Item 1. Business
ITEM
1. Business
GENERAL
AIM
ImmunoTech Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, “AIM”, “Company”, “we” or “us”) are
an immuno-pharma company headquartered in Ocala, Florida, and focused on the research and development of therapeutics to treat multiple
types of cancers, viral diseases and immune-deficiency disorders and to treat cancers for which there are currently inadequate or unmet
therapies. We have established a strong foundation of laboratory, pre-clinical and clinical data with respect to the development of nucleic
acids and natural interferon to enhance the natural antiviral defense system of the human body, and to aid the development of therapeutic
products for the treatment of certain cancers and chronic diseases.
AIM’s
flagship products are Ampligen (rintatolimod) and Alferon N Injection (Interferon alfa). Ampligen is a double-stranded RNA (“dsRNA”)
molecule being developed for globally important cancers, viral diseases and disorders of the immune system. Ampligen has not been approved
by the FDA or marketed in the United States but is approved for commercial sale in the Argentine Republic for the treatment of severe
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (“CFS”).
The
Company is currently proceeding primarily in four areas:
●
Conducting
clinical trials to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Ampligen for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
●
Evaluating
Ampligen across multiple cancers as a potential therapy that modifies the tumor microenvironment with the goal of increasing anti-tumor
responses to checkpoint inhibitors.
●
Exploring
Ampligen’s antiviral activities and potential use as a prophylactic or treatment for existing viruses, new viruses and mutated
viruses thereof.
●
Evaluating
Ampligen as a treatment for myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (“ME/CFS”) and fatigue and/or the Post-COVID
condition of fatigue.
●
Evaluating Ampligen as a vaccine adjuvant in the combination of Ampligen
and AstraZeneca’s FluMist as an intranasal vaccine for influenza, including avian influenza.
The
Company is prioritizing activities in an order related to the stage of development, with those clinical activities such as pancreatic
cancer, ME/CFS and Post-COVID conditions having priority over antiviral experimentation. The Company intends that priority clinical work
be conducted in trials authorized by the FDA or European Medicines Agency (“EMA”), which trials support a potential future
NDA. However, AIM’s antiviral experimentation is designed to accumulate additional preliminary data supporting their hypothesis
that Ampligen is a powerful, broad-spectrum prophylaxis and early-onset therapeutic that may confer enhanced immunity and cross-protection.
Accordingly, AIM will conduct antiviral programs in those venues most readily available and able to generate valid proof-of-concept data,
including foreign venues.
We
have recently announced that we have engaged Amarex Clinical Research (“Amarex”), our Clinical Research Organization, with
the application and eventual management of a follow-up Investigational New Drug (“IND”) application for the study of a potential
avian influenza combination therapy of our Ampligen and AstraZeneca’s FluMist, a nasal spray vaccine that helps prevent seasonal
influenza. We are seeking collaborative grants from government and industry to defray the cost of the study. In addition, we recently
announced that the Erasmus Medical Center Safety Committee grants approval to proceed with a Phase 2 Study of Ampligen and Imfinzi as
a potential combination therapy for late-stage pancreatic cancer.
Immuno-Oncology
We
are focused on pancreatic cancer because testing results to date — primarily conducted in the Netherlands — have been very
promising. The Netherlands study generated statistically significant data indicating that Ampligen extended survival well beyond the
Standard of Care (“SOC”), when compared to well-matched historical controls. These data support the proposition that Ampligen,
when administered to either patients with locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer after systemic chemotherapy, showed a statistically
significant increase in survival rate. In October 2021, we and our Contract Research Organization, Amarex, submitted an Investigational
New Drug (“IND”) application to the FDA for a planned Phase 2 study of Ampligen as a therapy for locally advanced or metastatic
late-stage pancreatic cancer.
Ampligen
appears in clinic testing to have potential for standalone efficacy in a number of other solid tumors. We have also seen success in increasing
survival rates and efficacy in the treatment of animal tumors when Ampligen is used in combination with checkpoint blockade therapies.
In fact, in March 2022 we announced interim data from an investigator-initiated, Phase 2, single-arm, efficacy/safety trial to evaluate
the effectiveness of combining intensive locoregional intraperitoneal (IP) chemoimmunotherapy of cisplatin with IP Ampligen (TLR-3 agonist)
and IV infusion of the checkpoint inhibitor pembrolizumab for patients with recurrent platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer. We believe that
data from the study, which is being conducted by the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center and funded by a Merck grant, demonstrated
that when combining three drugs – Ampligen and pembrolizumab, which are both immune therapies, with cisplatin, a chemotherapy –
evidence of increased biomarkers associated with T cell chemotaxis and cytolytic function has been seen. Importantly, increases of these
biomarkers in the tumor microenvironment have been correlated with favorable tumor responses. These successes in the field of immuno-oncology
have guided our efforts toward the potential use of Ampligen as a combinational therapy for the treatment of a variety of solid tumor
types. The first of our patent applications in this space was granted by the Netherlands on March 15, 2021.
3
Please
see “Immuno-Oncology” below.
Ampligen
as a Potential Antiviral
We
have a research and pre-clinical history that indicates broad-spectrum antiviral capability of Ampligen in animals. We hope to demonstrate
that it has the same effect in humans. To do this, among other things, we need a population infected with a virus. That is why we have
spent significant resources on COVID-19 (the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2) which is active and still infecting many subjects. While much
would need to be done to get Ampligen to market as a broad-spectrum antiviral, we believe that it is important to focus our efforts first
and foremost on thoroughly proving the concept, especially while there is still a large COVID-19-infected population. Previously, animal
studies were conducted that yielded positive results utilizing Ampligen to treat numerous viruses, such as Western Equine Encephalitis
Virus, Ebola, Vaccinia Virus (which is used in the manufacture of smallpox vaccine) and SARS-CoV-1. We have conducted experiments in
SARS-CoV-2 showing Ampligen has a powerful impact on viral replication. The prior studies of Ampligen in SARS-CoV-1 animal experimentation
may predict similar protective effects against SARS-CoV-2.
