Novocure Q4 Earnings Miss Street View, New Data Shows TTFields Initiates Downstream Anti-Tumor Response

A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation (JCI) finds treatment with Novocure Ltd's NVCR Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) mediated cell disruption activates the immune system and triggers an anti-tumor cell response.

• Preclinical research has shown that TTFields may induce a pro-inflammatory and broader immunological effect on tumor cells. 
• Data demonstrated that treatment with TTFields directly disrupted the nuclear envelope of glioblastoma (GBM) tumor cells, leading to leakage of DNA that activates the cGAS/STING and AIM2 signaling pathways, driving early anti-tumor immune responses. 
• Related: Novocure Posts Data For Tumor Treating Fields In Brain Tumor Trial.
• Further, a genetic signature was identified in patients treated with TTFields therapy, indicating an acquired immune response. 
• Earnings: Novocure posted Q4 sales of $133.2 million, down 7.5% Y/Y, missing the consensus of $135.42 million.
• The gross margin for the quarter was 78%.
• The Company posted an EPS loss of $(0.25), compared to the income of $0.05, missing the consensus of $(0.10).
• There were 3,587 active patients on therapy, +5% Y/Y.
• Guidance: The Company expects to achieve active patient growth between 2% to 5% in 2022, in-line with the growth rate experienced in Q4 FY21.
• Price Action: NVCR shares are down 2.93% at $70.82 during the market session on the last check Thursday.