Tonix Pharmaceuticals Seeks To Bolster Its COVID-19 Pipeline With This New Acquisition

Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp TNXP agreed to acquire all of the assets of Healion Bio Inc (Healion), including its entire portfolio of next-generation antiviral technology assets.
Healion's drug portfolio includes a class of broad-spectrum small-molecule oral antiviral drug candidates with a novel host-directed mechanism of action.
Deal terms were not disclosed.
Host-directed antivirals modulate human cells and tissues and are different from direct-acting antivirals, which inhibit virus proteins and processes.
Tonix's TNX-3900, formerly known as HB-121, are cathepsin protease inhibitors, some of which have potent activity in vitro against SARS-CoV-2.
Tonix plans to develop the TNX-3900 series of molecules as oral antivirals, either as monotherapy or in combination with other antivirals.
In December, Tonix Pharmaceuticals obtained an exclusive license from Curia Global Inc to develop three humanized murine monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for the treatment or prophylaxis of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
In August, the company initiated patient enrolment in Phase 2 PREVAIL study of TNX-102 SL for patients with Long COVID syndrome (Long COVID).
After the first 50% of enrolled patients have completed the study, an interim analysis is expected in the first half of 2023.
Price Action: TNXP shares are up 1.71% at $1.19 on the last check Thursday.