We
announced in February 2025 our intention to pursue a study of a potential avian influenza combination therapy of Ampligen and AstraZeneca’s
FluMist, a nasal spray vaccine that helps prevent seasonal influenza. The new proposed clinical trial would expand upon previous Company-sponsored
clinical research at the University of Alabama-Birmingham (“UAB”), which indicated that intranasal delivery of Ampligen after
the intranasal delivery of the FluMist seasonal influenza vaccine increased the immune response to seasonal variants in the vaccine by
greater than four-fold and induced cross-reactive secretory Immunoglobulin A against highly pathogenic avian influenza virus strains
H5N1, H7N9 and H7N3. We are seeking collaborative grants from government and industry to defray the cost of the study. We believe that
this pre-clinical and clinical work to date – combined with the ever-growing threat of Avian influenza – strongly supports
our decision to move forward with this second Ampligen and FluMist study in humans.
In
this regard, CHDR, a foundation located in Leiden in the Netherlands, managed a Phase 1 randomized, double-blind study for us to evaluate
the safety, tolerability, and biological activity of repeated administration of Ampligen intranasally. A total of 40 healthy subjects
received either Ampligen or a placebo in the trial, with the Ampligen given at four escalating dosages across four cohorts, to a maximum
level of 1,250 micrograms. The study was completed, and the Final Safety Report reported no Serious or Severe Adverse Events at any dosage
level.
While
there are approved therapies for COVID-19, we believe that, if Ampligen has the broad-spectrum antiviral properties that we believe that
it has, it could be a very valuable tool as a therapeutic or treatment for variants of existing viral diseases, including COVID-19, or
novel ones that arise in the future. Unlike most developing therapeutics which attack the virus, Ampligen works differently. We believe
that it activates antiviral immune system pathways that fight not just a particular virus or viral variant, but other similar viruses
as well.
Please
see “Ampligen as a Potential Antiviral” below.
Ampligen
as a Treatment for ME/CFS and Post-Covid Conditions
We
have long been focused on seeking the FDA’s approval for the use of Ampligen to treat ME/CFS. In fact, in February 2013, we received
a CRL from the FDA for our Ampligen NDA for ME/CFS. We believe the Phase 3 results provided in the NDA were positive. The CRL indicated
that we should conduct at least one additional clinical trial, complete various nonclinical studies and perform a number of data analyses.
4
While
developing a comprehensive response to the FDA and a plan for a confirmatory trial for the FDA NDA, we proceeded independently in Argentina
and, in August 2016, we received approval of an NDA from ANMAT for commercial sale of Ampligen in the Argentine Republic for the treatment
of severe CFS. In September 2019, we received clearance from the FDA to ship Ampligen to Argentina for the commercial launch and subsequent
sales. On June 10, 2020, we received import clearance from ANMAT to import the first shipment of commercial grade vials of Ampligen into
Argentina. The next steps in the commercial launch of Ampligen include ANMAT conducting a final inspection of the product and release
tests before granting final approval to begin commercial sales. This testing and approval process is ongoing due to ANMAT’s internal
processes. Once final approval by ANMAT is obtained, GP Pharm will be responsible for distributing Ampligen in Argentina.
The
FDA authorized an open-label treatment protocol, AMP-511, allowing patient access to Ampligen for treatment in a study under which
severely debilitated CFS patients have the opportunity to be on Ampligen to treat this very serious and chronic condition. The data
collected from the AMP-511 protocol through a consortium group of clinical sites provide safety information regarding the use of
Ampligen in patients with CFS. The AMP-511 protocol is ongoing. In October 2020, we received IRB approval for the expansion of the
AMP-511 protocol to include patients previously diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 following clearance of the virus, but who still
demonstrate chronic fatigue-like symptoms that we refer to as Post-COVID conditions. As of December 31, 2024, there were 6 patients
enrolled in this open-label expanded access treatment protocol (including two patients with Post-COVID Conditions). To date, there
have been eight such Post-COVID patients treated in the study. AIM previously reported positive preliminary results based on data
from the first four Post-COVID Condition patients enrolled in the study. The data show that, by week 12, compared to baseline, there
was what the investigators considered a clinically significant decrease in fatigue-related measures and improvement in cognition.
We
plan on a comprehensive follow-up with the FDA regarding the use of Ampligen as a treatment for ME/CFS. We have learned a great deal
since the FDA’s CRL and plan to adjust our approach to concentrate on specific ME/CFS symptoms. Responses to the CRL and a proposed
confirmatory trial are being worked on now by our R&D team and consultants.
In
January 2025, we announced that the final Clinical Study results from AMP-518 had been posted to ClinicalTrials.gov. The results support our belief in Ampligen as a potential therapeutic for people with the moderate-to-severe Post-COVID condition of fatigue,
and that this would be the likely subject population for AIM’s planned follow-up clinical trial.
Please
see “Ampligen as a Treatment for ME/CFS and Post-Covid Conditions” below.
Atlas
Equity Line of Credit
On
March 28, 2024, we entered into a purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) and a registration rights agreement (the
“Registration Rights Agreement”) with Atlas Sciences, LLC, a Utah limited liability company (“Atlas”), pursuant
to which Atlas has committed to purchase up to $15 million of our Common Stock.
Under
the terms and subject to the conditions of the Purchase Agreement, we have the right, but not the obligation, to sell to Atlas, and Atlas
is obligated to purchase up to $15 million of our Common Stock (the “Commitment Amount”). Such sales by us, if any, will
be subject to certain limitations, and may occur from time to time, at our sole discretion, over the 24-month period commencing on the
date that a registration statement covering the resale of shares that have been and may be issued under the Purchase Agreement. We have
filed a registration statement with the SEC which has been declared effective and filed a final prospectus with the SEC in connection
therewith.
Atlas
has no right to require us to sell any shares to Atlas, but Atlas is obligated to make purchases as we direct, subject to certain conditions.
There are no upper limits on the price per share that Atlas must pay for shares of Common Stock. Actual sales of shares to Atlas will
depend on a variety of factors to be determined by us from time to time, including, among others, market conditions, the trading price
of the Common Stock and determinations by us as to the appropriate sources of funding for us and our operations.
The
net proceeds under the Purchase Agreement will depend on the frequency and prices at which we sell shares to Atlas. We expect that any
proceeds received by us will be used for working capital and general corporate purposes.
We
cannot sell shares below the Minimum Price (as defined by the NYSE American) under the Purchase Agreement that would represent, in the
aggregate, more than 19.99% of the outstanding shares on the date that the Purchase Agreement was executed or more than one percent of
such shares to Substantial Security Holders (as defined by the NYSE American). Before we could do that, we would need to obtain stockholder
approval.
