- AstraZeneca Plc (NASDAQ:AZN) has removed a Moderna Inc (NASDAQ:MRNA)-partnered cardiovascular disease candidate from its phase 2 pipeline.
- The Moderna-partnered candidate is AZD8601, a therapy based on mRNA encoding vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A).
- In EPICCURE Phase 2a trial, the investigators injected the mRNA directly into the myocardium of patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass surgery.
- Related: AstraZeneca Q2 Highlights: Profits Fall, COVID-19 Vaccine Sales Dip, Lifts Annual Sales Guidance.
- Seven patients received AZD8601, and four got the placebo.
- AstraZeneca touted the results as positive, pointing to trends in the three exploratory endpoints, including left ventricular ejection fraction, an elevated biomarker in heart failure, and functional patient-reported outcomes.
- However, in its quarterly update, AstraZeneca removed the asset from its phase 2 pipeline. Moderna, the co-developer of AZD8601, still lists the candidate in its pipeline.
- AstraZeneca also removed Wee1 inhibitor adavosertib from its phase 2 pipeline for r ovarian cancer, solid tumors, and uterine serous cancer.
- Price Action: MRNA shares are up 2.84% at $162.56, and AZN stock is down 0.63% at $66.30 during the market session on the last check Friday.
Pot Giant, Canopy, Continues Divestiture Spree, Sells 5th Asset Since April
Canopy Growth Corporation (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX:WEED) has completed the sale of its facility in Modesto, CA.
