#United States #San Diego #TransCode Therapeutics #Polynoma #CK Life Sciences

TransCode Therapeutics Expands Immunotherapy Horizons

TransCode Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: RNAZ) has made a noteworthy advancement in the field of oncology by acquiring Polynoma, LLC, a biotech firm focused on immuno-oncology. This acquisition comes alongside a strategic $25 million investment from CK Life Sciences to propel clinical developments. This move is not only set to enhance TransCode's capabilities but also embodies a significant step toward innovative cancer treatments.

Acquisition Details

As part of this deal, TransCode has acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding interests of Polynoma from CK Life Sciences. Polynoma is recognized for its lead candidate, seviprotimut-L, a promising polyvalent shed antigen vaccine designed for the adjuvant treatment of melanoma, specifically targeting patients with stage IIB and IIC melanoma. This acquisition allows TransCode to leverage Polynoma’s advanced pipeline and position itself as a frontrunner in the oncology sector.

Concurrent with the acquisition, CK Life Sciences is investing $25 million in TransCode. This funding is aimed primarily at advancing TransCode's lead microRNA asset, TTX-MC138, into a Phase 2 clinical trial. According to Dr. Philippe Calais, the newly appointed CEO of TransCode, this infusion of capital facilitates the full execution of their clinical strategy and enhances the overall pipeline through strategic synergies.

Leadership Changes

As TransCode transitions into this new phase, Dr. Philippe Calais takes on the role of Chief Executive Officer while retaining his position as Chairman of the Board. Tom Fitzgerald, who previously held the role of Interim CEO, will continue to serve as CFO. Additionally, Elizabeth Czerepak has been appointed as an independent Board Member and will chair the Audit Committee. This reshuffling of leadership is expected to streamline decision-making processes as the company pushes forward with its expanded pipeline.

Insights into the Pipeline

TransCode’s enhanced pipeline now includes:

• - TTX-MC138: Targeting microRNA-10b, which is a critical regulator of metastatic cancer across multiple indications.
• - Seviprotimut-L: A cutting-edge vaccine aimed at melanoma patients who have limited treatment options.

TransCode is also exploring further combinations of these technologies to maximize therapeutic effectiveness against cancer. The integration of seviprotimut-L into their existing framework presents opportunities to tackle micrometastases in melanoma patients more efficiently.

A Pioneering Initiative in Oncology

Dr. Calais comments on the significance of this acquisition, emphasizing their aim to create a unique and comprehensive oncology company. He notes that with CK Life Sciences' backing, TransCode is poised to better realize its ambitious plans while focusing on the ultimate objective: improving treatment options for cancer patients.

The acquisition is anticipated to close on October 8, 2025, subject to necessary approvals and regulatory compliance. The intrinsic value of this transaction reflects a combined fully diluted equity value of approximately $165 million, along with conditional payments totaling $95 million tied to the achievement of certain clinical and commercial milestones.

Conclusion

TransCode Therapeutics' acquisition of Polynoma marks a pivotal moment for the company as it seeks to redefine its role in the oncology market. With a strong financial investment, a talented executive team, and an innovative pipeline, TransCode is well-equipped to address the challenges of metastatic cancer treatment. As they embark on this new chapter, stakeholders within the biopharmaceutical industry will be watching closely to witness the potential advancements in cancer therapies resulting from this strategic maneuver.