Limelight’s State of Online Gaming Report Shows Online Gaming Spikes as Consumers Seek Social Connection and Entertainment

Limelight’s State of Online Gaming Report Shows Online Gaming Spikes as Consumers Seek Social Connection and Entertainment

Gamers spend nearly eight and a half hours each week playing, and more than half use online video games to make friends

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–
Video game playing has risen to a new level, with consumers’ time playing up 14 percent over last year. The desire to stay connected and entertained while stuck at home during the pandemic has driven online gaming popularity. In fact, gamers across the globe are playing video games an average of eight hours and 27 minutes each week according to the “State of Online Gaming 2021,” a report commissioned by Limelight Networks, Inc. (Nasdaq: LLNW), on global gaming preferences and habits.

New data shows that the spikes in gaming over the last year are driven by gamers’ desire for social connections. Half of global gamers (53 percent) say they’ve made new friends through online games in the past year and one in three (36 percent) say the ability to interact with other players is extremely important. Opportunities for interactivity and social engagement are likely drivers for video game adoption with the majority (64 percent) of global gamers saying they started playing video games in the past year.

Additional findings from the report include:

  • Performance drives demand for next-generation consoles. Three quarters (74 percent) of gamers are interested in purchasing a new console, due to updated technology (32 percent) and faster game play (31 percent). Gamers in China are most likely to consider upgrading their console (92 percent).
  • Gamers demand fast gaming experiences. Fast performance is extremely important to nearly half (47 percent) of gamers, and the top cited important aspect of game play. In addition, 87 percent of global gamers say the process of downloading games is frustrating.
  • Binge-gaming reached an all-time high. The average gamer has played video games consecutively for five hours and six minutes, which is a 13 percent increase from last year. Young gamers ages 18 to 25 have binge-gamed for the longest, at an average of nearly six hours.
  • Video games have become a spectator sport. Over half (56 percent) of global gamers say they’ve started to watch others play video games in the past year. The average gamer spends two hours and 48 minutes each week watching others play video games online and gamers in India spend the most time of any country surveyed (five hours and 18 minutes each week).
  • Playing video games is the top entertainment choice for many. Three in five (62 percent) gamers say they prefer to play video games versus watching a movie or TV show.

“Video gaming has evolved into a social platform. Gamers want interactive, high performance, disruption-free experiences that allow them to connect with others and play longer,” said Nigel Burmeister, Vice President at Limelight Networks. “This evolution is putting pressure on gaming companies to match this demand and requires edge-based content and compute to deliver high-quality gaming environments to users across the globe.”

The “State of Online Gaming 2021” report is based on responses from 4,000 consumers in China, Germany, India, Indonesia, South Korea, the United Kingdom, the United States and Vietnam, ages 18 and older who play video games.

About Limelight:

Limelight Networks, Inc. (NASDAQ: LLNW), a leading provider of digital content delivery, video, cloud security, and edge computing services, empowers customers to provide exceptional digital experiences. Limelight’s edge services platform includes a unique combination of global private infrastructure, intelligent software, and expert support services that enable current and future workflows. For more information, visit www.limelight.com, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Stephanie Epstein

SHIFT

[email protected]

617-779-1800

Investor Inquiries: [email protected]

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Akesis Galaxy® RTi SRS System Receives FDA Clearance

High-Precision Intracranial Gamma System to Treat Brain Diseases and Brain Cancer

Has Integrated, Real-Time Imaging

CONCORD, Calif., March 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Akesis Galaxy® RTi, an advanced gamma stereotactic radiosurgery system (SRS) with continuous 360o rotational technology and real-time, in-line imaging, has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Upon release, the Akesis Galaxy RTi will be the only high-precision intracranial gamma system with real-time and in-line CBCT + kV/kV imaging. The imaging system is on a rigid ring-gantry at the treatment plane, eliminating the need to move the patient or interrupt treatment to image. It also supports fully automated intrafractional skull tracking and corrections. This is the third system within the Akesis Galaxy SRS platform; the Akesis Galaxy RTx and Akesis Galaxy have received FDA clearance.