We
have agreed with Atlas that we will not enter into any “variable rate” transactions with any third party for a period defined
in the Purchase Agreement. Atlas has covenanted not to cause or engage in any manner whatsoever, any direct or indirect short selling
or hedging of the Company’s shares.
As
consideration for Atlas’s irrevocable commitment to purchase shares upon the terms of and subject to satisfaction of the conditions
set forth in the Purchase Agreement, upon execution of the Purchase Agreement, the Company agreed to pay Atlas an initial commitment
fee in shares equal to 1.0% of the Commitment Amount. The initial commitment fee was paid upon execution of the Purchase Agreement through
the issuance of 338,600 shares of Common Stock.
5
The
Purchase Agreement and the Registration Rights Agreement contain customary representations, warranties, conditions and indemnification
obligations of the parties. The Company has the right to terminate the Purchase Agreement at any time, at no cost or penalty.
During
any period where bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or liquidation proceedings or other proceedings, voluntary or involuntary, for
relief under any bankruptcy law or any law for the relief of debtors shall be instituted or anticipated by or against the Company or
any subsidiary of the Company, and in the case of such a proceeding being involuntary or commenced against the Company, which is not
dismissed within 60 days, the Company may not initiate any purchase of shares by Atlas.
The
foregoing descriptions of the Purchase Agreement and the Registration Rights Agreement are qualified in their entirety by reference to
the full text of such agreements, copies of which incorporated by reference as Exhibits hereto, and each of which is incorporated herein
in its entirety by reference. The representations, warranties and covenants contained in such agreements were made only for purposes
of such agreements and as of specific dates, were solely for the benefit of the parties to such agreements and may be subject to limitations
agreed upon by the contracting parties.
Liquidity
and Going Concern
The
accompanying audited consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming the Company will continue as a going concern.
The going concern basis of presentation assumes that the Company will continue in operation one year after the date these financial statements
are issued and will be able to realize its assets and discharge its liabilities and commitments in the normal course of business.
Pursuant
to the requirements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s (the “FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”)
Topic 205-40, Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern, management must evaluate whether
there are conditions or events, considered in the aggregate, that raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue
as a going concern for one year from the date these financial statements are issued. This evaluation does not take into consideration
the potential mitigating effect of management’s plans that have not been fully implemented or are not within control of the Company
as of the date the financial statements are issued. When substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern
exists, management evaluates whether the mitigating effect of its plans sufficiently alleviates the substantial doubt. The mitigating
effect of management’s plans, however, is only considered if both (1) it is probable that the plans will be effectively implemented
within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued, and (2) it is probable that the plans, when implemented, will
mitigate the relevant conditions or events that raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern
within one year after the date that the financial statements are issued.
The
Company’s principal source of liquidity is its cash and cash equivalents, marketable securities, and proceeds from financing activities
to provide the necessary funding to meet our obligations as they become due. The Company has suffered losses from operations and net
cash used on operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2024, and has a working capital deficit as of December 31, 2024. Additionally,
the Company’s stockholders’ equity was below the minimum requirements for continued listing on the New York Stock Exchange
American (“NYSE American”). These conditions raise substantial doubt regarding the Company’s ability to continue as
a going concern for a period of at least one year from the date of issuance of these audited consolidated financial statements. Management
evaluated the conditions, and the significance of these conditions related to the Company’s ability to meet its obligations and
determined that the primary cause of the deficit was related to certain accounts payable to which the Company is currently in negotiations
with the vendor. The Company is in negotiations to reduce the amount that is outstanding. These negotiations are ongoing and could result
in significant amounts which could partially alleviate the negative working capital. There is no assurance as to the timing or outcome
of these efforts. If the Company is unable to implement sufficient mitigation efforts, the Company may be forced to limit its business
activities or be unable to continue as a going concern, which would have a material adverse effect on its results of operations and financial
condition.
6
SPECIAL
NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AND SUMMARY RISK FACTORS
Certain
statements in this Report contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which we refer to as the Exchange Act. All statements, other than statements of
historical fact, included or incorporated herein regarding our strategy, future operations, financial position, future revenues,
projected costs, plans, prospects and objectives are forward-looking statements. Words such as “expect,”
“anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “seek,”
“estimate,” “think,” “may,” “could,” “will,” “would,”
“should,” “continue,” “potential,” “likely,” “opportunity” and similar
expressions or variations of such words are intended to identify forward-looking statements but are not the exclusive means of
identifying forward-looking statements and their absence does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Our forward-looking
statements are not guarantees of performance, and actual results could vary materially from those contained in or expressed by such
statements due to risks and uncertainties. These statements are based on our management’s current beliefs, expectations and
assumptions about future events, conditions and results and on information currently available to us. Discussions containing these
forward-looking statements may be found, among other places, in this Report in Part I, Item 1. “Business”; Part II, Item
2. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations”; Part II, Item 1.
“Legal Proceedings”; and Part II, Item 1A. “Risk Factors”. Among other things, for those statements, we
claim the protection of safe harbor for forward-looking statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of
1995. Any forward-looking statements set forth in this presentation speak only as of the date of this presentation. We do not
undertake to update any of these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that occur after the date hereof. We
are in various stages of seeking to determine whether Ampligen® will be effective in the treatment of multiple types of viral
diseases, cancers, and immune-deficiency disorders and the presentation sets forth our current and anticipated future activities.
These activities are subject to change for a number of reasons. Significant additional testing and trials will be required to
determine whether Ampligen® will be effective in the treatment of these conditions. Results obtained in animal models do not
necessarily predict results in humans. Human clinical trials will be necessary to prove whether or not Ampligen® will be
efficacious in humans. No assurance can be given as to whether current or planned clinical trials will be successful or yield
favorable data and the trials are subject to many factors including lack of regulatory approval(s), lack of study drug, or a change
in priorities at the institutions sponsoring other trials. Even if these clinical trials are initiated, we cannot assure that the
clinical studies will be successful or yield any useful data or require additional funding. Among the studies are clinical trials
that provide only preliminary data with a small number of subjects, and no assurance can be given that the findings in these studies
will prove true or that the study or studies will yield favorable results. Some of the world’s largest pharmaceutical
companies and medical institutions are working on a treatment for COVID-19. Even if Ampligen® proves effective in combating the
virus, no assurance can be given that our actions toward proving this will be given first priority or that another treatment that
eventually proves capable will not make our efforts ultimately unproductive, as multiple vaccines, and some treatments, are now
available and major pharma companies are working to develop their own disease treatments. No assurance can be given that future
studies will not result in findings that are different from those reported in the studies referenced in this Report. Operating in
foreign countries carries with it a number of risks, including potential difficulties in enforcing intellectual property rights. In
addition, many countries, including Argentina, are still dealing with COVID-19 outbreaks and have made that their primary focus. We
believe that this — along with a massive devaluation of the Argentine peso — may be delaying our commercialization of
Ampligen® in Argentina until COVID-19 is more under control. We cannot assure that our potential foreign operations will not be
adversely affected by these risks.
