Denali Therapeutics Inc. (DNLI)
SIC breadcrumb: Manufacturing > Chemicals And Allied Products > SIC 2836 Biological Products, (No Diagnostic Substances)
SEC company page: https://www.sec.gov/edgar/browse/?CIK=1714899. Latest filing source: 0001714899-26-000021.
Informational only - descriptive public-record data, not investment advice.
Business
Read DNLI's verbatim Item 1 Business section from its latest 10-K: Business.
Risk Factors
Read DNLI's verbatim Item 1A Risk Factors from its latest 10-K: Risk Factors.
Selected Fundamentals
| Metric | Value | Unit | FY | Filed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net income | -512,540,000 | USD | 2025 | 2026-02-26 |
| Assets | 1,144,854,000 | USD | 2025 | 2026-02-26 |
Financials
Annual standardized facts from SEC companyfacts as of latest extracted filing date 2026-02-26. Source: https://data.sec.gov/api/xbrl/companyfacts/CIK0001714899.json. Derived margins, ratios, and free cash flow are computed from the extracted annual SEC facts.
| Metric | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net income | -86,652,000 | -88,185,000 | -36,240,000 | -197,614,000 | 71,136,000 | -290,581,000 | -325,991,000 | -145,224,000 | -422,773,000 | -512,540,000 |
| Operating income | -87,433,000 | -90,140,000 | -46,372,000 | -213,184,000 | 62,718,000 | -295,751,000 | -340,744,000 | -196,699,000 | -487,341,000 | -555,342,000 |
| Diluted EPS | -0.39 | -2.07 | 0.63 | -2.39 | -2.60 | -1.06 | -2.57 | -2.97 | ||
| Operating cash flow | -71,908,000 | -76,635,000 | 50,116,000 | -151,576,000 | 416,152,000 | -211,389,000 | -244,716,000 | -357,991,000 | -347,694,000 | -412,600,000 |
| Capital expenditures | 6,134,000 | 2,875,000 | 3,393,000 | 17,919,000 | 3,095,000 | 8,500,000 | 17,833,000 | 12,939,000 | 15,912,000 | 9,502,000 |
| Assets | 486,721,000 | 661,984,000 | 553,231,000 | 1,604,280,000 | 1,404,162,000 | 1,460,242,000 | 1,153,917,000 | 1,374,180,000 | 1,144,854,000 | |
| Liabilities | 20,925,000 | 115,139,000 | 158,341,000 | 453,749,000 | 441,871,000 | 417,812,000 | 122,963,000 | 144,496,000 | 131,093,000 | |
| Stockholders' equity | -94,154,000 | 465,796,000 | 546,845,000 | 394,890,000 | 1,150,531,000 | 962,291,000 | 1,042,430,000 | 1,030,954,000 | 1,229,684,000 | 1,013,761,000 |
| Cash and cash equivalents | 39,853,000 | 218,375,000 | 77,123,000 | 79,449,000 | 507,144,000 | 293,477,000 | 218,044,000 | 127,106,000 | 174,960,000 | 205,326,000 |
| Free cash flow | -78,042,000 | -79,510,000 | 46,723,000 | -169,495,000 | 413,057,000 | -219,889,000 | -262,549,000 | -370,930,000 | -363,606,000 | -422,102,000 |
Ratios
| Metric | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Return on equity | -18.93% | -6.63% | -50.04% | 6.18% | -30.20% | -31.27% | -14.09% | -34.38% | -50.56% | |
| Return on assets | -18.12% | -5.47% | -35.72% | 4.43% | -20.69% | -22.32% | -12.59% | -30.77% | -44.77% | |
| Liabilities / equity | 0.04 | 0.21 | 0.40 | 0.39 | 0.46 | 0.40 | 0.12 | 0.12 | 0.13 | |
| Current ratio | 28.92 | 14.67 | 9.48 | 20.86 | 2.37 | 3.77 | 13.65 | 8.46 | 9.16 |
Industry Peer Context
ROE peer context
ROA peer context
Financial Bridges
Free cash flow = operating cash flow - capital expenditures
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts FY 2025. Operating cash flow: accession 0001714899-26-000021; concept NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities; source concepts us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities | Capital expenditures: accession 0001714899-26-000021; concept PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment; source concepts us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment | Free cash flow: accession 0001714899-26-000021; concept NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities - PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment; source concepts us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities; us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment
Financial Charts
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001714899-26-000021; filed 2026-02-26. Concept: NetIncomeLoss. Source concepts: us-gaap:NetIncomeLoss.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001714899-26-000021; filed 2026-02-26. Concept: OperatingIncomeLoss. Source concepts: us-gaap:OperatingIncomeLoss.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001714899-26-000021; filed 2026-02-26. Concept: EarningsPerShareDiluted. Source concepts: us-gaap:EarningsPerShareDiluted.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001714899-26-000021; filed 2026-02-26. Concept: NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities. Source concepts: us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001714899-26-000021; filed 2026-02-26. Concept: PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment. Source concepts: us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001714899-26-000021; filed 2026-02-26. Concept: Assets. Source concepts: us-gaap:Assets.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001714899-26-000021; filed 2026-02-26. Concept: Liabilities. Source concepts: us-gaap:Liabilities.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001714899-26-000021; filed 2026-02-26. Concept: StockholdersEquity. Source concepts: us-gaap:StockholdersEquity.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001714899-26-000021; filed 2026-02-26. Concept: CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue. Source concepts: us-gaap:CashAndCashEquivalentsAtCarryingValue.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2025 ended 2025-12-31; accession 0001714899-26-000021; filed 2026-02-26. Concept: NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities - PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment. Source concepts: us-gaap:NetCashProvidedByUsedInOperatingActivities; us-gaap:PaymentsToAcquirePropertyPlantAndEquipment.
Quarterly
Quarterly standardized facts from SEC companyfacts as of latest extracted filing date 2026-05-07. Source: https://data.sec.gov/api/xbrl/companyfacts/CIK0001714899.json.
| Quarter | End Date | Revenue | Net Income | Diluted EPS | Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-Q1 | 2022-03-31 | 42,141,000 | reported discrete quarter | ||
| 2022-Q2 | 2022-06-30 | 52,480,000 | -0.48 | reported discrete quarter | |
| 2022-Q3 | 2022-09-30 | 184,000 | -0.84 | reported discrete quarter | |
| 2022-Q4 | 2022-12-31 | 10,260,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | ||
| 2023-Q1 | 2023-03-31 | 35,141,000 | -0.80 | reported discrete quarter | |
| 2023-Q2 | 2023-06-30 | 294,123,000 | 183,383,000 | 1.30 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2023-Q3 | 2023-09-30 | 1,267,000 | -99,353,000 | -0.72 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2023-Q4 | 2023-12-31 | 0.00 | -119,473,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2024-Q1 | 2024-03-31 | 0.00 | -101,802,000 | -0.68 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2024-Q2 | 2024-06-30 | 0.00 | -99,026,000 | -0.59 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2024-Q3 | 2024-09-30 | 0.00 | -107,192,000 | -0.63 | reported discrete quarter |
| 2024-Q4 | 2024-12-31 | 0.00 | -114,753,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | |
| 2025-Q1 | 2025-03-31 | -132,970,000 | -0.78 | reported discrete quarter | |
| 2025-Q2 | 2025-06-30 | -124,119,000 | -0.72 | reported discrete quarter | |
| 2025-Q3 | 2025-09-30 | -126,902,000 | -0.74 | reported discrete quarter | |
| 2025-Q4 | 2025-12-31 | -128,549,000 | derived Q4 = FY annual - nine-month YTD | ||
| 2026-Q1 | 2026-03-31 | -128,447,000 | -0.69 | reported discrete quarter |
Quarterly Charts
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2024 ended 2024-12-31; accession 0001714899-25-000066; filed 2025-02-27. Concept: RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax. Source concepts: us-gaap:RevenueFromContractWithCustomerExcludingAssessedTax.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2026 ended 2026-03-31; accession 0001714899-26-000064; filed 2026-05-07. Concept: NetIncomeLoss. Source concepts: us-gaap:NetIncomeLoss.
Figure provenance: SEC companyfacts. Latest point: FY 2026 ended 2026-03-31; accession 0001714899-26-000064; filed 2026-05-07. Concept: EarningsPerShareDiluted. Source concepts: us-gaap:EarningsPerShareDiluted.
Macro Cross-References
- CPIAUCSL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: All Items in U.S. City Average
- UNRATE - Unemployment Rate
- FEDFUNDS - Federal Funds Effective Rate
- CES0500000003 - Average Hourly Earnings of All Employees, Total Private
- DFEDTARU - Federal Funds Target Range - Upper Limit
- DFEDTARL - Federal Funds Target Range - Lower Limit
- DGS3MO - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 3-Month Constant Maturity
- DGS2 - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 2-Year Constant Maturity
- DGS10 - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 10-Year Constant Maturity
- DGS30 - Market Yield on U.S. Treasury Securities at 30-Year Constant Maturity
- T10Y2Y - 10-Year Treasury Constant Maturity Minus 2-Year Treasury Constant Maturity
- CPILFESL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: All Items Less Food and Energy
- CPIUFDSL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Food
- CPIENGSL - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Energy
- CUSR0000SAH1 - Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers: Shelter
- PCEPI - Personal Consumption Expenditures: Chain-type Price Index
- PCEPILFE - Personal Consumption Expenditures Excluding Food and Energy: Chain-type Price Index
- PPIACO - Producer Price Index by Commodity: All Commodities
- T10YIE - 10-Year Breakeven Inflation Rate
- U6RATE - Total Unemployed, Plus All Marginally Attached Workers Plus Total Employed Part Time for Economic Reasons
- PAYEMS - All Employees, Total Nonfarm
- CIVPART - Labor Force Participation Rate
- EMRATIO - Employment-Population Ratio
- UNEMPLOY - Unemployed
- CE16OV - Employment Level
- ICSA - Initial Claims
- JTSJOL - Job Openings: Total Nonfarm
- JTSQUR - Quits: Total Nonfarm
- GDPC1 - Real Gross Domestic Product
- A191RL1Q225SBEA - Real Gross Domestic Product: Percent Change from Preceding Period
- INDPRO - Industrial Production: Total Index
- TCU - Capacity Utilization: Total Index
- HOUST - New Privately-Owned Housing Units Started: Total Units
- PERMIT - New Privately-Owned Housing Units Authorized in Permit-Issuing Places: Total Units
- RSAFS - Advance Retail Sales: Retail Trade
- PCE - Personal Consumption Expenditures
- DSPIC96 - Real Disposable Personal Income
- PSAVERT - Personal Saving Rate
- M2SL - M2
- BOPGSTB - U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services: Balance
- MSPUS - Median Sales Price of Houses Sold for the United States
- HSN1F - New One Family Houses Sold: United States
- RHORUSQ156N - Homeownership Rate in the United States
- TTLCONS - Total Construction Spending: Total Construction in the United States
- RRVRUSQ156N - Rental Vacancy Rate in the United States
- TOTALSL - Total Consumer Credit Owned and Securitized
- REVOLSL - Revolving Consumer Credit Owned and Securitized
- DRCCLACBS - Delinquency Rate on Credit Card Loans, All Commercial Banks
- GDP - Gross Domestic Product
- GPDI - Gross Private Domestic Investment
- GCE - Government Consumption Expenditures and Gross Investment
- PCEC - Personal Consumption Expenditures
- NETEXP - Net Exports of Goods and Services
- GFDEBTN - Federal Debt: Total Public Debt
- GFDEGDQ188S - Federal Debt: Total Public Debt as Percent of Gross Domestic Product
- FYFSD - Federal Surplus or Deficit
- FGRECPT - Federal Government Current Receipts
- FGEXPND - Federal Government: Current Expenditures
- MANEMP - All Employees, Manufacturing
- USCONS - All Employees, Construction
- USTRADE - All Employees, Retail Trade
- USFIRE - All Employees, Financial Activities
- USGOVT - All Employees, Government
- AWHAETP - Average Weekly Hours of All Employees, Total Private
- DGORDER - Manufacturers' New Orders: Durable Goods
- NEWORDER - Manufacturers' New Orders: Nondefense Capital Goods Excluding Aircraft
- BUSINV - Total Business Inventories
- EXPGS - Exports of Goods and Services
- IMPGS - Imports of Goods and Services
- IR - Import Price Index (End Use): All Commodities
- PPIFIS - Producer Price Index by Commodity: Final Demand
Latest quarter (10-Q)
Latest 10-Q source: 0001714899-26-000064.
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with our condensed consolidated financial statements and the related notes to those statements included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. This discussion and analysis and other parts of this report contain forward-looking statements based upon current beliefs, plans, and expectations related to future events and our future financial performance that involve risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, such as statements regarding our intentions, plans, objectives, expectations, forecasts, and projections. Our actual results and the timing of selected events could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of several factors, including those set forth under the section titled “Risk Factors” included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements about:
•the progress, success, cost, and timing of our development activities, preclinical studies and clinical trials, and in particular the development of our blood-brain barrier (“BBB”) platform technology, programs, and biomarkers, including the initiation and completion of studies or trials and related preparatory work, enrollment in such trials, the timing of when data from clinical trials will become available, the advancement of new molecule entities into clinical development and related timing, and the filing of investigational new drug applications or clinical trial applications;
•the impact of preclinical findings on our ability to achieve exposures of our product candidates that allow us to explore a robust pharmacodynamic range of these candidates in humans;
•the expected potential benefits and potential revenue resulting from strategic collaborations with third parties and our ability to attract collaborators with development, regulatory, and commercialization expertise;
•the timing or likelihood of regulatory filings and approvals;
•our ability to obtain and maintain regulatory approval of our product candidates, and any related restrictions, limitations, and/or warnings in the label of any approved product candidate;
•the extent to which any dosing limitations that we have been subject to, and/or may be subject to in the future, may affect the success of our product candidates;
•the scope of protection we are able to establish and maintain for intellectual property rights covering our product candidates and technology;
•the terms and conditions of licenses granted to us and our ability to license and/or acquire additional intellectual property relating to our product candidates and Transport VehicleTM ("TV");
•our ability to obtain funding for our operations, including funding necessary to develop and commercialize our current and potential future product candidates;
•our ability to successfully market, manufacture, and commercialize AVLAYAH and any other products for which we obtain marketing approval;
•future agreements with third parties in connection with the commercialization of our product candidates;
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•the size and growth potential of the markets for AVLAYAH and any other product candidates and our ability to serve those markets;
•the rate and degree of market acceptance of our product candidates;
•existing regulations and regulatory developments in the United States and foreign countries;
•potential claims relating to our intellectual property and third-party intellectual property;
•our ability to contract with third-party suppliers and manufacturers and their ability to perform adequately;
•our ability to successfully conduct in-house manufacturing;
•the pricing and reimbursement of AVLAYAH and any other product candidates that receive approval;
•the success of competing products or platform technologies that are or may become available;
•our ability to attract and retain key managerial, scientific, and medical personnel;
•the accuracy of our estimates regarding expenses, future revenue, capital requirements, and needs for additional financing;
•our ability to enhance operational, financial, and information management systems;
•the impact of adverse economic conditions such as instability in the financial services sector, rising interest rates, rising inflation and increased labor market competition;
•the impact of increased geopolitical uncertainty and related global economic disruptions and social conditions on our business; and
•our financial performance.
These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including those described in “Risk Factors.” In some cases, you can identify these statements by terms such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expects,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “will,” “would,” or the negative of those terms, and similar expressions that convey uncertainty of future events or outcomes. These forward-looking statements reflect our beliefs and views with respect to future events and are based on estimates and assumptions as of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and are subject to risks and uncertainties. We discuss many of these risks in greater detail in the section entitled “Risk Factors” included in Part II, Item 1A and elsewhere in this report. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment. New risks emerge from time to time. It is not possible to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements we may make. Given these uncertainties, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. We qualify all of the forward-looking statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q by these cautionary statements. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update these forward-looking statements publicly, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.
Overview
Key elements of our strategy include:
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1)Discover: Invent a new class of barrier-crossing therapeutics by leveraging our TV platforms and deep expertise in blood-brain barrier ("BBB") biology to enhance the delivery of biotherapeutics to the brain and throughout the body.
2)Develop: Accelerate and expand a broad portfolio of TV-based product candidates to fully unlock the potential of barrier-crossing therapeutics, applying patient-informed development and driving biomarker-guided regulatory approvals.
3)Deliver: Launch initial products targeting rare lysosomal storage diseases as a strategic foundation for expansion into common neurodegenerative conditions and other serious diseases, while building integrated capabilities for long-term growth and profitability.
We currently have one approved product. Our commercial product, AVLAYAHTM (tividenofusp alfa-eknm) received U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") approval on March 24, 2026 and is approved for the treatment of neurologic manifestations in patients with Hunter syndrome or mucopolysaccharidoses II (MPS II) when initiated in presymptomatic or symptomatic pediatric patients weighing at least 5 kg prior to advanced neurologic impairment. Continued approval for this indication may be contingent upon verification of clinical benefit in a confirmatory trial. We began commercial distribution of AVLAYAH in April 2026.
The approval of AVLAYAH is based on the reduction of a key disease biomarker, cerebrospinal fluid heparan sulfate (CSF HS), as a surrogate endpoint reasonably likely to predict clinical benefit in the treatment of neurologic manifestations of Hunter syndrome. In a Phase 1/2 clinical trial, AVLAYAH demonstrated a 91% (95% CI: 89%, 92%) reduction in CSF HS levels from baseline by week 24 of treatment. At week 24, 93% (41 of 44) of AVLAYAH-treated patients had CSF HS levels within the range of individuals without Hunter syndrome. The most common adverse reaction in the study was infusion-related reactions. The ongoing global Phase 2/3 COMPASS study is designed to generate confirmatory evidence and support global regulatory submissions for AVLAYAH. This study includes young adults living with Hunter syndrome.
In connection with the approval of AVLAYAH, the FDA granted us a Rare Pediatric Disease Priority Review Voucher ("PRV"). This voucher may be used to obtain priority review for a future marketing application or transferred to another sponsor.
Our clinical-stage programs are as follows:
•DNL126 (ETV:SGSH), composed of N-sulfoglucosamine sulfohydrolase ("SGSH") fused to TV, is designed to deliver SGSH into cells and tissues throughout the body, including the brain, by crossing the BBB, with the goal of treating MPS IIIA (Sanfilippo syndrome type A);
•DNL593 (PTV:PGRN), composed of PGRN fused to TV, is designed to restore PGRN levels in the brain with the goal of treating frontotemporal dementia ("FTD") associated with a mutation in the granulin ("GRN") gene.
•DNL952 (ETV:GAA), composed of acid alpha-glucosidase ("GAA") fused to TV and engineered to replace GAA in all tissues, with the goal of treating Pompe disease;
•DNL628 (OTV:MAPT), composed of an antisense oligonucleotide ("ASO") against MAPT fused to TV, is designed to suppress gene expression of MAPT encoding the tau protein with the goal of treating Alzheimer's disease ("AD");
•BIIB122/DNL151, a small molecule LRRK2 inhibitor, is being developed in collaboration with Biogen for the potential treatment of Parkinson's disease ("PD"); and
•Eclitasertib (SAR443122/DNL758), a peripheral and non-central nervous system ("CNS") penetrant small molecule RIPK1 inhibitor, is being developed by Sanofi to address peripheral inflammatory diseases such as ulcerative colitis ("UC");
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The following table summarizes key information about our ongoing clinical studies for our approved product and clinical-stage programs:
| Program | Product Candidate | Clinical Study(ies) | Indication | Operational Control | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ETV:IDS | tividenofusp alfa | Ph 1/2 | Hunter syndrome (MPS II) | Denali | ||||
| Ph 2/3 | ||||||||
| ETV:SGSH | DNL126 | Ph 1/2 | Sanfilippo syndrome Type A (MPS IIIA) | Denali | ||||
| PTV:PGRN | DNL593 | Ph 1/2 | FTD-GRN | Denali | ||||
| ETV:GAA | DNL952* | Ph 1 (planned) | Pompe disease | Denali | ||||
| OTV:MAPT | DNL628 | Ph 1b | Alzheimer’s disease | Denali | ||||
| LRRK2 | BIIB122/DNL151 | Ph 2a | Parkinson's disease | Denali | ||||
| Ph 2b | Joint with Biogen | |||||||
| RIPK1 (Peripheral) | eclitasertib, or SAR443122/DNL758 | Ph 2 | UC | Sanofi |
______________________________________________________________________________
*Regulatory application to begin clinical testing has been approved by Health Authorities.
Since we commenced operations, we have devoted substantially all of our resources to discovering, acquiring and developing product candidates, building our TV platform, assembling our core capabilities in understanding key neurodegenerative and lysosomal storage disease pathways, operationalizing clinical trials, building manufacturing capabilities and establishing commercial capabilities.
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Key operational and financing milestones in 2026 to date include:
•In January 2026, we announced that the FDA has lifted the clinical hold on the IND application for DNL952, and we are proceeding with the Phase 1 study;
•In January 2026, we anno
[Excerpt truncated for page length; source filing is linked above.]
Latest 10-K MD&A
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and the related notes to those statements included elsewhere in this report. This discussion and analysis and other parts of this report contain forward-looking statements based upon current beliefs, plans and expectations related to future events and our future financial performance that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions, such as statements regarding our intentions, plans, objectives, expectations, forecasts and projections. Our actual results and the timing of selected events could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of several factors, including those set forth under the section titled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this report.
Overview
Key elements of our strategy include:
1)Discover: Invent a new class of barrier-crossing therapeutics by leveraging our TV platforms and deep expertise in blood-brain barrier biology to enhance the delivery of biotherapeutics to the brain and throughout the body.
2)Develop: Accelerate and expand a broad portfolio of TV-based product candidates to fully unlock the potential of barrier-crossing therapeutics, applying patient-informed development and driving biomarker-guided regulatory approvals.
3)Deliver: Launch initial products targeting rare lysosomal storage diseases as a strategic foundation for expansion into common neurodegenerative conditions and other serious diseases, while building integrated capabilities for long-term growth and profitability.
Our clinical programs are as follows:
•Tividenofusp alfa (DNL310, ETV:IDS), composed of IDS fused to TV, is designed to deliver IDS into cells and tissues throughout the body, including the brain by crossing the BBB, with the goal of addressing the behavioral, cognitive, and physical manifestations of MPS II (Hunter syndrome);
•DNL126 (ETV:SGSH), composed of SGSH fused to TV, is designed to deliver SGSH into cells and tissues throughout the body, including the brain by crossing the BBB, with the goal of treating MPS IIIA (Sanfilippo syndrome type A);
•TAK-594/DNL593 (PTV:PGRN), composed of PGRN fused to TV, is designed to restore PGRN levels in the brain with the goal of treating FTD-GRN and is being developed in collaboration with Takeda;
•DNL952 (ETV:GAA), composed of acid alpha-glucosidase ("GAA") fused to TV and engineered to replace GAA in all tissues, with the goal of treating Pompe disease;
•DNL628 (OTV:MAPT), composed of an antisense oligonucleotide ("ASO") against MAPT fused to TV, designed to suppress gene expression of MAPT encoding the tau protein with the goal of treating Alzheimer's disease;
•BIIB122/DNL151, a small molecule LRRK2 inhibitor, is being developed in collaboration with Biogen for the potential treatment of Parkinson's disease; and
•Eclitasertib (SAR443122/DNL758), a peripheral and non-CNS penetrant small molecule RIPK1 inhibitor, is being developed by Sanofi, to address peripheral inflammatory diseases such as ulcerative colitis ("UC").
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The following table summarizes key information about our clinical stage programs:
| Program | Product Candidate | Clinical Study(ies) | Indication | Operational Control | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ETV:IDS | tividenofusp alfa, or DNL310 | Ph 1/2 | Hunter syndrome (MPS II) | Denali | ||||
| Ph 2/3 | ||||||||
| ETV:SGSH | DNL126 | Ph 1/2 | Sanfilippo syndrome Type A (MPS IIIA) | Denali | ||||
| PTV:PGRN | TAK-594/DNL593 | Ph 1/2 | FTD-GRN | Joint with Takeda | ||||
| ETV:GAA | DNL952* | Ph 1 (planned) | Pompe disease | Denali | ||||
| OTV:MAPT | DNL628* | Ph 1b (planned) | Alzheimer’s disease | Denali | ||||
| LRRK2 | BIIB122/DNL151 | Ph 2a | Parkinson's disease | Denali | ||||
| Ph 2b | Joint with Biogen | |||||||
| RIPK1 (Peripheral) | eclitasertib, or SAR443122/DNL758 | Ph 2 | UC | Sanofi |
______________________________________________________________________________
*Regulatory application to begin clinical testing has been approved by Health Authorities.
Since we commenced operations, we have devoted substantially all of our resources to discovering, acquiring and developing product candidates, building our TV platform, assembling our core capabilities in understanding key neurodegenerative and lysosomal storage disease pathways, operationalizing clinical trials, building manufacturing capabilities and establishing commercial capabilities.
Key operational and financing milestones for the year ended December 31, 2025 and in 2026 to date include:
•Tividenofusp alfa DNL310 (ETV:IDS)
◦In January 2025, we announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation for tividenofusp alfa (DNL310) for the treatment of individuals with MPS II.
◦In February 2025, at the WORLD Symposium conference, we presented the primary analysis of the Phase 1/2 study in 47 participants with Hunter syndrome in the 24-week treatment period and additional long-term follow-up.
◦In May 2025, we completed a rolling submission of a Biologics License Application ("BLA") for tividenofusp alfa under the accelerated approval pathway;
◦In July 2025, we announced that the FDA accepted our BLA for tividenofusp alfa for priority review, assigning a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) target action date of January 5, 2026; In October 2025, we announced that the FDA extended its review timeline of the BLA seeking accelerated approval of tividenofusp alfa from January 5, 2026, to April 5, 2026;
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◦In December 2025, we entered into a synthetic royalty funding agreement with Royalty Pharma plc (“Royalty Pharma”), pursuant to which Royalty Pharma has agreed to provide us with up to $275.0 million in funding in exchange for a 9.25% royalty on future worldwide net sales of tividenofusp alfa, which will cease upon reaching a multiple of 3.0x, or 2.5x if achieved by the first quarter of 2039. The agreement is subject to various closing conditions, including Denali achieving U.S. FDA accelerated approval of tividenofusp alfa on or before June 30, 2026. At the closing, Royalty Pharma will make an initial payment of $200.0 million. Denali will be receive an additional payment of $75.0 million upon approval of tividenofusp alfa by the EMA on or before December 31, 2029. Denali will retain all worldwide development and commercialization rights to tividenofusp alfa;
◦In December 2025, we announced that we are in ongoing dialogue with the FDA related to the eligibility of tividenofusp alfa to receive a Rare Pediatric Disease Priority Review Voucher (“PRV”) upon approval. Because we submitted a filing of our intent to request a PRV after the initial BLA submission, based on discussions with the FDA, we may not be eligible to receive the PRV. Therefore, we are not including any potential future proceeds from the sale of a PRV in our financial planning. We continue to work with the FDA and the FDA will determine whether to award a PRV upon approval of tividenofusp alfa. We also announced that a Late Cycle Meeting with the FDA was completed and labeling discussions were underway;
◦In December 2025, we announced that The New England Journal of Medicine published the Phase 1/2 study results; and
◦In January 2026, we announced that we are is preparing for commercial launch in anticipation of a regulatory decision on the BLA for tividenofusp alfa under the FDA accelerated approval pathway with a PDUFA target action date of April 5, 2026, and that enrollment in Cohort A (neuronopathic participants) was completed in the ongoing global Phase 2/3 COMPASS study in December 2025.
•DNL126 (ETV:SGSH)
◦In April 2025, we announced productive collaboration and discussions with the FDA under the START program (“Support for clinical Trials Advancing Rare Disease Therapeutics”) around the potential for an accelerated development and approval path for DNL126 in the treatment of Sanfilippo syndrome;
◦In August 2025, we announced we reached alignment with the FDA that cerebrospinal fluid heparan sulfate (CSF HS) may be considered a reasonably likely surrogate endpoint to predict clinical benefit and may therefore be used to support accelerated approval of DNL126 for MPS IIIA. We also announced that additional 49-week data from the ongoing open-label Phase 1/2 study were consistent with previously announced 25-week data, demonstrating a significant reduction in CSF HS from baseline, including normalization, and a safety profile that supports continued development; and
◦In September 2025, we completed enrollment in the ongoing Phase 1/2 study, and in December 2025 we announced that the Phase 1/2 study remains on track for completion in 2026, supporting a potential accelerated approval pathway and commercial launch by the second half of 2027, with planning for a global Phase 3 confirmatory study underway; and
◦In February 2026, we presented preliminary open-label Phase 1/2 data at the 2026 WORLD Symposium demonstrating substantial reductions in CSF HS, including normalization from baseline, and in urine HS with a safety profile consistent with other enzyme replacement therapies.
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•DNL 952 (ETV:GAA)
◦In October 2025, we submitted an Investigational New Drug ("IND") application for DNL952 (ETV:GAA) to initiate a Phase 1 study, and in December 2025 we announced that the IND had been placed on clinical hold. In January 2026 we announced that the FDA has lifted the clinical hold on the IND application for DNL952, and we are proceeding with the Phase 1 study.
•DNL 628 (OTV:MAPT)
◦In January 2026, we announced that the Clinical Trial Application ("CTA") for DNL628 (OTV:MAPT) to initiate a Phase 1b study in Alzheimer’s disease was approved and study start-up activities are underway.
•BIIB122/DNL151 (LRRK2)
◦In May 2025, Biogen announced completion of enrollment in the Phase 2b LUMA study for early-stage Parkinson's disease with a readout expected in 2026.
•Other
◦In January 2025, we announced topline results that the primary endpoint was not met in Regimen G of the Phase 2/3 HEALEY ALS Platform Trial evaluating DNL343 in the treatment of ALS. In March 2025, we provided an update that additional analyses did not demonstrate a treatment effect on neurofilament light ("NfL"), a biomarker of neuronal damage, over the 24-week, double-blind period and in a subset of participants that completed an additional 28 weeks in the open-label active treatment extension. Based on these outcomes, the active treatment extension in Regimen G was discontinued. Overall, DNL343 was found to be generally well tolerated;
◦In February 2025, we and Sanofi executed a side letter terminating Sanofi's license to the CNS Products program including SAR443820/DNL788;
◦In February 2025, after mutual agreement to discontinue preclinical activities on ATV:TREM2, Takeda delivered notice of its election to terminate the ATV:TREM2 program on February 26, 2025, as per the terms of the Takeda Collaboration Agreement. The ATV:TREM2 program termination became effective in April 2025; and
◦In December 2025, we sold 9,142,857 shares of common stock through an underwritten public offering at a price of $17.50 per share, and issued pre-funded warrants to purchase 2,285,714 shares of common stock at a price of $17.49, for aggregate net proceeds of $189.2 million. The pre-funded warrants have an exercise price of $0.01 per share of common stock, and are immediately exercisable and will remain exercisable until exercised in full. In January 2026, the underwriters partially exercised their option to purchase additional shares, and we issued 746,468 shares of common shares for net proceeds of $12.4 million.