“The Akesis Galaxy platform represents the next evolution in SRS technology,” said Gerry Vantellingen, President. “This modern approach to intracranial radiosurgery combines the proven efficacy of gamma radiotherapy with state-of-the-art rotational technology, optimizing both treatment planning and delivery.”

The dynamic, rotational delivery of the Akesis Galaxy RTi provides more flexibility in shaping the dose distribution as opposed to traditional, fixed sector-based delivery. The compact source drawer with 30 gamma sources, combined with the four sizes of collimators and one blocking position, offers almost infinite possibilities to shape the dose distribution.

The Akesis Galaxy RTi was engineered to offer an impressive return on investment. Because the imaging and treatment beams are coincident, there’s no interruption to the treatment for imaging, reducing patient “time on the table.” Plus, the inventive source drawer approach lowers the total cost of ownership and reduces downtime during source replacement from weeks to days.

The Akesis Galaxy platform builds on well-proven isometric design principles that have been published in more than 2,000 peer-reviewed papers for Co-60 based radiosurgery. The platform is an ideal solution for high-throughput institutions, smaller cancer centers and value-based reimbursement models.

About Akesis

At Akesis, we believe that everyone should have access to life-saving radiation medicine. Akesis, named after a Greek god of healing, is developing innovative stereotactic radiosurgery and linear accelerator platforms that incorporate patented, continuous 360o rotational technology and real-time, in-line imaging. By combining innovative, advanced technology with proven treatment approaches, Akesis is creating the next evolution in Radiation Medicine. Akesis products are manufactured at the company’s facility east of San Francisco, CA. www.akesis.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/642d2e31-acaf-45b5-919f-2c053a5ee543



Media contact: Lynn Hood, [email protected], 678-427-5040
Corporate contact: Tim Prosser, [email protected], 678-296-0947

Brandon Hall Group Study on Organizations People Data and Analytics Shows Companies Need to Start at the Basics

People data practitioners must do a careful analysis of their personal capabilities along with their organizations’ and be selective about when and where to collect and use data to prove the value of that approach.

Boca Raton, FL, March 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — By now, HR practitioners at most organizations are familiar with artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning (ML) and understand the foundations that must be established before building a solid people data and analytics program.

“Organizations know they struggle with the foundational aspects of data and analytics: collection, insights and subsequent action from those insights,” said Brandon Hall Group CEO, Mike Cooke. “For organizations to make headway into more advanced uses of data such as artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning (ML,) they must first create a base of clean, trustworthy data from a variety of sources.”

However, it is the organizations that are holding some programs back by not providing sufficient resources to change-management services to transform their organization into an evidence-based culture.

“When looking at the current state of data sources, insights and actions taken from that data, most organizations would rate themselves as average to below average. Very few companies (less than 15%) rated themselves at the highest score”, said Brandon Hall Group Analyst, Cliff Stevenson.

Working with data instead of using past experiences or intuition as a guide can seem like a more objective exercise, but if the proper resources aren’t engaged in cleaning, analyzing and monitoring the data, it is no better than those other methods.

Organizations report difficulty assigning resources to data issues, but this can cause systemic problems if sufficient resources are not allocated. Taking shortcuts in the initial stages will cost more time down the road, so ensure data efforts are well-planned out with ample resources dedicated to the task.

To learn more about how people data practitioners can conduct a careful analysis of their organization’s capabilities, download our KnowledgeGraphic.

-About Brandon Hall Group-

Brandon Hall Group is the world’s only professional-development company that provides data, research, insights and certification to Learning and Talent professionals and organizations. The best companies in the world rely on Brandon Hall Group to help create future-proof employee-development plans for the new era of work and management.

