assist in the production and distribution of content related to CRDL. RazorPitch is responsible for the production and distribution of this content. It should be expressly understood that under no circumstances does any information published herein represent a recommendation to buy or sell a security. This content is for informational purposes only, you should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer by RazorPitch or any third party service provider to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments. All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in this article constitutes professional and/or financial advice, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. RazorPitch is not a fiduciary by virtue of any persons use of or access to this content. Contact Details RazorPitch Inc Mark McKelvie +1 585-301-7700 Mark@razorpitch.com Company Website http://razorpitch.com

June 03, 2024 07:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

From Pets To Humans, Telomir Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: TELO) Holds The Key To Extending Life, Reversing Aging

Benzinga

By Meg Flippin, Benzinga Whoever said you can’t turn back time hasn’t heard of telomere gene therapy. A potentially game-changing field in anti-aging treatment, telomere regeneration involves repairing telomeres or the DNA structures that protect the ends of our chromosomes, similar to caps or shoelaces. Numerous studies have shown that fixing them can extend a person’s biological age and even turn back the clock on certain diseases. As we age, our telomeres become shorter, making us more susceptible to age-related diseases such as osteoporosis, arthritis, heart disease, dementia, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Telomeres also affect our appearance. Typically, the longer the telomeres, the younger you look. Reversing Aging One Telomere At A Time Repairing Telomeres could prove to be the holy grail of anti-aging treatments, which is why it's a big opportunity. After all, if you could reverse age-related diseases, the benefits could be endless. That’s what Telomir Pharmaceuticals Inc. (NASDAQ: TELO) is hoping proves true with Telomir-1, its potential treatment for age-related conditions. The company says Telomir-1 is the first novel small molecule to lengthen the DNA’s protective telomere caps in order to potentially reverse age-related conditions. The novel molecule – which Telomir is currently testing in mice and dogs, with human clinical trials to come later – binds to critical metals that wear down telomeres. By limiting the availability of metals and interrupting the enzyme function, Telomir-1 seeks to restore cellular metal homeostasis and reverse a person’s biological age. The non-toxic oral therapy provides what the company says is a safe and effective alternative to existing treatments with minimal side effects. Total Addressable Market and investment Opportunity That alone is a big market opportunity for Telomir Pharmaceuticals. The longevity and anti-senescence therapy market is valued at $27.11 billion and is projected to reach $44.92 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 6.8% over 2024-2031. Then there’s Alzheimer's, where telomere length has also received attention as a biomarker. Nearly seven million Americans suffer from this disease that attacks memory and cognitive functions. By 2050, that’s forecast to reach close to 13 million. And let's not forget cancer, another area Telomir-1 could prove effective in fighting. The global oncology market size is projected to reach $521.60 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 8.9% from now until then. Positive Preclinical Studies & Effectiveness So far, Telomir is making progress in proving its effectiveness, with early preclinical studies and collaborations with InSilicoTrials indicating Telomir-1's potential efficacy in telomere elongation and age reversal. Positive outcomes in its animal studies include improvements in mobility and cognitive functions, which sets the stage for the company to achieve what it says are significant milestones. Telomir also points to the results of rat and dog studies to be released later this year, which are expected to show Telomir-1’s efficacy and safety profile. That may boost investor confidence as it gets one step closer to human trials. In March, the company presented a scientific poster at the National University Health System of Singapore (NUHS) Centre for Healthy Longevity Conference 2024 with data showing Telomir-1 lengthed three human cell lines: MRC-5 fetal lung fibroblasts, human umbilical endothelial cells and mesenchymal stem cells. A subsequent poster presentation at the Global Longevity Federation Conference in Las Vegas further demonstrated that total telomere length was augmented following various Telomir-1 treatments. “While more research is needed, these preliminary findings open up the possibility that many diseases long considered inevitable consequences of aging could become avoidable,” said Dr. Michael Roizen, special advisor to Telomir. “This study further demonstrates our belief that Telomir-1 may have the effect of reversing age through telomere regeneration, enabling the production of more stem cells, essentially allowing an individual to repair oneself.” Canine Opportunity Too Telomir is focused on bringing its novel telomere therapy to humans, but it is also going after the canine market, aiming to reverse the aging of America’s best friend. Positive preclinical trials have shown that Telomir-1 may have many applications in the veterinary market. That, too, is a big opportunity for Telomir, given that Americans are poised to spend $156 billion on their pets by the end of this year – with dogs being the most popular pets. The world is getting older, but not necessarily healthier. With age-related diseases exploding, finding ways to reverse the impact of time on our bodies is reaching a fever pitch. Telomir may hold the key to anti-aging with Telomir-1. “It will be a powerful, revolutionary change. Every country in the world would want to use this product,” said Telomir CEO Chris Chapman, if it works on humans. “If we can stop the aging process we can stop age-related diseases.” Featured photo by digitale.de on Unsplash. Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders. This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be investing advice. Contact Details Benzinga +1 877-440-9464 info@benzinga.com Company Website http://www.benzinga.com