We do not have any products approved for sale and have not generated any product revenue since our inception. We have funded our operations primarily from the issuance and sale of convertible preferred stock, the sale of common stock and pre-funded warrants to purchase shares of our common stock in public offerings and private placements, and payments received from our collaboration and funding agreements with Takeda, Sanofi, Biogen and other third parties.
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We have incurred significant operating losses to date and expect to continue to incur operating losses for the foreseeable future. We had net losses of $512.5 million, $422.8 million, and $145.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023, respectively. As of December 31, 2025, we had an accumulated deficit of $2.05 billion. Our ability to generate product revenue will depend on the successful development and eventual commercialization of one or more of our product candidates. We expect to continue to incur significant expenses and operating losses as we advance our current clinical stage programs through healthy volunteer and patient trials; broaden and improve our TV platform; acquire, discover, validate and develop additional product candidates; obtain, maintain, protect and enforce our intellectual property portfolio; and hire additional personnel.
Through 2024, we relied entirely on third-party contract manufacturers to manufacture and supply our preclinical and clinical materials to be used during the development of our product candidates through 2024. In early 2025, we opened our clinical biomanufacturing facility in Salt Lake City, Utah, expanding U.S. manufacturing capabilities and strengthening supply chain control and operational efficiency. Going forward, we plan to use both our SLC facility and third-party contract manufacturers to supply our preclinical and clinical materials. If tividenofusp alfa is approved for the treatment of Hunter syndrome, we expect to use third-party contract manufacturers to supply commercial product.
License and Collaboration Agreements
Collaborations and partnering are central components of our strategy to build, develop and commercialize our portfolio of product candidates. We have numerous arrangements with biopharmaceutical companies, technology companies, academic institutions, foundations, and patient-focused data companies.
Biogen
In October 2020, we entered into the LRRK2 Agreement with Biogen pursuant to which we granted Biogen a license to co-develop and co-commercialize our small molecule LRRK2 Program, in addition to the ROFN and Option Agreement pursuant to which we granted an option and a right of first negotiation to certain of our programs utilizing our TV technology platform; collectively the "Biogen Collaboration Agreement." In connection with our collaboration with Biogen, we also entered into a common stock purchase agreement pursuant to which we sold 13,310,243 shares of our common stock to BIMA for an aggregate purchase price of $465.0 million. Under the terms of the Biogen Collaboration Agreement, we received $560.0 million in upfront payments in October 2020.
In April 2023, Biogen exercised its option to license our ATV:Abeta program and we received additional consideration of $5.0 million for an option exercise fee. In August 2023, we executed an Amendment (the “Biogen Amendment”) to the LRRK2 Agreement and ROFN and Option Agreement with Biogen. Pursuant to the Biogen Amendment, the schedule of potential LRRK2 Agreement milestones was amended, while maintaining the same total value of milestones that Denali is eligible to receive. In addition, Biogen waived its option right to the second option program and waived its rights of first negotiation for two other TV-enabled programs under the ROFN and Option Agreement. In July 2024, Denali and Biogen executed a Side Letter to the ROFN and Option Agreement, pursuant to which, effective as of the date of the Side Letter, Biogen terminated its license to the ATV:Abeta program enabled by Denali’s TfR-targeting technology against amyloid beta for the potential treatment of Alzheimer's disease, and granted Denali rights to data generated during the collaboration. The side letter also effected the immediate termination of the ROFN and Option Agreement; as such, the Company expects to receive no future milestone or royalty payments from Biogen related to the ATV:Abeta program. There were no changes to the terms of the LRRK2 Agreement in the year ended December 31, 2025. Further details regarding the terms of the agreements between us and Biogen are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the section titled "Business - Licenses and Collaborations."
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We did not recognize any collaboration revenue under the Biogen Collaboration Agreement in the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, and we recognized related party collaboration revenue of $295.5 million in the year ended December 31, 2023. Further, we recognized research and development expense of $15.8 million, $16.7 million and $17.7 million related to cost sharing payments we made to Biogen in the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023, respectively. We have recorded cost sharing payables of $2.8 million and $2.5 million on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. Through December 31, 2025, we have earned $5.0 million in option fee payments but have not recorded any milestone revenue or product sales under the Biogen Collaboration Agreement.
Sanofi
In October 2018, we entered into the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement with Sanofi pursuant to which certain small molecule CNS and peripheral RIPK1 inhibitors contributed by Sanofi and by us are being, or will be developed and commercialized. On February 24, 2025, we and Sanofi executed a side letter terminating Sanofi's license to the CNS Products program including SAR443820/DNL788, though Sanofi continues to develop eclitasertib (SAR443122/DNL758). Further details regarding the terms of the agreement between us and Sanofi, and historic payments between the parties under the agreement, are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the section titled "Business - Licenses and Collaborations."
We recognized no collaboration revenue associated with the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement in the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, and we recognized collaboration revenue of $25.0 million in the year ended December 31, 2023. No receivable from Sanofi was recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2025 and 2024. Through December 31, 2025, we had received milestone payments of $100.0 million and we have not recorded any product sales under the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement. Subsequent to the February 24, 2025 side letter, we expect to receive no future milestone or royalty payments from Sanofi related to the CNS Products program.
Takeda
In January 2018, we entered into the Takeda Collaboration Agreement pursuant to which we granted Takeda an option to develop and commercialize, jointly with us, our ATV:TREM2, PTV:PGRN and ATV:BACE1/Tau programs, the latter of which was later replaced with our ATV:Tau program. Pursuant to the terms of the Takeda Collaboration Agreement, we also entered into the Purchase Agreement with Takeda in January 2018, pursuant to which we sold 4,214,559 shares of our common stock to Takeda for an aggregate purchase price of $110.0 million.
In November 2021 and December 2021, Takeda exercised its options for the PTV:PGRN and ATV:TREM2 programs, respectively, subsequent to which we have shared equally in the development costs for the programs. In February 2025, after mutual agreement to discontinue preclinical activities on ATV:TREM2, Takeda delivered notice of its election to terminate the ATV:TREM2 program, and the ATV:TREM2 program termination became effective 60 days following the notice date. Further details regarding the terms of the agreement between us and Takeda, and historic payments between the parties under the agreements, are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the section titled "Business - Licenses and Collaborations."
We did not recognize collaboration revenue under the Takeda Collaboration Agreement in the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, and we recognized collaboration revenue of $10.0 million in the year ended December 31, 2023. Further, we offset research and development expense due to cost sharing reimbursements received from Takeda of $6.6 million, $5.9 million and $12.2 million in the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024, and 2023, respectively. We recorded receivables of $1.6 million and $1.5 million from Takeda on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively. Through December 31, 2025, we have received $65.0 million in milestone payments and $10.0 million of option exercise fees from Takeda, and we have not recorded any product sales under the Takeda Collaboration Agreement.
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F-star
In August 2016, we entered into the F-star Collaboration Agreement with the F-star entities. The goal of the collaboration was the development of Fcabs to enhance delivery of therapeutics across the BBB into the brain. In connection with the entry into the F-star Collaboration Agreement, we also purchased an option to acquire all of the outstanding shares of F-star Gamma pursuant to a pre-negotiated buy-out option agreement. In May 2018, we exercised such buy-out option and entered into the F-star Purchase Agreement with the shareholders of F-star Gamma and Shareholder Representative Services LLC, pursuant to which we acquired all of the outstanding shares of F-star Gamma. As a result of the Acquisition, F-star Gamma became our wholly-owned subsidiary and the entity's name was changed to Denali BBB Holding Limited. In addition, we became a direct licensee of certain intellectual property of F-star Ltd by way of our assumption of F-star Gamma’s license agreement with F-star Ltd, dated August 24, 2016. Further details regarding the terms of the arrangements between us and the F-star entities, and historic payments between the parties under the agreements, are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the section titled "Business - Licenses and Collaborations."
Through December 31, 2025 we have recognized consideration paid under the F-star Purchase Agreement of $49.8 million as research and development expenses consisting of upfront, preclinical and clinical contingent consideration payments, including a $30.0 million contingent consideration payment triggered in March 2023 upon the achievement of a specified clinical milestone in the ETV:IDS program. We did not recognize contingent consideration in the years ended December 31, 2025 or 2024.
Genentech
In June 2016, we entered into an exclusive license agreement with Genentech. The agreement gives us access to Genentech’s LRRK2 inhibitor program. Our collaboration partner in the LRRK2 program, Biogen, is responsible for 50% of any payment obligation to Genentech under the Biogen Collaboration Agreement.
We have made a total of $25.0 million in consideration payments under the Genentech agreement, and we have recognized $18.8 million of associated research and development expense, net of cost sharing reimbursements from Biogen. We did not recognize expenses under this agreement in the years ended December 31, 2025, 2024 and 2023.
Royalty Pharma Funding Agreement
In December 2025, we entered into a synthetic royalty funding agreement (the “Royalty Agreement”) with Royalty Pharma plc (“Royalty Pharma”). Pursuant to the Royalty Agreement, Royalty Pharma has agreed to provide us with up to $275.0 million in funding in exchange for a 9.25% royalty on future net sales of tividenofusp alfa. The transaction is subject to various closing conditions, including our achieving U.S. Food and Drug and Administration (FDA) accelerated approval of tividenofusp alfa on or before June 30, 2026. At the closing, Royalty Pharma will make an initial payment of $200.0 million. We will receive an additional payment of $75.0 million upon approval of tividenofusp alfa by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) on or before December 31, 2029. The royalty payments to Royalty Pharma will cease upon reaching a multiple of 3.0x, or 2.5x if achieved by the first quarter of 2039. We will retain all worldwide development and commercialization rights to tividenofusp alfa.
Components of Operating Results
Collaboration Revenue
To date, we have not generated any revenue from product sales and do not expect to generate any revenue from product sales for the foreseeable future. All revenue recognized to date has been collaboration and license revenue from our collaboration agreements with Takeda, Sanofi and Biogen.
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Future revenue may be recognized from the Takeda Collaboration Agreement, Sanofi Collaboration Agreement, and Biogen Collaboration Agreement, and may be generated from product sales or milestone payments, royalties and profit sharing reimbursement from other collaboration agreements, strategic alliances and licensing arrangements. We expect that our revenue will fluctuate from quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year as a result of the timing and amount of license fees, option exercise fees, milestone payments, profit sharing reimbursement, other payments and product sales, to the extent any are successfully commercialized. If we fail to complete the development of our product candidates in a timely manner or obtain regulatory approval for them, our ability to generate future revenue, and our results of operations and financial position, would be materially adversely affected.
Operating Expenses
Research and Development
Research and development activities account for a significant portion of our operating expenses. We record research and development expenses as incurred. Research and development expenses incurred by us for the discovery and development of our product candidates and TV platform include:
• external research and development expenses, including:
–expenses incurred under arrangements with third parties, such as contract research organizations ("CROs"), preclinical testing organizations, contract development and manufacturing organizations ("CDMOs"), academic and non-profit institutions and consultants;
–expenses to acquire technologies to be used in research and development that have not reached technological feasibility and have no alternative future use;
–fees related to our license and collaboration agreements;
•personnel related expenses, including salaries, benefits and stock-based compensation expense; and
•other expenses, which include direct and allocated expenses for laboratory, facilities and other costs.
A portion of our research and development expenses are direct external expenses, which we track on a program-specific basis once a program has commenced late-stage IND-enabling studies.
Program expenses include expenses associated with our most advanced product candidates and the discovery and development of backup or next-generation molecules. We also track external expenses associated with our TV platform. These expenses include external expenses incurred by us relating to our Takeda Collaboration Agreement and Biogen Collaboration Agreement. All external costs associated with earlier stage programs, or that benefit the entire portfolio, are tracked as a group. We also incur personnel and other operating expenses for our research and development programs which are presented in aggregate. These expenses primarily relate to salaries and benefits, stock-based compensation, facility expenses including rent and depreciation, and lab consumables. Where we share costs with our collaboration partners, such as in our Biogen Collaboration Agreement and Takeda Collaboration Agreement, research and development expenses may include cost sharing reimbursements from, or payments to, our collaboration partners. Further, where we receive R&D funding from third parties, this may be recognized as a reduction to research and development expenses.
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It is challenging to predict the nature, timing and estimated long-range costs of the efforts that will be necessary to complete the development of, and obtain regulatory approval for, any of our product candidates. This is made more challenging by events outside of our control, such as global pandemics and increased geopolitical uncertainty. We are also unable to predict when, if ever, material net cash inflows will commence from sales or licensing of our product candidates. This is due to the numerous risks and uncertainties associated with drug development, including the uncertainty of:
•our ability to add and retain key research and development and commercial, sales and marketing personnel;
•our ability to establish an appropriate safety profile with IND-enabling toxicology studies;
•our ability to successfully develop, obtain regulatory approval for, and then successfully commercialize, our product candidates;
•our successful enrollment in and completion of clinical trials;
•the costs associated with the development of any additional product candidates we identify in-house or acquire through collaborations;
•our ability to discover, develop and utilize biomarkers to demonstrate target engagement, pathway engagement and the impact on disease progression of our molecules;
•our ability to establish agreements with third-party manufacturers for clinical supply for our clinical trials and commercial manufacturing, if our product candidates are approved;
•the terms and timing of any collaboration, license or other arrangement, including the terms and timing of any milestone payments thereunder;
•our ability to obtain and maintain patent, trade secret and other intellectual property protection and regulatory exclusivity for our product candidates if and when approved;
•our receipt of marketing approvals from applicable regulatory authorities;
•our ability to commercialize products, if and when approved, whether alone or in collaboration with others; and
•the continued acceptable safety profiles of the product candidates following approval.
A change in any of these variables with respect to the development of any of our product candidates would significantly change the costs, timing and viability associated with the development of that product candidate. We expect our research and development expenses to increase at least over the next several years as we continue to implement our business strategy, advance our current programs, expand our research and development efforts, seek regulatory approvals for any product candidates that successfully complete clinical trials, access and develop additional product candidates and incur expenses associated with hiring additional personnel to support our research and development efforts. In addition, product candidates in later stages of clinical development generally incur higher development costs than those in earlier stages of clinical development, primarily due to the increased size and duration of later-stage clinical trials.
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General and Administrative
General and administrative expenses include personnel related expenses, such as salaries, benefits, travel and stock-based compensation expense, expenses for outside professional services, pre-commercialization activities, and allocated expenses. Outside professional services consist of legal, accounting and audit services and other consulting fees. Allocated expenses consist of rent, depreciation and other expenses related to our office and research and development facility not otherwise included in research and development expenses. We expect to increase our administrative headcount as we prepare for commercialization of Tividenofusp alfa (DNL310, ETV:IDS) and advance our other product candidates through clinical development, which will increase our general and administrative expenses.
Gain from divestiture of small molecule programs
The gain from the divestiture of small molecule programs consists entirely of the non-cash gain associated with the divestiture of assets associated with select preclinical small molecule programs, including specified intellectual property, tangible assets and equipment used to conduct early-stage small molecule drug discovery from the Company, in exchange for equity consideration.
Interest and Other Income, Net
Interest and other income, net, consists primarily of interest income, investment income earned on our cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities, and sublease income, as well as an offset for interest expense on our finance lease liability.
Results of Operations
Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024
The following table sets forth the significant components of our results of operations (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | Change | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | $ | % | |||||||||||
| Operating expenses: | ||||||||||||||
| Research and development | 418,778 | 396,440 | 22,338 | 6 | ||||||||||
| General and administration | 136,564 | 105,438 | 31,126 | 30 | ||||||||||
| Total operating expenses | 555,342 | 501,878 | 53,464 | 11 | ||||||||||
| Gain from divestiture of small molecule programs | — | 14,537 | (14,537) | * | ||||||||||
| Loss from operations | (555,342) | (487,341) | (68,001) | 14 | ||||||||||
| Interest and other income, net | 42,904 | 64,636 | (21,732) | (34) | ||||||||||
| Loss before income taxes | (512,438) | (422,705) | (89,733) | 21 | ||||||||||
| Income tax expense | (102) | (68) | (34) | 50 | ||||||||||
| Net loss | $ | (512,540) | $ | (422,773) | (89,767) | 21 | % |
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*Percentage is not meaningful.
Research and development expenses. Research and development expenses were $418.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2025 compared to $396.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2024.
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The following table provides a breakdown of our research and development expenses by category (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | Change | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | $ | % | |||||||||||
| External research and development expenses - TV programs, including cost sharing | $ | 154,799 | $ | 138,196 | 16,603 | 12 | % | |||||||
| External research and development expenses - small molecule programs, including cost sharing | 8,800 | 42,623 | (33,823) | (79) | ||||||||||
| Other research and development expenses | 86,958 | 62,715 | 24,243 | 39 | ||||||||||
| Personnel related expenses(1) | 168,221 | 152,906 | 15,315 | 10 | ||||||||||
| Total research and development expenses | $ | 418,778 | $ | 396,440 | 22,338 | 6 | % |
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(1)Personnel-related expenses include stock-based compensation expense of $59.5 million and $59.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, respectively, reflecting an increase of $0.4 million.
The increase in research and development expenses of $22.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2025 compared to the year ended December 31, 2024 was primarily attributable to the following:
•an increase of $16.6 million in external research and development expenses for our TV programs driven by increased spend on multiple preclinical and clinical programs including DNL126, DNL628 and DNL952, partially offset by a decrease in expenses related to our DNL310 program;
•an increase of $24.2 million in other research and development expenses, including lab consumables, consultants and general facilities costs, primarily driven by the commencement of operations at our large molecule manufacturing facility in Salt Lake City, Utah; and
•an increase of $15.3 million in personnel-related expenses, including salaries and stock-based compensation, primarily driven by higher headcount related to the commencement of operations at our large molecule manufacturing facility in Salt Lake City, Utah.
These increases were partially offset by a $33.8 million decrease in external research and development expenses for our small molecule programs, primarily due to the wind-down of activities related to our DNL343 program in 2025.
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses were $136.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2025 compared to $105.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. The increase of $31.2 million was primarily driven by headcount increases and other activities associated with preparing for the potential commercial launch for tividenofusp alfa.
Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023
Refer to “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Results of Operations” in our 2024 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the year ended December 31, 2023.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Sources of Liquidity
As of December 31, 2025, we had cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities in the amount of $966.2 million. We fund our operations primarily with the proceeds from the sale of common stock and payments received from our collaboration partners, including those received under agreements with Takeda, Sanofi, and Biogen. We have sold common stock and other securities in public offerings, a private placement, and stock purchase agreements with Takeda and Biogen.
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Through December 31, 2025 we have obtained aggregate net proceeds of approximately $943.6 million from public offerings of our common stock, including $189.2 million obtained through the sale of 9.1 million shares of common stock and the issuance of pre-funded warrants to purchase 2.3 million shares of common stock in December 2025, and $296.2 million obtained through the sale of 11.9 million shares of common stock in October 2022. Under stock purchase agreements with collaboration partners we have received a further $575.0 million through December 31, 2025.
Further, in February 2024 we received net proceeds of approximately $499.3 million from our private placement through the sale of approximately 3.2 million shares of common stock and pre-funded warrants to purchase approximately 26.0 million shares of our common stock.
In February 2025, we established a registered “at-the-market” facility for the potential future sale of up to $400.0 million of shares of common stock from time to time by entering into an equity distribution agreement with Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and Leerink Partners LLC as sales agents. The previous equity distribution agreement and related “at-the-market” facility entered into in February 2022 was terminated in February 2025. To date, no shares have been sold under either equity distribution agreement. All sales under the current equity distribution agreement are conditioned upon satisfaction of customary closing conditions.
Through December 31, 2025, we have received $115.0 million, $225.0 million, $565.0 million and $50.0 million, pursuant to our collaboration and research and development funding agreements with Takeda, Sanofi, Biogen and an unrelated third party, respectively. These payments include upfront, option and milestone payments. Additionally, we have received $55.0 million and $16.2 million in gross cost sharing reimbursements from Takeda and Biogen, respectively, and received $13.7 million in specified reimbursements from Sanofi.
Future Funding Requirements and Commitments
To date, we have not generated any product revenue. We do not expect to generate any product revenue unless and until we obtain regulatory approval of and commercialize any of our product candidates, and we do not know when, or if, either will occur.
We expect to continue to incur significant losses for the foreseeable future, and we expect the losses to increase as we expand our research and development activities and continue the development of, and seek regulatory approvals for, our product candidates, and begin to commercialize any approved products. Further, we expect general and administrative expenses to increase as we continue to incur additional costs associated with supporting our growing operations. We are subject to all of the risks typically related to the development of new product candidates, and we may encounter unforeseen expenses, difficulties, complications, delays and other unknown factors that may adversely affect our business. We anticipate that we will need substantial additional funding in connection with our continuing operations.
Until we can generate a sufficient amount of revenue from the commercialization of our product candidates or from our existing collaboration agreements, or future agreements with other third parties, if ever, we expect to finance our future cash needs through public or private equity or debt financings. Additional capital may not be available on reasonable terms, if at all. If we are unable to raise additional capital in sufficient amounts or on terms acceptable to us, we may have to significantly delay, scale back or discontinue the development or commercialization of one or more of our product candidates. If we raise additional funds through the issuance of additional debt or equity securities, it could result in dilution to our existing stockholders, increased fixed payment obligations and the existence of securities with rights that may be senior to those of our common stock. If we incur indebtedness, we could become subject to covenants that would restrict our operations and potentially impair our competitiveness, such as limitations on our ability to incur additional debt, limitations on our ability to acquire, sell or license intellectual property rights and other operating restrictions that could adversely impact our ability to conduct our business. Additionally, any future collaborations we enter into with third parties may provide capital in the near term but limit our potential cash flow and revenue in the future. Any of the foregoing could significantly harm our business, financial condition and prospects.
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Since our inception, we have incurred significant losses and negative cash flows from operations. We have an accumulated deficit of $2.05 billion as of December 31, 2025. We expect to incur substantial additional losses in the future as we conduct and expand our research and development activities. We believe that our existing cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities will be sufficient to enable us to fund our projected operations through at least the twelve months following the filing date of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including our existing commitments as outlined below. We have based this estimate on assumptions that may prove to be wrong, and we could utilize our available capital resources sooner than we currently expect. In the longer term, we anticipate that we will need substantial additional resources to fund our operations and meet future commitments.
Our existing commitments primarily relate to our obligations under existing lease agreements, certain pre-launch commercial product, clinical and manufacturing agreements. As of December 31, 2025, we had total undiscounted lease payment obligations of $54.2 million. We had total non-refundable purchase commitments of $45.8 million as of December 31, 2025. While the lease obligations span multiple years, the majority of the purchase commitments are due within the upcoming twelve months Further, we may be required to make contingent payments under existing arrangements upon the achievement of defined clinical, regulatory and commercial milestones in certain programs, including contingent consideration payments to former shareholders of F-star under the F-star Gamma license, and milestone and royalty payments to Genentech under the Genentech License Agreement. These commitments are more fully described in Note 4, "Acquisition, License Agreement and Research and Development Funding Collaboration Agreement" and Note 7, "Commitments and Contingencies" to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Our future funding requirements, including any changes to existing commitments or the establishment of new commitments, will depend on many factors, including:
•our ability to obtain regulatory approval for our product candidates, establish sales and marketing capabilities, and successfully market such approved product candidates;
•the timing and progress of preclinical and clinical development activities;
•the number and scope of preclinical and clinical programs we decide to pursue;
•the progress of the development efforts of third parties with whom we have entered into license and collaboration agreements;
•our ability to maintain our current research and development programs and to establish new research and development, license or collaboration arrangements;
•our ability and success in securing manufacturing relationships with third parties or in operating a manufacturing facility;
•the costs involved in prosecuting, defending and enforcing patent claims and other intellectual property claims;
•the cost and timing of regulatory approvals;
•our efforts to enhance operational, financial and information management systems and hire additional personnel, including personnel to support development of our product candidates; and
•the costs and ongoing investments to in-license and/or acquire additional technologies.
A change in the outcome of any of these or other variables with respect to the development of any of our product candidates could significantly change the costs and timing associated with the development of that product candidate. Furthermore, our operating plans may change in the future, and we may need additional funds to meet operational needs and capital requirements associated with such operating plans.
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Cash Flows
The following table sets forth a summary of the primary sources and uses of cash for each of the periods presented below (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | ||||||||
| Net cash used in operating activities | $ | (412,600) | $ | (347,694) | $ | (357,991) | ||||
| Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities | 255,281 | (88,756) | 249,308 | |||||||
| Net cash provided by financing activities | 189,216 | 484,304 | 17,820 | |||||||
| Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | $ | 31,897 | $ | 47,854 | $ | (90,863) |
Net Cash Used In Operating Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2025, net cash used in operating activities was $412.6 million, which consisted of a net loss of $512.5 million, adjusted by non-cash items primarily related to stock-based compensation expense, depreciation and amortization, net accretion of discounts on marketable securities, and non-cash rent expenses. Cash used in operating activities was also driven by changes in our operating assets and liabilities.
Net Cash Provided By (Used In) Investing Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2025, net cash provided by investing activities was $255.3 million, which consisted of $706.0 million of proceeds from the maturities of marketable securities, partially offset by $441.3 million of purchases of marketable securities, and $9.4 million capital expenditures to purchase property and equipment.
Net Cash Provided By Financing Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2025, net cash provided by financing activities was $189.2 million, which consisted of $189.2 million of net proceeds from public offerings of our common stock and pre-funded warrants in December 2025, and $8.5 million of proceeds from the exercise of stock options and the Company's ESPP, partially offset by an aggregate of $8.2 million of payments related to our finance lease, and $0.3 million issuance costs related to the royalty financing.
Years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023
Refer to “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources” in our 2024 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.
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Critical Accounting Estimates
This discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based on our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, as well as the reported revenues recognized and expenses incurred during the reporting periods. Our estimates are based on our historical experience and on various other factors that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. Our significant accounting policies are described in detail in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this report. We believe that the following accounting estimates involve a significant level of estimation uncertainty which could have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.
Revenue Recognition
We recognize revenue associated with our collaboration arrangements, which may require us to exercise considerable judgment in estimating revenue to be recognized, including judgments made on day one accounting and judgments associated with the amount of revenue to be recognized over time as performance obligations are satisfied.
Significant judgment is required to apply the authoritative accounting guidance at the outset of a collaboration arrangement, and over time, and the determinations including judgment are highly subjective and can differ between arrangement based on specific contractual terms. To date, there have been no material true ups to revenue as a result of changes in the key judgments detailed below.
The key areas of judgment identified are: (1) Identification of performance obligations at the outset of a collaboration arrangement (identifying the promised goods or services and determining whether these are distinct in the context of the contract); (2) Measurement of the transaction price at the outset of a collaboration arrangement and at each reporting period (estimating valuation of share premium payments, constraint of future variable consideration); (3) Allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations at the outset of a collaboration arrangement (estimating the standalone selling price of identified performance obligations); and (4) Recognition of revenue when (or as) we satisfy each performance obligation, assessed at each reporting period (when the performance obligation has been satisfied for point-in time recognition, the extent of satisfaction of an obligation for recognition over time).
Research and Development Expenses
A significant portion of our research and development expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss are external costs. These research and development expenses include the conduct of preclinical studies and clinical trials, contract manufacturing activities and consulting services. The measurement of these research and development expenses can impact the measurement of research and development expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss, and of prepaid assets and accrued liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The level of judgment required to estimate research and development expenses varies based on the nature of the services being performed and the underlying support obtained. We estimate the amount of work completed based on information received from internal personnel and external service providers as to the progress or stage of completion of the services and the agreed-upon fee to be paid for such services. As actual costs become known, we adjust our accrued estimates. Although we do not expect our estimates to be materially different from amounts actually incurred, incomplete or inaccurate data from vendors could impact our understanding of the status and timing of services performed which could result in us reporting expenses that are too high or too low in any particular period.
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In some cases, expense is recorded using an underlying assumption of the progress to completion of specific activities. For example, costs may be recognized based on the passage of time for activities that span reporting periods. If the provision of services is not linear then this assumption could impact the amount of expense recognized. For other activities, such as for certain clinical trials, expense is recorded based on information obtained from vendors as an intermediary to those performing the underlying services, such as contract research organizations. These estimates are inherently more judgmental since the quality and availability of the underlying data may vary. To date, there have been no material true ups from estimated to actual external research and development expenses. However, we expect that the level of judgment in estimating research and development expenses may increase over time as we are entering later stage, more extensive, clinical trials.
Research and development expenses also include reimbursements owed or owing to a collaboration partner to satisfy cost sharing requirements. These reimbursement amounts are estimated based, in part, on data received from our collaboration partner, which may include a certain level of estimation or judgments made by that partner. They also reflect our estimates of research and development expense as discussed above. As such, a change in estimates or judgments by either our partner or us can result in a change to a reimbursement amount. To date, there have been no material true ups from estimated to actual reimbursements owed or owing.
Where the company has entered into an R&D funding arrangement, payments received will be recorded as a liability, and recognized an offset to research and development expenses as the underlying research and development costs are incurred. The determination of whether an arrangement meets the definition of an R&D funding arrangement under ASC730 requires judgment, including an assessment of the nature of the arrangement, the funding party’s rights and exposure to research and development risks. Further, the timing of recognition of the funding is also subject to the judgments of the underlying research and development costs. To date, there have been no material true ups to R&D funding recognition.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements included in Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a description of recent accounting pronouncements applicable to our business.
MD&A history
Prior-year 10-K MD&A spans are extracted from SEC filings with the same bounded parser used for the latest filing. The latest 10-K appears above; prior years are below.
FY 2024 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0001714899-25-000066.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and the related notes to those statements included elsewhere in this report. This discussion and analysis and other parts of this report contain forward-looking statements based upon current beliefs, plans and expectations related to future events and our future financial performance that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions, such as statements regarding our intentions, plans, objectives, expectations, forecasts and projections. Our actual results and the timing of selected events could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of several factors, including those set forth under the section titled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this report.
Overview
Key elements of our strategy include:
1)Discover and develop a new class of barrier-crossing therapeutics by leveraging our TV platforms and deep expertise in BBB biology to enhance the delivery of biotherapeutics to the brain and throughout the body.