For more than 27 years, BHG empowers, recognizes and certifies excellence in organizations throughout the world, driving the development of more than 10,000,000 employees and executives. Our annual HCM Excellence Awards program was the first to recognize and celebrate organizations for learning and talent, and as the industry’s gold standard is known as the “Academy Awards of Human Capital Management.”

Brandon Hall Group’s cloud-based platform delivers evidence-based insights in Learning and Development, Talent Management, Leadership Development, Diversity and Inclusion, Talent Acquisition and HR/Workforce Management for corporate organizations and HCM solution providers.

To learn more, visit https://www.brandonhall.com

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David Forry
Brandon Hall Group
5613538082
[email protected]

Solis Mammography Announces Expansion Into Southeast Florida Market

Signals Entry Into Dynamic Southeast Florida Market and Nation’s 7th Largest Metropolitan Area

ADDISON, Tx., March 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Solis Mammography, the nation’s largest independent provider of breast health and diagnostic services, is pleased to announce that it has entered into a partnership with Miami Breast Institute, a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence in the Miami market. Miami Breast Institute opened in 2008 under the clinical leadership of two board-certified, fellowship-trained breast imaging specialists, Anamary Quiros Mesa, MD, and Elsy Carbot-Flores, MD. Both physicians are graduates of the University of Miami School of Medicine, with fellowships in breast imaging from Mt. Sinai Medical Center in Miami.

Miami Breast Institute’s reputation as a leading provider of comprehensive women’s radiology services with an incomparable tradition of patient satisfaction, makes it a natural fit with Solis Mammography’s philosophy of marrying technical innovation and clinical leadership with a high-touch, patient-centric experience.

“We have a mutual dedication to delivering an exceptional experience,” said Grant Davies, president and Chief Executive Officer of Solis Mammography. “As we look to expand into a vibrant and competitive market, our partnership with Miami Breast Institute gives us a firm foundation to build on as we share our singular mission of advancing women’s healthcare with patients and the clinical community.”

“We chose Solis Mammography as our breast health partner so we could improve operational efficiencies in order to serve more patients,” said Art Mesa, executive director and co-founder of Miami Breast Institute. “Solis gives us access to state-of-the-art imaging systems and advanced clinical technologies. They have a proven infrastructure that can help us grow across the region.”

Miami Breast Institute’s existing radiology team of skilled physicians and technologists will continue to serve patients, providing the focused expertise in high-quality breast imaging, from 3D mammography to breast MRI, that patients and referrers have come to count on.

Solis Mammography’s partnership with Miami Breast Institute expands its footprint into its 10th major market.

About Solis Mammography

Solis Mammography is a specialized healthcare provider that has been dedicated to helping women achieve and maintain breast health and peace of mind for more than 30 years and more than 5 million procedures. Headquartered in Addison, Texas, Solis operates more than 85 centers in ten major markets, including North Texas, Houston, Denver, Phoenix, Chicago, Philadelphia, Columbus, Nashville, Greensboro and Miami, and, through its affiliated brands Washington Radiology and Progressive Radiology, Washington D.C., Maryland and Virginia. The company operates both wholly owned centers and multiple successful joint venture partnerships with large hospital systems and prominent medical institutions.



Deborah Bray
Solis Mammography
4693984118
[email protected]

Eyenovia to Participate in the 33rd Annual Roth Conference

NEW YORK, March 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Eyenovia, Inc. (NASDAQ: EYEN), a clinical stage ophthalmic company developing a pipeline of pipeline of advanced therapeutics based on its proprietary microdose array print (MAP™) platform technology, today announced that management will participate in the 33rd Annual Roth Conference, which will be held on March 15-17, 2021. Management will host virtual one-on-one meetings during the conference.

Institutional investors interested in a one-on-one meeting with Eyenovia management should contact their ROTH institutional sales representative.

About Eyenovia, Inc.