May 31, 2024 09:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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BioHarvest Sciences Reports Robust Q1 2024 Financial Growth and Strategic Expansion Plans

BioHarvest Sciences Inc

BioHarvest Sciences CEO Ilan Sobel joined Steve Darling from Proactive to share the company's financial and operational results for the first quarter of 2024. The company reported significant revenue growth in Q1 2024, with revenues increasing by 147% to $5.34 million, compared to $2.2 million in the same period of the previous financial year. This also represents an 18% increase from the preceding Q4 2023. Previous guidance for Q1 2024 was $5.2-5.3 million. This impressive performance was driven by continued strong sales of VINIA®, which fueled revenue growth in the Products division. Sobel highlighted that gross margins in Q1 2024 improved to 56%, compared to 37% in the same period of the prior financial year. In the U.S., total subscribers increased by 122%, while marketing and sales expenditures rose by only 39% compared to the same period in the previous year. This indicates a highly efficient growth strategy that has maximized subscriber acquisition without a proportional increase in spending. Management has set optimistic expectations for Q2 2024, projecting revenues in the range of $5.7 to $6.0 million. The company also anticipates reaching EBITDA break-even in the second half of 2024. This financial milestone is expected to be supported by the launch of a new Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) business unit. This unit has already signed two significant contracts: one to develop patentable, plant-based molecules for a Nasdaq-listed pharmaceutical company, and another for a leader in the nutrition and ingredients industry. Furthermore, BioHarvest Sciences is on track to uplist to the Nasdaq exchange in the second half of 2024. This strategic move is expected to enhance the company's visibility and attract a broader base of investors, providing further growth opportunities. Sobel expressed confidence in the company's direction and highlighted the importance of the new CDMO unit in diversifying BioHarvest Sciences' revenue streams. The development of plant-based molecules aligns with the company's commitment to innovation and sustainability, positioning it at the forefront of the biotech industry. Contact Details Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

May 31, 2024 08:19 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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The Crucial Role of Gut Health Transforming Gut Health through Nutrition