2)Accelerate and expand a broad portfolio of TV-based product candidates to fully unlock the potential of barrier-crossing therapeutics, applying patient-informed development and driving biomarker-guided regulatory approvals.
3)Launch initial products targeting rare lysosomal storage diseases as a strategic foundation for expansion into common neurodegenerative conditions and other serious diseases, while building integrated capabilities for long-term growth and profitability.
Our clinical programs are as follows:
•Tividenofusp alfa (DNL310, ETV:IDS), composed of IDS fused to TV, is designed to deliver IDS into cells and tissues throughout the body, including the brain by crossing the BBB, with the goal of addressing the behavioral, cognitive, and physical manifestations of MPS II;
•DNL126 (ETV:SGSH), composed of SGSH fused to TV, is designed to deliver SGSH into cells and tissues throughout the body, including the brain by crossing the BBB, with the goal of treating MPS IIIA;
•TAK-594/DNL593 (PTV:PGRN), composed of PGRN fused to TV, is designed to restore PGRN levels in the brain with the goal of treating FTD-GRN and is being developed in collaboration with Takeda;
•BIIB122/DNL151, our small molecule LRRK2 inhibitor program, is being developed in collaboration with Biogen, to address PD;
•DNL343, our small molecule eIF2B activator program, is under evaluation in ALS; and
•Eclitasertib (SAR443122/DNL758), a peripheral and non-CNS penetrant small molecule RIPK1 inhibitor, is being developed by Sanofi, to address peripheral inflammatory diseases such as UC.
The following table summarizes key information about our clinical stage programs:
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| Program | Product Candidate | Clinical Study(ies) | Indication | Operational Control | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ETV:IDS | tividenofusp alfa, or DNL310 | Ph 1/2 | Hunter syndrome (MPS II) | Denali | ||||
| Ph 2/3 | ||||||||
| ETV:SGSH | DNL126 | Ph 1/2 | Sanfilippo syndrome Type A (MPS IIIA) | Denali | ||||
| PTV:PGRN | TAK-594/DNL593 | Ph 1/2 | FTD-GRN | Joint with Takeda | ||||
| LRRK2 | BIIB122/DNL151 | Ph 2a | Parkinson's disease | Denali | ||||
| Ph 2b | Joint with Biogen | |||||||
| eIF2B | DNL343 | Ph 2/3 | ALS | Joint with Healey Center | ||||
| RIPK1 (Peripheral) | eclitasertib, or SAR443122/DNL758 | Ph 2 | UC | Sanofi |
Since we commenced operations, we have devoted substantially all of our resources to discovering, acquiring and developing product candidates, building our TV platform, assembling our core capabilities in understanding key neurodegenerative and lysosomal storage disease pathways, operationalizing clinical trials, building manufacturing capabilities and establishing commercial capabilities.
Key operational and financing milestones for the year ended December 31, 2024 and in 2025 to date include:
•Tividenofusp alfa DNL310 (ETV:IDS)
◦In February 2024, we presented new positive data from the ongoing Phase 1/2 study of tividenofusp alfa in MPS II at the 20th Annual WORLDSymposiumTM demonstrating sustained normalization of heparan sulfate in cerebrospinal fluid ("CSF HS"), robust and sustained reductions in biomarkers of lysosomal dysfunction and neuronal damage (neurofilament light; "NfL"), and improvements and stabilization of multiple clinical outcomes measures over two years of treatment. Also in February, we participated in the Reagan-Udall Foundation for the FDA workshop on CSF heparan sulfate as a potential surrogate biomarker to support accelerated approval in MPS.
◦In April 2024, we completed enrollment of 47 participants with MPS II in the Phase 1/2 open-label study. Following the Reagan-Udall Foundation workshop, we received written communication from the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research ("CDER") division of the FDA indicating openness to discussing an accelerated approval pathway for tividenofusp alfa in MPS II with CSF heparan sulfate as a surrogate biomarker;
◦In September 2024, we announced that we plan to file a biologics license application ("BLA") for accelerated approval for tividenofusp alpha (DNL310) for the treatment of MPS II, based on the outcome of a recent successful meeting with the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research ("CDER") division of the FDA. In addition, the meeting also provides a path for conversion to full approval based on the totality of the tividenofusp clinical development plan. Based on discussions with CDER, we will include preclinical and clinical data on biomarkers (CSF HS and NfL) and safety in the BLA for tividenofusp alfa as a treatment of MPS II and intend to submit the BLA under the accelerated approval pathway in early 2025. We are preparing for the U.S. launch of tividenofusp alfa for the treatment of MPS II in late 2025 or early 2026;
◦In January 2025, we announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation for tividenofusp alfa (DNL310) for the treatment of individuals with MPS II; and
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◦In February 2025, we announced that in our global Phase 2/3 COMPASS study of tividenofusp alfa in participants with MPS II, target enrollment of the planned 33 participants with neuronopathic MPS II in Cohort A has been completed; we increased the sample size of Cohort A by nine participants, bringing the total to 42 participants. Cohort B continues to enroll participants with non-neuronopathic MPS II.
•DNL126 (ETV:SGSH)
◦In February 2024, we announced that dosing had been initiated in the Phase 1/2 study of DNL126 in MPS IIIA. Further, in February 2024, we presented supportive preclinical data at WORLDSymposiumTM demonstrating that DNL126 improves lysosomal and microglial morphology, degeneration, and cognitive behavior in MPS IIIA mice; and
◦In June 2024, DNL126 was selected for the FDA's Support for clinical Trials Advancing Rare disease Therapeutics ("START") program to accelerate the development of rare disease therapeutics. In November 2024, we announced that preliminary data from up to 25 weeks of dosing in the ongoing open-label Phase 1/2 study in MPS IIIA participants demonstrated a significant reduction in CSF HS levels from baseline, including normalization. The safety profile supports continued development. The most frequent treatment emergent adverse events were infusion related reactions of mild and moderate severity in all participants. There was one serious adverse event considered by the investigator not related to drug. Based on the preliminary Phase 1/2 results and a positive regulatory environment, we recently expanded the study and continue to assess the development plans including an accelerated approval path.
•TAK-594/DNL593 (PTV:PGRN)
◦In January 2024, we announced that Part B in the TAK-594/DNL593 Phase 1/2 study in participants with FTD-GRN had been voluntarily paused to implement protocol modifications. In the second quarter of 2024, we finalized the protocol amendment and dosing in the Phase 1/2 study is ongoing.
•BIIB122/DNL151 (LRRK2)
◦In February 2024, we announced that we executed a Collaboration and Development Funding Agreement in January 2024 with a third party related to a global Phase 2a study of BIIB122/DNL151, which we plan to solely operationalize, to evaluate safety and biomarkers associated with BIIB122 (DNL151) in participants with LRRK2-associated Parkinson’s disease (LRRK2-PD). This agreement includes committed funding of $75.0 million, of which $12.5 million was received in January 2024 and $12.5 million was received in July 2024, with the remainder to be triggered based on operational milestones in the study. The third party will be eligible to receive low single-digit royalties from Denali on annual worldwide net sales of LRRK2 inhibitors for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, with royalty amounts varying based on the scope of the label. Denali has initiated screening of participants for the global Phase 2a study to evaluate safety and biomarkers associated with BIIB122/DNL151 in participants with LRRK2-PD. Biogen will continue to conduct the ongoing global Phase 2b LUMA study in early-stage Parkinson’s disease; enrollment is expected to be completed in 2025. Denali and Biogen will co-commercialize BIIB122/DNL151 assuming regulatory approval; and
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◦In December 2024, we announced initiation of dosing in the global Phase 2a clinical study, BEACON, BIIB122 (DNL151) in participants with LRRK2-PD.
•DNL343 (eIF2B)
◦In May 2024, the Sean M. Healey & AMG Center for ALS at Massachusetts General Hospital ("MGH") in collaboration with the Northeast ALS Consortium ("NEALS") announced that enrollment is complete in Regimen G (DNL343) of the Phase 2/3 HEALEY ALS Platform Trial; and in January 2025, we announced topline results that the primary and key secondary endpoints were not met. Further analyses are anticipated later in 2025.
•Other
◦In January 2024, we announced our intention to divest our preclinical small molecule portfolio, which was completed effective March 1, 2024. We maintain ownership of, and continue to advance, our current portfolio of clinical stage small molecule programs, in collaboration with our partners. The decision was made based on clinical validation and prioritization of our TV-enabled platforms for brain delivery of large molecules;
◦In February 2024, we announced that the Phase 2 HIMALAYA study evaluating SAR443820/DNL788 in participants with ALS did not meet the primary endpoint of change in ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised ("ALSFRS-R");
◦In February 2024, we announced that we entered into a securities purchase agreement with certain existing accredited investors for the private placement of 3,244,689 shares of our common stock at a price of $17.07 per share and pre-funded warrants to purchase an aggregate of 26,046,065 shares of our common stock at a purchase price of $17.06 per pre-funded warrant, resulting in net proceeds of approximately $499.3 million. The pre-funded warrants have an exercise price of $0.01 per share of Common Stock, and are immediately exercisable and will remain exercisable until exercised in full. The private placement closed on February 29, 2024;
◦In July 2024, Biogen terminated its license to the ATV:Abeta program enabled by our TfR-targeting technology against amyloid beta for the potential treatment of Alzheimer's disease and granted us rights to data generated during the collaboration. As a result of the termination, all rights to develop, manufacture, perform medical affairs activities, and commercialize new TfR-targeting ATV:Abeta therapeutics reverted to us. Biogen licensed our TfR-targeting ATV:Abeta program in April 2023 having exercised an option that was part of the 2020 collaboration agreement between the two companies. Biogen’s decision was not related to any efficacy or safety concerns with the TV platform;
◦In October 2024, we were informed by Sanofi that the K2 Phase 2 study evaluating the safety and efficacy of SAR443820/DNL788 on serum neurofilament light chain levels in participants with multiple sclerosis was discontinued based on not meeting the primary and key secondary endpoints, and on February 24, 2025, we and Sanofi executed a side letter terminating Sanofi's license to the CNS Products program including SAR443820/DNL788; and
◦In February 2025, after mutual agreement to discontinue preclinical activities on ATV:TREM2, Takeda delivered notice of its election to terminate the ATV:TREM2 program on February 26, 2025, as per the terms of the Takeda Collaboration Agreement. The ATV:TREM2 program termination will become effective 60 days following the notice date.
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We do not have any products approved for sale and have not generated any product revenue since our inception. We have funded our operations primarily from the issuance and sale of convertible preferred stock, the sale of common stock and pre-funded warrants to purchase shares of our common stock in public offerings and private placements, and payments received from our collaboration and funding agreements with Takeda, Sanofi, Biogen and other third parties.
We have incurred significant operating losses to date and expect to continue to incur operating losses for the foreseeable future. Our ability to generate product revenue will depend on the successful development and eventual commercialization of one or more of our product candidates. We had net losses of $422.8 million, $145.2 million, and $326.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. As of December 31, 2024, we had an accumulated deficit of $1.54 billion. We expect to continue to incur significant expenses and operating losses as we advance our current clinical stage programs through healthy volunteer and patient trials; broaden and improve our TV platform; acquire, discover, validate and develop additional product candidates; obtain, maintain, protect and enforce our intellectual property portfolio; and hire additional personnel.
We have relied on third-party contract manufacturers to manufacture and supply our preclinical and clinical materials to be used during the development of our product candidates through 2024. We are in the final stages of building out our Salt Lake City ("SLC") manufacturing facility, and beginning in early 2025 plan to commence manufacturing operations. Going forward, we plan to use both our SLC facility and third-party contract manufacturers to supply our preclinical and clinical materials. If tividenofusp alfa is approved for the treatment of Hunter syndrome, we expect to use third-party contract manufacturers to supply commercial product.
License and Collaboration Agreements
Collaborations and partnering are central components of our strategy to build, develop and commercialize our portfolio of product candidates. We have numerous arrangements with biopharmaceutical companies, technology companies, academic institutions, foundations, and patient-focused data companies.
Biogen
In October 2020, we entered into the LRRK2 Agreement with Biogen pursuant to which we granted Biogen a license to co-develop and co-commercialize our small molecule LRRK2 Program, in addition to the ROFN and Option Agreement pursuant to which we granted an option and a right of first negotiation to certain of our programs utilizing our TV technology platform; collectively the "Biogen Collaboration Agreement." In connection with our collaboration with Biogen, we also entered into a common stock purchase agreement pursuant to which we sold 13,310,243 shares of our common stock to BIMA for an aggregate purchase price of $465.0 million. Under the terms of the Biogen Collaboration Agreement, we received $560.0 million in upfront payments in October 2020.
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In April 2023, Biogen exercised its option to license our ATV:Abeta program and we received additional consideration of $5.0 million for an option exercise fee. In August 2023, we executed an Amendment (the “Biogen Amendment”) to the LRRK2 Agreement and ROFN and Option Agreement with Biogen. Pursuant to the Biogen Amendment, the schedule of potential LRRK2 Agreement milestones was amended, while maintaining the same total value of milestones that Denali is eligible to receive. In addition, Biogen waived its option right to the second option program and waived its rights of first negotiation for two other TV-enabled programs under the ROFN and Option Agreement. In July 2024, Denali and Biogen executed a Side Letter to the ROFN and Option Agreement, pursuant to which, effective as of the date of the Side Letter, Biogen terminated its license to the ATV:Abeta program enabled by Denali’s TfR-targeting technology against amyloid beta for the potential treatment of Alzheimer's disease, and granted Denali rights to data generated during the collaboration. The side letter also effected the immediate termination of the ROFN and Option Agreement; as such, the Company expects to receive no future milestone or royalty payments from Biogen related to the ATV:Abeta program. There were no changes to the terms of the LRRK2 Agreement in the year ended December 31, 2024. Further details regarding the terms of the agreements between us and Biogen are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the section titled "Business - Licenses and Collaborations."
We did not recognize any collaboration revenue under the Biogen Collaboration Agreement in the year ended December 31, 2024, and we recognized related party collaboration revenue of $295.5 million, and $3.1 million in the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Further, we recognized research and development expense of $16.7 million, $17.7 million and $8.2 million related to cost sharing payments we made to Biogen in the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. We have recorded cost sharing payables of $2.5 million and $3.2 million on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Through December 31, 2024, we have earned $5.0 million in option fee payments but have not recorded any milestone revenue or product sales under the Biogen Collaboration Agreement.
Sanofi
In October 2018, we entered into the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement with Sanofi pursuant to which certain small molecule CNS and peripheral RIPK1 inhibitors contributed by Sanofi and by us are being, or will be developed and commercialized. On February 24, 2025, we and Sanofi executed a side letter terminating Sanofi's license to the CNS Products program including SAR443820/DNL788, though Sanofi continues to develop eclitasertib (SAR443122/DNL758). Further details regarding the terms of the agreement between us and Sanofi, and historic payments between the parties under the agreement, are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the section titled "Business - Licenses and Collaborations."
We recognized no collaboration revenue associated with the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement in the year ended December 31, 2024, and we recognized collaboration revenue of $25.0 million and $53.4 million in the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. No receivable from Sanofi was recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2024 and 2023. Through December 31, 2024, we had received milestone payments of $100.0 million and we have not recorded any product sales under the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement. Subsequent to the February 24, 2025 side letter, we expect to receive no future milestone or royalty payments from Sanofi related to the CNS Products program.
Takeda
In January 2018, we entered into the Takeda Collaboration Agreement pursuant to which we granted Takeda an option to develop and commercialize, jointly with us, our ATV:TREM2, PTV:PGRN and ATV:BACE1/Tau programs, the latter of which was later replaced with our ATV:Tau program. Pursuant to the terms of the Takeda Collaboration Agreement, we also entered into the Purchase Agreement with Takeda in January 2018, pursuant to which we sold 4,214,559 shares of our common stock to Takeda for an aggregate purchase price of $110.0 million.
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In November 2021 and December 2021, Takeda exercised its options for the PTV:PGRN and ATV:TREM2 programs, respectively, subsequent to which we have shared equally in the development costs for the programs. In February 2025, after mutual agreement to discontinue preclinical activities on ATV:TREM2, Takeda delivered notice of its election to terminate the ATV:TREM2 program on February 26, 2025, as per the terms of the Takeda Collaboration Agreement. The ATV:TREM2 program termination will become effective 60 days following the notice date. Further details regarding the terms of the agreement between us and Takeda, and historic payments between the parties under the agreements, are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the section titled "Business - Licenses and Collaborations."
We did not recognize collaboration revenue under the Takeda Collaboration Agreement in the year ended December 31, 2024, and we recognized collaboration revenue of $10.0 million and $51.9 million in the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Further, we offset research and development expense due to cost sharing reimbursements received from Takeda of $5.9 million, $12.2 million and $18.2 million in the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. We recorded receivables of $1.5 million and $2.7 million from Takeda as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Through December 31, 2024, we have received $65.0 million in milestone payments and $10.0 million of option exercise fees from Takeda, and we have not recorded any product sales under the Takeda Collaboration Agreement.
F-star
In August 2016, we entered into the F-star Collaboration Agreement with the F-star entities. The goal of the collaboration was the development of Fcabs to enhance delivery of therapeutics across the BBB into the brain. In connection with the entry into the F-star Collaboration Agreement, we also purchased an option to acquire all of the outstanding shares of F-star Gamma pursuant to a pre-negotiated buy-out option agreement. In May 2018, we exercised such buy-out option and entered into the F-star Purchase Agreement with the shareholders of F-star Gamma and Shareholder Representative Services LLC, pursuant to which we acquired all of the outstanding shares of F-star Gamma. As a result of the Acquisition, F-star Gamma became our wholly-owned subsidiary and the entity's name was changed to Denali BBB Holding Limited. In addition, we became a direct licensee of certain intellectual property of F-star Ltd by way of our assumption of F-star Gamma’s license agreement with F-star Ltd, dated August 24, 2016. Further details regarding the terms of the arrangements between us and the F-star entities, and historic payments between the parties under the agreements, are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the section titled "Business - Licenses and Collaborations."
Through December 31, 2024 we have recognized consideration paid under the F-star Purchase Agreement of $49.8 million as research and development expenses consisting of upfront, preclinical and clinical contingent consideration payments, including a $30.0 million contingent consideration payment triggered in March 2023 upon the achievement of a specified clinical milestone in the ETV:IDS program. We did not recognize contingent consideration in the years ended December 31, 2024 or 2022.
Genentech
In June 2016, we entered into an exclusive license agreement with Genentech. The agreement gives us access to Genentech’s LRRK2 inhibitor program. Our collaboration partner in the LRRK2 program, Biogen, is responsible for 50% of any payment obligation to Genentech under the Biogen Collaboration Agreement.
We have made a total of $25.0 million in consideration payments under the Genentech agreement, including $12.5 million in the year ended December 31, 2022 related to two clinical milestones. We have recognized $18.8 million of research and development expense, net of cost sharing reimbursements from Biogen, including $6.3 million in the year ended December 31, 2022. We did not recognize expenses under this agreement in the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.
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Components of Operating Results
Collaboration Revenue
To date, we have not generated any revenue from product sales and do not expect to generate any revenue from product sales for the foreseeable future. All revenue recognized to date has been collaboration and license revenue from our collaboration agreements with Takeda, Sanofi and Biogen.
Future revenue may be recognized from the Takeda Collaboration Agreement, Sanofi Collaboration Agreement, and Biogen Collaboration Agreement, and may be generated from product sales or milestone payments, royalties and profit sharing reimbursement from other collaboration agreements, strategic alliances and licensing arrangements. We expect that our revenue will fluctuate from quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year as a result of the timing and amount of license fees, option exercise fees, milestone payments, profit sharing reimbursement, other payments and product sales, to the extent any are successfully commercialized. If we fail to complete the development of our product candidates in a timely manner or obtain regulatory approval for them, our ability to generate future revenue, and our results of operations and financial position, would be materially adversely affected.
Operating Expenses
Research and Development
Research and development activities account for a significant portion of our operating expenses. We record research and development expenses as incurred. Research and development expenses incurred by us for the discovery and development of our product candidates and TV platform include:
• external research and development expenses, including:
–expenses incurred under arrangements with third parties, such as contract research organizations ("CROs"), preclinical testing organizations, contract development and manufacturing organizations ("CDMOs"), academic and non-profit institutions and consultants;
–expenses to acquire technologies to be used in research and development that have not reached technological feasibility and have no alternative future use;
–fees related to our license and collaboration agreements;
•personnel related expenses, including salaries, benefits and stock-based compensation expense; and
•other expenses, which include direct and allocated expenses for laboratory, facilities and other costs.
A portion of our research and development expenses are direct external expenses, which we track on a program-specific basis once a program has commenced late-stage IND-enabling studies.
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Program expenses include expenses associated with our most advanced product candidates and the discovery and development of backup or next-generation molecules. We also track external expenses associated with our TV platform. These expenses include external expenses incurred by us relating to our Takeda Collaboration Agreement, Biogen Collaboration Agreement and Sanofi Collaboration Agreement. All external costs associated with earlier stage programs, or that benefit the entire portfolio, are tracked as a group. We also incur personnel and other operating expenses for our research and development programs which are presented in aggregate. These expenses primarily relate to salaries and benefits, stock-based compensation, facility expenses including rent and depreciation, and lab consumables. Where we share costs with our collaboration partners, such as in our Biogen Collaboration Agreement and Takeda Collaboration Agreement, research and development expenses may include cost sharing reimbursements from, or payments to, our collaboration partners. Further, where we receive R&D funding from third parties, this may be recognized as a reduction to research and development expenses.
It is challenging to predict the nature, timing and estimated long-range costs of the efforts that will be necessary to complete the development of, and obtain regulatory approval for, any of our product candidates. This is made more challenging by events outside of our control, such as global pandemics and increased geopolitical uncertainty. We are also unable to predict when, if ever, material net cash inflows will commence from sales or licensing of our product candidates. This is due to the numerous risks and uncertainties associated with drug development, including the uncertainty of:
•our ability to add and retain key research and development and commercial, sales and marketing personnel;
•our ability to establish an appropriate safety profile with IND-enabling toxicology studies;
•our ability to successfully develop, obtain regulatory approval for, and then successfully commercialize, our product candidates;
•our successful enrollment in and completion of clinical trials;
•the costs associated with the development of any additional product candidates we identify in-house or acquire through collaborations;
•our ability to discover, develop and utilize biomarkers to demonstrate target engagement, pathway engagement and the impact on disease progression of our molecules;
•our ability to establish agreements with third-party manufacturers for clinical supply for our clinical trials and commercial manufacturing, if our product candidates are approved;
•the terms and timing of any collaboration, license or other arrangement, including the terms and timing of any milestone payments thereunder;
•our ability to obtain and maintain patent, trade secret and other intellectual property protection and regulatory exclusivity for our product candidates if and when approved;
•our receipt of marketing approvals from applicable regulatory authorities;
•our ability to commercialize products, if and when approved, whether alone or in collaboration with others; and
•the continued acceptable safety profiles of the product candidates following approval.
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A change in any of these variables with respect to the development of any of our product candidates would significantly change the costs, timing and viability associated with the development of that product candidate. We expect our research and development expenses to increase at least over the next several years as we continue to implement our business strategy, advance our current programs, expand our research and development efforts, seek regulatory approvals for any product candidates that successfully complete clinical trials, access and develop additional product candidates and incur expenses associated with hiring additional personnel to support our research and development efforts. In addition, product candidates in later stages of clinical development generally incur higher development costs than those in earlier stages of clinical development, primarily due to the increased size and duration of later-stage clinical trials.
General and Administrative
General and administrative expenses include personnel related expenses, such as salaries, benefits, travel and stock-based compensation expense, expenses for outside professional services, pre-commercial preparatory activities, and allocated expenses. Outside professional services consist of legal, accounting and audit services and other consulting fees. Allocated expenses consist of rent, depreciation and other expenses related to our office and research and development facility not otherwise included in research and development expenses. We expect to increase our administrative headcount as we prepare for commercialization of Tividenofusp alfa (DNL310, ETV:IDS) and advance our other product candidates through clinical development, which will increase our general and administrative expenses.
Gain from divestiture of small molecule programs
The gain from the divestiture of small molecule programs consists entirely of the non-cash gain associated with the divestiture of assets associated with select preclinical small molecule programs, including specified intellectual property, tangible assets and equipment used to conduct early-stage small molecule drug discovery from the Company, in exchange for equity consideration.
Interest and Other Income, Net
Interest and other income, net, consists primarily of interest income and investment income earned on our cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities, as well as sublease income, and an offset from interest expense on our finance lease liability.
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Results of Operations
Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023
The following table sets forth the significant components of our results of operations (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | Change | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | $ | % | ||||||||||
| Collaboration revenue: | |||||||||||||
| Collaboration revenue from customers | $ | — | $ | 330,531 | (330,531) | * | % | ||||||
| Total collaboration revenue | — | 330,531 | (330,531) | * | |||||||||
| Operating expenses: | |||||||||||||
| Research and development | 396,440 | 423,876 | (27,436) | (6) | |||||||||
| General and administrative | 105,438 | 103,354 | 2,084 | 2 | |||||||||
| Total operating expenses | 501,878 | 527,230 | (25,352) | (5) | |||||||||
| Gain from divestiture of small molecule programs | 14,537 | — | 14,537 | * | |||||||||
| Loss from operations | (487,341) | (196,699) | (290,642) | * | |||||||||
| Interest and other income, net | 64,636 | 51,505 | 13,131 | 25 | |||||||||
| Loss before income taxes | (422,705) | (145,194) | (277,511) | * | |||||||||
| Income tax expense | (68) | (30) | (38) | * | |||||||||
| Net loss | $ | (422,773) | $ | (145,224) | (277,549) | * | % |
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*Percentage is not meaningful.
Collaboration revenue. There was no collaboration revenue for the year ended December 31, 2024 and $330.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The decrease in collaboration revenue of $330.5 million was primarily due to $293.9 million in revenue recognized in April 2023 under the Biogen Collaboration Agreement as a result of Biogen exercising its option to license our ATV:Abeta program, as well as decreases due to revenue earned under the Takeda and Sanofi Collaboration Agreements of $10.0 million and $25.0 million, respectively.
Research and development expenses. Research and development expenses were $396.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to $423.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.
The following table provides a breakdown of our research and development expenses by category (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | Change | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | $ | % | |||||||||||
| External research and development expenses - TV programs, including cost sharing | $ | 138,196 | $ | 139,064 | (868) | (1) | % | |||||||
| External research and development expenses - small molecule programs, including cost sharing | 42,623 | 49,850 | (7,227) | (14) | ||||||||||
| Other research and development expenses | 62,715 | 74,518 | (11,803) | (16) | ||||||||||
| Personnel related expenses(1) | 152,906 | 160,444 | (7,538) | (5) | ||||||||||
| Total research and development expenses | $ | 396,440 | $ | 423,876 | (27,436) | (6) | % |
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(1)Personnel-related expenses include stock-based compensation expense of $59.1 million and $62.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively, reflecting a decrease of $3.8 million.
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The decrease in research and development expenses of approximately $27.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the year ended December 31, 2023 was primarily attributable to decreases of $7.5 million in personnel-related expenses, including decreases in salary and stock-based compensation expenses, decreases in other research and development expenses of $11.8 million, as well as $7.2 million in small molecule programs external expense, primarily driven by the divestiture of our preclinical small molecule programs in March 2024 and focus on the Company's TV-enabled portfolio.
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses were $105.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to $103.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily driven by activities related to the planned submission of a BLA for tividenofusp alfa in early 2025 and preparations for a commercial launch in late 2025 or early 2026.
Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022
Refer to “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Results of Operations” in our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the year ended December 31, 2022.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Sources of Liquidity
As of December 31, 2024, we had cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities in the amount of $1.19 billion. We fund our operations primarily with the proceeds from the sale of common stock and payments received from our collaboration partners, including those received under agreements with Takeda, Sanofi, and Biogen. We have sold common stock and other securities in public offerings, a private placement, and stock purchase agreements with Takeda and Biogen.
Through December 31, 2024 we have obtained aggregate net proceeds of approximately $754.4 million from public offerings of our common stock, including $296.2 million obtained through the sale of 11.9 million shares of common stock in October 2022. Under stock purchase agreements with collaboration partners we have received a further $575.0 million through December 31, 2024.
Further, in February 2024 we received net proceeds of approximately $499.3 million from our private placement through the sale of approximately 3.2 million shares of common stock and pre-funded warrants to purchase approximately 26.0 million shares of our common stock.
In February 2025, we established a registered “at-the-market” facility for the future sale of up to $400.0 million of shares of common stock from time to time by entering into an equity distribution agreement with Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and Leerink Partners LLC as sales agents. The previous equity distribution agreement and related “at-the-market” facility entered into in February 2022 was terminated in February 2025. To date, no shares have been sold under either equity distribution agreement. All sales under the current equity distribution agreement are conditioned upon satisfaction of customary closing conditions.
Pursuant to our collaboration and research and development funding agreements with Takeda, Sanofi and Biogen and an unrelated third party, through December 31, 2024 we have received upfront, option and milestone payments of $115.0 million, $225.0 million, $565.0 million and $25.0 million, respectively, and have also received $48.6 million and $16.2 million of gross cost sharing reimbursements from Takeda and Biogen, respectively, and received $13.7 million in specified reimbursements from Sanofi.
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Future Funding Requirements and Commitments
To date, we have not generated any product revenue. We do not expect to generate any product revenue unless and until we obtain regulatory approval of and commercialize any of our product candidates, and we do not know when, or if, either will occur.
We expect to continue to incur significant losses for the foreseeable future, and we expect the losses to increase as we expand our research and development activities and continue the development of, and seek regulatory approvals for, our product candidates, and begin to commercialize any approved products. Further, we expect general and administrative expenses to increase as we continue to incur additional costs associated with supporting our growing operations. We are subject to all of the risks typically related to the development of new product candidates, and we may encounter unforeseen expenses, difficulties, complications, delays and other unknown factors that may adversely affect our business. We anticipate that we will need substantial additional funding in connection with our continuing operations.