Eyenovia, Inc. (NASDAQ: EYEN) is a clinical stage ophthalmic company developing a pipeline of advanced therapeutics based on its proprietary microdose array print (MAP™) platform technology. Eyenovia is currently focused on the late-stage development of microdosed medications for presbyopia, myopia progression and mydriasis. For more Information, visit www.eyenovia.com.

Eyenovia Contact:

Eyenovia, Inc.
John Gandolfo
Chief Financial Officer
[email protected]

Eyenovia Investor Contact:

Eric Ribner
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
[email protected]
(646) 751-4363

Eyenovia Media Contact:

Diana Soltesz
Pazanga Health Communications
[email protected]
(818) 618-5634



ThreeD Capital Completes $300,000 Investment into ePlay Digital Inc.

TORONTO, March 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ThreeD Capital Inc. (“ThreeD” or the “Company”) (CSE:IDK) (OTCQB:IDKFF), a Canadian-based venture capital firm focused on opportunistic investments in companies in the junior resources and disruptive technologies sectors, is pleased to announce a $300,000 investment in ePlay Digital Inc. (“ePlay”) (CSE: EPY), a company focused on developing augmented reality games for sports, esports, and entertainment.

The Company has acquired 3,000,000 units (the “Units”) at a price of $0.10 per Unit for aggregate proceeds of $300,000. Each Unit consists of one (1) common share of ePlay (a “Common Share”) and one Common Share purchase warrant (a “Warrant”), exercisable at a price of $0.20 per Warrant. The Warrants will expire one (1) year from the date of issuance. Sheldon Inwentash, Chairman and CEO of ThreeD Capital has also agreed to become an advisor to ePlay.

“Accelerating revenue generation of ePlay’s current mobile game and eSports portfolio, including ePlay games developed in partnership with producer and comedian Howie Mandel, plus the launch of upcoming titles and revenue streams, is an immediate, direct, and exciting result of working with ThreeD Capital,” says Trevor Doerksen, CEO of ePlay Digital.

“We are excited to add ePlay to our portfolio, which is our latest investment in the gaming and esports space. We believe ePlay has a diversified strategy that we find extremely compelling in the gaming industry,” said Sheldon Inwentash.

This Press Release is available on the ThreeD Capital verified forum on AGORACOM. The forum is live and can be found at https://agoracom.com/ir/threedcapital/forums/discussion.

About ePlay Digital Inc.

ePlay Digital Inc. is a mobile game creator and publisher specializing in sports, esports and entertainment augmented reality titles, including their new flagship title Big Shot Basketball and Howie Mandel mobile game collaboration – HowiesGames.com. ePlay is operated by an award-winning team of sports, gaming and esports leaders as well as broadcast and digital technology industry experts, software engineers and athletes who have brought dozens of game titles to market for companies including Time Warner Cable, ESPN, Sony Pictures, AXS TV, Intel, AXN, Fiat, CBS, and others. ePlay’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Mobovivo specializes in augmented reality, mobile game development and mobile esports streaming.

About ThreeD Capital Inc.

ThreeD is a publicly-traded Canadian-based venture capital firm focused on opportunistic investments in companies in the junior resources and disruptive technologies sectors. ThreeD’s investment strategy is to invest in multiple private and public companies across a variety of sectors globally. ThreeD seeks to invest in early stage, promising companies where it may be the lead investor and can additionally provide investees with advisory services and access to the Company’s ecosystem.

For further information:

Jakson Inwentash
Vice President Investments
[email protected]
Phone: 416-941-8900 ext 107

The Canadian Securities Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release and accepts no responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy hereof.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively referred to herein as “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of Canadian securities laws including, without limitation, statements with respect to the future investments by the Company. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. Undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements, which are inherently uncertain, are based on estimates and assumptions, and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties (both general and specific) that contribute to the possibility that the future events or circumstances contemplated by the forward-looking statements will not occur. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward looking statements contained in this press release, and the assumptions on which such forward-looking statements are made, are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements included in this document, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which the forward-looking statements are based will occur. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not occur, which may cause the Company’s actual performance and results in future periods to differ materially from any estimates or projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable law. The forward-looking statements contained herein are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.