YourUpdateTV

Is your diet supporting your gut health effectively? Recently, Registered Dietician and MyFitnessPal Scientific Advisory Council member, Maya Feller, conducted a satellite media tour to explain better eating habits that support gut health to enhance your focus, energy, mood, sleep, and weight. A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/rjznUQsEet0 According to a recent MyFitnessPal survey 1 86% of people say they’re aware of the importance of maintaining gut health and 43% actively seek out gut health-related information. However, only 18% consider themselves to be “very” knowledgeable about what contributes to gut health. In response, the no. 1 global nutrition and food tracking app, MyFitnessPal collaborated with MyFitnessPal Scientific Advisory Council Member Dr. Janese Laster, to create the Gut Health Nutrition Plan, available now to all members for free in the MyFitnessPal app. Those who opt into the week-long plan will have access to nutrition ideas and suggestions, quizzes that test knowledge and assess current eating habits, and daily check-ins that encourage reflection on progress and current knowledge to help enable behavior change and fuel motivations. MyFitnessPal’s survey found that despite 85% of people trying to incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables into their diet to improve gut health, only 2% are consuming more than 20 fruits and vegetables each week. To bring even more awareness to a person’s food intake, MyFitnessPal introduced a free feature, Food Group Insights, which gives members an overview of the number of foods they logged in a week categorized by food groups. And for those wondering how to get gut-healthy foods on their plate, MyFitnessPal introduced a new gut health recipe collection featuring high-fiber recipes that include a variety of fruits and vegetables. To learn more, download the MyFitnessPal app on iOS and Android or visit MYFITNESSPAL.COM About Maya Feller Maya Feller, MS, RD, CDN is the founder and lead dietitian at Maya Feller Nutrition. In her practice, her team provides medical nutrition therapy and nutrition coaching for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, mood disorders, developmental disabilities, disordered eating, and more. Maya believes in providing inclusive nutrition education from an anti-bias patient-centered, culturally humble approach to help people make informed food choices. Maya shares her approachable, food-based solutions with millions of people through regular speaking engagements, writing, her social platforms, and as a national nutrition expert on Good Morning America, is a Healthline Medical Advisor, and on the advisory board for SHAPE and Parents, as well as appearing on TODAY Show, Tamron Hall, and in The New York Times, mindbodygreen, Well+Good, Food Network, Martha Stewart, Real Simple, Good Housekeeping, Cooking Light, Eating Well, Prevention, Glamour, SELF, and more. She is the author of Eating from Our Roots: 80+ Healthy Home-Cooked Favorites from Cultures Around the World (goop Press, January 24, 2023). About MyFitnessPal MyFitnessPal is the #1 global nutrition and food tracking app for achieving health goals, especially weight management. Since 2005, MyFitnessPal has empowered over 200 million users in over 120 countries to improve their health by tracking their food, recording exercise activity, and logging their weight. As one of the world's most trusted resources on nutrition, MyFitnessPal's mission is to help people around the world reach their health goals through better food choices by providing knowledge, motivation and a sense of progress. With one of the largest food databases in the world comprising over 19 million foods, access to over 500 recipes, more than 50 workout routines and exercise demos, and over 40 connected fitness partners, MyFitnessPal provides users with tools for positive healthy change. The MyFitnessPal app is available on the App Store and Google Play store. To learn more, visit www.myfitnesspal.com or follow MyFitnessPal on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok and Twitter. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 Survey fielded in April 2024 with 4000 people across the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

May 30, 2024 11:34 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Immunic Inc. CEO Daniel Vitt Highlights Advances in MS Treatment on World MS Day

Immunic Inc

Immunic Inc CEO Daniel Vitt joined Steve Darling from Proactive to discuss the ongoing challenges and recent developments in treating multiple sclerosis (MS). This interview took place in conjunction with World MS Day, a day dedicated to raising global awareness about this debilitating disease. Vitt emphasized the significant unmet medical need for effective treatments, noting that MS affects approximately 2.8 million people worldwide. The disease often leads to progressive physical disability, with many patients eventually requiring wheelchairs for mobility. Vitt explained that early diagnosis is crucial for MS, as it allows for more timely and effective intervention, which can significantly slow the progression of the disease. He highlighted Immunic’s innovative approach to MS treatment, which targets both inflammation and neuroprotection. This strategy is designed to address the complex nature of MS, which involves both inflammatory and neurodegenerative processes. Immunic’s lead drug candidate, vidofludimus calcium, is currently in clinical development for both relapsing and progressive forms of MS. Vidofludimus calcium works by activating a protein called Nurr1, which provides direct neuroprotective effects in addition to its anti-inflammatory benefits via DHODH inhibition. This dual mechanism of action makes it a promising candidate for comprehensive MS treatment. The drug is currently undergoing a phase 3 clinical trials for relapsing MS, with results expected in 2026. Additionally, a phase 2 clinical trial for progressive MS is underway, with results anticipated in April 2025. These trials aim to further validate the safety and efficacy of vidofludimus calcium in addressing the diverse and challenging aspects of MS. Vitt expressed optimism about the potential of vidofludimus calcium to transform MS treatment. He cited the drug’s safety profile and its demonstrated efficacy in clinical trials as key factors contributing to this potential. If successful, vidofludimus calcium could become a critical tool in the fight against MS, offering hope to millions of patients worldwide. Contact Details Proactive North America +1 604-688-8158 NA-editorial@proactiveinvestors.com

May 30, 2024 07:03 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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