Why HC Wainwright Is Bullish On This Stock's Hepatitis-B Pipeline

Recently, Vir Biotechnology Inc VIR announced updates on its expansive hepatitis portfolio, including VIR-2218 which is part of a collaboration with Alnylam Pharmaceuticals Inc ALNY, and VIR-3434, a monoclonal antibody (mAb).
The key highlight of the event was the initial data presented from the Phase 2 MARCH trial of VIR-2218 + VIR-3434 in patients with chronic HBV.
"The combination therapy achieved hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) knockdown of more than 3 log10 IU/mL, an impressive result, particularly when compared to other combination and monotherapies studies, the analyst writes.
The analyst says that the positive outcome has increased confidence in the program.
The analyst views Vir & Alnylam as emerging as leaders in the chronic HBV treatment space estimated to exceed $100 billion in aggregate revenues over the next 15 years.
The update on the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for sotrovimab, a monoclonal antibody (mAb) antiviral for early-stage COVID-19, can dent the enthusiasm.
Related: Why Did FDA Pull Authorization For GSK-Vir's COVID-19 Therapy? Read Here.
Ahead of trial readouts amid upside potential on the HBV program in 2H22 and 2023, HC Wainwright reiterates a Buy rating and the price target of $200 on the stock.
Price Action: VIR shares are down 3.12% at $19.72 during the market session on the last check Monday.

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