REPEAT — Clarity Gold Mobilizes Drill to Commence Exploration Program at the Destiny Project in the Abitibi Belt

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, March 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Clarity Gold Corp. (“Clarity” or the “Company”) (CSE: CLAR, OTC: CLGCF, FSE: 27G) is pleased to announce that Forage Val d’Or has begun mobilization of a diamond drill to the Destiny Project, 75 km north of Val d’Or, Quebec. Currently, trail and pad clearing are underway, and crews are establishing core processing facilities in Val d’Or.

The first drilling is designed to confirm historic drilling results and provide continuous assays across the mineralized zone where previous drilling only sampled specific intervals. From there, the drilling is planned to infill, test, and extend mineralization to depth in the DAC Zone and along the Gap and Darla Zones.

“We are extremely excited to get our maiden program underway at the Destiny Project which has seen substantial historic work including over 50,000 metres of diamond drilling by previous operators,” said James Rogers, CEO of Clarity. “With a healthy treasury and exploration now underway, Clarity is in an ideal position to advance the Destiny Project.”

The Company will be completing an initial 10,000 m of drilling on the Destiny project and has secured the drilling contractor to complete this work. Depending on weather and ground conditions, the drilling program may be completed in phases to reduce costs of drilling through the spring thaw.

About the Destiny Project

The 5,013 ha Destiny Project is located in the prolific Abitibi Greenstone Belt where more than 180 million ounces of gold have been produced historically and lies along a major structural break which is largely underexplored. The project has excellent infrastructure, with road access approximately 75 km NNE of the city of Val d’Or and has considerable work done to date including over 50,000 m of diamond drilling.

For a more detailed account, the reader is encouraged to refer to the Company’s website.

Qualified Person

Mr. Rory Kutluoglu P. Geo., a member of the advisory board and a consultant of the Company, is the Qualified Person (“QP”) under NI 43-101 for the technical information in this news release and has verified the data disclosed for the Destiny Project and approves the technical contents contained in this news release.

About Clarity

Clarity Gold Corp. is a Canadian mineral exploration company focused on the acquisition, exploration and development of gold projects in Canada. The Company has entered into an option agreement to purchase 100% of the Destiny Project, Clarity’s flagship asset, a gold-focused project in the mineral rich Abitibi region in Quebec. The Company is based in Vancouver, British Columbia, and is listed on the CSE under the symbol “CLAR”. To learn more about Clarity Gold Corp. and its projects please visit www.claritygoldcorp.com.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

James Rogers
Chief Executive Officer
Tel: 1 (833) 387-7436
Email: [email protected]
Website: claritygoldcorp.com

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact that address activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include statements regarding: that the first drilling will confirm historic drilling results and provide continuous assays across the mineralized zone where previous drilling only sampled specific intervals; that the drilling will extend mineralization to depth in the DAC zone and along the Gap and Darla Zones; and that the Company will complete the planned initial 10,000m drilling program.

The forward-looking statements reflect management’s current expectations based on information currently available and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements including: that the drilling may not go as planned or start when expected; that the Company may experience difficulties in drilling and carrying out related work; changing costs for mining and processing; increased capital costs; the timing and content of upcoming work programs; geological interpretations based on drilling that may change with more detailed information; the risk that the Company may lose access to the property; the risks that the Company may not find any minerals in commercially feasible quantities; that the Company may not raise enough money to fund its exploration plans; uncertainty of development plans and cost estimates; commodity price fluctuations; political or economic instability and regulatory changes; currency fluctuations; the state of the capital markets; uncertainty in the measurement of mineral reserves and resource estimates; the Company’s ability to attract and retain qualified personnel and management; potential labour unrest; uncertainty as to reclamation and closure requirements for its mineral properties; unpredictable risks and hazards related to the exploration and development and operation of a mine or mineral property that are beyond the Company’s control; and other risks and uncertainties identified under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s continuous disclosure documents filed on SEDAR. Although the Company believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and, accordingly, undue reliance should not be put on such statements due to their inherent uncertainty. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include general market conditions and other factors beyond the control of the Company. The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

The Canadian Securities Exchange (operated by CNSX Markets Inc.) has neither approved nor disapproved of the contents of this press release.