Our
filings are available at www.aimimmuno.com. The information found on our website is not incorporated by reference into this Report and
is included for reference purposes only.
SUMMARY
RISK FACTORS
Risks
Related to Ownership of Our Securities
●
We
have a history of losses, expect to continue to incur losses in the near term and may not achieve or sustain profitability in the
future, and as a result, there is a substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern.
●
We
are currently not in compliance with the Exchange continued listing requirements. If we are unable to regain compliance with the
Exchange’s listing requirements, our securities could be delisted, which could affect our common stock market price and liquidity
and reduce our ability to raise capital.
●
If we are not able to comply with the applicable continued listing requirements or standards of the NYSE American,
our common stock could be delisted from the Exchange.
●
We
may seek to raise additional funds or develop strategic relationships by issuing securities that would dilute your ownership. Depending
on the terms available to us, if these activities result in significant dilution, it may negatively impact the trading price of our
common stock.
●
An
active, liquid and orderly trading market for our common stock may not develop, the price of our stock may be volatile, and you could
lose all or part of your investment.
●
If
our shares of common stock become subject to the penny stock rules, it would become more difficult to trade our shares.
●
Proxy contests and related litigation by activist investors could cause significant fluctuations in our stock price
based on temporary or speculative market perceptions or other factors that do not necessarily reflect the underlying fundamentals and
prospects of our business.
●
If
we were to dissolve, the holders of our securities may lose all or substantial amounts of their investments.
●
If
securities or industry analysts do not publish or cease publishing research or reports about us, our business or our market, or if
they change their recommendations regarding our securities adversely, our stock price and trading volume could decline.
●
Our
business, financial condition and operating results could be negatively affected as a result of actions by activist investors.
7
General
Risk Related to our Business
●
We
will require additional financing which may not be available.
●
We
may continue to incur substantial losses and our future profitability is uncertain.
●
Our
drug and related technologies are investigational and subject to regulatory approval. If we are unable to obtain regulatory approval
in a timely manner, or at all, our operations will be materially harmed and our stock adversely affected.
●
We
may be subject to product liability claims from the use of Ampligen, Alferon N Injection, or other of our products which could negatively
affect our future operations. We have limited product liability and clinical trial insurance.
●
Uncertainty
of health care reimbursement for our products.
●
There
are risks of liabilities associated with handling and disposing of hazardous materials.
●
Failures
of our information technology infrastructure could have a material adverse effect on operations.
●
The
loss of services of key personnel could hurt our chances for success.
●
GAAP
requires estimates, judgements and assumptions which inherently contain uncertainties.
●
We
currently, and may in the future, have assets held at financial institutions that may exceed the insurance coverage offered by the
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and the loss of such assets would have a severe negative affect on our operations and liquidity.
Risks
Associated with Our Products
●
The
development of Ampligen is subject to significant risks.
●
The
development of Alferon N Injection is subject to significant risks.
●
Possible
side effects from the use of Ampligen or Alferon N Injection could adversely affect potential revenues and physician/patient acceptability
of our product.
Risks
Related to our activities associated with Ampligen’s potential effectiveness as a treatment for COVID-19 or Post-Covid Conditions
●
It
is not possible to predict the future of COVID-19, and related Post-COVID Conditions, as a global public health threat or the development
of related therapies. No assurance can be given that Ampligen will aid in or be applied to the treatment of this virus.
●
Operating
in foreign countries carries with it many risks.
Risks
Associated with Our Intellectual Property
●
We
may not be profitable unless we can protect our patents and/or receive approval for additional pending patents.
●
The
patent position of biotechnology and pharmaceutical firms is highly uncertain and involves complex legal and factual questions.
●
There
can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain necessary licenses if we cannot enforce patent license rights we may hold. In
addition, the failure of third parties from whom we currently license certain proprietary information or from whom we may be required
to obtain such licenses in the future, to adequately enforce their rights to such proprietary information, could adversely affect
the value of such licenses to us.
●
There
is no guarantee that our trade secrets will not be disclosed or known by our competitors.
Risks
Associated with Our R&D
● We
cannot predict what additional studies and/or additional testing or information may be required
by the FDA. Accordingly, we are unable to estimate the nature, timing, costs and necessary
efforts to complete these projects nor the anticipated completion dates. In addition, we
have no basis for estimating when material net cash inflows may commence. We have yet to
generate significant revenues from the sale of these developmental products.
Risks
Associated with Our Manufacturing
●
Our
Alferon N Injection Commercial Sales were halted due to lack of finished goods inventory. If we are unable to gain the necessary
FDA approvals related to Alferon N Injection, or if we are unable to identify a CMO or CMOs that meet our requirements, then our
operations would most likely be materially and/or adversely affected.
●
There
are no long-term agreements with suppliers of required materials and services for Ampligen and there are a limited number of raw
material suppliers. If we are unable to obtain the required raw materials and/or services, we may not be able to manufacture Ampligen.
●
There
are limited number of organizations in the United States available to provide the final manufacturing steps of formulation, fill,
finish and packing sets for Alferon N Injection and Ampligen.
●
There
is no assurance that, upon success, manufacture of a drug on a limited-scale basis for investigational use would lead to a successful
transition to commercial, large-scale production.
●
We
have limited manufacturing experience for Ampligen and Alferon N Injection. We may not be profitable unless we can produce Ampligen,
Alferon N Injection or other products in commercial quantities at costs acceptable to us.
