Two 59%+ winners, four above 25% in Aug – How this AI model keeps picking winners
Mural Oncology plc (MURA), a pharmaceutical company focused on developing treatments for cancer, announced today that it will discontinue the development of its drug candidate nemvaleukin alfa for the treatment of platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PROC). The company, currently valued at $66 million, has seen its stock decline by about 9.5% in the past week following this development. According to InvestingPro analysis, the company maintains a strong financial health score despite recent challenges, with a current ratio of 5.84 indicating robust short-term liquidity. This decision follows the results of a pre-specified interim analysis by an independent data monitoring committee, which indicated that the drug, in combination with Merck (NSE:PROR)’s anti-PD-1 therapy KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab), did not show a statistically significant improvement in overall survival compared to chemotherapy alone.
The phase 3 trial, known as ARTISTRY-7, was designed to evaluate the efficacy of nemvaleukin in combination with pembrolizumab against investigator’s choice chemotherapy in patients with PROC. The interim analysis revealed a median overall survival of 10.1 months for patients treated with the nemvaleukin-pembrolizumab combination, compared to 9.8 months for those receiving chemotherapy, with a hazard ratio of 0.98.
Despite the setback in the ARTISTRY-7 trial, nemvaleukin has been characterized as having a favorable safety profile, both as a monotherapy and in combination with pembrolizumab, with over 800 patients treated across the broader clinical program. InvestingPro data reveals that while the company holds more cash than debt on its balance sheet, it’s currently experiencing rapid cash burn, with negative free cash flow of -$128.6 million in the last twelve months. Subscribers to InvestingPro can access 11 additional key insights about Mural’s financial health and market position. The safety data from the interim analysis of ARTISTRY-7 were reported to be consistent with previous findings.
Mural Oncology is continuing to evaluate nemvaleukin in other studies. The ARTISTRY-6 phase 2 trial is assessing the drug’s potential in treating mucosal melanoma, with top-line data expected in the second quarter of 2025. Additionally, preliminary data for less-frequent intravenous dosing of nemvaleukin in cutaneous melanoma patients are anticipated later in 2025, subject to patient enrollment.
The company’s forward-looking statements caution that the results from ongoing clinical studies may not be predictive of final study outcomes or real-world effectiveness. Mural Oncology’s future plans and the potential of its product candidates to meet medical needs are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including regulatory approval requirements and the results of ongoing clinical trials. Analysts maintain a bullish outlook despite recent setbacks, with price targets ranging from $13 to $18 per share. The company’s next earnings report is expected on May 20, 2025, which InvestingPro subscribers can analyze alongside comprehensive financial metrics and expert insights.
This news is based on a recent SEC filing by Mural Oncology plc.
In other recent news, Mural Oncology has announced the discontinuation of its phase 3 ARTISTRY-7 trial for ovarian cancer treatment. The trial, which involved nemvaleukin alfa in combination with pembrolizumab, was halted after an interim analysis revealed that the combination did not significantly improve overall survival compared to standard chemotherapy. Despite this setback, Mural Oncology remains committed to its ongoing research, with a phase 2 trial for nemvaleukin monotherapy in mucosal melanoma expected to yield results in the second quarter of 2025. Additionally, the company has entered into a sales agreement with Jefferies LLC, allowing it to sell up to $75 million in ordinary shares as part of an at-the-market offering. This agreement provides Mural Oncology with financial flexibility, although there is no obligation to sell shares. In another development, Jones Trading initiated coverage on Mural Oncology with a Buy rating and a price target of $16.00, expressing optimism about the company’s IL-2 drug development program. The firm cited Mural Oncology’s robust financial position, with approximately $175 million in cash reserves, as a positive indicator for its future operations. These recent developments highlight the dynamic nature of Mural Oncology’s strategic and financial maneuvers.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.