Until we can generate a sufficient amount of revenue from the commercialization of our product candidates or from our existing collaboration agreements, or future agreements with other third parties, if ever, we expect to finance our future cash needs through public or private equity or debt financings. Additional capital may not be available on reasonable terms, if at all. If we are unable to raise additional capital in sufficient amounts or on terms acceptable to us, we may have to significantly delay, scale back or discontinue the development or commercialization of one or more of our product candidates. If we raise additional funds through the issuance of additional debt or equity securities, it could result in dilution to our existing stockholders, increased fixed payment obligations and the existence of securities with rights that may be senior to those of our common stock. If we incur indebtedness, we could become subject to covenants that would restrict our operations and potentially impair our competitiveness, such as limitations on our ability to incur additional debt, limitations on our ability to acquire, sell or license intellectual property rights and other operating restrictions that could adversely impact our ability to conduct our business. Additionally, any future collaborations we enter into with third parties may provide capital in the near term but limit our potential cash flow and revenue in the future. Any of the foregoing could significantly harm our business, financial condition and prospects.
Since our inception, we have incurred significant losses and negative cash flows from operations. We have an accumulated deficit of $1.54 billion as of December 31, 2024. We expect to incur substantial additional losses in the future as we conduct and expand our research and development activities. We believe that our existing cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities will be sufficient to enable us to fund our projected operations through at least the twelve months following the filing date of this Form 10-K, including our existing commitments as outlined below. We have based this estimate on assumptions that may prove to be wrong, and we could utilize our available capital resources sooner than we currently expect. In the longer term, we anticipate that we will need substantial additional resources to fund our operations and meet future commitments.
Our existing commitments primarily relate to our obligations under existing lease agreements, and certain clinical and manufacturing agreements, including the DMSA with Lonza Sales AG ("Lonza") for the development and manufacture of biologic products. As of December 31, 2024, the operating lease liability was $45.0 million and the finance lease liability was $9.3 million. Under the DMSA with Lonza, and certain other clinical and manufacturing agreements, we had total non-refundable purchase commitments of $63.0 million as of December 31, 2024, with certain amounts subject to cost sharing with Takeda. While the lease obligations span multiple years, the majority of the purchase commitments with Lonza and other clinical and manufacturing agreements are due within twelve months, with some spanning several years. Further, we may be required to make contingent payments under existing arrangements upon the achievement of defined clinical, regulatory and commercial milestones in certain programs, including contingent consideration payments to former shareholders of F-star under the F-star Gamma license, and milestone and royalty payments to Genentech under the Genentech License Agreement. These commitments are more fully described in Note 4, "Acquisition, License Agreement and Research and Development Funding Collaboration Agreement" and Note 7, "Commitments and Contingencies" to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
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Our future funding requirements, including changes to and new commitments, will depend on many factors, including:
•the timing and progress of preclinical and clinical development activities;
•the number and scope of preclinical and clinical programs we decide to pursue;
•the progress of the development efforts of third parties with whom we have entered into license and collaboration agreements;
•our ability to maintain our current research and development programs and to establish new research and development, license or collaboration arrangements;
•our ability and success in securing manufacturing relationships with third parties or in establishing and operating a manufacturing facility;
•the costs involved in prosecuting, defending and enforcing patent claims and other intellectual property claims;
•the cost and timing of regulatory approvals;
•our efforts to enhance operational, financial and information management systems and hire additional personnel, including personnel to support development of our product candidates; and
•the costs and ongoing investments to in-license and/or acquire additional technologies.
A change in the outcome of any of these or other variables with respect to the development of any of our product candidates could significantly change the costs and timing associated with the development of that product candidate. Furthermore, our operating plans may change in the future, and we may need additional funds to meet operational needs and capital requirements associated with such operating plans.
Cash Flows
The following table sets forth a summary of the primary sources and uses of cash for each of the periods presented below (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | ||||||||
| Net cash used in operating activities | $ | (347,694) | $ | (357,991) | $ | (244,716) | ||||
| Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities | (88,756) | 249,308 | (141,387) | |||||||
| Net cash provided by financing activities | 484,304 | 17,820 | 310,670 | |||||||
| Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | $ | 47,854 | $ | (90,863) | $ | (75,433) |
Net Cash Used In Operating Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2024, net cash used in operating activities was $347.7 million, which consisted of a net loss of $422.8 million, adjusted by non-cash items primarily related to stock-based compensation expense, depreciation and amortization, net accretion of discounts on marketable securities, non-cash rent expenses, and the non-cash gain on divestiture of small molecule programs. Cash used in operating activities was also driven by changes in our operating assets and liabilities.
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Net Cash Provided By (Used In) Investing Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2024, net cash used in investing activities was $88.8 million, which consisted of $1.23 billion of purchases of marketable securities, and $15.9 million capital expenditures to purchase property and equipment, partially offset by $1.16 billion in proceeds from the maturities of marketable securities.
Net Cash Provided By Financing Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2024, net cash provided by financing activities was $484.3 million, which consisted of $499.3 million of net proceeds from issuance of common stock and pre-funded warrants in a private placement in February 2024 and $17.4 million of proceeds from the exercise of stock options and the Company's ESPP, partially offset by an aggregate of $32.3 million of payments related to our finance lease.
Years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022
Refer to “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources” in our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Critical Accounting Estimates
This discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based on our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, as well as the reported revenues recognized and expenses incurred during the reporting periods. Our estimates are based on our historical experience and on various other factors that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. Our significant accounting policies are described in detail in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this report. We believe that the following accounting estimates involve a significant level of estimation uncertainty which could have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.
Revenue Recognition
We recognize revenue associated with our collaboration arrangements, which may require us to exercise considerable judgment in estimating revenue to be recognized, including judgments made on day one accounting and judgments associated with the amount of revenue to be recognized over time as performance obligations are satisfied.
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Significant judgment is required to apply the authoritative accounting guidance at the outset of a collaboration arrangement, and over time, and the determinations including judgment are highly subjective and can differ between arrangement based on specific contractual terms. To date, there have been no material true ups to revenue as a result of changes in the key judgments detailed below.
The key areas of judgment identified are: (1) Identification of performance obligations at the outset of a collaboration arrangement (identifying the promised goods or services and determining whether these are distinct in the context of the contract); (2) Measurement of the transaction price at the outset of a collaboration arrangement and at each reporting period (estimating valuation of share premium payments, constraint of future variable consideration); (3) Allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations at the outset of a collaboration arrangement (estimating the standalone selling price of identified performance obligations); and (4) Recognition of revenue when (or as) we satisfy each performance obligation, assessed at each reporting period (when the performance obligation has been satisfied for point-in time recognition, the extent of satisfaction of an obligation for recognition over time).
Research and Development Expenses
A significant portion of our research and development expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss are external costs. These research and development expenses include the conduct of preclinical studies and clinical trials, contract manufacturing activities and consulting services. The measurement of these research and development expenses can impact the measurement of research and development expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss, and of prepaid assets and accrued liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The level of judgment required to estimate research and development expenses varies based on the nature of the services being performed and the underlying support obtained. We estimate the amount of work completed based on information received from internal personnel and external service providers as to the progress or stage of completion of the services and the agreed-upon fee to be paid for such services. As actual costs become known, we adjust our accrued estimates. Although we do not expect our estimates to be materially different from amounts actually incurred, incomplete or inaccurate data from vendors could impact our understanding of the status and timing of services performed which could result in us reporting expenses that are too high or too low in any particular period.
In some cases, expense is recorded using an underlying assumption of the progress to completion of specific activities. For example, costs may be recognized based on the passage of time for activities that span reporting periods. If the provision of services is not linear then this assumption could impact the amount of expense recognized. For other activities, such as for certain clinical trials, expense is recorded based on information obtained from vendors as an intermediary to those performing the underlying services, such as contract research organizations. These estimates are inherently more judgmental since the quality and availability of the underlying data may vary. To date, there have been no material true ups from estimated to actual external research and development expenses. However, we expect that the level of judgment in estimating research and development expenses may increase over time as we are entering later stage, more extensive, clinical trials.
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Research and development expenses also include reimbursements owed or owing to a collaboration partner to satisfy cost sharing requirements. These reimbursement amounts are estimated based, in part, on data received from our collaboration partner, which may include a certain level of estimation or judgments made by that partner. They also reflect our estimates of research and development expense as discussed above. As such, a change in estimates or judgments by either our partner or us can result in a change to a reimbursement amount. To date, there have been no material true ups from estimated to actual reimbursements owed or owing.
Where the company has entered into an R&D funding arrangement, payments received will be recorded as a liability, and recognized an offset to research and development expenses as the underlying research and development costs are incurred. The determination of whether an arrangement meets the definition of an R&D funding arrangement under ASC730 requires judgment, including an assessment of the nature of the arrangement, the funding party’s rights and exposure to research and development risks. Further, the timing of recognition of the funding is also subject to the judgments of the underlying research and development costs. To date, there have been no material true ups to R&D funding recognition.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements included in Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a description of recent accounting pronouncements applicable to our business.
FY 2023 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0001714899-24-000086.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and the related notes to those statements included elsewhere in this report. This discussion and analysis and other parts of this report contain forward-looking statements based upon current beliefs, plans and expectations related to future events and our future financial performance that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions, such as statements regarding our intentions, plans, objectives, expectations, forecasts and projections. Our actual results and the timing of selected events could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of several factors, including those set forth under the section titled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this report.
Overview
Our goal is to discover, develop and deliver therapeutics to defeat degeneration.
Our discovery and development strategy is guided by three overarching principles that we believe will significantly increase the probability of success and accelerate the timing to bring effective therapeutics to people living with neurodegenerative diseases and LSDs:
•Degenogenes: Genetic Pathway Realization – each of our programs addresses a molecular target or biological pathway that is genetically validated to cause or increase the risk for neurodegenerative diseases.
•Brain Delivery: Validation and Optionality – we engineer our product candidates to cross the BBB and act directly in the brain. Our proprietary TV platform technology is designed to effectively deliver large therapeutic molecules, such as enzymes, proteins, antibodies, and oligonucleotides, across the BBB after intravenous administration.
•Biomarker-Driven Development and Approval – we discover, develop and use biomarkers to inform dose selection, assess clinical activity, and identify patients most likely to respond to our therapies. We are actively engaged in discussions with health authorities regarding the potential use of biomarkers as primary clinical endpoints to support faster paths to approval.
Our clinical-stage large molecule programs are as follows:
•Tividenofusp alfa (DNL310, ETV:IDS), our lead ERT program enabled by our ETV, ETV:IDS is designed to cross the BBB and restore IDS and reduce GAGs, both peripherally and in the brain, in patients with MPS II (Hunter syndrome);
•TAK-594/DNL593 (PTV:PGRN), our recombinant PGRN biotherapeutic enabled by our PTV, being developed in collaboration with Takeda, to address certain types of FTD, specifically FTD-GRN caused by PGRN deficiency;
•DNL126 (ETV:SGSH), our second most advanced ETV enabled program, which is designed to restore lysosomal activity of SGSH, an enzyme responsible for degrading heparan sulfates in the lysosome, in patients with MPS IIIA (Sanfilippo syndrome Type A).
Our clinical-stage small molecule programs are as follows:
•BIIB122/DNL151 (LRRK2), our LRRK2 inhibitor program, being developed in collaboration with Biogen, to address Parkinson’s disease;
•DNL343 (eIF2B), our eIF2B activator program to address diseases such as ALS and FTD;
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•SAR443820/DNL788 (CNS-penetrant RIPK1 inhibitor), our CNS-penetrant RIPK1 inhibitor program, partnered with Sanofi, to address neurological diseases such as MS and Alzheimer's disease; and
•Eclitasertib (SAR443122/DNL758, peripheral RIPK1 inhibitor), a second non-CNS penetrant RIPK1 inhibitor, partnered with Sanofi, to address peripheral inflammatory diseases such as UC.
The following table summarizes key information about our clinical stage programs:
| Program | Product Candidate | Clinical Study(ies) | Indication | Operational Control | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ETV:IDS | Tividenofusp alfa, or DNL310 | Ph 1/2 | Hunter syndrome (MPS II) | Denali | ||||
| Ph 2/3 | ||||||||
| PTV:PGRN | TAK-594/DNL593 | Ph 1/2 (paused)1 | FTD-GRN | Joint with Takeda | ||||
| ETV:SGSH | DNL126 | Ph 1/2 | Sanfilippo syndrome Type A (MPS IIIA) | Denali | ||||
| LRRK2 | BIIB122/DNL151 | Ph 2a (planned) | Parkinson's disease | Denali | ||||
| Ph 2b | Joint with Biogen | |||||||
| eIF2B | DNL343 | Ph 1b | ALS | Denali | ||||
| Ph 2/3 | ALS | Joint with Healey Center | ||||||
| RIPK1 (CNS-penetrant) | SAR443820/DNL788 | Ph 2 (closing)2 | ALS | Sanofi | ||||
| Ph 2 | MS | Sanofi | ||||||
| RIPK1 (Peripheral) | Eclitasertib, or SAR443122/DNL758 | Ph 2 | UC | Sanofi |
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(1)Study has been voluntarily paused in order to implement protocol modifications and is expected to resume this year.
(2)Study will be closing as it did not meet its primary endpoint.
Since we commenced operations, we have devoted substantially all of our resources to discovering, acquiring and developing product candidates, building our BBB platform technology and assembling our core capabilities in understanding key neurodegenerative disease pathways.
Key operational and financing milestones for the year ended December 31, 2023 and in 2024 to date include:
•Tividenofusp alfa DNL310 (ETV:IDS)
◦In February 2023, at the WORLDSymposiumTM, we reported additional interim data from the open-label, single-arm Phase 1/2 study of DNL310. Over 49 weeks of DNL310 treatment in the Phase 1/2 study, positive changes across measures of exploratory clinical outcomes including VABS-II (adaptive behavior) and BSID-III (cognitive capabilities) scores and global impression scales were observed. The data also suggested that DNL310 improved hearing, as assessed by auditory brainstem response testing. Additional biomarker data out to 49 weeks continued to demonstrate that DNL310 enabled rapid and sustained normalization of cerebrospinal fluid ("CSF") heparan sulfate to normal healthy levels and improvement in lysosomal function biomarkers. Reduction in urine heparan sulfate and dermatan sulfate after switch from standard of care to DNL310 suggested additional sustained peripheral activity of DNL310. The DNL310 safety profile, with up to two years of treatment, remained consistent with standard of care;
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◦In June 2023, we announced a robust reduction in Neurofilament Light ("NfL") with DNL310 treatment in MPS II (Hunter syndrome). Interim results demonstrated average reduction of 64% (p 0.001) from baseline in serum NfL after two years of dosing with DNL310 in the Phase 1/2 study. The FDA has recommended assessment of NfL, a marker of neuroaxonal damage, as a possible biomarker in MPS II;
◦In August 2023, we presented new interim data from the Phase 1/2 study of DNL310 in MPS II in an oral presentation at the Society for the Study of Inborn Errors of Metabolism ("SSIEM") Annual Symposium 2023. The interim clinical outcomes data, safety profile, and biomarker effects, including normalization of CSF heparan sulfate and reduction in NfL, continue to support development of DNL310 in MPS II;
◦In January 2024, we announced that enrollment continues in the global Phase 2/3 COMPASS study and is expected to be completed in 2024. We continue to engage with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on a faster path to approval; and
◦In February 2024, we presented additional interim data from the open-label, single-arm Phase 1/2 study of DNL310 at the 2024 WORLDSymposiumTM. Data out to 104 weeks showed additional improvement and stabilization in multiple measures of clinical outcomes, including those of adaptive behavior, cognition, hearing, and growth trajectory. In addition, robust and sustained responses in biomarkers of neuronal health (e.g., CSF heparan sulfate, neurofilament light (NfL)) and peripheral activity (e.g. urine heparan sulfate and dermatan sulfate) were observed. DNL310 continued to be generally well tolerated.
•TAK-594/DNL593 (PTV:PGRN)
◦In March 2023, a $10.0 million milestone payment from Takeda was triggered upon achievement of a specified clinical milestone in the Phase 1/2 study of TAK-594/DNL593 in patients with FTD-GRN, which we received in May 2023;
◦In July 2023, we presented healthy volunteer data from Part A of the Phase 1/2 study of TAK-594/DNL593 at the Alzheimer's Association International Conference, which continued to demonstrate that single doses of TAK-594/DNL593 resulted in substantial increases in CSF PGRN levels and were generally well tolerated; and
◦In January 2024, we announced that Part B in the TAK-594/DNL593 Phase 1/2 study in participants with FTD-GRN has been voluntarily paused to implement protocol modifications and is expected to resume this year.
•DNL126 (ETV:SGSH)
◦In February 2024, we announced that dosing had been initiated in the Phase 1/2 study of DNL126 in MPS IIIA; biomarker proof of concept and safety data are expected by the end of 2024. Further, in February 2024, we presented preclinical data at WORLDSymposiumTM demonstrating that DNL126 improves lysosomal and microglial morphology, degeneration, and cognitive behavior in MPS IIIA mice.
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•BIIB122/DNL151 (LRRK2)
◦In June 2023, in conjunction with Biogen, and based on review of portfolio timelines and resource prioritization, we announced plans to revise the clinical development program for BIIB122/DNL151. Prior to the planned revisions, the BIIB122 clinical development program encompassed two global late-stage clinical trials: the Phase 2b LUMA study in participants with early-stage Parkinson’s disease, which commenced in May 2022; and the Phase 3 LIGHTHOUSE study in participants with Parkinson’s disease related to LRRK2 mutations, which commenced in September 2022. In consideration of the LIGHTHOUSE study’s complexity, including the long timeline with anticipated study completion in 2031, Biogen and we plan to refocus our efforts to enable a timely readout on efficacy in idiopathic early-stage Parkinson’s disease while gaining further clinical data in Parkinson’s disease with and without a LRRK2 mutation. The planned revisions to the BIIB122 clinical development program are not based on any safety or efficacy data from studies of BIIB122. Biogen and we plan to modify the LUMA study’s enrollment criteria to allow for inclusion of eligible participants with Parkinson’s disease and a confirmed pathogenic variant of LRRK2, in addition to continuing to enroll eligible participants with idiopathic early-stage Parkinson’s disease. Collectively, data from the LUMA study will inform next steps for the development of BIIB122 in Parkinson’s disease;
◦In August 2023, we executed an amendment to the Definitive LRRK2 Collaboration and License Agreement and Waiver of and Amendment to Right of First Negotiation (ROFN), Option, and License Agreement. As part of the amendment, certain milestone criteria were changed while the total amount of development, regulatory, and commercial milestones across all indications remains the same. In addition, Biogen agreed to waive the remaining option and rights of first negotiation under the ROFN and Option Agreement; and
◦In February 2024, we announced the execution of a Collaboration and Development Funding Agreement in January 2024 with a third party related to a global Phase 2a study of BIIB122/DNL151, which we plan to solely operationalize to evaluate safety and biomarkers associated with BIIB122 in participants with Parkinson’s disease and confirmed pathogenic variants of LRRK2. This agreement includes committed funding of $75.0 million, of which $12.5 million was received in January 2024, and the remainder will be triggered based on time and operational milestones in the study. Biogen will continue to conduct the ongoing global Phase 2b LUMA study in early-stage Parkinson’s disease. Denali and Biogen will co-commercialize BIIB122/DNL151 assuming regulatory approval. The third party will be eligible to receive low single-digit royalties from Denali on annual worldwide net sales of LRRK2 inhibitors for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, with royalty amounts varying based on the scope of the label.
•SAR443820/DNL788 and Eclitasertib (SAR443122/DNL758) (RIPK1)
◦In January 2023, our collaboration partner Sanofi commenced dosing in the Phase 2 study of SAR443820/DNL788 in patients with MS, triggering a $25.0 million milestone payment, which was received in January 2023. In November 2023 we announced that Sanofi has completed enrollment in this study;
◦In August 2023, we announced that Sanofi had completed enrollment in the global Phase 2 HIMALAYA study of SAR443820/DNL788 in ALS in July;
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◦In August 2023, we announced that Sanofi completed a Phase 2 study of eclitasertib, also known as SAR443122/DNL758, in patients with CLE in June. In October 2023, Sanofi announced that the development of eclitasertib in CLE is being discontinued because the Phase 2 proof-of-concept study did not meet its primary endpoint (percent change from baseline in CLASI-A at week 12). Eclitasertib was found to be generally well-tolerated. Sanofi continues to recruit the Phase 2 study of eclitasertib in patients with UC; and
◦In February 2024, we announced that the Phase 2 HIMALAYA study evaluating SAR443820/DNL788 in participants with ALS did not meet the primary endpoint of change in ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R). Sanofi intends to present the detailed efficacy and safety results of the ALS Phase 2 HIMALAYA study at a future scientific forum. Sanofi is evaluating SAR443820/DNL788 in another Phase 2 clinical trial in participants with MS, and the outcome of HIMALAYA study has no impact on the ongoing MS study.
•DNL343 (eIF2B)
◦In April 2023, we presented final data from the 28-day treatment period of the Phase 1b study of DNL343 in participants with ALS at the 75th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Neurology ("AAN"). The results continued to demonstrate that once-daily oral dosing with DNL343 for 28 days was generally well tolerated and demonstrated extensive CSF penetration. In addition, robust inhibition of biomarkers associated with the ISR pathway was observed in blood samples from study participants; and
◦In May 2023, the first patient was dosed with DNL343 in the Phase 2/3 HEALEY ALS Platform Trial. Recruitment of participants continues for this trial.
•Other
◦In March 2023, a contingent consideration payment of $30.0 million associated with our acquisition of F-star Gamma was triggered upon the achievement of a specified clinical milestone in the ETV:IDS program. This payment fully satisfies our clinical contingent consideration obligations under the Purchase Agreement;
◦In April 2023, we entered into a new operating lease in Salt Lake City, Utah for a 59,336 square foot laboratory (the "Utah site"), office and warehouse premises, after terminating our previous SLC lease in March 2023, decreasing future lease payments by $6.1 million while increasing the lease term by approximately five and a half years. The Utah site will expand our clinical manufacturing capabilities for biologic therapeutics (large molecules) as we plan to use the premises for the manufacture of materials for toxicology studies and drug substance for early human clinical studies with the goal of increasing flexibility and speed in advancing new investigational therapies into clinical trials;
◦In April 2023, our collaboration partner Biogen exercised its option to develop and commercialize our ATV program targeting amyloid-beta, triggering an option exercise payment of $5.0 million, which we received in May 2023;
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◦In August 2023 we announced that, in agreement with Takeda, the companies will discontinue clinical development of TAK-920/DNL919 in Alzheimer’s disease. This is a strategic decision based on the totality of clinical data emerging from the single ascending dose Phase 1 study of TAK-920/DNL919 in healthy volunteers and in consideration of the rapidly evolving treatment landscape for Alzheimer's disease whereby an understanding of drug combinations with newly approved therapies will be important. A preliminary analysis of Phase 1 data indicates robust target engagement and effects on microglial biomarkers (e.g., CSF1R, SPP1, IL1RA, IP10, MIP1b, MCP-1), which were consistent with preclinical studies that demonstrate that ATV:TREM2 induces robust changes to a responsive microglial cell state (van Lengerich B, et al. Nat Neurosci. 2023). In the Phase 1 study, TAK-920/DNL919 was clinically well tolerated at doses with demonstrated changes in CSF biomarkers and there were no serious adverse events or severe treatment emergent adverse events; however, safety signals of moderate, reversible hematologic effects were observed at the highest dose tested, suggesting a narrow therapeutic window for the Alzheimer’s disease patient population. The Phase 1 safety findings are believed to be specific to properties of TAK-920/DNL919 and TREM2 biology. Denali and Takeda will continue to focus research efforts on back-up molecules in preclinical development, including exploration of potential combination therapy given recent new drug approvals in Alzheimer's disease;
◦In January 2024, we announced our intention to spin out our preclinical small molecule portfolio. We will maintain ownership of, and continue to advance, our current portfolio of clinical stage small molecule programs. The decision was made based on clinical validation and prioritization of our TV-enabled platforms for brain delivery of large molecules; and
◦In February 2024, we announced that on February 27, 2024 we entered into a securities purchase agreement with certain existing accredited investors for the private placement of 3,244,689 shares of our common stock at a price of $17.07 per share and pre-funded warrants to purchase an aggregate of 26,046,065 shares of our common stock at a purchase price of $17.06 per pre-funded warrant, resulting in anticipated gross proceeds of approximately $499.7 million. The pre-funded warrants will have an exercise price of $0.01 per share of Common Stock, be immediately exercisable and remain exercisable until exercised in full. The private placement is expected to close on February 29, 2024, subject to customary closing conditions.
We do not have any products approved for sale and have not generated any product revenue since our inception. We have funded our operations primarily from the issuance and sale of convertible preferred stock, the sale of common stock in public offerings, and payments received from our collaboration agreements with Takeda, Sanofi and Biogen.
We have incurred significant operating losses to date and expect to continue to incur operating losses for the foreseeable future. Our ability to generate product revenue will depend on the successful development and eventual commercialization of one or more of our product candidates. We had net losses of $145.2 million, $326.0 million, and $290.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. As of December 31, 2023, we had an accumulated deficit of $1.12 billion. We expect to continue to incur significant expenses and operating losses as we advance our current clinical stage programs through healthy volunteer and patient trials; broaden and improve our BBB platform technology; acquire, discover, validate and develop additional product candidates; obtain, maintain, protect and enforce our intellectual property portfolio; and hire additional personnel.
We currently rely on third-party contract manufacturers to manufacture and supply our preclinical and clinical materials to be used during the development of our product candidates. We currently do not need commercial manufacturing capacity.
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License and Collaboration Agreements
Collaborations and partnering are central components of our strategy to build, develop and commercialize our portfolio of product candidates. We have numerous arrangements with biopharmaceutical companies, technology companies, academic institutions, foundations, and patient-focused data companies.
Biogen
In October 2020, we entered into the LRRK2 Agreement with Biogen pursuant to which we granted Biogen a license to co-develop and co-commercialize our small molecule LRRK2 Program, in addition to the ROFN and Option Agreement pursuant to which we granted an option and a right of first negotiation to certain of our programs utilizing our TV technology platform; collectively the "Biogen Collaboration Agreement." In connection with our collaboration with Biogen, we also entered into a common stock purchase agreement pursuant to which we sold 13,310,243 shares of our common stock to BIMA for an aggregate purchase price of $465.0 million. Under the terms of the Biogen Collaboration Agreement, we received $560.0 million in upfront payments in October 2020.
In April 2023, Biogen exercised its option to license our ATV:Abeta program and we received additional consideration of $5.0 million for an option exercise fee. In August 2023, we executed an Amendment (the “Biogen Amendment”) to the LRRK2 Agreement and ROFN and Option Agreement with Biogen. Pursuant to the Biogen Amendment, the schedule of potential LRRK2 Agreement milestones was amended, while maintaining the same total value of milestones that Denali is eligible to receive. In addition, Biogen waived its option right to the second option program and waived its rights of first negotiation for two other TV-enabled programs under the ROFN and Option Agreement. Further details regarding the terms of the agreements between us and Biogen are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the section titled "Business - Licenses and Collaborations."
In relation to the Biogen Collaboration Agreement, we have recognized related party collaboration revenue of $295.5 million, $3.1 million, and $3.7 million in the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, related party research and development expense of $17.7 million and $8.2 million for cost sharing payments to Biogen in the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, and a related party offset to research and development expense as a result of cost sharing reimbursements from Biogen of $6.5 million in the year ended December 31, 2021. We have recorded cost sharing payables of $3.2 million and $4.4 million on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Through December 31, 2023, we had earned $5.0 million in option fee payments but had not recorded any milestone revenue or product sales under the Biogen Collaboration Agreement.
Sanofi
In October 2018, we entered into the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement with Sanofi pursuant to which certain small molecule CNS and peripheral RIPK1 inhibitors contributed by Sanofi and by us are being, or will be developed and commercialized. Further details regarding the terms of the agreement between us and Sanofi, and historic payments between the parties under the agreement, are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the section titled "Business - Licenses and Collaborations."
We have recognized collaboration revenue of $25.0 million, $53.4 million and $15.0 million associated with the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement in the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, and recorded no receivable from Sanofi on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2023 and 2022. Through December 31, 2023, we had received milestone payments of $100.0 million and we had not recorded any product sales under the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement.
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Takeda
In January 2018, we entered into the Takeda Collaboration Agreement pursuant to which we granted Takeda an option to develop and commercialize, jointly with us, our ATV:TREM2, PTV:PGRN and ATV:BACE1/Tau programs, the latter of which was later replaced with our ATV:Tau program. Pursuant to the terms of the Takeda Collaboration Agreement, we also entered into the Purchase Agreement with Takeda in January 2018, pursuant to which we sold 4,214,559 shares of our common stock to Takeda for an aggregate purchase price of $110.0 million.
In November 2021 and December 2021, Takeda exercised its options for the PTV:PGRN and ATV:TREM2 programs, respectively, subsequent to which we have shared equally in the development costs for the programs. In March 2022, we mutually agreed under the Takeda Collaboration Agreement to terminate activity on the ATV:Tau program. Further details regarding the terms of the agreement between us and Takeda, and historic payments between the parties under the agreements, are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the section titled "Business - Licenses and Collaborations."
We recognized collaboration revenue of $10.0 million, $51.9 million and $29.9 million associated with the Takeda Collaboration Agreement in the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, and offsets to research and development expense for cost sharing reimbursements of $12.2 million, $18.2 million and $13.7 million in the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. We recorded receivables of $2.7 million and $8.9 million from Takeda as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively. Through December 31, 2023, we have received $65.0 million in milestone payments and $10.0 million of option exercise fees from Takeda, and we have not recorded any product sales under the Takeda Collaboration Agreement.
F-star
In August 2016, we entered into the F-star Collaboration Agreement with the F-star entities. The goal of the collaboration was the development of Fcabs to enhance delivery of therapeutics across the BBB into the brain. In connection with the entry into the F-star Collaboration Agreement, we also purchased an option to acquire all of the outstanding shares of F-star Gamma pursuant to a pre-negotiated buy-out option agreement. In May 2018, we exercised such buy-out option and entered into the F-star Purchase Agreement with the shareholders of F-star Gamma and Shareholder Representative Services LLC, pursuant to which we acquired all of the outstanding shares of F-star Gamma. As a result of the Acquisition, F-star Gamma became our wholly-owned subsidiary and the entity's name was changed to Denali BBB Holding Limited. In addition, we became a direct licensee of certain intellectual property of F-star Ltd by way of our assumption of F-star Gamma’s license agreement with F-star Ltd, dated August 24, 2016. Further details regarding the terms of the arrangements between us and the F-star entities, and historic payments between the parties under the agreements, are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the section titled "Business - Licenses and Collaborations."