8
Risks
Associated with Our Licensing/Collaborations/Joint Ventures
● If
we are unable to achieve licensing, collaboration and/or joint ventures, our marketing strategy
for Ampligen will be part of the differing health care systems around the world along with
the different marketing and distribution systems that are used to supply pharmaceutical products
to those systems.
Risks
Associated with Our Marketing and Distribution
● We
have limited marketing and sales capability. If we are unable to obtain additional distributors
and our current and future distributors do not market our products successfully, we may not
generate significant revenues or become profitable.
Risks
Associated with Our Competition
●
Rapid
technological change may render our products obsolete or non-competitive.
●
Our
products may be subject to substantial competition.
Risks
Associated with an Investment in Our Common Stock
●
The
market price of our stock may be adversely affected by market volatility.
●
Sales
of a significant number of shares of our common stock in the public markets, or the perception that such sales could occur, could
depress the market price of our common stock.
●
Provisions
of our Certificate of Incorporation and Delaware law could defer a change of our Management, which could discourage or delay offers
to acquire us.
●
Our
business, financial condition and operating results could be negatively affected as a result of actions by activist investors.
AVAILABLE
INFORMATION
We
file electronically with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly
reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or
15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. We make available on our website at www.aimimmuno.com free of
charge, copies of these reports as soon as reasonably practicable after filing these reports with, or furnishing them to, the SEC.
We are subject to the information and periodic reporting requirements of the Exchange Act and, in accordance therewith, we file
periodic reports, proxy statements and other information with the SEC. Such periodic reports, proxy statements and other information
are available for inspection and copying at the website of the SEC www.sec.gov . You also may obtain a free copy of our annual
reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, proxy statements and amendments to those reports
on the day of filing with the SEC on our website at http://www.aimimmuno.com under the Investor Relations tab for SEC Filings
or by contacting the Investor Relations Department by calling (833) 475-8247 or (352) 448-7797 or sending an e-mail message to
AIM@jtcir.com. Our Internet website and the information contained on that website, or accessible from our website, is not intended
to be incorporated into this Annual Report on Form 10-K (this “Annual Report”) or any other filings we make with the
SEC.
OUR
PRODUCTS
Our
primary pharmaceutical product platform consists of Ampligen (rintatolimod), a first-in-class drug of large macromolecular double-stranded
(ds) RNA (ribonucleic acid) molecules. Ampligen is the only known TLR3 agonist to avoid helicase activation of NF-κB. Natural dsRNAs
and poly IC which activate NF-κB in the tumor microenvironment (TME) and have the potential to enhance cancer cell proliferation.
Alferon Injection is an FDA-approved natural alpha-interferon product.
Ampligen®
Ampligen
is approved for sale in Argentina (to 2026) for severe CFS and is an experimental drug in the United States currently undergoing clinical
development for the treatment of certain cancers, ME/CFS and Post-COVID Conditions. Over its developmental history, Ampligen has received
various designations, including Orphan Drug Product Designation (FDA and EMA), Treatment protocol (e.g., “Expanded Access”
or “Compassionate” use authorization) with Cost Recovery Authorization (FDA) and “promising” clinical outcome
recognition based on the evaluation of certain summary clinical reports (“AHRQ” or Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality).
Based on the results of published, peer-reviewed pre-clinical studies and clinical trials, we believe that Ampligen may have broad-spectrum
antiviral and anti-cancer properties.
We
believe that nucleic acid compounds represent a potential new class of pharmaceutical products designed to act at the molecular level
for treatment of many human diseases. Ampligen represents the first drug in the class of large (macromolecular) dsRNA molecules to apply
for NDA review. There are two forms of nucleic acids: deoxyribonucleic acid (“DNA”) and ribonucleic acid (“RNA”).
DNA is a group of naturally occurring molecules found in chromosomes, the cell’s genetic machinery. RNA is a group of naturally
occurring informational molecules which orchestrate a cell’s behavior which, in turn, regulates the action of groups of cells,
including the cells which comprise the body’s immune system. RNA directs the production of proteins and regulates certain cell
activities including the activation of an otherwise dormant cellular defense against viruses and tumors. Our drug technology utilizes
specifically configured RNA and is a selective Toll-like Receptor 3 (“TLR3”) agonist that can be administered intravenously,
intranasally and intraperitoneally. Ampligen has been assigned the generic name rintatolimod by the United States Adopted Names Council
(“USANC”) and has the chemical designation poly(I):poly(C12U).
9
Expanded
Access Program/Early Access Programs/clinical trials of Ampligen that have been conducted or that are ongoing include studies of the
potential treatment of patients with pancreatic cancer, renal cell carcinoma, malignant melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, ovarian
cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, ME/CFS, Hepatitis B, HIV, COVID-19 and Post-COVID conditions.
We
have received approval of our NDA from ANMAT for the commercial sale of Ampligen in the Argentine Republic for the treatment of
severe CFS. The product would be marketed by GP Pharm, our commercial partner in Latin America. Shipment of the drug product to
Argentina was initiated in 2018 to complete the release testing by ANMAT needed for commercial distribution. In September 2019, we
received clearance from the FDA to ship Ampligen to Argentina for the commercial launch and subsequent sales. In June 2020, we
received import clearance from ANMAT to import the first shipment of commercial grade vials of Ampligen into Argentina.
Collaboration with GP Pharm continues for commercial launch of Ampligen in Argentina. Commercialization in Argentina will require,
among other things, the establishment of disease awareness, medical education, creation of an appropriate reimbursement level,
design of marketing strategies and completion of manufacturing preparations for launch and ANMAT conducting a final inspection of
the product and release tests before granting final approval to begin commercial sales. AIM has supplied GP Pharm with the Ampligen
required for testing and ANMAT release. This testing and approval process is ongoing. Once final approval by ANMAT is obtained, the distributing of Ampligen in Argentina can begin. Argentina has experienced hyper-inflation and recently devalued its currency
to the U.S. dollar by 50%. Contracts in Argentina are U.S. dollar contracts and the parties must evaluate the impact of the recent
devaluation on its relationship.
