Faron results don’t entice investors

AIM-listed clinical biopharmaceutical firm Faron (LON:FARN) tumbled 2.94% to 102.40p (as of 13:55 BST) after posting an operating loss of €6.3 million for the half year ended 30th June. At the close of the period, the company had a negative net asset position, but a fundraising after the period close has provided working capital that should carry the firm into 2020.

CEO Dr Markku Jalkanen said: “We have focused on two important matters during H1-2019, MATINS study progress and the re-design of Traumakine’s development pathway. I am delighted to report that both of these have advanced significantly. Our novel precision cancer immunotherapy, Clevegen, has been well tolerated in cancer patients with advanced solid tumours, all showing an immune switch that we predicted based on the preclinical data and expected mode of action of Clevegen. We have also observed a first partial responder showing a constant decline of tumour burden in tumour imaging and biochemical markers. The response in this patient, who suffers from colorectal cancer (MSI low type) and has failed on all previous treatments, is a promising indicator of Clevegen’s potential.

“It has become clear that Traumakine’s development requires a study design which would avoid concomitant corticosteroid use. Faron’s solution is a design which would allow corticosteroid use within the standard of care arm but never in combination with Traumakine. As soon as the Company receives feedback for this new design, we will finalise plans to allow us to progress third party funding discussions. The unmet medical need among these patients is significant and the widespread use of corticosteroids for ARDS and multi-organ failures requires serious re-consideration.

“I am pleased that, through the recent fundraise, the Company is in a more secure financial position while we explore partnering activities for Clevegen and funding opportunities for Traumakine. I would like to thank shareholders, both new and existing, for their support of Faron“.