Through December 31, 2023 we have recognized consideration paid under the F-star Purchase Agreement of $49.8 million as research and development expenses consisting of up-front, preclinical and clinical contingent consideration payments, of which $30.0 million of research and development expense was recognized in the year ended December 31, 2023 for a contingent consideration payment triggered in March 2023 upon the achievement of a specified clinical milestone in the ETV:IDS program. There was no contingent consideration research and development expense recognized in the years ended December 31, 2022 or 2021. We recognized $0.1 million of research and development expense related to the funding of F-star research costs for the year ended December 31, 2021, but none for the years ended December 31, 2023 or 2022.
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Genentech
In June 2016, we entered into an exclusive license agreement with Genentech. The agreement gives us access to Genentech’s LRRK2 inhibitor program. Our collaboration partner in the LRRK2 program, Biogen, is responsible for 50% of any payment obligation to Genentech under the Biogen Collaboration Agreement.
As consideration to date, we have paid Genentech $25.0 million in the aggregate, including an upfront fee, a technology transfer fee and three clinical milestone payments, with $18.8 million of this recorded as research and development expense as incurred, net of cost sharing reimbursements from Biogen. Included within this amount, in the year ended December 31, 2022, we paid Genentech a $7.5 million clinical milestone payment triggered upon the commencement of dosing in the global Phase 2b LUMA study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of BIIB122/DNL151 by Biogen, and a further $5.0 million clinical milestone payment triggered upon the commencement of dosing in the global Phase 3 LIGHTHOUSE study to evaluate the efficacy and safety profile of BIIB122/DNL151 by Biogen. Of these milestones, we recognized $6.3 million as research and development expense as incurred after cost sharing reimbursements from Biogen in the year ended December 31, 2022. We recognized no expenses under this agreement in the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2021.
Components of Operating Results
Collaboration Revenue
To date, we have not generated any revenue from product sales and do not expect to generate any revenue from product sales for the foreseeable future. All revenue recognized to date has been collaboration and license revenue from our collaboration agreements with Takeda, Sanofi and Biogen.
Future revenue may be recognized from the Takeda Collaboration Agreement, Sanofi Collaboration Agreement, and Biogen Collaboration Agreement, and may be generated from product sales or milestone payments, royalties and profit sharing reimbursement from other collaboration agreements, strategic alliances and licensing arrangements. We expect that our revenue will fluctuate from quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year as a result of the timing and amount of license fees, option exercise fees, milestone payments, profit sharing reimbursement, other payments and product sales, to the extent any are successfully commercialized. If we fail to complete the development of our product candidates in a timely manner or obtain regulatory approval for them, our ability to generate future revenue, and our results of operations and financial position, would be materially adversely affected.
Operating Expenses
Research and Development
Research and development activities account for a significant portion of our operating expenses. We record research and development expenses as incurred. Research and development expenses incurred by us for the discovery and development of our product candidates and BBB platform technology include:
• external research and development expenses, including:
–expenses incurred under arrangements with third parties, such as contract research organizations ("CROs"), preclinical testing organizations, contract development and manufacturing organizations ("CDMOs"), academic and non-profit institutions and consultants;
–expenses to acquire technologies to be used in research and development that have not reached technological feasibility and have no alternative future use;
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–fees related to our license and collaboration agreements;
•personnel related expenses, including salaries, benefits and stock-based compensation expense; and
•other expenses, which include direct and allocated expenses for laboratory, facilities and other costs.
A portion of our research and development expenses are direct external expenses, which we track on a program-specific basis once a program has commenced late-stage IND-enabling studies.
Program expenses include expenses associated with our most advanced product candidates and the discovery and development of backup or next-generation molecules. We also track external expenses associated with our TV platform. These expenses include external expenses incurred by us relating to our Takeda Collaboration Agreement, Sanofi Collaboration Agreement and Biogen Collaboration Agreement. All external costs associated with earlier stage programs, or that benefit the entire portfolio, are tracked as a group. We also incur personnel and other operating expenses for our research and development programs which are presented in aggregate. These expenses primarily relate to salaries and benefits, stock-based compensation, facility expenses including rent and depreciation, and lab consumables. Where we share costs with our collaboration partners, such as in our Biogen Collaboration Agreement and Takeda Collaboration Agreement, research and development expenses may include cost sharing reimbursements from, or payments to, our collaboration partners.
It is challenging to predict the nature, timing and estimated long-range costs of the efforts that will be necessary to complete the development of, and obtain regulatory approval for, any of our product candidates. This is made more challenging by events outside of our control, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and increased geopolitical uncertainty. We are also unable to predict when, if ever, material net cash inflows will commence from sales or licensing of our product candidates. This is due to the numerous risks and uncertainties associated with drug development, including the uncertainty of:
•our ability to add and retain key research and development personnel;
•our ability to establish an appropriate safety profile with IND-enabling toxicology studies;
•our ability to successfully develop, obtain regulatory approval for, and then successfully commercialize, our product candidates;
•our successful enrollment in and completion of clinical trials;
•the costs associated with the development of any additional product candidates we identify in-house or acquire through collaborations;
•our ability to discover, develop and utilize biomarkers to demonstrate target engagement, pathway engagement and the impact on disease progression of our molecules;
•our ability to establish agreements with third-party manufacturers for clinical supply for our clinical trials and commercial manufacturing, if our product candidates are approved;
•the terms and timing of any collaboration, license or other arrangement, including the terms and timing of any milestone payments thereunder;
•our ability to obtain and maintain patent, trade secret and other intellectual property protection and regulatory exclusivity for our product candidates if and when approved;
•our receipt of marketing approvals from applicable regulatory authorities;
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•our ability to commercialize products, if and when approved, whether alone or in collaboration with others; and
•the continued acceptable safety profiles of the product candidates following approval.
A change in any of these variables with respect to the development of any of our product candidates would significantly change the costs, timing and viability associated with the development of that product candidate. We expect our research and development expenses to increase at least over the next several years as we continue to implement our business strategy, advance our current programs, expand our research and development efforts, seek regulatory approvals for any product candidates that successfully complete clinical trials, access and develop additional product candidates and incur expenses associated with hiring additional personnel to support our research and development efforts. In addition, product candidates in later stages of clinical development generally incur higher development costs than those in earlier stages of clinical development, primarily due to the increased size and duration of later-stage clinical trials.
General and Administrative
General and administrative expenses include personnel related expenses, such as salaries, benefits, travel and stock-based compensation expense, expenses for outside professional services and allocated expenses. Outside professional services consist of legal, accounting and audit services and other consulting fees. Allocated expenses consist of rent, depreciation and other expenses related to our office and research and development facility not otherwise included in research and development expenses. We expect to increase our administrative headcount as we advance our product candidates through clinical development, which will increase our general and administrative expenses.
Interest and Other Income, Net
Interest and other income, net, consists primarily of interest income and investment income earned on our cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities, and sublease income.
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Results of Operations
Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022
The following table sets forth the significant components of our results of operations (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | Change | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | $ | % | ||||||||||||
| Collaboration revenue: | |||||||||||||||
| Collaboration revenue from customers | 330,531 | 105,065 | 225,466 | * | % | ||||||||||
| Other collaboration revenue | — | 3,398 | (3,398) | (100) | |||||||||||
| Total collaboration revenue | 330,531 | 108,463 | 222,068 | * | |||||||||||
| Operating expenses: | |||||||||||||||
| Research and development | 423,876 | 358,732 | 65,144 | 18 | |||||||||||
| General and administrative | 103,354 | 90,475 | 12,879 | 14 | |||||||||||
| Total operating expenses | 527,230 | 449,207 | 78,023 | 17 | |||||||||||
| Loss from operations | (196,699) | (340,744) | 144,045 | (42) | |||||||||||
| Interest and other income, net | 51,505 | 14,774 | 36,731 | * | |||||||||||
| Loss before income taxes | (145,194) | (325,970) | 180,776 | (55) | |||||||||||
| Income tax expense | (30) | (21) | (9) | 43 | |||||||||||
| Net loss | $ | (145,224) | $ | (325,991) | $ | 180,767 | (55) | % |
__________________________________________________
*Percentage is not meaningful.
Collaboration revenue. Collaboration revenue was $330.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to $108.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. The increase in collaboration revenue of $222.0 million was primarily due to $293.9 million in revenue recognized in April 2023 under the Biogen Collaboration Agreement as a result of Biogen exercising its option to license our ATV:Abeta program, partially offset by a decrease of $41.9 million in revenue earned under the Takeda Collaboration Agreement, as well as a decrease of $28.4 million in milestone revenue earned under the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement. The decreases in revenues from the Sanofi and Takeda Collaboration Agreements are due to the timing of underlying activities and achievement of milestones under the collaboration agreements.
Research and development expenses. Research and development expenses were $423.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to $358.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2022.
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The following table summarizes our research and development expenses by program and category (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | Change | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | $ | % | ||||||||||||
| ETV:IDS program external expenses | $ | 114,029 | $ | 60,872 | 53,157 | 87 | % | ||||||||
| PTV:PGRN program external expenses | 11,306 | 18,464 | (7,158) | (39) | |||||||||||
| TV platform and other program external expenses | 26,436 | 36,887 | (10,451) | (28) | |||||||||||
| LRRK2 program external expenses | 5,814 | 20,024 | (14,210) | (71) | |||||||||||
| eIF2B program external expenses | 24,426 | 14,843 | 9,583 | 65 | |||||||||||
| Other external research and development expenses | 26,923 | 33,971 | (7,048) | (21) | |||||||||||
| Personnel related expenses(1) | 160,444 | 144,017 | 16,427 | 11 | |||||||||||
| Other unallocated research and development expenses | 48,985 | 39,697 | 9,288 | 23 | |||||||||||
| Net cost sharing payments (reimbursements)(2) | 5,513 | (10,043) | 15,556 | * | |||||||||||
| Total research and development expenses | $ | 423,876 | $ | 358,732 | $ | 65,144 | 18 | % |
_________________________________________________
*Percentage is not meaningful.
(1)Personnel-related expenses include stock-based compensation expense of $62.9 million and $60.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively, reflecting an increase of $2.7 million.
(2)Net cost sharing payments (reimbursements) details are broken down as shown in the table below. The underlying costs for reimbursements are included with the specified external expenses line and personnel related expenses in the table above. ATV:TREM2 program external expenses are presented within the TV platform and other program external expenses line.
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | |||||
| Takeda: net reimbursements for ATV:TREM2 program | $ | (5,100) | $ | (6,954) | ||
| Takeda: net reimbursements for PTV:PGRN program | (7,065) | (11,276) | ||||
| Biogen: net payments for LRRK2 program | 17,678 | 8,187 | ||||
| Net cost sharing payments (reimbursements) | $ | 5,513 | $ | (10,043) |
The increase in research and development expenses of approximately $65.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to the year ended December 31, 2022 was primarily attributable to the following:
•An increase of $53.2 million in ETV:IDS program external expenses primarily due to the contingent consideration payment of $30.0 million recorded in the first quarter of 2023 related to the acquisition of F-star Gamma, which was triggered in March 2023 upon the achievement of a specified clinical milestone in the ETV:IDS program. Further, the increase reflects the continued progress of this program in clinical trials during 2023, including costs related to our ongoing Phase 1/2 study and our potentially registrational Phase 2/3 study;
•An increase of $9.6 million in eIF2B program external expenses reflecting the continued progress of the Phase 2/3 HEALEY ALS Platform Trial in 2023;
•An increase of $15.6 million in net cost sharing payments primarily due to an increase in payments to Biogen for LRRK2 program expenses, and a decrease in costs and associated reimbursements from Takeda in the PTV:PGRN and ATV:TREM2 programs;
•An increase of $9.3 million in other unallocated research and development expenses primarily due to increased facility costs as a result of accelerated depreciation on leasehold improvements associated with the termination of the previous SLC Lease as well as other general research costs;
•An increase of $16.4 million in personnel-related expenses, consisting of $13.7 million in employee compensation and $2.7 million in stock-based compensation expense in stock-based compensation expense pertaining to additional salaries, related expenses, and equity award grants driven by an increase in our research and development headcount.
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These increases were partially offset by decreases of $14.2 million in LRRK2 program external expenses due to the transition of LRRK2 clinical activities to Biogen, $10.5 million in TV platform and other program external expenses as a result of discontinuation of clinical development of TAK-920/DNL919, and $7.0 million in other external research and development expenses and $7.2 million in PTV:PGRN program external expenses due to the timing of significant external research and manufacturing related activities year over year.
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses were $103.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to $90.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. The increase of $12.9 million was primarily attributable to the following:
•An increase of $9.5 million of personnel-related expenses consisting of employee compensation and stock-based compensation expense associated with additional salary expenses and equity award grants driven primarily by higher general and administrative headcount;
•An increase of $3.4 million in professional services, facilities and other corporate costs.
Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
Refer to “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Results of Operations” in our 2022 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to the year ended December 31, 2021.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Sources of Liquidity
As of December 31, 2023, we had cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities in the amount of $1.03 billion. We fund our operations primarily with the proceeds from the sale of common stock and payments received from collaboration partners, including those received under agreements with Takeda, Sanofi, and Biogen. We have sold common stock in public offerings and stock purchase agreements with Takeda and Biogen. Through December 31, 2023 we have obtained aggregate net proceeds of approximately $754.4 million from public offerings of our common stock, including $296.2 million obtained through the sale of 11.9 million shares of common stock in October 2022. Under stock purchase agreements with collaboration partners we have received a further $575.0 million through December 31, 2023.
In February 2022, we established a registered “at-the-market” facility for the sale of up to 400.0 million of shares of common stock from time to time by entering into an equity distribution agreement with Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, SVB Securities LLC and Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. as sales agents. To date, no shares have been sold under the equity distribution agreement.
Pursuant to our collaboration agreements with Takeda, Sanofi and Biogen, through December 31, 2023 we have received upfront, option and milestone payments of $115.0 million, $225.0 million, and $560.0 million, respectively, and have also received $41.3 million and $16.2 million of gross cost sharing reimbursements from Takeda and Biogen, respectively, and $13.7 million in specified reimbursements from Sanofi.
Future Funding Requirements and Commitments
To date, we have not generated any product revenue. We do not expect to generate any product revenue unless and until we obtain regulatory approval of and commercialize any of our product candidates, and we do not know when, or if, either will occur.
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We expect to continue to incur significant losses for the foreseeable future, and we expect the losses to increase as we expand our research and development activities and continue the development of, and seek regulatory approvals for, our product candidates, and begin to commercialize any approved products. Further, we expect general and administrative expenses to increase as we continue to incur additional costs associated with supporting our growing operations. We are subject to all of the risks typically related to the development of new product candidates, and we may encounter unforeseen expenses, difficulties, complications, delays and other unknown factors that may adversely affect our business. We anticipate that we will need substantial additional funding in connection with our continuing operations.
Until we can generate a sufficient amount of revenue from the commercialization of our product candidates or from our existing collaboration agreements, or future agreements with other third parties, if ever, we expect to finance our future cash needs through public or private equity or debt financings. Additional capital may not be available on reasonable terms, if at all. If we are unable to raise additional capital in sufficient amounts or on terms acceptable to us, we may have to significantly delay, scale back or discontinue the development or commercialization of one or more of our product candidates. If we raise additional funds through the issuance of additional debt or equity securities, it could result in dilution to our existing stockholders, increased fixed payment obligations and the existence of securities with rights that may be senior to those of our common stock. If we incur indebtedness, we could become subject to covenants that would restrict our operations and potentially impair our competitiveness, such as limitations on our ability to incur additional debt, limitations on our ability to acquire, sell or license intellectual property rights and other operating restrictions that could adversely impact our ability to conduct our business. Additionally, any future collaborations we enter into with third parties may provide capital in the near term but limit our potential cash flow and revenue in the future. Any of the foregoing could significantly harm our business, financial condition and prospects.
Since our inception, we have incurred significant losses and negative cash flows from operations. We have an accumulated deficit of $1.12 billion through December 31, 2023. We expect to incur substantial additional losses in the future as we conduct and expand our research and development activities. We believe that our existing cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities will be sufficient to enable us to fund our projected operations through at least the twelve months following the filing date of this Form 10-K, including our existing commitments as outlined below. We have based this estimate on assumptions that may prove to be wrong, and we could utilize our available capital resources sooner than we currently expect. In the longer term, we anticipate that we will need substantial additional resources to fund our operations and meet future commitments.
Our existing commitments primarily relate to our obligations under existing lease agreements, and certain clinical and manufacturing agreements, including the DMSA with Lonza Sales AG ("Lonza") for the development and manufacture of biologic products. As of December 31, 2023, operating lease liabilities were $52.2 million. Under the SLC lease which was executed in April 2023, we have future undiscounted lease payments totaling approximately $13.4 million. Under the DMSA with Lonza, and certain other clinical and manufacturing agreements, we had total non-refundable purchase commitments of $74.0 million as of December 31, 2023, with certain amounts subject to cost sharing with Takeda. Further, in the normal course of business, we enter into various firm purchase commitments primarily related to research and development activities. While the lease obligations span multiple years, the majority of the purchase commitments with Lonza and other clinical and manufacturing agreements are due within twelve months, with some spanning several years. These commitments are more fully described in Note 8, "Commitments and Contingencies" to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Our future funding requirements, including changes to and new commitments, will depend on many factors, including:
•the timing and progress of preclinical and clinical development activities;
•the number and scope of preclinical and clinical programs we decide to pursue;
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•the progress of the development efforts of third parties with whom we have entered into license and collaboration agreements;
•our ability to maintain our current research and development programs and to establish new research and development, license or collaboration arrangements;
•our ability and success in securing manufacturing relationships with third parties or in establishing and operating a manufacturing facility;
•the costs involved in prosecuting, defending and enforcing patent claims and other intellectual property claims;
•the cost and timing of regulatory approvals;
•our efforts to enhance operational, financial and information management systems and hire additional personnel, including personnel to support development of our product candidates; and
•the costs and ongoing investments to in-license and/or acquire additional technologies.
A change in the outcome of any of these or other variables with respect to the development of any of our product candidates could significantly change the costs and timing associated with the development of that product candidate. Furthermore, our operating plans may change in the future, and we may need additional funds to meet operational needs and capital requirements associated with such operating plans.
Cash Flows
The following table sets forth a summary of the primary sources and uses of cash for each of the periods presented below (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | ||||||||
| Net cash used in operating activities | $ | (357,991) | $ | (244,716) | $ | (211,389) | ||||
| Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities | 249,308 | (141,387) | (21,626) | |||||||
| Net cash provided by financing activities | 17,820 | 310,670 | 19,348 | |||||||
| Net decrease in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | $ | (90,863) | $ | (75,433) | $ | (213,667) |
Net Cash Used In Operating Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2023, net cash used in operating activities was $358.0 million, which consisted of a net loss of $145.2 million, adjusted by non-cash items primarily related to stock-based compensation expense, depreciation and amortization, net amortization of premiums and (discounts) on marketable securities and non-cash rent expenses. Cash used in operating activities was also driven by changes in our operating assets and liabilities, the most significant of which was the reduction in our related-party contract liability as a result of Biogen's option exercise during the second quarter of 2023.
Net Cash Provided By (Used In) Investing Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2023, net cash provided by investing activities was $249.3 million, which consisted of $2.1 billion in proceeds from the maturities and sales of marketable securities, partially offset by $1.8 billion of purchases of marketable securities, and $12.9 million capital expenditures to purchase property and equipment.
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Net Cash Provided By Financing Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2023, net cash provided by financing activities was $17.8 million, which consisted of proceeds from the exercise of options to purchase common stock and purchases of ESPP shares.
Years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
Refer to “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources” in our 2022 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021.
Critical Accounting Estimates
This discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based on our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, as well as the reported revenues recognized and expenses incurred during the reporting periods. Our estimates are based on our historical experience and on various other factors that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. Our significant accounting policies are described in detail in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this report. We believe that the following accounting estimates involve a significant level of estimation uncertainty which could have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.
Revenue Recognition
We recognize revenue associated with our collaboration arrangements, which may require us to exercise considerable judgment in estimating revenue to be recognized, including judgments made on day one accounting and judgments associated with the amount of revenue to be recognized over time as performance obligations are satisfied.
Significant judgment is required to apply the authoritative accounting guidance at the outset of a collaboration arrangement, and over time, as detailed below:
•Identification of performance obligations - there is judgment involved in identifying the promised goods or services in the collaboration agreement, determining whether these are distinct in the context of the contract, and determining if these represent a performance obligation to a customer. These determinations are highly subjective and can differ between arrangement based on specific contractual terms. The identified performance obligations will impact most significantly the timing of revenue recognition, and is a point-in-time assessment performed at the outset of a collaboration arrangement.
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•Measurement of the transaction price - determining the transaction price includes varying levels of judgment. Where amounts are fixed and paid, such as upfront payments, estimation is not required. However, other elements of the transaction price do require estimation or assumptions by management. The calculation of a share issuance premium requires the use of a valuation model for purposes of determining the fair value of the shares for financial reporting purposes, with any resulting premium impacting the transaction price. An assumption needs to be made regarding whether future variable consideration, such as milestone payments, are constrained, which also requires management judgment. The measurement of transaction price impacts the measurement of revenue, and is performed both at the outset of a collaboration arrangement and at each reporting period. To date, we have not recognized any adjustments to revenue as a result of an adjustment to variable consideration constraint.
•Allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations - there is significant judgment required to allocate the transaction price to performance obligations. Generally, this is done by estimating the standalone selling price of identified performance obligations, and allocating on a relative value basis. The estimate of standalone selling price includes several assumptions that cannot be observed, which may include forecasted revenue (for products not yet on the market), development timelines, reimbursement rates for personnel costs, discount rates and probabilities of technical and regulatory success. The standalone selling price of performance obligations can be very sensitive to many of these underlying assumptions, which are based on management estimates since they cannot be observed. This is a point-in-time assessment performed at the outset of a collaboration arrangement.
•Recognition of revenue when (or as) we satisfy each performance obligation - determining the timing of revenue recognition includes varying levels of judgment. For revenue types recognized at a point in time, such as functional IP, there can be some judgment as to when the performance obligation has been satisfied. For revenue recognized over time, this is often based on an underlying measure deemed to approximate the progress towards satisfaction of performance obligations. These underlying measures, such as costs incurred to date compared with total forecasted costs for a service, may include inherent estimates, which in turn can impact the timing of revenue recognition. The satisfaction of performance obligations assessment is performed at each reporting period. To date, there have been no material true ups to revenue as a result of changes in the satisfaction of performance obligations.
Research and Development Expenses
A significant portion of our research and development expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss are external costs, which we track on a program-specific basis once a program has commenced a late-stage IND-enabling study. These research and development expenses include the conduct of preclinical studies and clinical trials, contract manufacturing activities and consulting services. The measurement of these research and development expenses can impact the measurement of research and development expenses in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss, and of prepaid assets and accrued liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The level of judgment required to estimate research and development expenses varies based on the nature of the services being performed and the underlying support obtained. We estimate the amount of work completed through discussions with internal personnel and external service providers as to the progress or stage of completion of the services and the agreed-upon fee to be paid for such services. As actual costs become known, we adjust our accrued estimates. Although we do not expect our estimates to be materially different from amounts actually incurred, incomplete or inaccurate data from vendors could impact our understanding of the status and timing of services performed which could result in us reporting expenses that are too high or too low in any particular period.
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In some cases, expense is recorded using an underlying assumption of the progress to completion of specific activities. For example, costs may be recognized based on the passage of time for activities that span reporting periods. If the provision of services is not linear then this assumption could impact the amount of expense recognized. For other activities, such as for certain clinical trials, expense is recorded based on information obtained from vendors as an intermediary to those performing the underlying services, such as contract research organizations. These estimates are inherently more judgmental since the quality and availability of the underlying data may vary. To date, there have been no material true ups from estimated to actual external research and development expenses. However, we expect that the level of judgment in estimating research and development expenses may increase over time as we are entering later stage, more extensive, clinical trials.
Research and development expenses also include reimbursements owed or owing to a collaboration partner to satisfy cost sharing requirements. These reimbursement amounts are estimated based, in part, on data received from our collaboration partner, which may include a certain level of estimation or judgments made by that partner. They also reflect our estimates of research and development expense as discussed above. As such, a change in estimates or judgments by either our partner or us can result in a change to a reimbursement amount. To date, there have been no material true ups from estimated to actual reimbursements owed or owing.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements included in Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a description of recent accounting pronouncements applicable to our business.
FY 2022 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0001714899-23-000049.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
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The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and the related notes to those statements included elsewhere in this report. This discussion and analysis and other parts of this report contain forward-looking statements based upon current beliefs, plans and expectations related to future events and our future financial performance that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions, such as statements regarding our intentions, plans, objectives, expectations, forecasts and projections. Our actual results and the timing of selected events could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of several factors, including those set forth under the section titled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this report.
Overview
Our goal is to discover, develop and deliver therapeutics to defeat degeneration.
Our discovery and development strategy is guided by three overarching principles that we believe will significantly increase the probability of success and accelerate the timing to bring effective therapeutics to patients with neurodegenerative diseases:
•Degenogene Pathways – each of our programs addresses a molecular target or biological pathway that is genetically validated to cause or increase the risk for neurodegenerative diseases.
•BBB Platform Technology – we engineer our product candidates to cross the BBB and act directly in the brain by following a rigorous approach in designing small molecules and by using our proprietary TV platform technology to effectively deliver large therapeutic molecules, such as enzymes, proteins, antibodies, and oligonucleotides, across the BBB after intravenous administration.
•Biomarker-Driven Development – we discover, develop and use biomarkers to inform dose selection, assess clinical activity, and to identify patients most likely to respond to our therapies.
Our clinical-stage programs are:
•our ETV:IDS program, our lead brain-penetrant ERT, enabled by our ETV, which is designed to restore IDS, and reduce GAGs, both peripherally and in the brain, in patients with MPS II, or Hunter syndrome;
•our recombinant PGRN biotherapeutic enabled by our PTV, being developed in collaboration with Takeda, to address certain types of FTD, especially FTD-GRN caused by PGRN deficiency;
•our novel, selective, high affinity TREM2 antibody, enabled by our ATV, being developed in collaboration with Takeda for the potential treatment of Alzheimer's disease;
•our LRRK2 inhibitor program, being developed in collaboration with Biogen, to address Parkinson’s disease;
•our eIF2B activator program to address diseases such as ALS and FTD;
•our CNS-penetrant RIPK1 inhibitor program, partnered with Sanofi, to address neurological diseases such as ALS, MS and Alzheimer's disease; and
•a second non-CNS penetrant RIPK1 inhibitor, partnered with Sanofi, to address peripheral inflammatory diseases such as CLE and UC.
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The following table summarizes key information about our clinical stage programs:
| Program | Product Candidate | Clinical Study(ies) | Indication | Operational Control | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ETV:IDS | DNL310 | Ph 1/2 | Hunter syndrome (MPS II) | Denali | ||||
| Ph 2/3 | ||||||||
| PTV:PGRN | TAK-594/DNL593 | Ph 1/2 | FTD-GRN | Joint with Takeda | ||||
| ATV:TREM2 | TAK-920/DNL919 | Ph 1 | Alzheimer's disease | Joint with Takeda | ||||
| LRRK2 | BIIB122/DNL151 | Ph 2b | Parkinson's disease | Joint with Biogen | ||||
| Ph 3 | ||||||||
| eIF2B | DNL343 | Ph 1b | ALS | Denali | ||||
| Ph 2/3 (planned) | ALS | Joint with Healey Center | ||||||
| RIPK1 (CNS-penetrant) | SAR443820/DNL788 | Ph 2 | ALS | Sanofi | ||||
| Ph 2 | MS | Sanofi | ||||||
| RIPK1 (Peripheral) | SAR443122/DNL758 | Ph 2 | CLE | Sanofi | ||||
| Ph 2 | UC | Sanofi |
Since we commenced operations, we have devoted substantially all of our resources to discovering, acquiring and developing product candidates, building our BBB platform technology and assembling our core capabilities in understanding key neurodegenerative disease pathways.
Key operational and financing milestones for the year ended December 31, 2022 and in 2023 to date include:
•ETV:IDS
◦In February 2022, we presented interim data from the Phase 1/2 clinical trial of DNL310 at the WORLDSymposium™ on lysosomal diseases. Longer-term data in 20 patients with MPS II continued to show sustained normalization of CSF heparan sulfate, consistent with durable CNS activity, with up to one year of intravenous dosing with DNL310. DNL310 remained generally well tolerated with a safety profile consistent with standard-of-care enzyme replacement therapy;
◦In August 2022, we announced that new longer-term interim data from the ongoing Phase 1/2 study for DNL310 (ETV:IDS) continues to show sustained normalization to healthy levels of CSF heparan sulfate and improvements in markers of lysosomal function consistent with durable CNS activity, and the safety profile with up to 85 weeks of dosing remains comparable with standard of care therapy. In addition, 49-week open label data on global impression of change continues to suggest stabilization and/or improvement in MPS II symptoms. The Phase 2/3 COMPASS study continues to enroll up to 54 participants with Hunter syndrome with and without neuronopathic disease; upon completion of the ongoing Phase 1/2 study, and together with data from the global COMPASS study, this combined data package will potentially support registration; and
◦In February 2023, at the WORLDSymposiumTM, we reported additional interim data from the open-label, single-arm Phase 1/2 study of DNL310. Over 49 weeks of DNL310 treatment in the Phase 1/2 study, positive changes across measures of exploratory clinical outcomes including VABS-II (adaptive behavior) and BSID-III (cognitive capabilities) scores and global impression scales were observed. The data also suggested that DNL310 improved hearing, as assessed by auditory brainstem response testing. Additional biomarker data out to 49 weeks continued to demonstrate that DNL310 enabled rapid and sustained normalization of CSF heparan sulfate to normal healthy levels and improvement in lysosomal function biomarkers. The DNL310 safety profile, with up to two years of treatment, remained consistent with standard of care.
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•PTV:PGRN
◦In January 2022, the CTA for TAK-594/DNL593 (PTV:PGRN) was approved by the MHRA, triggering a $12.0 million milestone payment from Takeda which was received in February 2022;
◦In March 2022, we initiated a Phase 1/2 Clinical Trial of TAK-594/DNL593 for FTD-GRN; and
◦In November 2022, we announced that interim results from Part A of the Phase 1/2 study demonstrated that single doses of TAK-594/DNL593 resulted in substantial increases in CSF progranulin levels suggesting brain delivery of TAK-594/DNL593 was achieved and has the potential to address progranulin deficiency, which drives disease progression in people living with FTD-GRN. Single doses of TAK-594/DNL593 were also generally well tolerated, based on blinded safety analysis. These data support dosing in participants with FTD-GRN in Part B of the study. Final data from Part A of the Phase 1/2 study is expected in mid 2023.