The
FDA has authorized an open-label expanded access treatment protocol (AMP-511) allowing patient access to Ampligen in a study under which
severely debilitated CFS patients have the opportunity to be on Ampligen to treat this serious and chronic condition. The AMP-511 protocol
started in the 1990s and is ongoing. The data collected from the AMP-511 protocol through clinical sites provide safety information regarding
the use of Ampligen in patients with CFS. We are establishing an enlarged database of clinical safety information which we believe will
provide further documentation regarding the absence of autoimmune disease associated with Ampligen treatment. We believe that continued
efforts to understand existing data, and to advance the development of new data and information, will ultimately support our future filings
for Ampligen and/or the design of future clinical studies that the FDA requested in a CRL. The FDA approved an increased reimbursement
level from $200 to $345 per 200 mg vial of Ampligen, due to increased production costs; which was re-authorized in 2021, 2022, 2023 and
2024. At this time, we do not plan on passing this adjustment along to the patients in this program. In October 2020, we received IRB
approval for the expansion of the AMP-511 Expanded Access Program clinical trial for ME/CFS to include patients previously diagnosed
with SARS-CoV-2 following clearance of the virus, but who still demonstrate chronic fatigue-like symptoms that we refer to as Post-COVID
conditions. As of December 31, 2024, there were 6 patients enrolled in this open-label expanded access treatment protocol. In July 2022,
AIM reported positive preliminary results based on data from the first four Post-COVID Condition patients enrolled in the study. The
data show that, by week 12, compared to baseline, the investigators observed what they considered a clinically significant decrease in
fatigue-related measures. To date, there have been eight such Post-COVID patients treated in this study.
In
May 2016, we entered into a five-year agreement with myTomorrows, a Netherlands-based company, for the commencement and management of
an Early Access Program (“EAP”) in Europe and Turkey related to ME/CFS. Pursuant to the agreement, as amended, myTomorrows
also is managing all Early Access Programs and Special Access Programs in Europe, Canada, and Turkey to treat pancreatic cancer and ME/CFS
patients. The agreement was automatically extended for a period of 12 months on May 20, 2021; has been automatically extended for 12
months on each subsequent May 20; and will continue to be automatically extended for periods of 12 months every May 20 until terminated
or the terms of the agreement are met.
In
June 2018, Ampligen was cited as outperforming two other TLR3 agonists — poly IC and natural double stranded RNA — in creating
an enhanced tumor microenvironment for checkpoint blockade therapy in the journal of Cancer Research . In a head-to-head study in explant
culture models, Ampligen activated the TLR3 pathway and promoted an accumulation of killer T cells but, unlike the other two TLR3 agonists,
it did so without causing regulatory T cell (Treg) attraction. These findings were considered important because they indicate that Ampligen
selectively reprograms the tumor microenvironment by inducing the beneficial aspects of tumor inflammation (attracting killer T cells),
without amplifying immune-suppressive elements such as regulatory T cells. The study was conducted at the University of Pittsburgh and
Roswell Park as a part of the NIH-funded P01 CA132714 and Ovarian Cancer Specialized Program of Research Excellence (“SPORE”).
In
2018, we completed production of two commercial-size batches of more than 16,000 vials of Ampligen, following its “Fill & Finish”
at Jubilant HollisterStier, the Contract Manufacturing Organization. These lots passed all required testing for regulatory release for
human use and are being used for multiple programs, including: the treatment of ME/CFS; the pancreatic cancer EAP in the Netherlands;
and will continue to be used for ongoing and future clinical studies in oncology. Lots of Ampligen were manufactured in December 2019,
January 2020 and December 2023. Additionally, in December 2020, we added Pharmaceutics International Inc. (“Pii”) as a “Fill
& Finish” provider to enhance our capacity to produce Ampligen. This addition amplifies our manufacturing capability by providing
redundancy and cost savings. The contracts augment our active and in-process fill and finish capacity.
10
As
to the production of additional Ampligen when and if needed, the validation of the polymer production process with Sterling Pharma Solutions
(“Sterling”) is ongoing. This will need to be complete before we can manufacture more polymer, and thus more Ampligen.
Alferon
N Injection®
Alferon
N Injection is the registered trademark for our injectable formulation of natural alpha interferon. Alferon N Injection is the only
natural-source, multi-species alpha interferon currently approved for sale in the United States and Argentina for the intralesional
(within lesions) treatment of refractory (resistant to other treatment) or recurring external genital warts in patients 18 years of
age or older. Alferon N Injection is also approved in Argentina for the treatment of refractory patients that failed or were
intolerant to treatment with recombinant interferons. Argentina has experienced hyper-inflation and recently devalued its currency
to the U.S. dollar by 50%. Contracts in Argentina are in U.S. dollars and the parties must evaluate the impact of the
recent devaluation on its relationship. Certain types of human papilloma viruses (“HPV”) cause genital warts, a sexually
transmitted disease (“STD”). According to the CDC, HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection, with
approximately 79 million Americans — most in their late teens and early 20s — infected with HPV. In fact, the CDC states
that “HPV is so common that nearly all sexually active men and women get the virus at some point in their lives.”
Although they do not usually result in death, genital warts commonly recur, causing significant morbidity and entail substantial
health care costs.
Interferons
are a group of proteins produced and secreted by cells to combat diseases. Researchers have identified four major classes of human interferon:
alpha, beta, gamma and omega. Alferon N Injection contains a multi-species form of alpha interferon. The worldwide market for injectable
alpha interferon-based products has experienced rapid growth and various alpha interferon injectable products are approved for many major
medical uses worldwide. Alpha interferons are manufactured commercially in three ways: by genetic engineering, by cell culture, and from
human white blood cells. All three of these types of alpha interferon are or were approved for commercial sale in the United States.
Our natural alpha interferon is produced from human white blood cells. The potential advantages of natural alpha interferon over recombinant
(i.e., synthetic) interferon produced and marketed by other pharmaceutical firms may be based upon their respective molecular compositions.
Natural alpha interferon is composed of a family of proteins containing many molecular species of interferon. In contrast, commercial
recombinant alpha interferon products each contain only a single species. Researchers have reported that the various species of interferons
may have differing antiviral activity depending upon the type of virus. Natural alpha interferon presents a broad complement of species,
which we believe may account for its higher activity in laboratory studies. Natural alpha interferon is also glycosylated (i.e., partially
covered with sugar molecules). Such glycosylation is not present on the currently U.S.-marketed recombinant alpha interferons. We believe
that the absence of glycosylation may be in part responsible for the production of interferon-neutralizing antibodies seen in patients
treated with recombinant alpha interferon. Although cell culture-derived interferon is also composed of multiple glycosylated alpha interferon
species, the types and relative quantity of these species are different from our natural alpha interferon.