Crawford® to Present During the Sidoti Spring 2021 Virtual Conference

ATLANTA, March 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Crawford & Company® (NYSE: CRD-A and CRD-B), the world’s largest publicly listed independent provider of claims management and outsourcing solutions to carriers, brokers and corporations, today announced that Crawford President, Joseph Blanco, and Chief Financial Officer, W. Bruce Swain, will present during the Sidoti Spring 2021 Virtual Conference on Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. EDT.

Interested investors and other parties may watch a simultaneous webcast of the presentation by going to https://sidoti.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_4Rg53UfES8-PGjN0OY4KUQ. An online replay and presentation materials will also be available after the webcast on Crawford’s investor website.

For further information regarding this press release, please contact our media relations email at [email protected].

About Crawford®
Based in Atlanta, Crawford & Company (NYSE: CRD‐A and CRD‐B) is the world’s largest publicly listed independent provider of claims management and outsourcing solutions to carriers, brokers and corporations with an expansive global network serving clients in more than 70 countries. The Company’s two classes of stock are substantially identical, except with respect to voting rights and the Company’s ability to pay greater cash dividends on the non-voting Class A Common Stock (CRD-A) than on the voting Class B Common Stock (CRD-B), subject to certain limitations. In addition, with respect to mergers or similar transactions, holders of CRD-A must receive the same type and amount of consideration as holders of CRD-B, unless different consideration is approved by the holders of 75 percent of CRD-A, voting as a class. More information is available at www.crawco.com.

Tag: Crawford-Investor-News-and-Events

Media Contacts: [email protected]

Lynn Cufley
+44 207 265 4067
[email protected]
  Hunter Leibler
+1 470 379 9591
[email protected]



Cocrystal Pharma Extends Drug Discovery Collaboration with HitGen and InterX

BOTHELL, Wash, March 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cocrystal Pharma, Inc. (Nasdaq: COCP), (“Cocrystal” or the “Company”), a clinical-stage biotechnology company discovering and developing novel antiviral therapeutics that target the replication machinery of influenza viruses, the SARS-CoV-2 virus, hepatitis C viruses and noroviruses, announces an extension of its drug discovery collaboration with HitGen, a biotech company with an innovative DNA Encoded Library technology, and InterX Inc., a computer software company with a biomolecular simulation for drug discovery. The collaboration was initiated in September 2017 and will now continue through August 2023.

Through this collaboration, Cocrystal, HitGen and InterX scientists are applying HitGen’s DNA-encoded library (DEL) technology platform, Cocrystal’s structure-based drug discovery platform technology, and InterX’s computational science to develop novel antiviral lead candidates. The DEL technology combines the power of molecular biology, combinatorial chemistry, high throughput sequencing and advanced informatics to identify potential drug candidates. Cocrystal applies its technology to determine the cocrystal structures of the potential drug candidates identified from the DEL library. This structural information is then combined with InterX’s advanced computer algorithms to predict inhibitor-target interactions. A Joint Steering Committee comprised of representatives from all three companies is overseeing the collaboration.

“This collaboration represents a truly innovative and important approach to drug discovery in which we combine three novel platforms to generate and select molecules that could lead to superior drugs,” said Gary Wilcox, Ph.D., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Cocrystal. “We view this collaboration as a long-term relationship with the potential to build Cocrystal’s platform and expand our pipeline with high-value compounds for future development.”

About Cocrystal Pharma, Inc.

