Assembly Bio Stock Tumbles On Discontinuation Of Hepatitis B Trial

Assembly Biosciences Inc ASMB has decided to discontinue the development of ABI-H2158 (2158) following the observation of elevated alanine transaminase (ALT) levels consistent with drug-induced hepatotoxicity (liver damage) in the Phase 2 trial.
The FDA noted that 2158 would also be placed on clinical hold.
The Phase 2 study enrolled 88 treatment-naïve patients with HCV-positive or HCV-negative chronic hepatitis B infection without cirrhosis.
In the study, two patients receiving 2158 experienced life-threatening elevations in ALT, leading to drug discontinuation.
Two additional patients developed severe 3 ALT elevations.
Related content: Benzinga's Full FDA Calendar.
Also Read: Assembly Biosciences Foregoes Vebicorvir Registration Studies For Chronic Suppressive Therapy.
Price Action: ASMB shares are down 21% at $3.08 during the premarket session on the last check Thursday.