Alferon
N Injection [Interferon alfa-n3 (human leukocyte derived)] is a highly purified, natural-source, glycosylated, multi-species alpha interferon
product. There are essentially no neutralizing antibodies observed against Alferon N Injection to date and the product has a relatively
low side-effect profile. The recombinant DNA derived alpha interferon formulations have been reported to have decreased effectiveness
after one year of treatment, probably due to neutralizing antibody formation (See “Manufacturing” and “Marketing/Distribution”
sections below for more details on the manufacture and marketing/distribution of Alferon N Injection). The production of new Alferon
N Injection Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient, or API, is currently on hold. We do not know when, if ever, our products will be generally
available for commercial sale for any indication. Additionally, on May 9, 2023, we were granted a U.S. Patent for a method for preventing
or reducing antigenic drift or viral reassortment in a host animal comprising determining if a host animal has been exposed to or infected
by an avian influenza virus and administering to the exposed host animal alpha-interferon. Given our focus on developing Ampligen as
an oncology therapy and antiviral, alone and in combination with other drugs, at this time we are not focusing on developing Alferon
N Injection.
11
PATENTS
AND NON-PATENT EXCLUSIVITY RIGHTS
We
consider patent exclusivity as a crucial component of our business. As of December 31, 2024, we had 59 patents worldwide with 71
additional pending patent applications comprising our intellectual property.
We
continually review our patents to determine if they have continuing value. Please see “Note 4: Patents, and Trademark Rights, Net”
under Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements for more information on these patents.
There
are no current patent litigation proceedings involving us.
Orphan
drug designation
U.S.
Orphan drug designation qualifies sponsors for incentives including:
●
Tax
credits for qualified clinical trials
●
Exemption
from user fees
●
Potential
seven years of market exclusivity after FDA approval
We
have received Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) from the FDA for Ampligen used in the treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, HIV, Metastatic
Melanoma, Renal Cell Carcinoma, Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma and Ebola Virus Disease.
In
the European Union, ODD carries ten years of market exclusivity after receiving marketing authorization. We have received ODD from the
EU for Ampligen used in the treatment of Ebola Virus Disease and Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma and for Alferon used in the treatment of Middle
East Respiratory Syndrome.
RESEARCH
AND DEVELOPMENT (“R&D”)
Our
general focus during the past several fiscal years has been on expanding the market potential of Ampligen through investigation of efficacy
(in vitro and in vivo) in different immune-based disorders including cancer and CFS. We also have focused on research and development
of potential prophylactic and therapeutic applications for the treatment of COVID-19, including the long-term effects of COVID-19.
Immuno-Oncology
The
potential of Ampligen as an immuno-oncology therapeutic has been a major focus of AIM since our current leadership took over in 2016.
We have been working with the University of Pittsburgh’s chemokine modulation research initiative, which includes the use of Ampligen
as a potential adjuvant to modify the tumor microenvironment (“TME”) with the goal of increasing anti-tumor responses to
check point inhibitors (“CPI”). As part of this collaboration, we have supplied Ampligen to the University. The study, under
the leadership of Robert P. Edwards, MD, chair of gynecologic services at Magee-Women’s Hospital of the University of Pittsburgh
School of Medicine, and Professor of Surgery Pawel Kalinski, M.D., Ph.D., at Roswell Park, Buffalo, N.Y., involved the chemokine modulatory
regimen developed by Dr. Kalinski’s group and successfully completed the Phase 1 dose escalation in patients with resectable colorectal
cancer.
Multiple
Ampligen clinical trials are underway or recently completed at major university cancer centers testing whether tumor microenvironments
can be reprogrammed to increase the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy, including checkpoint inhibitors. The underway trials include:
Pancreatic
Cancer Trial
●
The
DURIPANC Study is a Phase 1b/2 clinical trial combining Ampligen with AstraZeneca’s anti-PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitor
Imfinzi® (durvalumab) for the treatment of late-stage pancreatic cancer. The primary objective of the Phase 1b portion was to
determine the safety of combination treatment. Investigators at Erasmus Medical Center (“Erasmus MC”) in the Netherlands
have completed the safety evaluation of subjects enrolled in the first dose level of the dose escalation design, finding the combination
therapy to be generally well-tolerated with no severe treatment-related adverse events or dose-limiting toxicities. In February 2025,
we announced that the Erasmus MC Safety Committee had approved the clinical trial to move forward with Phase 2. Up to 25 patients
are expected to be enrolled in the Phase 2 portion of DURIPANC. Enrollment and dosing is ongoing in Phase 2.
●
The
Phase 2 AMP-270 clinical trial is a randomized, open-label, controlled, parallel-arm study with the primary objective of comparing
the efficacy of Ampligen in combination with standard of care (SOC) versus SOC alone following first-line therapy, such as
FOLFIRINOX for subjects with locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Secondary objectives include comparing safety and
tolerability. AMP-270 is expected to enroll approximately 90 subjects in up to 30 centers across the U.S. and Europe. In March 2022,
the FDA granted clearance to proceed with the study. In April 2022, we executed a work order with Amarex to manage the clinical
trial. In August 2022, we received IRB approval of the trial protocol and so announced the trial’s commencement. The
authorization to proceed with the Phase 2 pancreatic cancer clinical trial has been received with potential sites in the Netherlands
at Erasmus MC, and also at major cancer research centers in the United States such as The Buffett Cancer Center at the University of
Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC). We sought FDA guidance on the expansion of inclusion criteria and treatment arms, then subsequently
amended the study protocol. We recently made a business decision to place screening/enrollment on hold and suspend the study.
( https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05494697 ).
12
Advanced
Recurrent Ovarian Cancer
● Results
of the Phase 1 portion of a Phase 1/2 study of intraperitoneal chemo-immunotherapy in advanced
recurrent ovarian cancer were published in the American Association for Cancer Research publication,
Clinical Cancer Research (Clin Cancer Res January 19, 2022 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.CCR-21-3659).