•ATV:TREM2
◦In January 2022, we announced that the TAK-920/DNL919 IND application had been placed on clinical hold by the FDA. Denali plans to continue to engage with the FDA and regulatory authorities in Europe to define the path forward for the TAK-920/DNL919 clinical program;
◦In June 2022, the CTA for TAK-920/DNL919 (ATV:TREM2) was approved, triggering a $12.0 million milestone payment from Takeda which was received in July 2022; and
◦In August 2022, dosing commenced in the Phase 1 single ascending dose study of TAK-920/DNL919 in healthy volunteers in the Netherlands. Data from the Phase 1 single ascending dose study in healthy volunteers is expected by year-end 2023;
•LRRK2
◦In May 2022, our collaboration partner Biogen commenced dosing in the global Phase 2b LUMA study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of BIIB122/DNL151, as compared to placebo in approximately 640 participants with early-stage Parkinson’s disease, which triggered a clinical milestone payment of $7.5 million owed to Genentech; and
◦In September 2022, our collaboration partner Biogen commenced dosing in the global Phase 3 LIGHTHOUSE study to evaluate the efficacy and safety profile of BIIB122/DNL151, as compared to placebo in approximately 400 participants with Parkinson’s disease and a confirmed pathogenic mutation in the leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) gene, which triggered a clinical milestone payment of $5.0 million owed to Genentech;
•RIPK1
◦In April 2022, our collaboration partner Sanofi commenced dosing in the HIMALAYA Phase 2 study of SAR443820/DNL788 expected to enroll approximately 260 participants with ALS, triggering a $40.0 million milestone payment, which was received in May 2022;
◦In November 2022, our collaboration partner Sanofi presented Phase 1 healthy volunteer data on SAR443820/DNL788 at the Annual Northeast Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis ("NEALS") Meeting demonstrating a safety profile that was well-tolerated after single ascending doses and 14 days of multiple ascending doses taken orally once or twice daily, with favorable pharmacokinetic properties and excellent CNS penetrance. These data further support the ongoing global Phase 2 HIMALAYA study in participants with ALS;
◦In December 2022, our collaboration partner Sanofi commenced dosing in the Phase 2 study of SAR443122/ DNL758 in patients with UC, triggering a $10.0 million milestone payment, which was received in December 2022; and
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◦In January 2023, our collaboration partner Sanofi commenced dosing in the Phase 2 study of SAR443820/ DNL788 in patients with MS, triggering a $25.0 million milestone payment, which was received in January 2023.
•eIF2B
◦In December 2022, we announced DNL343 interim phase 1b data in ALS and entry into the Phase 2/3 HEALEY ALS platform trial. Final data from the 28-day double-blind, placebo-controlled portion of the Phase 1b study is expected in mid-2023. and the initiation of the Phase 2/3 study in the HEALEY ALS Platform Trial is expected to occur in mid-2023.
•Other
◦In March 2022, we mutually agreed under the Takeda Collaboration Agreement to terminate activity on the ATV:Tau program over which Takeda had an option to develop and commercialize jointly with the Company;
◦In May 2022, Steve Krognes transitioned from his role as Chief Financial Officer to join the Company’s Board of Directors, and Alexander Schuth, M.D., former Chief Operating Officer and Secretary of the Company, added the Chief Financial Officer role to his responsibilities, becoming Denali’s Chief Operating and Financial Officer;
◦In October 2022, we sold 11.9 million shares of common stock (inclusive of shares sold pursuant to an overallotment option granted to the underwriters in connection with the offering) through an underwritten public offering at a price of $26.50 per share for aggregate net proceeds of approximately $296.2 million; and
◦In February 2023, we presented supportive preclinical data at the WORLD Symposium demonstrating that DNL126 reduced heparan sulfate in a dose-dependent manner in brain and CSF in an MPS IIIA model. We anticipate submitting an investigational new drug (IND) application in the first half of 2023, with Phase 1/2 recruitment activities to begin in the second half of 2023.
We do not have any products approved for sale and have not generated any product revenue since our inception. We have funded our operations primarily from the issuance and sale of convertible preferred stock, the sale of common stock in public offerings, and payments received from our collaboration agreements with Takeda, Sanofi and Biogen.
We have incurred significant operating losses to date and expect to continue to incur operating losses for the foreseeable future. Our ability to generate product revenue will depend on the successful development and eventual commercialization of one or more of our product candidates. We had net losses of $326.0 million and $290.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Due to revenue recognized from our collaboration arrangement with Biogen, we had net income of $71.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. As of December 31, 2022, we had an accumulated deficit of $971.0 million. We expect to continue to incur significant expenses and operating losses as we advance our current clinical stage programs through healthy volunteer and patient trials; broaden and improve our BBB platform technology; acquire, discover, validate and develop additional product candidates; obtain, maintain, protect and enforce our intellectual property portfolio; and hire additional personnel.
We currently rely on third-party contract manufacturers to manufacture and supply our preclinical and clinical materials to be used during the development of our product candidates. We currently do not need commercial manufacturing capacity.
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License and Collaboration Agreements
Collaborations and partnering are central components of our strategy to build, develop and commercialize our portfolio of product candidates. We have numerous arrangements with biopharmaceutical companies, technology companies, academic institutions, foundations, and patient-focused data companies.
Biogen
In August 2020, we entered into the Provisional Biogen Collaboration Agreement with Biogen pursuant to which we granted Biogen a license to co-develop and co-commercialize our LRRK2 Program, an option in respect of two Option Programs, and a right of first negotiation with respect to the ROFN Programs should we decide to seek a collaboration with a third party for such programs. In connection with the Provisional Biogen Collaboration Agreement, we also entered into a common stock purchase agreement with BIMA, pursuant to which we sold 13,310,243 shares of our common stock to BIMA for an aggregate purchase price of $465.0 million. In October 2020, we entered into the LRRK2 Agreement and the ROFN and Option Agreement with Biogen, collectively the "Biogen Collaboration Agreement." Under the terms of the Biogen Collaboration Agreement, we received $560.0 million in upfront payments in October 2020. Further details regarding the terms of the agreements between us and Biogen are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the section titled "Business - Licenses and Collaborations."
In relation to the Biogen Collaboration Agreement, we have recognized related party collaboration revenue of $3.1 million, $3.7 million, and $307.4 million in the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively, related party research and development expense of $8.2 million for cost sharing payments to Biogen in the year ended December 31, 2022, and related party offsets to research and development expense as a result of cost sharing reimbursements from Biogen of $6.5 million and $9.3 million in the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. We have recorded cost sharing payments due to a related party of $4.4 million on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2022. Through December 31, 2022, we have not received any milestone payments from Biogen and have not recorded any product sales under the Biogen Collaboration Agreement.
Sanofi
In October 2018, we entered into the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement with Sanofi pursuant to which certain small molecule CNS and peripheral RIPK1 inhibitors contributed by Sanofi and by us are being, or will be developed and commercialized. Further details regarding the terms of the agreement between us and Sanofi, and historic payments between the parties under the agreement, are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the section titled "Business - Licenses and Collaborations."
We have recognized collaboration revenue of $53.4 million, $15.0 million and $1.1 million associated with the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement in the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively, and recorded no receivable from Sanofi on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2022 and 2021. Through December 31, 2022, we had received milestone payments of $75.0 million and we had not recorded any product sales under the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement. We earned and received a further $25.0 million milestone in January 2023 upon commencement of dosing in the Phase 2 study of SAR443820/ DNL788 in patients with MS.
Takeda
In January 2018, we entered into the Takeda Collaboration Agreement pursuant to which we granted Takeda an option to develop and commercialize, jointly with us, our ATV:TREM2, PTV:PGRN and ATV:BACE1/Tau programs, the latter of which was later replaced with our ATV:Tau program. Pursuant to the terms of the Takeda Collaboration Agreement, we also entered into the Purchase Agreement with Takeda in January 2018, pursuant to which we sold 4,214,559 shares of our common stock to Takeda for an aggregate purchase price of $110.0 million.
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In November 2021 and December 2021, Takeda exercised its options for the PTV:PGRN and ATV:TREM2 programs, respectively, subsequent to which we have shared equally in the development costs for the programs. In March 2022, we mutually agreed under the Takeda Collaboration Agreement to terminate activity on the ATV:Tau program. Further details regarding the terms of the agreement between us and Takeda, and historic payments between the parties under the agreements, are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the section titled "Business - Licenses and Collaborations."
We have recognized collaboration revenue of $51.9 million, $29.9 million and $27.2 million associated with the Takeda Collaboration Agreement in the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020, respectively, and offsets to research and development expense for cost sharing reimbursements of $18.2 million and $13.7 million in the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. We recorded a receivable of $5.0 million and $13.7 million from Takeda as of December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Through December 31, 2022, we have received $55.0 million in preclinical milestone payments and $10.0 million of option exercise fees from Takeda, and we have not recorded any product sales under the Takeda Collaboration Agreement.
F-star
In August 2016, we entered into the F-star Collaboration Agreement with the F-star entities. The goal of the collaboration was the development of Fcabs to enhance delivery of therapeutics across the BBB into the brain. In connection with the entry into the F-star Collaboration Agreement, we also purchased an option to acquire all of the outstanding shares of F-star Gamma pursuant to a pre-negotiated buy-out option agreement. In May 2018, we exercised such buy-out option and entered into the F-star Purchase Agreement with the shareholders of F-star Gamma and Shareholder Representative Services LLC, pursuant to which we acquired all of the outstanding shares of F-star Gamma. As a result of the Acquisition, F-star Gamma became our wholly-owned subsidiary and the entity's name was changed to Denali BBB Holding Limited. In addition, we became a direct licensee of certain intellectual property of F-star Ltd by way of our assumption of F-star Gamma’s license agreement with F-star Ltd, dated August 24, 2016. Further details regarding the terms of the arrangements between us and the F-star entities, and historic payments between the parties under the agreements, are included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K in the section titled "Business - Licenses and Collaborations."
Through December 31, 2022 we have recognized consideration under the F-star Purchase Agreement of $19.8 million as research and development expenses, with no research and development expense recognized in the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021, or 2020. We recognized $0.1 million and $1.2 million of research and development expense related to the funding of F-star research costs for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. No research and development expense related to the funding of F-star research costs were recognized for the year ended December 31, 2022.
Genentech
In June 2016, we entered into an exclusive license agreement with Genentech. The agreement gives us access to Genentech’s LRRK2 inhibitor program. Our collaboration partner in the LRRK2 program, Biogen, is responsible for 50% of any payment obligation to Genentech under the Biogen Collaboration Agreement.
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As consideration to date, we have paid Genentech $25.0 million in the aggregate, including an upfront fee, a technology transfer fee and three clinical milestone payments, with $18.8 million of this recorded as research and development expense as incurred, after cost sharing reimbursements from Biogen. Included within this amount, in the year ended December 31, 2022, we paid Genentech a $7.5 million clinical milestone payment triggered upon the commencement of dosing in the global Phase 2b LUMA study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of BIIB122/DNL151 by Biogen, and a further $5.0 million clinical milestone payment triggered upon the commencement of dosing in the global Phase 3 LIGHTHOUSE study to evaluate the efficacy and safety profile of BIIB122/DNL151 by Biogen. Of these milestones, we recognized $6.3 million as research and development expense as incurred after cost sharing reimbursements from Biogen in the year ended December 31, 2022. There were no expenses recognized under this agreement in the years ended December 31, 2021 or 2020.
Components of Operating Results
Collaboration Revenue
To date, we have not generated any revenue from product sales and do not expect to generate any revenue from product sales for the foreseeable future. All revenue recognized to date has been collaboration and license revenue from our collaboration agreements with Takeda, Sanofi and Biogen.
Future revenue may be recognized from the Takeda Collaboration Agreement, Sanofi Collaboration Agreement, and Biogen Collaboration Agreement, and may be generated from product sales or milestone payments, royalties and cost reimbursement from other collaboration agreements, strategic alliances and licensing arrangements. We expect that our revenue will fluctuate from quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year as a result of the timing and amount of license fees, option exercise fees, milestone payments, reimbursement of costs incurred and other payments and product sales, to the extent any are successfully commercialized. If we fail to complete the development of our product candidates in a timely manner or obtain regulatory approval for them, our ability to generate future revenue, and our results of operations and financial position, would be materially adversely affected.
Operating Expenses
Research and Development
Research and development activities account for a significant portion of our operating expenses. We record research and development expenses as incurred. Research and development expenses incurred by us for the discovery and development of our product candidates and BBB platform technology include:
• external research and development expenses, including:
–expenses incurred under arrangements with third parties, such as contract research organizations ("CROs"), preclinical testing organizations, contract development and manufacturing organizations ("CDMOs"), academic and non-profit institutions and consultants;
–expenses to acquire technologies to be used in research and development that have not reached technological feasibility and have no alternative future use;
–fees related to our license and collaboration agreements;
•personnel related expenses, including salaries, benefits and stock-based compensation expense; and
•other expenses, which include direct and allocated expenses for laboratory, facilities and other costs.
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A portion of our research and development expenses are direct external expenses, which we track on a program-specific basis once a program has commenced late-stage IND-enabling studies.
Program expenses include expenses associated with our most advanced product candidates and the discovery and development of backup or next-generation molecules. We also track external expenses associated with our TV platform. These expenses include external expenses incurred by us relating to our Takeda Collaboration Agreement, Sanofi Collaboration Agreement and Biogen Collaboration Agreement. All external costs associated with earlier stage programs, or that benefit the entire portfolio, are tracked as a group. We also incur personnel and other operating expenses for our research and development programs, which are presented in aggregate. These expenses primarily relate to salaries and benefits, stock-based compensation, facility expenses including rent and depreciation, and lab consumables.
Where we share costs with our collaboration partners, such as in our Biogen Collaboration Agreement and Takeda Collaboration Agreement, research and development expenses may include cost sharing reimbursements from, or payments to, our partner.
It is challenging to predict the nature, timing and estimated long-range costs of the efforts that will be necessary to complete the development of, and obtain regulatory approval for, any of our product candidates. This is made more challenging by events outside of our control, such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and increased geopolitical uncertainty. We are also unable to predict when, if ever, material net cash inflows will commence from sales or licensing of our product candidates. This is due to the numerous risks and uncertainties associated with drug development, including the uncertainty of:
•our ability to add and retain key research and development personnel;
•our ability to establish an appropriate safety profile with IND-enabling toxicology studies;
•our ability to successfully develop, obtain regulatory approval for, and then successfully commercialize, our product candidates;
•our successful enrollment in and completion of clinical trials;
•the costs associated with the development of any additional product candidates we identify in-house or acquire through collaborations;
•our ability to discover, develop and utilize biomarkers to demonstrate target engagement, pathway engagement and the impact on disease progression of our molecules;
•our ability to establish agreements with third-party manufacturers for clinical supply for our clinical trials and commercial manufacturing, if our product candidates are approved;
•the terms and timing of any collaboration, license or other arrangement, including the terms and timing of any milestone payments thereunder;
•our ability to obtain and maintain patent, trade secret and other intellectual property protection and regulatory exclusivity for our product candidates if and when approved;
•our receipt of marketing approvals from applicable regulatory authorities;
•our ability to commercialize products, if and when approved, whether alone or in collaboration with others; and
•the continued acceptable safety profiles of the product candidates following approval.
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A change in any of these variables with respect to the development of any of our product candidates would significantly change the costs, timing and viability associated with the development of that product candidate. We expect our research and development expenses to increase at least over the next several years as we continue to implement our business strategy, advance our current programs, expand our research and development efforts, seek regulatory approvals for any product candidates that successfully complete clinical trials, access and develop additional product candidates and incur expenses associated with hiring additional personnel to support our research and development efforts. In addition, product candidates in later stages of clinical development generally incur higher development costs than those in earlier stages of clinical development, primarily due to the increased size and duration of later-stage clinical trials.
General and Administrative
General and administrative expenses include personnel related expenses, such as salaries, benefits, travel and stock-based compensation expense, expenses for outside professional services and allocated expenses. Outside professional services consist of legal, accounting and audit services and other consulting fees. Allocated expenses consist of rent, depreciation and other expenses related to our office and research and development facility not otherwise included in research and development expenses. We expect to increase our administrative headcount as we advance our product candidates through clinical development, which will increase our general and administrative expenses.
Interest and Other Income, Net
Interest and other income, net, consists primarily of interest income and investment income earned on our cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities, and sublease income.
Results of Operations
Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
The following table sets forth the significant components of our results of operations (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | Change | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 2021 | $ | % | ||||||||||||
| Collaboration revenue: | |||||||||||||||
| Collaboration revenue from customers | 105,065 | 48,657 | 56,408 | * | % | ||||||||||
| Other collaboration revenue | 3,398 | 4 | 3,394 | * | |||||||||||
| Total collaboration revenue | 108,463 | 48,661 | 59,802 | * | |||||||||||
| Operating expenses: | |||||||||||||||
| Research and development | 358,732 | 265,353 | 93,379 | 35 | |||||||||||
| General and administrative | 90,475 | 79,059 | 11,416 | 14 | |||||||||||
| Total operating expenses | 449,207 | 344,412 | 104,795 | 30 | |||||||||||
| Loss from operations | (340,744) | (295,751) | (44,993) | 15 | |||||||||||
| Interest and other income, net | 14,774 | 4,595 | 10,179 | * | |||||||||||
| Loss before income taxes | (325,970) | (291,156) | (34,814) | 12 | |||||||||||
| Income tax benefit (expense) | (21) | 575 | (596) | * | |||||||||||
| Net loss | $ | (325,991) | $ | (290,581) | $ | (35,410) | 12 | % |
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*Percentage is not meaningful.
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Collaboration revenue. Collaboration revenue was $108.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to $48.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. The increase of $59.8 million was primarily due to increases in revenue related to our collaborations with Takeda and Sanofi of $22.0 million and $38.4 million, respectively. Takeda revenue increased for the year ended December 31, 2022 primarily due to preclinical milestone payments of $24.0 million earned for CTA approvals of TAK-920/DNL919 and TAK-594/DNL593, as well as $27.9 million recognized for the performance obligation satisfaction associated with termination of the ATV:Tau program. Sanofi revenue increased for the year ended December 31, 2022 primarily due to a $40.0 million milestone payment earned in April 2022 upon dosing the first patient in a Phase 2 study of SAR443820/DNL788 in individuals with ALS, and a $10.0 million milestone earned in December 2022 upon first patient dosed in a Phase 2 study of SAR443122/DNL758 in individuals with UC, compared with a $15.0 million milestone payment recognized in the comparable period related to the initiation of a Phase 2 study of SAR443122/DNL758, as well as revenue earned for performance of Alzheimer's Disease services in 2022. This increase was partially offset by a decrease of $0.6 million in revenue recognized under our Biogen Collaboration Agreement.
Research and development expenses. Research and development expenses were $358.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to $265.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2021.
The following table summarizes our research and development expenses by program and category (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | Change | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 2021 | $ | % | ||||||||||||
| ETV:IDS program external expenses | $ | 60,872 | $ | 31,061 | 29,811 | 96 | % | ||||||||
| PTV:PGRN program external expenses | 18,464 | 13,531 | 4,933 | 36 | |||||||||||
| ATV:TREM2 program external expenses | 8,855 | 13,408 | (4,553) | (34) | |||||||||||
| TV platform and other program external expenses | 28,032 | 11,783 | 16,249 | * | |||||||||||
| LRRK2 program external expenses | 20,024 | 13,066 | 6,958 | 53 | |||||||||||
| eIF2B program external expenses | 14,843 | 15,872 | (1,029) | (6) | |||||||||||
| Other external research and development expenses | 33,971 | 30,594 | 3,377 | 11 | |||||||||||
| Personnel related expenses(1) | 144,017 | 120,382 | 23,635 | 20 | |||||||||||
| Other unallocated research and development expenses | 39,697 | 35,896 | 3,801 | 11 | |||||||||||
| Net cost sharing payments (reimbursements)(2) | (10,043) | (20,240) | 10,197 | (50) | |||||||||||
| Total research and development expenses | $ | 358,732 | $ | 265,353 | $ | 93,379 | 35 | % |
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*Percentage is not meaningful.
(1)Personnel-related expenses include stock-based compensation expense of $60.2 million and $50.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, reflecting an increase of $10.2 million.
(2)Net cost sharing reimbursements of $10.0 million includes reimbursements from Takeda for the PTV:PGRN program (included within PTV:PGRN program external program expenses and Personnel related expenses) of $11.3 million, and reimbursements from Takeda for the ATV:TREM2 program (included within ATV:TREM2 program external expenses and Personnel related expenses) of $6.9 million. Cost sharing reimbursements were partially offset by cost sharing payments of $8.2 million to Biogen. For the year ended December 31, 2021, cost sharing reimbursements from Biogen were $6.5 million for the LRRK2 program, and cost sharing reimbursements from Takeda were $7.7 million and $6.0 million relating to the PTV:PGRN and ATV:TREM2 programs, respectively.
The increase in research and development expenses of approximately $93.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to the year ended December 31, 2021 was primarily attributable to the following:
•An increase of $29.8 million in ETV:IDS program external expenses reflecting the progress of this program in clinical trials during 2022, including costs related to our ongoing Phase 1/2 study and our potentially registrational Phase 2/3 study;
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•Increases of $16.2 million and $4.9 million in TV platform and other program external expenses, and PTV:PGRN program external expenses, respectively, reflecting our continued investment in developing our TV platform and associated programs, as well as the progress in our Phase 1/2 study in PTV:PGRN;
•An increase in external expenses related to the LRRK2 program of $7.0 million primarily due to $12.5 million in clinical milestone payments owed to Genentech in the year ended December 31, 2022 triggered upon commencement of dosing in the global Phase 2b LUMA study and the global Phase 3 LIGHTHOUSE study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of BIIB122/DNL151 by our collaboration partner Biogen, partially offset by decreases in costs due to the transition of clinical activities to Biogen;
•Increases of $3.8 million and $3.4 million in other unallocated research and development expenses, and other external research and development expenses, respectively, due to our continued investment in developing our robust pipeline;
•An increase of $23.6 million in personnel-related expenses, consisting of $13.4 million in employee compensation and $10.2 million in stock-based compensation expense pertaining to additional salaries, related expenses, and equity award grants driven by an increase in our research and development headcount; and
•A decrease of $10.2 million in cost sharing reimbursements from collaboration partners due to the transition of LRRK2 clinical activities to Biogen, resulting in cost sharing reimbursements flipping to payments in 2022.
These increases were partially offset by a decrease of $4.6 million in ATV:TREM2 program external expenses, primarily due to the timing of activities year over year.
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses were $90.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to $79.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. The increase of $11.4 million was primarily attributable to the following:
•An increase of $7.1 million of personnel-related expenses consisting of employee compensation and stock-based compensation expense associated with additional salary expenses and equity award grants driven by higher general and administrative headcount;
•An increase of $2.8 million of other costs, including general corporate services, IT services and subscriptions, taxes, and travel related expenses required to support our growing business;
•An increase of $0.8 million in consulting service expenses related to investment in IT system implementation and market research for our key programs; and
•An increase of $0.7 million in facilities related expenses, including outside services, utilities, and depreciation expense reflecting our growing infrastructure.
Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
Refer to “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Results of Operations” in our 2021 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to the year ended December 31, 2020.
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Liquidity and Capital Resources
Sources of Liquidity
As of December 31, 2022, we had cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities in the amount of $1.3 billion. We fund our operations primarily with the proceeds from public offerings of our common stock, and payments received from our collaboration agreements with Takeda, Sanofi and Biogen.
In our January 2020 follow-on offering, we sold 9.0 million shares of common stock (inclusive of shares sold pursuant to an overallotment option granted to the underwriters in connection with the offering) through an underwritten public offering at a price of $23.00 per share for aggregate net proceeds of approximately $193.9 million.
In February 2022, we established a registered “at-the-market” facility for the sale of up to $400.0 million of shares of common stock from time to time by entering into an equity distribution agreement with Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, SVB Securities LLC and Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. as sales agents. We have not yet issued any shares under the facility.
In October 2022, we sold 11.9 million shares of common stock (inclusive of shares sold pursuant to an overallotment option granted to the underwriters in connection with the offering) through an underwritten public offering at a price of $26.50 per share for aggregate net proceeds of approximately $296.2 million.
Pursuant to our collaboration agreements with Takeda, Sanofi and Biogen, through December 31, 2022 we have received upfront, option and milestone payments of $105.0 million, $200.0 million, and $560.0 million, respectively, and have also received $26.9 million and $16.2 million of gross cost sharing reimbursements from Takeda and Biogen, respectively, and $13.7 million in reimbursement from Sanofi for the Phase 1b trial for DNL747 for ALS and associated activities.
Further, under associated stock purchase agreements with Takeda and Biogen, through December 31, 2022 we have received $110.0 million and $465.0 million, respectively, for the sale and issuance of shares of our common stock to collaboration partners.
Future Funding Requirements and Commitments
To date, we have not generated any product revenue. We do not expect to generate any product revenue unless and until we obtain regulatory approval of and commercialize any of our product candidates, and we do not know when, or if, either will occur.
We expect to continue to incur significant losses for the foreseeable future, and we expect the losses to increase as we expand our research and development activities and continue the development of, and seek regulatory approvals for, our product candidates, and begin to commercialize any approved products. Further, we expect general and administrative expenses to increase as we continue to incur additional costs associated with supporting our growing operations. We are subject to all of the risks typically related to the development of new product candidates, and we may encounter unforeseen expenses, difficulties, complications, delays and other unknown factors that may adversely affect our business. We anticipate that we will need substantial additional funding in connection with our continuing operations.
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Until we can generate a sufficient amount of revenue from the commercialization of our product candidates or from our existing collaboration agreements, or future agreements with other third parties, if ever, we expect to finance our future cash needs through public or private equity or debt financings. Additional capital may not be available on reasonable terms, if at all. If we are unable to raise additional capital in sufficient amounts or on terms acceptable to us, we may have to significantly delay, scale back or discontinue the development or commercialization of one or more of our product candidates. If we raise additional funds through the issuance of additional debt or equity securities, it could result in dilution to our existing stockholders, increased fixed payment obligations and the existence of securities with rights that may be senior to those of our common stock. If we incur indebtedness, we could become subject to covenants that would restrict our operations and potentially impair our competitiveness, such as limitations on our ability to incur additional debt, limitations on our ability to acquire, sell or license intellectual property rights and other operating restrictions that could adversely impact our ability to conduct our business. Additionally, any future collaborations we enter into with third parties may provide capital in the near term but limit our potential cash flow and revenue in the future. Any of the foregoing could significantly harm our business, financial condition and prospects.
We have incurred significant net losses in every year since our inception until the year ended December 31, 2022, including net losses $326.0 million and $290.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 respectively. We had net income of $71.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, as a result of revenue recognized associated with our collaboration arrangement with Biogen. We have also experienced negative cash flow from operations in every year since our inception, except in certain years in which we received significant cash inflows from collaboration partners which were recognized as revenue. As of December 31, 2022, we had an accumulated deficit of $971.0 million. We expect to incur substantial additional losses in the future as we conduct and expand our research and development activities. We believe that our existing cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities will be sufficient to enable us to fund our projected operations through at least the 12 months following the filing date of this Form 10-K, including our existing commitments as outlined below. We have based this estimate on assumptions that may prove to be wrong, and we could utilize our available capital resources sooner than we currently expect. In the longer term, we anticipate that we will need substantial additional resources to fund our operations and meet future commitments.
Our existing commitments primarily relate to our obligations under existing lease agreements and the DMSA with Lonza Sales AG ("Lonza") for the development and manufacture of biologic products. As of December 31, 2022, operating lease liabilities were $60.4 million. Under the SLC lease which has not yet commenced, we have future undiscounted lease payments totaling approximately $19.5 million. Under the DMSA with Lonza, we had total non-refundable purchase commitments of $32.3 million as of December 31, 2022, with certain amounts subject to cost sharing with Takeda. Further, in the normal course of business, we enter into various firm purchase commitments primarily related to research and development activities. We had contractual obligations under other development and manufacturing agreements of $9.6 million as of December 31, 2022, with certain amounts subject to cost sharing with Takeda. In addition, we had firm purchase commitments related to manufacturing equipment for the SLC Facility of $5.6 million and other commitments of $1.6 million as of December 31, 2022. While the lease obligations span multiple years, the vast majority of the purchase commitments with Lonza and other obligations are due within 12 months. These commitments are more fully described in Note 8, "Commitments and Contingencies" to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Our future funding requirements, including changes to and new commitments, will depend on many factors, including:
•the timing and progress of preclinical and clinical development activities;
•the number and scope of preclinical and clinical programs we decide to pursue;
•the progress of the development efforts of third parties with whom we have entered into license and collaboration agreements;
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•our ability to maintain our current research and development programs and to establish new research and development, license or collaboration arrangements;
•our ability and success in securing manufacturing relationships with third parties or in establishing and operating a manufacturing facility;
•the costs involved in prosecuting, defending and enforcing patent claims and other intellectual property claims;
•the cost and timing of regulatory approvals;
•our efforts to enhance operational, financial and information management systems and hire additional personnel, including personnel to support development of our product candidates; and
•the costs and ongoing investments to in-license and/or acquire additional technologies.
A change in the outcome of any of these or other variables with respect to the development of any of our product candidates could significantly change the costs and timing associated with the development of that product candidate. Furthermore, our operating plans may change in the future, and we may need additional funds to meet operational needs and capital requirements associated with such operating plans.
Cash Flows
The following table sets forth a summary of the primary sources and uses of cash for each of the periods presented below (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||||
| Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities | $ | (244,716) | $ | (211,389) | $ | 416,152 | ||||
| Net cash used in investing activities | (141,387) | (21,626) | (623,206) | |||||||
| Net cash provided by financing activities | 310,670 | 19,348 | 634,749 | |||||||
| Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | $ | (75,433) | $ | (213,667) | $ | 427,695 |
Net Cash (Used In) Provided by Operating Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2022, net cash used in operating activities was $244.7 million, which consisted of a net loss of $326.0 million, adjusted by non-cash items primarily related to stock-based compensation expense, depreciation and amortization, net amortization of premiums and (discounts) on marketable securities and non-cash adjustment to operating lease expenses. Net cash used in operating activities was also driven by changes in our operating assets and liabilities, including most significantly a decrease in contract liabilities of $31.3 million primarily associated with the Takeda Collaboration Agreement.
Net Cash Used In Investing Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2022, net cash used in investing activities was $141.4 million, which primarily consisted of $1.1 billion of purchases of marketable securities and $17.8 million capital expenditures to purchase property and equipment, partially offset by $991.5 million in proceeds from the maturities of marketable securities.