Cocrystal Pharma, Inc. is a clinical-stage biotechnology company discovering and developing novel antiviral therapeutics that target the replication process of influenza viruses, coronaviruses (including SARS-CoV-2), hepatitis C viruses and noroviruses. Cocrystal employs unique structure-based technologies and Nobel Prize-winning expertise to create first- and best-in-class antiviral drugs. For further information about Cocrystal, please visit www.cocrystalpharma.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding the expected term and the results of Cocrystal’s collaboration with HitGen and InterX. The words “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “will,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events. Some or all of the events anticipated by these forward-looking statements may not occur. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, HitGen’s DNA Encoded Library technology and InterX software performing as expected, potential disagreements with HitGen or InterX resulting in delays or termination of the collaboration, and the results of future preclinical and clinical studies. The economic and unknown impacts of Covid-19 could result in unanticipated material adverse effects on HitGen, InterX or Cocrystal. Further information on our risk factors is contained in our filings with the SEC, including our Prospectus Supplement dated August 26, 2020 and our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020, as amended and supplemented by the Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 30, 2020 and the three months ended September 30, 2020. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

Investor Contact:

LHA Investor Relations
Jody Cain
310-691-7100
[email protected]

# # #



Vertex Announces FDA Fast Track Designation and Initiation of a Phase 1/2 Clinical Trial for VX-880, a Novel Investigational Cell Therapy for the Treatment of Type 1 Diabetes

Vertex Announces FDA Fast Track Designation and Initiation of a Phase 1/2 Clinical Trial for VX-880, a Novel Investigational Cell Therapy for the Treatment of Type 1 Diabetes

VX-880 is the first investigational stem cell-derived therapy utilizing fully differentiated, insulin-producing pancreatic islet cells for the treatment of type 1 diabetes –

VX-880 is the first and only pancreatic islet replacement therapy known to receive Fast Track Designation –

BOSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (Nasdaq: VRTX) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted Fast Track Designation for VX-880 and that the company has initiated a clinical trial for VX-880 in patients who have type 1 diabetes (T1D) with severe hypoglycemia and impaired hypoglycemic awareness.

“This program has its roots in the groundbreaking work that began in Dr. Doug Melton’s lab, progressed at Semma Therapeutics, and has been accelerated and brought to the clinic by the team at Vertex,” said Bastiano Sanna, Ph.D., Executive Vice President and Chief of Cell and Genetic Therapies at Vertex. “Ours is the only approach that produces fully differentiated and fully functional insulin-secreting pancreatic islets. We are very pleased to have received FDA’s Fast Track Designation, which facilitates the development and expedites the review of drugs that treat serious conditions and fill an unmet medical need. We continue to work with urgency to bring this innovative therapy to patients.”

“It’s a remarkable time for T1D research efforts worldwide, as this investigational treatment enters the clinic,” said Camillo Ricordi, M.D., Professor of Surgery, Director of the Diabetes Research Institute (DRI) and the Cell Transplant Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, and Steering Committee Chair for the VX-880 clinical trial. “The field’s experience with the limited cadaveric islet transplants available, where some patients have experienced prolonged insulin independence for years, provides important proof-of-concept for the potential of cell therapy to be transformative for patients living with T1D.”

The first clinical trial sites at the University of Miami Health System, the University of Pennsylvania and Massachusetts General Hospital are open for enrollment, and additional sites will be activated this year. To learn more visit clinicaltrials.gov.

About VX-880

VX-880, formerly known as STx-02, is an investigational allogeneic human stem cell-derived islet cell therapy that is being evaluated for patients who have T1D with impaired hypoglycemic awareness and severe hypoglycemia. VX-880 has the potential to restore the body’s ability to regulate glucose levels by restoring pancreatic islet cell function, including insulin production.

The VX-880 clinical trial will involve an infusion of fully differentiated, functional islet cells, as well as the chronic administration of concomitant immunosuppressive therapy, to protect the islet cells from immune rejection.