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Net Cash Provided By Financing Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2022, net cash provided by financing activities was $310.7 million, which consisted of $296.2 million in net cash proceeds from our follow-on offering completed in October 2022 and $14.5 million in proceeds from the exercise of options to purchase common stock and issuance of shares pursuant to our employee stock purchase plan.
Years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
Refer to “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources” in our 2021 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Critical Accounting Estimates
This discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based on our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, as well as the reported revenues recognized and expenses incurred during the reporting periods. Our estimates are based on our historical experience and on various other factors that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. Our significant accounting policies are described in detail in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this report. We believe that the following accounting estimates involve a significant level of estimation uncertainty which could have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.
Revenue Recognition
We recognize revenue associated with our collaboration arrangements, which may require us to exercise considerable judgment in estimating revenue to be recognized, including judgments made on day one accounting and judgments associated with the amount of revenue to be recognized over time as performance obligations are satisfied.
Significant judgment is required to apply the authoritative accounting guidance at the outset of a collaboration arrangement, and over time, as detailed below:
•Identification of performance obligations - there is judgment involved in identifying the promised goods or services in the collaboration agreement, determining whether these are distinct in the context of the contract, and determining if these represent a performance obligation to a customer. These determinations are highly subjective and can differ between arrangement based on specific contractual terms. The identified performance obligations will impact most significantly the timing of revenue recognition, and is a point-in-time assessment performed at the outset of a collaboration arrangement.
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•Measurement of the transaction price - determining the transaction price includes varying levels of judgment. Where amounts are fixed and paid, such as upfront payments, estimation is not required. However, other elements of the transaction price do require estimation or assumptions by management. The calculation of a share issuance premium requires the use of a valuation model for purposes of determining the fair value of the shares for financial reporting purposes, with any resulting premium impacting the transaction price. An assumption needs to be made regarding whether future variable consideration, such as milestone payments, are constrained, which also requires management judgment. The measurement of transaction price impacts the measurement of revenue, and is performed both at the outset of a collaboration arrangement and at each reporting period. To date, we have not recognized any adjustments to revenue as a result of an adjustment to variable consideration constraint.
•Allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations - there is significant judgment required to allocate the transaction price to performance obligations. Generally, this is done by estimating the standalone selling price of identified performance obligations, and allocating on a relative value basis. The estimate of standalone selling price includes several assumptions that cannot be observed, which may include forecasted revenue (for products not yet on the market), development timelines, reimbursement rates for personnel costs, discount rates and probabilities of technical and regulatory success. The standalone selling price of performance obligations can be very sensitive to many of these underlying assumptions, which are based on management estimates since they cannot be observed. This is a point-in-time assessment performed at the outset of a collaboration arrangement.
•Recognition of revenue when (or as) we satisfy each performance obligation - determining the timing of revenue recognition includes varying levels of judgment. For revenue types recognized at a point in time, such as functional IP, there can be some judgment as to when the performance obligation has been satisfied. For revenue recognized over time, this is often based on an underlying measure deemed to approximate the progress towards satisfaction of performance obligations. These underlying measures, such as costs incurred to date compared with total forecasted costs for a service, may include inherent estimates, which in turn can impact the timing of revenue recognition. The satisfaction of performance obligations assessment is performed at each reporting period. To date, there have been no material true ups to revenue as a result of changes in the satisfaction of performance obligations.
Research and Development Expenses
A significant portion of our research and development expenses in the statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss) are external costs, which we track on a program-specific basis once a program has commenced a late-stage IND-enabling study. These research and development expenses include the conduct of preclinical studies and clinical trials, contract manufacturing activities and consulting services. The measurement of these research and development expenses can impact the measurement of research and development expenses in the statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), and of prepaid assets and accrued liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The level of judgment required to estimate research and development expenses varies based on the nature of the services being performed and the underlying support obtained. We estimate the amount of work completed through discussions with internal personnel and external service providers as to the progress or stage of completion of the services and the agreed-upon fee to be paid for such services. As actual costs become known, we adjust our accrued estimates. Although we do not expect our estimates to be materially different from amounts actually incurred, incomplete or inaccurate data from vendors could impact our understanding of the status and timing of services performed which could result in us reporting expenses that are too high or too low in any particular period.
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We do not need to make significant estimates where costs incurred are supported by invoices or reports of costs incurred are obtained from a vendor that is directly performing the underlying services, such as a consultant or contract manufacturing organization. In some cases, however, expense is recorded using an underlying assumption of the progress to completion of specific activities. For example, costs may be recognized based on the passage of time for activities that span reporting periods. If the provision of services is not linear then this assumption could impact the amount of expense recognized. For other activities, such as for certain clinical trials, expense is recorded based on information obtained from vendors as an intermediary to those performing the underlying services, such as contract research organizations. These estimates are inherently more judgmental since the quality and availability of the underlying data may vary. To date, there have been no material true ups from estimated to actual external research and development expenses. However, we expect that the level of judgment in estimating research and development expenses may increase over time as we are entering later stage, more extensive, clinical trials.
Research and development expenses also include reimbursements owed or owing to a collaboration partner to satisfy cost sharing requirements. These reimbursement amounts are estimated based, in part, on data received from our collaboration partner, which may include a certain level of estimation or judgments made by that partner. They also reflect our estimates of research and development expense as discussed above. As such, a change in estimates or judgments by either our partner or us can result in a change to a reimbursement amount. To date, there have been no material true ups from estimated to actual reimbursements owed or owing.
Leases
Management exercises judgment in applying the requirements of ASC 842, including the determination as to whether certain contracts contain a lease, the type of lease in an arrangement, whether there are separate lease components, the lease consideration, and the commencement date of the lease. Further, there is significant judgment in determining the discount rate to use in estimating the lease right of use ("ROU") asset and lease liability. The discount rate is estimated using the rate implicit in the lease, if known, or alternatively is based on an estimate of our incremental borrowing rate on the date of lease commencement. A change in these assumptions could result in changes in the timing and measurement of rent expense, ROU asset and lease liability or a change in future commitment disclosures. To date, there have been no material changes to estimates relating to lease arrangements.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements included in Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a description of recent accounting pronouncements applicable to our business.
FY 2021 10-K MD&A
SEC filing source: 0001714899-22-000058.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and the related notes to those statements included elsewhere in this report. This discussion and analysis and other parts of this report contain forward-looking statements based upon current beliefs, plans and expectations related to future events and our future financial performance that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions, such as statements regarding our intentions, plans, objectives, expectations, forecasts and projections. Our actual results and the timing of selected events could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of several factors, including those set forth under the section titled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this report.
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Overview
Our goal is to discover, develop and deliver therapeutics to defeat degeneration.
Our strategy is guided by three overarching principles that we believe will significantly increase the probability of success and will accelerate the timing to bring effective therapeutics to patients with neurodegenerative diseases:
•Genetic Pathway Potential: We select our therapeutic targets and disease pathways based on genes that, when mutated, cause, or are major risk factors for, neurodegenerative diseases. We refer to these genes as degenogenes;
•Engineering Brain Delivery: We engineer our product candidates to cross the BBB and act directly in the brain; and
•Biomarker-Driven Development: We discover, develop and utilize biomarkers to select the right patient population and demonstrate target engagement, pathway engagement and impact on disease progression of our product candidates.
By executing this strategy with a team of experienced and passionately dedicated scientists and drug developers, we believe we can succeed in a field that has seen limited progress over the past several decades. We have a focused yet diversified portfolio with five clinical programs and more than fifteen programs in the preclinical development stage.
We have also developed a proprietary BBB platform technology, our transport vehicle ("TV"), which enables multiple modality-based platforms to deliver a wide range of large-molecule therapeutics across the BBB, including enzymes, antibodies, proteins and oligonucleotides. This technology is designed to engage specific BBB transport receptors, which are ubiquitously expressed in brain capillaries and facilitate transport of proteins into the brain. We are currently optimizing and broadening this platform technology.
Our clinical-stage programs are:
•our leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 ("LRRK2") inhibitor program, to be developed in collaboration with Biogen, to address Parkinson’s disease ("PD");
•our ETV:IDS program, our lead brain-penetrant enzyme replacement therapy ("ERT"), enabled by our enzyme transport vehicle ("ETV"), which is designed to restore iduronate 2-sulfatase ("IDS"), and reduce glycosaminoglycans ("GAGs"), both peripherally and in the brain, in patients with mucopolysaccharidosis II ("MPS II", or "Hunter syndrome");
•our eukaryotic initiation factor 2 B ("eIF2B") activator program to address diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ("ALS") and frontotemporal dementia ("FTD");
•our CNS-penetrant receptor interacting serine/threonine protein kinase 1 ("RIPK1") inhibitor program, partnered with Sanofi, to address neurological diseases such as ALS, multiple sclerosis ("MS") and Alzheimer's disease; and
•a second non-CNS penetrant RIPK1 inhibitor, partnered with Sanofi, to address peripheral inflammatory diseases such as cutaneous lupus erythematosus ("CLE") and ulcerative colitis.
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The following table summarizes key information about our clinical stage programs:
| Program | Product Candidate(s) | Clinical Phase | Indication(s) | Operational Control | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LRRK2 | BIIB122/DNL151 | Ph 1 and Ph 1b complete | PD | Joint with Biogen | ||||
| ETV:IDS | DNL310 | Ph 1/2 | Hunter syndrome (MPS II) | Denali | ||||
| eIF2B | DNL343 | Ph 1b (in ALS) | ALS and FTD | Denali | ||||
| RIPK1 (CNS-penetrant) | SAR443820/DNL788 | Ph 1 complete | Neurological diseases | Sanofi | ||||
| RIPK1 (Peripheral) | SAR443122/DNL758 | Ph 2 | CLE | Sanofi |
To complement our internal capabilities, we have entered into arrangements with biopharmaceutical companies, patient-focused data companies, numerous leading academic institutions and foundations to gain access to new product candidates, enable and accelerate the development of our existing programs and deepen our scientific understanding of certain areas of biology. We currently rely on third-party contract manufacturers to manufacture and supply our preclinical and clinical materials to be used during the development of our product candidates. We currently do not need commercial manufacturing capacity.
Since we commenced operations, we have devoted substantially all of our resources to discovering, acquiring and developing product candidates, building our BBB platform technology and assembling our core capabilities in understanding key neurodegenerative disease pathways.
Key operational and financing milestones for the year ended December 31, 2021 and in 2022 to date include:
•LRRK2
◦In January 2021, we announced completion of the BIIB122/DNL151 Phase 1b study in Parkinson’s patients. In March 2021, we completed our Phase 1 study of BIIB122/DNL151. In May 2021, we presented results from both studies at the International Association of Parkinsonism and Related Disorders Virtual Congress held on May 1-4. BIIB122/DNL151 was generally well tolerated, and target engagement and pathway engagement biomarker goals were met;
◦In September 2021, at Biogen’s R&D Day event, we provided a progress update on our collaboration with Biogen to develop BIIB122/DNL151 for PD. Together with Biogen, we highlighted data supporting the advancement to late-stage clinical development and ongoing start-up activities for BIIB122/DNL151 in preparation to commence PD studies. As previously announced, two studies are planned: one in participants with PD who do not carry a LRRK2 mutation and another in PD participants with LRRK2 mutations. Biogen will lead operationalization and conduct of these studies;
•ETV:IDS
◦In February 2021, we reported three-month data from Cohort A (n=5) in a Phase 1/2 study of DNL310 in patients with Hunter syndrome. The data showed that DNL310 treatment resulted in normalization of GAG levels in cerebrospinal fluid ("CSF") and a safety and tolerability profile consistent with standard of care ERT;
◦In March 2021, we announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ("FDA") granted Fast Track designation to DNL310 for the treatment of patients with Hunter syndrome;
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◦In July 2021, we reported positive interim data from the Phase 1/2 study of ETV:IDS (DNL310) in patients with Hunter syndrome (MPS II). The data demonstrated durability of effect with CNS impact, improved peripheral activity after switching from standard of care, and a safety profile consistent with standard of care enzyme replacement therapy. Furthermore, initial indications of improved clinical symptoms and function, assessed as exploratory endpoints, were reported by investigators and parents in all five patients enrolled in Cohort A. We also shared data from Cohort B, which is designed to inform dose selection; exploratory biomarker data demonstrated activity of DNL310 across all dose regimens. Based on these data, we began enrolling Cohort C in the Phase 1/2 study to further investigate clinical endpoints, and we plan to initiate a pivotal Phase 2/3 study of DNL310 in the first half of 2022;
◦On February 10, 2022, we reported longer-term and additional patient data across Cohorts A and B in the ongoing Phase 1/2 clinical trial. Longer-term data in 20 patients show sustained normalization to healthy levels of CSF heparan sulfate and improvements in markers of lysosomal function consistent with durable CNS activity, now with up to one year of intravenous dosing with DNL310. Across Cohorts A (n=5) and B (n=15), all patients had normalized levels of heparan sulfate in CSF by Week 24 of treatment with DNL310, which were sustained in all 5 patients from Cohort A at Week 49. Rapid response was observed in most patients after 4 to 6 weekly intravenous doses of DNL310, including in patients on lower dose regimens of DNL310. Furthermore, the observed decline in urine and serum heparan sulfate was consistent with improved peripheral activity with DNL310. These results are consistent with robust and efficient crossing of the BBB by DNL310 and durable activity in the CNS. Furthermore, the observed decline in urine heparan and dermatan sulfate, as well as CSF dermatan sulfate, was consistent with increased peripheral and central activity with DNL310 compared to standard-of-care, respectively. Exploratory lysosomal lipid biomarker data showed further reductions with longer duration of treatment with DNL310, consistent with improved lysosomal function. Exploratory clinical outcomes data at Week 24 from Cohort A (n=5), and now including Cohort B (n=12; 3 of 15 total patients had not reached Week 24 at the time of the data cut in September 2021), suggest improved clinical symptoms and function in the majority of patients as reported by investigators and parents/caregivers. The safety profile of DNL310, which included data up to Weeks 56 and 39 from Cohorts A and B, respectively, remained consistent with standard-of-care enzyme replacement therapy. The safety profile of DNL310, which now includes data up to Weeks 56 and 39 from Cohorts A and B, respectively, remains consistent with standard-of-care enzyme replacement therapy. DNL310 was generally well tolerated with the most common treatment-emergent adverse events being infusion-related reactions ("IRRs"). IRRs occurred in 15 of 20 (75%) patients;
•eIF2B
◦In October 2021, we presented results from a Phase 1 healthy volunteer study demonstrating that DNL343 met safety and biomarker goals. The Phase 1 data supported initiation of a Phase 1b study in participants with ALS, which commenced dosing in August 2021;
•RIPK1
◦In June 2021, we announced that our collaboration partner Sanofi commenced dosing in a Phase 2 study of SAR443122/DNL758, a peripherally-restricted small molecule inhibitor of RIPK1, in patients with CLE, triggering a $15.0 million milestone which was received in July 2021;
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◦In October 2021, we announced that our collaboration partner Sanofi advanced development of SAR443820/DNL788 in ALS and that the U.S. FDA granted SAR443820/DNL788 Fast Track designation for the potential treatment of ALS. Results from a Phase 1 study of SAR443820/DNL788 in healthy volunteers demonstrated robust target engagement at doses that were generally well tolerated. Sanofi plans to initiate the Phase 2 study in ALS, named HIMALAYA, in Q1 2022;
◦In January 2022, we announced that Sanofi also plans to initiate a Phase 2 trial of SAR443820/ DNL788 in multiple sclerosis, and a Phase 2 trial of SAR443122/ DNL758 in patients with ulcerative colitis;
•PTV:PGRN and ATV:TREM2
◦In January 2021, GLP toxicology studies were initiated for DNL919 (ATV:TREM2), triggering the second preclinical milestone payment under the Takeda Collaboration Agreement of $8.0 million, which was received in March 2021;
◦In November 2021 and January 2022 we announced that Takeda exercised its options, pursuant to our existing collaboration agreement to co-develop and co-commercialize DNL593 (PTV:PGRN) and DNL919 (ATV:TREM2), respectively, triggering option exercise fees of $5.0 million for each program, which were both received in December 2021;
◦On January 13, 2022, we announced that the DNL919 (ATV:TREM2) IND application had been placed on clinical hold by the FDA. We received a formal clinical hold letter and are moving forward to address the FDA’s observations related to the preclinical toxicology assessment and to provide the information requested to initiate clinical studies, including proposed changes to the clinical trial protocol, the informed consent form, and the investigator brochure. We expect a delay of at least 3 months to our plans to begin dosing in a first-in-human clinical trial of DNL919. We intend to provide an update once a clear path forward is established;
◦In January 2022, the CTA for DNL593 was approved by the MHRA, triggering a $12.0 million milestone from Takeda which was received in February 2022. We expect to commence dosing of DNL593 in healthy volunteers in a Phase 1/2 clinical trial in Q1 2022. Pending initial clinical data from the Phase 1/2 study, we expect to begin dosing participants with FTD-GRN in the second half of 2022;
•Other
◦In January 2021, following achievement of human biomarker proof of concept with DNL310 for Hunter syndrome, we announced the addition of five new brain-penetrant ERT programs in our ETV portfolio including: (1) ETV:Gcase for Gaucher disease and Parkinson’s disease; (2) ETV:GAA for Pompe disease; (3) ETV:IDUA for MPS I; (4) ETV:NAGLU for MPS IIIB; and (5) ETV:ARSA for metachromatic leukodystrophy ("MLD"); and
◦In August 2021, we entered into a lease for approximately 65,000 square feet of laboratory, office and warehouse premises in Salt Lake City, Utah ("SLC lease"). The build-out of the Utah site to expand our clinical manufacturing capabilities for biologic therapeutics (large molecules) has been initiated. We plan to use the premises for the manufacture of materials for toxicology studies and drug substance for early human clinical studies with the goal of increasing flexibility and speed in advancing new investigational therapies into clinical trials.
We do not have any products approved for sale and have not generated any product revenue since our inception. We have funded our operations primarily from the issuance and sale of convertible preferred stock, the sale of common stock in public offerings, and payments received from our collaboration agreements with Takeda, Sanofi and Biogen.
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We have incurred significant operating losses to date and expect to continue to incur operating losses for the foreseeable future. Our ability to generate product revenue will depend on the successful development and eventual commercialization of one or more of our product candidates. We had net losses of $290.6 million and $197.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2019, respectively. Due to revenue recognized from our collaboration arrangement with Biogen, we had net income of $71.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. As of December 31, 2021, we had an accumulated deficit of $645.0 million. We expect to continue to incur significant expenses and operating losses as we advance our current clinical stage programs through healthy volunteer and patient trials; broaden and improve our BBB platform technology; acquire, discover, validate and develop additional product candidates; obtain, maintain, protect and enforce our intellectual property portfolio; and hire additional personnel.
License and Collaboration Agreements
Takeda
In January 2018, we entered into the Collaboration Agreement with Takeda (“Takeda Collaboration Agreement”) pursuant to which we granted Takeda an option with respect to three of our programs to develop and commercialize, jointly with us, certain biologic products that are enabled by our BBB delivery technology and intended for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. The three programs were our ATV:BACE1/Tau, ATV:TREM2 and PTV:PGRN programs. The Takeda Collaboration Agreement became effective in February 2018 when the requirements of the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 ("HSR") were satisfied. In February 2019, we amended the Takeda Collaboration Agreement to replace the ATV:BACE1/Tau program with the ATV:Tau program.
Under the terms of the Takeda Collaboration Agreement, Takeda paid us a $40.0 million upfront payment, and is obligated to pay us up to an aggregate of $25.0 million with respect to each of the three programs under the Takeda Collaboration Agreement directed to a target and based upon the achievement of certain preclinical milestone events, up to $75.0 million in total, of which we have earned and received $31.0 million to date. Takeda is also obligated to pay us a $5.0 million option fee for each target for which Takeda exercises its option, up to $15.0 million in total. Option fees of $10.0 million were triggered in the year ended December 31, 2021 as a result of Takeda's opt-ins on the PTV:PGRN and ATV:TREM2 programs.
Pursuant to the terms of the Takeda Collaboration Agreement, we entered into the Purchase Agreement with Takeda in January 2018, pursuant to which we agreed to issue and sell, and Takeda agreed to purchase, 4,214,559 shares of our common stock for an aggregate purchase price of $110.0 million. We closed the sale of the 4,214,559 shares of our common stock to Takeda on February 23, 2018.
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After Takeda exercises its option for a particular target, we and Takeda will share equally the development and commercialization costs, and, if applicable, the profits, for each collaboration program. However, for each collaboration program, we may elect not to continue sharing development and commercialization costs, or Takeda may elect to terminate our cost-profit sharing rights and obligations if, following notice from Takeda and a cure period, we fail to satisfy our cost sharing obligations with respect to the relevant collaboration program. After such an election by us or termination by Takeda becomes effective, we will no longer be obligated to share in the development and commercialization costs for the relevant collaboration program, and we will not share in any profits from that collaboration program. Instead we will be entitled to receive tiered royalties. The royalty rates will be in the low- to mid-teen percentages on net sales, or low- to high-teen percentages on net sales if we have met a certain co-funding threshold at the time of our election to opt out of co-development or Takeda’s termination of our cost-profit sharing rights and obligations, and, in each case, these royalty rates will be subject to certain reductions specified in the Takeda Collaboration Agreement. Takeda will pay these royalties to us for each biologic product included in the relevant collaboration program, on a country-by-country basis, until the latest of (i) the expiration of certain patents covering the relevant biologic product, (ii) the expiration of all regulatory exclusivity for that biologic product, and (iii) an agreed period of time after the first commercial sale of that biologic product in the applicable country, unless biosimilar competition in excess of a significant level specified in the Takeda Collaboration Agreement occurs earlier, in which case Takeda’s royalty obligations in the applicable country would terminate.
In addition, if Takeda exercises its option for all three collaboration programs, Takeda may be obligated to pay us up to an aggregate of $407.5 million upon achievement of certain clinical milestone events and up to an aggregate of $300.0 million in regulatory milestone events relating to receipt of regulatory approval in the United States, certain European countries and Japan. Takeda may also be obligated to pay us up to $75.0 million per biologic product upon achievement of a certain sales-based milestone, or an aggregate of $225.0 million if one biologic product from each program achieves this milestone.
We have recognized collaboration revenue of $29.9 million, $27.2 million and $5.9 million associated with the Takeda Collaboration Agreement in the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and an offset to research and development expense for cost sharing reimbursements of $13.7 million in the year ended December 31, 2021. We recorded a receivable of $13.7 million and $8.0 million from Takeda as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Through December 31, 2021, we have received $31.0 million in preclinical milestone payments and $10.0 million of option exercise fees from Takeda and have not recorded any product sales under the Takeda Collaboration Agreement.
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Sanofi
In October 2018, we entered into the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement with Sanofi pursuant to which certain small molecule CNS and peripheral RIPK1 inhibitors contributed by Sanofi and by us will be developed and commercialized. The Sanofi Collaboration Agreement became effective in November 2018 when the HSR requirements were satisfied. Under the terms of the Collaboration Agreement, Sanofi paid us a $125.0 million upfront payment. Under the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement, Sanofi is required to make milestone payments up to approximately $1.1 billion upon achievement of certain clinical, regulatory and sales milestone events. Such milestone payments include $215.0 million in clinical milestone payments and $385.0 million in regulatory milestone payments for CNS Products, as defined, that are developed and approved in the United States, by the European Medicines Agency ("EMA") and in Japan for three indications, including Alzheimer's disease. These milestones also include $120.0 million in clinical milestone payments, $175.0 million in regulatory milestone payments and $200.0 million in commercial milestone payments for Peripheral Products, as defined, that are developed and approved in the United States, by the EMA and in Japan for three indications. Through December 31, 2021, we have received milestone payments of $25.0 million under the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement.
We will share profits and losses equally with Sanofi for CNS Products sold in the United States and China, and receive variable royalties on net sales for CNS Products sold outside of the United States and China and for Peripheral Products sold worldwide, each as further described below. RIPK1 Inhibitors contributed by Sanofi and developed and commercialized under the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement will be subject to lower milestone and royalty payments to us compared to RIPK1 Inhibitors contributed by us. We will also retain responsibility for certain payment obligations under our agreement with an academic institution which licensed certain intellectual property to us that we are sublicensing to Sanofi under the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement.
We and Sanofi will jointly develop CNS Products pursuant to a global development plan. We will be responsible, at our cost, for conducting Phase 1 and Phase 2 trials for CNS Products in Alzheimer’s disease and any activities required to support such clinical trials and specific for Alzheimer’s disease ("Denali CNS Development Activities"). Sanofi is responsible, at its cost, for all other Phase 1 and Phase 2 trials for CNS Products, including for ALS and multiple sclerosis. Sanofi will lead the conduct of all Phase 3 and later stage development trials for CNS Products, with Sanofi and us funding 70% and 30% of such costs, respectively. We have the ability to opt out of the cost-profit sharing provisions of the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement, as further described below.
Sanofi will lead commercialization activities globally for CNS Products. We may elect to conduct certain co-commercialization activities outside of MS with respect to each CNS Product in the United States and/or China, provided that the cost-profit sharing provisions of the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement for the relevant CNS Product are still in effect, as further described below.
We may opt out of the cost-profit sharing provisions of the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement for CNS Products in the United States and China on a CNS Product-by-CNS Product and country-by-country basis. Sanofi may also terminate our cost-profit sharing provisions of the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement in its entirety if, following notice from Sanofi and a cure period, we fail to satisfy our cost-sharing obligations. After such an opt out by us or termination by Sanofi, we will no longer be obligated to share in the development and commercialization costs for the applicable CNS Products and we will not share in the applicable profits from such CNS Products. Instead, we will be entitled to receive tiered royalties on net sales of the applicable CNS Products in the relevant country (or countries). The royalty rates will be a percentage in the low double digits to mid-teens, but may increase to the mid-teens to low-twenties percentages for all countries in which Sanofi is paying royalties on the applicable CNS products, if we have met certain co-funding thresholds at the time of our election or Sanofi’s termination of our cost-profit sharing rights and obligations.
Sanofi will be responsible, at its cost, for conducting activities relating to the development and commercialization of all Peripheral Products. Sanofi will lead commercialization activities globally for Peripheral Products. We will be entitled to receive tiered royalties in the low- to mid- teen percentages on net sales of Peripheral Products.
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We have recognized collaboration revenue of $15.0 million, $1.1 million and $20.8 million associated with the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement in the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively, and recorded no receivable from Sanofi, and a receivable of $44,303 on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Through December 31, 2021, we have received milestone payments of $25.0 million and have not recorded any product sales under the Sanofi Collaboration Agreement.
Biogen
In August 2020, we entered into the Provisional Biogen Collaboration Agreement with Biogen pursuant to which we granted Biogen a license to co-develop and co-commercialize our LRRK2 Program, an option in respect of two Option Programs, and a right of first negotiation with respect to the ROFN Programs should we decide to seek a collaboration with a third party for such programs. In October 2020, we entered into the LRRK2 Agreement and the ROFN and Option Agreement with Biogen. The material terms of the LRRK2 Agreement and the ROFN and Option Agreement were consistent with, and superseded, the Provisional Biogen Collaboration Agreement.
The LRRK2 Agreement
The LRRK2 Agreement includes our LRRK2 Products that penetrate the BBB, including DNL201 and BIIB122/DNL151, as well as those that do not penetrate the BBB. Based on the totality of preclinical and clinical data to date, both DNL201 and BIIB122/DNL151 (two chemically distinct LRRK2 inhibitors) have met our requirements to proceed into further late-stage clinical testing, however, BIIB122/DNL151 has been selected to proceed due to pharmacokinetic properties that provide additional dosing regimen flexibility.
Under the terms of the LRRK2 Agreement, Biogen paid us a $400.0 million upfront payment in October 2020. With respect to the LRRK2 Program, Biogen is required to make milestone payments up to approximately $1.125 billion upon achievement of certain development and sales milestone events. Such milestone payments include $375.0 million in development, $375.0 million upon first commercial sale, and $375.0 million in net sales-based milestones. We will share profits and losses equally with Biogen for LRRK2 Products in the United States and will share profits and losses in China with Biogen sharing 60% of such profits and losses and us sharing 40% of such profits and losses. We will be entitled to receive royalties in the high teens to low twenties percentages on net sales for LRRK2 Products outside of the United States and China.
We and Biogen are jointly developing LRRK2 Products pursuant to a clinical development plan set forth within the LRRK2 Agreement. We and Biogen will share responsibility and costs for global development of LRRK2 Products pursuant to a mutually agreed development plan and budget " LRRK2 Development Activities"), with Biogen funding 60% of such costs and us funding 40% of such costs. We have the ability to opt out of the development cost sharing arrangement, as further described below. Biogen will lead commercialization activities globally for LRRK2 Products. We will co-commercialize the LRRK2 Products with Biogen in the United States and China, provided that the profit-sharing arrangement for the LRRK2 Products is still in effect, as further described below.
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We may opt out of development cost sharing worldwide and upon such election, from any further profit-sharing from the LRRK2 Program. We also have the right to opt-out of the profit-sharing arrangement for the LRRK2 Program or for only those LRRK2 Products that do not penetrate the BBB (“Peripheral LRRK2 Products”), in each of the United States and China. After such an opt out, we will no longer be obligated to share in the development and commercialization costs for, or be entitled to share in the applicable revenues from, such LRRK2 Program (or from the Peripheral LRRK2 Products) for such country, as applicable. If we choose to exercise our opt out rights, we will be entitled to receive tiered royalties on net sales of the applicable LRRK2 Program in the relevant country (or countries). The royalty rates for the applicable LRRK2 Program will be a percentage in the high teens to low twenties, but may increase to the low twenties to mid-twenties, if we have met certain co-funding thresholds or there has been a first commercial sale at the time of our election.
The ROFN and Option Agreement
In addition to the LRRK2 Program, Biogen also received an exclusive option to license two preclinical programs enabled by our TV technology platform, including our ATV:Abeta program and a second program utilizing our TV technology for an unnamed target, excluding small molecules, AAVs and oligonucleotides. Biogen’s option may be triggered up to initiation of IND-enabling studies for each program and continues for each program until a specified period of time after delivery of an option data package or 30 business days after the 5th anniversary of the effective date of the Provisional Biogen Collaboration Agreement, whichever is earlier.
Further, Biogen will have the right of first negotiation on two additional TV-enabled therapeutics within the field of Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, ALS or multiple sclerosis should we decide to seek a collaboration with a third party for such programs, but this does not include any of our small molecule, AAVs or oligonucleotide programs. The ROFN period continues until seven years after the effective date of the Provisional Biogen Collaboration Agreement or the date on which we have offered Biogen two ROFN Programs and for which Biogen has agreed to trigger a ROFN for such program, whichever is earlier. However, if we do not execute an agreement with a third party with respect to a particular ROFN Program offered to Biogen within a specified amount of time, then Biogen will have one additional right to exercise the ROFN again with respect to such ROFN Program.