About the Phase 1/2 Clinical Trial

The clinical trial is a Phase 1/2, single-arm, open-label study in patients who have T1D with impaired hypoglycemic awareness and severe hypoglycemia. This will be a sequential, multi-part clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of different doses of VX-880. Approximately 17 patients will be enrolled in the clinical trial.

About Type 1 Diabetes

T1D results from the autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing islet cells in the pancreas, leading to loss of insulin production and impairment of blood glucose control. The absence of insulin leads to abnormalities in how the body processes nutrients, leading to high blood glucose levels. High blood glucose can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis and over time, to complications such as kidney disease/failure, eye disease (including vision loss), heart disease, stroke, nerve damage and even death.

Due to the limitations and complexities of insulin delivery systems, it can be difficult to achieve and maintain balance in glucose control in patients with T1D. Hypoglycemia often results because of the difficulty in balancing the different factors that impact glucose levels, including insulin, diet and exercise. Hypoglycemia remains a critical limiting factor in glycemic management, and severe hypoglycemia can cause loss of consciousness, coma, seizures, injury, and can be fatal. Over time, patients with T1D can develop impaired awareness of hypoglycemia, meaning they are no longer able to perceive the early signs of a hypoglycemic event, which can be dangerous and result in life threatening events.

There are currently limited treatment options beyond insulin for the management of T1D.

About Vertex

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation to create transformative medicines for people with serious diseases. The company has multiple approved medicines that treat the underlying cause of cystic fibrosis (CF) — a rare, life-threatening genetic disease — and has several ongoing clinical and research programs in CF. Beyond CF, Vertex has a robust pipeline of investigational small molecule medicines in other serious diseases where it has deep insight into causal human biology, including pain, alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and APOL1-mediated kidney diseases. In addition, Vertex has a rapidly expanding pipeline of cell and genetic therapies for diseases such as sickle cell disease, beta thalassemia, Duchenne muscular dystrophy and type 1 diabetes mellitus.

Founded in 1989 in Cambridge, Mass., Vertex’s global headquarters is now located in Boston’s Innovation District and its international headquarters is in London. Additionally, the company has research and development sites and commercial offices in North America, Europe, Australia and Latin America. Vertex is consistently recognized as one of the industry’s top places to work, including 11 consecutive years on Science magazine’s Top Employers list and a best place to work for LGBTQ equality by the Human Rights Campaign. For company updates and to learn more about Vertex’s history of innovation, visit www.vrtx.com or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and Instagram.

Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, without limitation, statements made by Dr. Bastiano Sanna and Dr. Camillo Ricordi in this press release, statements regarding the development, plans and expectations for our T1D pipeline program, including our Phase 1/2 clinical trial in people with T1D, statements regarding patient enrollment, dosing and activation of new sites, statements regarding potential clinical trial results and anticipated benefits of VX-880, and our plans to provide further updates on our T1D pipeline program. While Vertex believes the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are accurate, these forward-looking statements represent the company’s beliefs only as of the date of this press release and there are a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Those risks and uncertainties include, among other things, that the FDA may not approve our IND, that data from a limited number of patients may not be indicative of final clinical trial results, that data from the company’s development programs may not support registration or further development due to safety, efficacy or other reasons, that the COVID-19 pandemic may impact the status or progress of our clinical trial of VX-880, and other risks listed under the heading “Risk Factors” in Vertex’s most recent annual report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov and available through the company’s website at www.vrtx.com. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. Vertex disclaims any obligation to update the information contained in this press release as new information becomes available.

(VRTX-GEN)

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated

Investors:

Michael Partridge, +1 617-341-6108

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Brenda Eustace, +1 617-341-6187

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Manisha Pai, +1 617-429-6891

Media:

[email protected]

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U.S.: +1 617-341-6992

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Heather Nichols: +1 617-839-3607

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International: +44 20 3204 5275

KEYWORDS: Massachusetts United States North America

INDUSTRY KEYWORDS: Biotechnology Diabetes Health Pharmaceutical Clinical Trials

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