Under the ROFN and Option Agreement, Biogen paid us a $160 million upfront payment in October 2020. With respect to the options granted by us to Biogen, if exercised, Biogen is obligated to pay to us an aggregate of up to $270 million in option exercise and development milestone payments and an aggregate of up to $325.0 million upon first commercial sale, and up to $290.0 million of net sales-based milestone payments, following the achievement of certain prespecified milestone events and if Biogen exercises both of its options. Furthermore, Biogen is obligated to pay us royalties in the mid-single digit to mid-teens percentages, depending on the program for which Biogen exercises its option and upon the achievement of certain sales thresholds.
In addition, if Biogen exercises its ROFN with respect to an eligible Denali program, the parties are obligated to negotiate in good faith for a specified period of time regarding the financial and other terms of an agreement pursuant to which Biogen would obtain rights to such program.
Common Stock Purchase Agreement
In August 2020, in connection with the Provisional Biogen Collaboration Agreement, we entered into a common stock purchase agreement (the “Stock Purchase Agreement”) with BIMA, pursuant to which we agreed to issue and sell, and BIMA agreed to purchase, 13,310,243 shares of our common stock (the “Shares”) for an aggregate purchase price of $465.0 million pursuant to the terms and conditions thereof. The sale of the Shares closed, and payment was received, in September 2020.
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In relation to the Biogen Collaboration Agreement, we have recognized related party collaboration revenue of $3.7 million and $307.4 million and a related party offset to research and development expense of $6.5 million and $9.3 million in the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. We have recorded cost sharing reimbursements due from Biogen of $1.2 million on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2021. Through December 31, 2021, we have not received any milestone payments from Biogen and have not recorded any product sales under the Biogen Collaboration Agreement.
F-star
In August 2016, we entered into a License and Collaboration Agreement ("F-star Collaboration Agreement") with F-star Gamma Limited (“F-star Gamma”), F-star Biotechnologische Forschungs-und Entwicklungsges m.b.H ("F-star GmbH") and F-star Biotechnology Limited ("F-star Ltd") (collectively, “F-star”). The goal of the collaboration is the development of Fcabs to enhance delivery of therapeutics across the BBB into the brain. The collaboration leverages F-star’s modular antibody technology and our expertise in the development of therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. In connection with the entry into the F-star Collaboration Agreement, we also purchased an option for an upfront option fee of $0.5 million (the "buy-out-option"), to acquire all of the outstanding shares of F-star Gamma pursuant to a pre-negotiated buy-out option agreement (the "Option Agreement").
In May 2018, we exercised such buy-out option and entered into a Share Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with the shareholders of F-star Gamma and Shareholder Representative Services LLC, pursuant to which we acquired all of the outstanding shares of F-star Gamma (the “Acquisition”).
As a result of the Acquisition, F-star Gamma became our wholly-owned subsidiary and the entity's name was changed to Denali BBB Holding Limited. In addition, we became a direct licensee of certain intellectual property of F-star Ltd by way of our assumption of F-star Gamma’s license agreement with F-star Ltd, dated August 24, 2016, (the “F-star Gamma License”). We made initial exercise payments of $18.0 million in aggregate under the Purchase Agreement and the F-star Gamma License, less the net liabilities of F-star Gamma, which were approximately $0.2 million. In addition, we are required to make future contingent payments, to F-star Ltd and the former shareholders of F-star Gamma, up to a maximum amount as of the date of acquisition of $447.0 million in the aggregate upon the achievement of certain defined preclinical, clinical, regulatory and commercial milestones. These include up to $27.0 million in preclinical contingent payments, $50.0 million in clinical contingent payments, $120.0 million in regulatory contingent payments and $250.0 million in commercial contingent payments. The amount of the contingent payments will vary based on whether F-star delivers an Fcab (constant Fc-domains with antigen-binding activity) that meets pre-defined criteria and whether the Fcab has been identified solely by us or solely by F-star Ltd. or jointly by us and F-star Ltd. In June 2019, we made a payment of $1.5 million to F-star Ltd upon the achievement of a specified preclinical milestone in our ETV:IDS program.
Under the terms of the original F-star Collaboration Agreement, we could nominate up to three Fcab targets (“Accepted Fcab Targets”) within the first three years of the date of the F-star Collaboration Agreement. Upon entering into the F-star Collaboration Agreement, we selected transferrin receptor (“TfR”) as the first Accepted Fcab Target and paid F-star Gamma an upfront fee of $5.5 million, which included selection of the first Accepted Fcab Target. In May 2018, we exercised our right to nominate two additional Fcab Targets and identified a second Accepted Fcab Target. We made a one-time payment for the two additional Accepted Fcab Targets of $6.0 million in the aggregate and extended the time period for our selection of the third Accepted Fcab Target until approximately the fourth anniversary of the date of the original F-star Collaboration Agreement, or August 2020. We did not identify a third Fcab Target.
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We recognized $1.5 million of consideration as research and development expense in the year ended December 31, 2019, after which $19.8 million of total consideration was recognized, which remains unchanged through December 31, 2021. No research and development expense was recognized for consideration under the F-star Purchase Agreement in the years ended December 31, 2021. We recognized an additional $0.1 million, $1.2 million and $1.1 million of research and development expense related to the funding of F-star research costs for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, respectively. In July 2021, we executed a side letter to our agreements with F-star which confirmed the completion of the research services performed by F-star Ltd that were funded by us.
Genentech
In June 2016, we entered into an Exclusive License Agreement with Genentech. The agreement gives us access to Genentech’s LRRK2 inhibitor program. As consideration to date, we have paid Genentech $12.5 million in the aggregate, including an upfront fee, a technology transfer fee and a clinical milestone payment, all of which was recorded as research and development expense as incurred. No amounts were recorded in the years ended December 31, 2021 or 2020. The first clinical milestone payment of $12.5 million was recorded as research and development expense during the year ended December 31, 2017.
We may owe Genentech milestone payments upon the achievement of certain development, regulatory, and commercial milestones, up to a maximum of $315.0 million in the aggregate. These milestones include up to $37.5 million in clinical milestone payments, $102.5 million in regulatory milestone payments and $175.0 million in commercial milestone payments. In addition, we may owe royalties on net sales of licensed products ranging from low to high single-digit percentages, with the exact royalty rate dependent on various factors, including (i) whether the compound incorporated in the relevant licensed product is a Genentech-provided compound or a compound acquired or developed by us, (ii) the date a compound was first discovered, derived or optimized by us, (iii) the existence of patent rights covering the relevant licensed product in the relevant country, (iv) the existence of orphan drug exclusivity covering a licensed product that is a Genentech-provided compound and (v) the level of annual net sales of the relevant licensed product. We also have the right to credit a certain amount of third-party royalty and milestone payments against royalty and milestone payments owed to Genentech, up to a maximum reduction of fifty percent. Under the terms of our LRRK2 Agreement with Biogen, Biogen is responsible for 50% of any payment obligation to Genentech under this agreement accruing after October 2020.
Unless earlier terminated, the agreement with Genentech will continue in effect until all of our royalty and milestone payment obligations to Genentech expire. Following expiration of the agreement, we will retain the licenses under the intellectual property Genentech licensed to us on a non-exclusive, royalty-free basis.
Components of Operating Results
Collaboration Revenue
To date, we have not generated any revenue from product sales and do not expect to generate any revenue from product sales for the foreseeable future. All revenue recognized to date has been collaboration and license revenue from our collaboration agreements with Takeda, Sanofi and Biogen.
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In the future, we will continue to recognize revenue from the Takeda Collaboration Agreement, Sanofi Collaboration Agreement, and Biogen Collaboration Agreement, and may generate revenue from product sales or milestones, royalties and cost reimbursement from other collaboration agreements, strategic alliances and licensing arrangements. We expect that our revenue will fluctuate from quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year as a result of the timing and amount of license fees, milestones, reimbursement of costs incurred and other payments and product sales, to the extent any are successfully commercialized. If we fail to complete the development of our product candidates in a timely manner or obtain regulatory approval for them, our ability to generate future revenue, and our results of operations and financial position, would be materially adversely affected.
Operating Expenses
Research and Development
Research and development activities account for a significant portion of our operating expenses. We record research and development expenses as incurred. Research and development expenses incurred by us for the discovery and development of our product candidates and BBB platform technology include:
• external research and development expenses, including:
–expenses incurred under arrangements with third parties, such as contract research organizations ("CROs"), preclinical testing organizations, contract development and manufacturing organizations ("CDMOs"), academic and non-profit institutions and consultants;
–expenses to acquire technologies to be used in research and development that have not reached technological feasibility and have no alternative future use;
–fees related to our license and collaboration agreements;
•personnel related expenses, including salaries, benefits and stock-based compensation expense; and
•other expenses, which include direct and allocated expenses for laboratory, facilities and other costs.
A portion of our research and development expenses are direct external expenses, which we track on a program-specific basis once a program has commenced late-stage IND-enabling studies.
Program expenses include expenses associated with our most advanced product candidates and the discovery and development of backup or next-generation molecules. We also track external expenses associated with our TV platform. These expenses include those incurred by us relating to our Takeda Collaboration Agreement, Sanofi Collaboration Agreement and Biogen Collaboration Agreement. All external costs associated with earlier stage programs, or that benefit the entire portfolio, are tracked as a group. We do not track personnel or other operating expenses incurred for our research and development programs on a program-specific basis. These expenses primarily relate to salaries and benefits, stock-based compensation, facility expenses including rent and depreciation, and lab consumables.
Where we share costs with our collaboration partners, such as in our Biogen Collaboration Agreement and Takeda Collaboration Agreement, research and development expenses may include cost sharing reimbursements from or payments to our partner, respectively.
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It is challenging to predict the nature, timing and estimated long-range costs of the efforts that will be necessary to complete the development of, and obtain regulatory approval for, any of our product candidates. This is made more challenging by events outside of our control, such as the recent COVID-19 pandemic. We are also unable to predict when, if ever, material net cash inflows will commence from sales or licensing of our product candidates. This is due to the numerous risks and uncertainties associated with drug development, including the uncertainty of:
•our ability to add and retain key research and development personnel;
•our ability to establish an appropriate safety profile with IND-enabling toxicology studies;
•our ability to successfully develop, obtain regulatory approval for, and then successfully commercialize, our product candidates;
•our successful enrollment in and completion of clinical trials;
•the costs associated with the development of any additional product candidates we identify in-house or acquire through collaborations;
•our ability to discover, develop and utilize biomarkers to demonstrate target engagement, pathway engagement and the impact on disease progression of our molecules;
•our ability to establish agreements with third-party manufacturers for clinical supply for our clinical trials and commercial manufacturing, if our product candidates are approved;
•the terms and timing of any collaboration, license or other arrangement, including the terms and timing of any milestone payments thereunder;
•our ability to obtain and maintain patent, trade secret and other intellectual property protection and regulatory exclusivity for our product candidates if and when approved;
•our receipt of marketing approvals from applicable regulatory authorities;
•our ability to commercialize products, if and when approved, whether alone or in collaboration with others; and
•the continued acceptable safety profiles of the product candidates following approval.
A change in any of these variables with respect to the development of any of our product candidates would significantly change the costs, timing and viability associated with the development of that product candidate. We expect our research and development expenses to increase at least over the next several years as we continue to implement our business strategy, advance our current programs, expand our research and development efforts, seek regulatory approvals for any product candidates that successfully complete clinical trials, access and develop additional product candidates and incur expenses associated with hiring additional personnel to support our research and development efforts. In addition, product candidates in later stages of clinical development generally incur higher development costs than those in earlier stages of clinical development, primarily due to the increased size and duration of later-stage clinical trials.
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General and Administrative
General and administrative expenses include personnel-related expenses, such as salaries, benefits, travel and stock-based compensation expense, expenses for outside professional services and allocated expenses. Outside professional services consist of legal, accounting and audit services and other consulting fees. Allocated expenses consist of rent, depreciation and other expenses related to our office and research and development facility not otherwise included in research and development expenses. We expect to increase our administrative headcount as we advance our product candidates through clinical development, which will increase our general and administrative expenses.
Interest and Other Income, Net
Interest and other income, net, consists primarily of interest income and investment income earned on our cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities, gains and losses on foreign currency hedges, and sublease income.
Results of Operations
Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020
The following table sets forth the significant components of our results of operations (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | Change | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2020 | $ | % | |||||||||||
| Collaboration revenue: | ||||||||||||||
| Collaboration revenue from customers | 48,657 | 335,561 | (286,904) | (85) | % | |||||||||
| Other collaboration revenue | 4 | 98 | (94) | (96) | ||||||||||
| Total Collaboration revenue | 48,661 | 335,659 | (286,998) | (86) | ||||||||||
| Operating expenses: | ||||||||||||||
| Research and development | 265,353 | 212,615 | 52,738 | 25 | ||||||||||
| General and administrative | 79,059 | 60,326 | 18,733 | 31 | ||||||||||
| Total operating expenses | 344,412 | 272,941 | 71,471 | 26 | ||||||||||
| Income (loss) from operations | (295,751) | 62,718 | (358,469) | * | ||||||||||
| Interest and other income, net | 4,595 | 9,241 | (4,646) | (50) | ||||||||||
| Income (loss) before income taxes | (291,156) | 71,959 | (363,115) | * | ||||||||||
| Income tax benefit (expense) | 575 | (823) | 1,398 | * | ||||||||||
| Net income (loss) | $ | (290,581) | $ | 71,136 | $ | (361,717) | * | % |
__________________________________________________
*Percentage is not meaningful.
Collaboration revenue. Collaboration revenue was $48.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to $335.7 million recognized for the year ended December 31, 2020. The decrease of $287.0 million was primarily due to $307.4 million of revenue recognized under our Biogen Collaboration Agreement in the year ended December 31, 2020 compared with $3.7 million recognized in the year ended December 31, 2021. This decrease of $303.7 million was partially offset by increases in revenue recognized under our Takeda Collaboration Agreement and Sanofi Collaboration Agreement of $2.8 million and $13.9 million, respectively.
Research and development expenses. Research and development expenses were $265.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to $212.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2020.
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The following table summarizes our research and development expenses by program and category (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | Change | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2020 | $ | % | ||||||||||||
| LRRK2 program external expense | $ | 13,066 | $ | 28,928 | $ | (15,862) | (55) | % | |||||||
| eIF2B program external expenses | 15,872 | 9,424 | 6,448 | 68 | |||||||||||
| ETV:IDS program external expenses | 31,061 | 16,331 | 14,730 | 90 | |||||||||||
| TV platform and other program specific external expenses | 38,722 | 18,668 | 20,054 | * | |||||||||||
| Other external research and development expenses | 30,594 | 26,509 | 4,085 | 15 | |||||||||||
| Personnel related expenses(1) | 120,382 | 88,997 | 31,385 | 35 | |||||||||||
| Other unallocated research and development expenses | 35,896 | 33,018 | 2,878 | 9 | |||||||||||
| Cost sharing reimbursements(2) | (20,240) | (9,260) | (10,980) | * | |||||||||||
| Total research and development expenses | $ | 265,353 | $ | 212,615 | $ | 52,738 | 25 | % |
_________________________________________________
*Percentage is not meaningful.
(1)Personnel-related expenses include stock-based compensation expense of $50.0 million and $29.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, reflecting an increase of $21.0 million.
(2)Cost sharing reimbursements include $6.5 million and $9.3 million from Biogen during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, which relate to LRRK2 program external expenses and LRRK2 program internal expenses which are included within Personnel-related expenses, and $13.7 million from Takeda during the year ended December 31, 2021, which relates to PTV:PGRN and ATV:TREM2 program external and internal expenses, which are included within TV platform and other program external expenses, and Personnel related expenses, respectively.
The increase in research and development expenses of approximately $52.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to the year ended December 31, 2020 was primarily attributable to the following:
•an increase of $31.4 million in personnel-related expenses, consisting of a $21.0 million increase in stock-based compensation expense primarily attributable to additional equity award grants, and an $10.4 million increase in salaries and related expenses attributable to an increase in our research and development headcount;
•increases of $14.7 million and $6.4 million in ETV:IDS and eIF2B program external expenses, respectively, reflecting the progress of these programs in clinical trials during 2021;
•increases of $20.1 million and $4.1 million in TV platform and other program specific external expenses, and other (non-program specific) external research and development expenses, respectively, reflecting the progress in our TV platform PTV:PGRN and ATV:TREM2 programs as well our continued investment in developing a robust pipeline; and
•$2.9 million of increased other unallocated research and development expenses, primarily due to a $1.6 million increase in lab consumable expenses and $1.5 million of increases in general IT and infrastructure costs associated with supporting a growing workforce.
These increases were partially offset by a decrease of $15.9 million in the LRRK2 program external expenses primarily due to completion of the phase 1 and 1b trials of BIIB122/DNL151 and an $11.0 million increase in cost sharing reimbursements from collaboration partners, which are recognized as an offset to research and development expenses.
General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses were $79.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to $60.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. The increase of $18.8 million was primarily attributable to the following:
•$16.9 million of increased personnel-related expenses, driven by higher general and administrative headcount and stock-based compensation expense associated with additional equity award grants;
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•$2.9 million of increased other general costs, primarily attributable to insurance, tax and IT related expenses; and
• $0.5 million of increased facilities related expenses, including depreciation expense.
These increases were partially offset by a decrease of $1.5 million in legal and other professional services expenses due to costs incurred in 2020 associated with the execution of the Biogen Collaboration Agreement.
Interest and other income, net. Interest and other income, net was $4.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 compared to $9.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2020. The decrease of $4.6 million was primarily due to decreased income earned on our investments due to declining interest rates.
Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019
Refer to “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Results of Operations” in our 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2020 compared to the year ended December 31, 2019.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Sources of Liquidity
We fund our operations primarily with the proceeds from public offerings of our common stock, and payments received from our collaboration agreements with Takeda, Sanofi and Biogen.
In our January 2020 follow-on offering, we sold 9.0 million shares of common stock (inclusive of shares sold pursuant to an overallotment option granted to the underwriters in connection with the offering) through an underwritten public offering at a price of $23.00 per share for aggregate net proceeds of approximately $193.9 million.
Pursuant to our collaboration agreements with Takeda, Sanofi and Biogen, through December 31, 2021 we have received upfront, option and milestone payments of $81.0 million, $150.0 million, and $560.0 million, respectively. Pursuant to our collaboration agreements with Biogen and Sanofi, we have also received $14.5 million and $11.4 million of cost sharing reimbursements and reimbursements for performance of Retained Activities, respectively, through December 31, 2021.
Further, under associated stock purchase agreements with Takeda and Biogen, through December 31, 2021 we have received $110.0 million and $465.0 million, respectively, for the sale and issuance of shares of our common stock to collaboration partners.
As of December 31, 2021, we had cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities in the amount of $1.3 billion.
Future Funding Requirements and Commitments
To date, we have not generated any product revenue. We do not expect to generate any product revenue unless and until we obtain regulatory approval of and commercialize any of our product candidates, and we do not know when, or if, either will occur.
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We expect to continue to incur significant losses for the foreseeable future, and we expect the losses to increase as we expand our research and development activities and continue the development of, and seek regulatory approvals for, our product candidates, and begin to commercialize any approved products. Further, we expect general and administrative expenses to increase as we continue to incur additional costs associated with supporting our growing operations. We are subject to all of the risks typically related to the development of new product candidates, and we may encounter unforeseen expenses, difficulties, complications, delays and other unknown factors that may adversely affect our business. We anticipate that we will need substantial additional funding in connection with our continuing operations.
Until we can generate a sufficient amount of revenue from the commercialization of our product candidates or from our existing collaboration agreements, or future agreements with other third parties, if ever, we expect to finance our future cash needs through public or private equity or debt financings. Additional capital may not be available on reasonable terms, if at all. If we are unable to raise additional capital in sufficient amounts or on terms acceptable to us, we may have to significantly delay, scale back or discontinue the development or commercialization of one or more of our product candidates. If we raise additional funds through the issuance of additional debt or equity securities, it could result in dilution to our existing stockholders, increased fixed payment obligations and the existence of securities with rights that may be senior to those of our common stock. If we incur indebtedness, we could become subject to covenants that would restrict our operations and potentially impair our competitiveness, such as limitations on our ability to incur additional debt, limitations on our ability to acquire, sell or license intellectual property rights and other operating restrictions that could adversely impact our ability to conduct our business. Additionally, any future collaborations we enter into with third parties may provide capital in the near term but limit our potential cash flow and revenue in the future. Any of the foregoing could significantly harm our business, financial condition and prospects.
We have incurred significant net losses in every year since our inception until the year ended December 31, 2021, including net losses $290.6 million and $197.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2019, respectively. We had net income of $71.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, as a result of revenue recognized associated with our collaboration arrangement with Biogen. We have also experienced negative cash flow from operations in every year since our inception, excluding the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2018, in which we received significant cash inflows from collaboration partners. As of December 31, 2021, we had an accumulated deficit of $645.0 million. We expect to incur substantial additional losses in the future as we conduct and expand our research and development activities. We believe that our existing cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities will be sufficient to enable us to fund our projected operations through at least the 12 months following the filing date of this Form 10-K, including our existing commitments as outlined below. We have based this estimate on assumptions that may prove to be wrong, and we could utilize our available capital resources sooner than we currently expect. In the longer term, we anticipate that we will need substantial additional resources to fund our operations and meet future commitments.
Our existing commitments primarily relate to our obligations under existing lease agreements and the DMSA with Lonza Sales AG ("Lonza") for the development and manufacture of biologic products. As of December 31, 2021, operating lease liabilities were $64.0 million. Under the SLC lease which has not yet commenced, we have future undiscounted lease payments totaling approximately $12.5 million. Under the DMSA with Lonza, we had total non-refundable purchase commitments of $28.3 million as of December 31, 2021, with certain amounts subject to cost sharing with Takeda. Further, in the normal course of business, we enter into various firm purchase commitments primarily related to research and development activities. We had contractual obligations under other development and manufacturing agreements of $11.5 million as of December 31, 2021, with certain amounts subject to cost sharing with Takeda. In addition, we had firm purchase commitments related to manufacturing equipment for the SLC Facility of $8.0 million and other commitments of $1.7 million as of December 31, 2021. While the lease obligations span multiple years, the vast majority of the purchase commitments with Lonza and other obligations are due within 12 months. These commitments are more fully described in Note 9, "Commitments and Contingencies" to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 8. of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
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Our future funding requirements, including changes to and new commitments, will depend on many factors, including:
•the timing and progress of preclinical and clinical development activities;
•the number and scope of preclinical and clinical programs we decide to pursue;
•the progress of the development efforts of third parties with whom we have entered into license and collaboration agreements;
•our ability to maintain our current research and development programs and to establish new research and development, license or collaboration arrangements;
•our ability and success in securing manufacturing relationships with third parties or in establishing and operating a manufacturing facility;
•the costs involved in prosecuting, defending and enforcing patent claims and other intellectual property claims;
•the cost and timing of regulatory approvals;
•our efforts to enhance operational, financial and information management systems and hire additional personnel, including personnel to support development of our product candidates; and
•the costs and ongoing investments to in-license and/or acquire additional technologies.
A change in the outcome of any of these or other variables with respect to the development of any of our product candidates could significantly change the costs and timing associated with the development of that product candidate. Furthermore, our operating plans may change in the future, and we may need additional funds to meet operational needs and capital requirements associated with such operating plans.
Cash Flows
The following table sets forth a summary of the primary sources and uses of cash for each of the periods presented below (in thousands):
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||
| Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities | $ | (211,389) | $ | 416,152 | $ | (151,576) | ||||
| Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities | (21,626) | (623,206) | 147,712 | |||||||
| Net cash provided by financing activities | 19,348 | 634,749 | 6,190 | |||||||
| Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash | $ | (213,667) | $ | 427,695 | $ | 2,326 |
Net Cash Used In Operating Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2021, cash used in operating activities was $211.4 million, which consisted of a net loss of $290.6 million, adjusted by non-cash items primarily related to stock-based compensation, net amortization of premiums on marketable securities and depreciation. Cash used in operating activities was also driven by changes in our operating assets and liabilities.
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Net Cash Used In Investing Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2021, cash used in investing activities was $21.6 million, which primarily consisted of $1,422.9 million of purchases of marketable securities partially offset by $1,409.8 million in proceeds from the maturity of marketable securities.
Net Cash Provided By Financing Activities
During the year ended December 31, 2021, cash provided by financing activities was $19.3 million, which consisted entirely of the proceeds from the exercise of options to purchase common stock and issuance of shares pursuant to our employee stock purchase plan ("ESPP").
Years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019
Refer to “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources” in our 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2020 and 2019.
Critical Accounting Estimates
This discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations is based on our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, as well as the reported revenues recognized and expenses incurred during the reporting periods. Our estimates are based on our historical experience and on various other factors that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions. Our significant accounting policies are described in detail in the notes to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this report. We believe that the following accounting estimates involve a significant level of estimation uncertainty which could have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.
Revenue Recognition
We recognize revenue associated with our collaboration arrangements, which may require us to exercise considerable judgment in estimating revenue to be recognized, including judgments made on day one accounting and judgments associated with the amount of revenue to be recognized over time as performance obligations are satisfied.
Significant judgment is required to apply the authoritative accounting guidance at the outset of a collaboration arrangement, and over time, as detailed below:
•Identification of performance obligations - there is judgment involved in identifying the promised goods or services in the collaboration agreement, determining whether these are distinct in the context of the contract, and determining if these represent a performance obligation to a customer. These determinations are highly subjective and can differ between arrangement based on specific contractual terms. The identified performance obligations will impact most significantly the timing of revenue recognition, and is a point-in-time assessment performed at the outset of a collaboration arrangement.
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•Measurement of the transaction price - determining the transaction price includes varying levels of judgment. Where amounts are fixed and paid, such as upfront payments, estimation is not required. However, other elements of the transaction price do require estimation or assumptions by management. The calculation of a share issuance premium requires the use of a valuation model for purposes of determining the fair value of the shares for financial reporting purposes, with any resulting premium impacting the transaction price. An assumption needs to be made regarding whether future variable consideration, such as milestone payments, are constrained, which also requires management judgment. The measurement of transaction price impacts the measurement of revenue, and is performed both at the outset of a collaboration arrangement and at each reporting period. To date, we have not recognized any adjustments to revenue as a result of an adjustment to variable consideration constraint.
•Allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations - there is significant judgment required to allocate the transaction price to performance obligations. Generally, this is done by estimating the standalone selling price of identified performance obligations, and allocating on a relative value basis. The estimate of standalone selling price includes several assumptions that cannot be observed, which may include forecasted revenue (for products not yet on the market), development timelines, reimbursement rates for personnel costs, discount rates and probabilities of technical and regulatory success. The standalone selling price of performance obligations can be very sensitive to many of these underlying assumptions, which are based on management estimates since they cannot be observed. This is a point-in-time assessment performed at the outset of a collaboration arrangement.
•Recognition of revenue when (or as) we satisfy each performance obligation - determining the timing of revenue recognition includes varying levels of judgment. For revenue types recognized at a point in time, such as functional IP, there can be some judgment as to when the performance obligation has been satisfied. For revenue recognized over time, this is often based on an underlying measure deemed to approximate the progress towards satisfaction of performance obligations. These underlying measures, such as costs incurred to date compared with total forecasted costs for a service, may include inherent estimates, which in turn can impact the timing of revenue recognition. The satisfaction of performance obligations assessment is performed at each reporting period. To date, there have been no material true ups to revenue as a result of changes in the satisfaction of performance obligations.
Research and Development Expenses
A significant portion of our research and development expenses in the statements of operations and comprehensive loss are external costs, which we track on a program-specific basis once a program has commenced a late-stage IND-enabling study. These research and development expenses include the conduct of preclinical studies and clinical trials, contract manufacturing activities and consulting services. The measurement of these research and development expenses can impact the measurement of research and development expenses in the statements of operations and comprehensive loss, and of prepaid assets and accrued liabilities on the balance sheet.
The level of judgment required to estimate research and development expenses varies based on the nature of the services being performed and the underlying support obtained. We estimate the amount of work completed through discussions with internal personnel and external service providers as to the progress or stage of completion of the services and the agreed-upon fee to be paid for such services. As actual costs become known, we adjust our accrued estimates. Although we do not expect our estimates to be materially different from amounts actually incurred, incomplete or inaccurate data from vendors could impact our understanding of the status and timing of services performed which could result in us reporting expenses that are too high or too low in any particular period.
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We do not need to make significant estimates where costs incurred are supported by invoices or reports of costs incurred are obtained from a vendor that is directly performing the underlying services, such as a consultant or contract manufacturing organization. In some cases, however, expense is recorded using an underlying assumption of the progress to completion of specific activities. For example, costs may be recognized based on the passage of time for activities that span reporting periods. If the provision of services is not linear then this assumption could impact the amount of expense recognized. For other activities, such as for certain clinical trials, expense is recorded based on information obtained from vendors as an intermediary to those performing the underlying services, such as contract research organizations. These estimates are inherently more judgmental since the quality and availability of the underlying data may vary. To date, there have been no material true ups from estimated to actual external research and development expenses. However, we expect that the level of judgment in estimating research and development expenses may increase over time as we enter later stage, more extensive, clinical trials.
Research and development expenses also include reimbursements owed or owing to a collaboration partner to satisfy cost sharing requirements. These reimbursement amounts are estimated based, in part, on data received from our collaboration partner, which may include a certain level of estimation or judgments made by that partner. They also reflect our estimates of research and development expense as discussed above. As such, a change in estimates or judgments by either our partner or us can result in a change to a reimbursement amount. To date, there have been no material true ups from estimated to actual reimbursements owed or owing.
Leases
Management exercises judgment in applying the requirements of ASC 842, including the determination as to whether certain contracts contain a lease, the type of lease in an arrangement, whether there are separate lease components, the lease consideration, and the commencement date of the lease. Further, there is significant judgment in determining the discount rate to use in estimating the lease right of use ("ROU") asset and lease liability. The discount rate is estimated using the rate implicit in the lease, if known, or alternatively is based on an estimate of our incremental borrowing rate on the date of lease commencement. A change in these assumptions could result in changes in the timing and measurement of rent expense, ROU asset and lease liability. To date, there have been no material changes to estimates relating to lease arrangements.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
See Note 1 to our consolidated financial statements included in Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a description of recent accounting pronouncements applicable to our business.