The study results represent an important extension of prior studies using human tumor explants
that showed Ampligen’s potentially important role as a TLR3 agonist acting synergistically
with high-dose IFNα and celecoxib to selectively enhance Teff cell-attractants while
suppressing Treg-attractants in the tumor microenvironment with a concomitant increase in
the Teff/Treg ratio. The importance of boosting the Teff/Treg ratio in the tumor microenvironment
is that it is associated with the conversion of ‘cold’ tumors into ‘hot’
tumors, which have an increased sensitivity to chemo-immunotherapy and an improved chance
of showing tumor regression. The Phase 1 portion was designed to establish intraperitoneal
safety. The Phase 2 portion of the study is recruiting subjects. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02432378
● A
Phase 2 study of advanced recurrent ovarian cancer using cisplatin, pembrolizumab, plus Ampligen;
up to 45 patients to be enrolled; enrollment has commenced, and numerous patients have commenced
treatment. In April 2024, researchers released topline data that saw an Objective Response
Rate (“ORR”) of 45% in platinum-sensitive subjects with recurrent ovarian cancer.
ORR includes complete response (“CR”) and partial response (“PR”)
to treatment. There was a total Clinical Benefit Rate (“CBR”) of 55% when including
patients who experienced stable disease (“SD”). Researchers also reported a median
Progression-Free Survival (“PFS”) of 7.8 months. Based on these results and other
research suggesting a similar effect in other solid tumor types, AIM sees an Ampligen combination
therapy as having potential across multiple types of cancers. Additional clinical studies
are underway and planned in many of these types of tumors to further confirm these effects.”
https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03734692.
In
March 2021, we were granted a patent by the Netherlands Patent Office with granted patent claims that include, but are not limited to,
the use of Ampligen as a combination cancer therapy with checkpoint blockade inhibitors (e.g. pembrolizumab, nivolumab). We believe that
the above positive data makes this patent have heightened potential. Similar patents are pending in other countries.
Stage
4 Metastatic Triple Negative Breast Cancer - Phase 1 study of metastatic triple-negative breast cancer using chemokine modulation
therapy, including Ampligen and pembrolizumab. Eight patients were enrolled and 6 patients were evaluable. https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03599453.
The key findings announced first in April 2022, and later published in November 2023, included:
●
The
pre-determined primary endpoint of efficacy was met (increase in CD8 in TME).
●
Uniform
increase of immune markers upon treatment was observed: CD8 mRNA (6.1-fold; p-0.034), GZMB mRNA (3.5-fold; p=0.058), ratios of CD8
/FOXP3 and GZMB/FOXP3 (5.7-fold; p=0.036, and 7.6-fold; p=0.024 respectively), thus successfully meeting the pre-determined primary
endpoint in the study (increase in CD8 in TME).
●
In
addition, an increase in CTL attractants CXCL10 (2.6-fold; p=0.104) and CCL5 (3.3-fold; p=0.019) was observed. In contrast, Treg
marker FOXP3 or Treg attractants CCL22 or CXCL12 were not enhanced.
●
Three
patients had stable disease lasting 2.4, 2.5 and 3.8 months, as of data cut off September 1, 2021.
●
An
additional patient (non-evaluable) had a partial response (breast tumor autoamputation) with massive tumor necrosis in the post-CKM
biopsy.
Stage
4 Colorectal Cancer Metastatic to the Liver - Phase 2a study of Ampligen as a component of chemokine modulatory regimen on colorectal
cancer metastatic to liver; recruitment has been completed; 19 patients were enrolled and 12 patients were evaluable for the primary
endpoint https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03403634. The key findings announced in April 2022 included:
●
The
study’s primary endpoint was met, evidenced by increased CD8a expression post-treatment (p=0.046).
●
Saw
increase in the CD8a/CD4 (p=0.03), CD8a/FOXP3 (p<0.01) and GZMB/FOXP3 (p<0.01) ratios.
●
The
expression of CTL-attracting chemokines CCL5 (p=0.08), CXCL9 (p=0.05), and CXCL10 (p=0.06) were increased, while expression of the
Treg/MDSC attractant CXCL12 (p=0.07) was decreased post-treatment.
●
Median
OS was 10.5 (90% CI 2.2-15.2) months, and the median PFS was 1.5 (90% CI 1.4, 1.8) months.
●
No
tumor responses were seen. The treatment was well tolerated. Of all enrolled patients (N=19), adverse events were noted in 74% of
patients, with the most common being fatigue (58%). Grade 3 or higher adverse events were rare (5%).
Early-Stage
Prostate Cancer - Phase 2 study investigating the effectiveness and safety of aspirin and Ampligen with or without interferon-alpha
2b (Intron A) compared to no drug treatments in a randomized three-arm study of patients with prostate cancer before undergoing radical
prostatectomy. Patient enrollment has been initiated in this study designed for up to 45 patients. The study is temporarily suspended
due to the Merck discontinuation of Intron-A production. Roswell Park has had a Type-C meeting with the FDA and is currently performing
the necessary experiments to replace Intron-A with a generic alpha-interferon. We expect this trial to resume in the near future. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03899987.
13
Early-Stage
Triple Negative Breast Cancer - The objective of this Phase 1 study is to evaluate the safety and tolerability of a combination of
Ampligen, celecoxib with or without Intron A, when given along with chemotherapy in patients with early-stage triple negative breast
cancer. The now completed (as of September 2022) topline results from the study confirm the positive findings that were previously presented
at the 2022 Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) 37th Annual Meeting in a poster presentation titled Safety and efficacy of de-escalated
neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) using chemokine-modulating regimen (rintatolimod, IFN-α2b,
celecoxib). The primary endpoint of the study was safety and tolerability. The results demonstrated that treatment was well-tolerated
with mostly grade 1 or 2 treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) without dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) or delayed or immune-related
toxicities. DLT was defined as grade 3 or higher toxicities within the first 3 weeks. Secondary endpoints included pCR rate where 5/9
(56%) of patients attained pCR and 1 more patient attained ypTmic. Tumor and blood biomarkers were also analyzed in exploratory studies.
https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04081389.
Refractory
Melanoma — Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center (“Roswell Park”), in a clinical trial fully funded by the National
Cancer Institute (NCI), has commenced patient enrollment in its Phase 2 study in subjects with primary PD-1/PD-L1 resistant melanoma.
The Phase 2 study will evaluate type-1 polarized dendritic cell (αDC1) vaccine in combination with tumor-selective chemokine modulation
(“CKM”) comprised of Interferon alpha 2b, Ampligen (rintatolimod) and Celecoxib. Up to 24 patients are to be enrolled. The
study was temporarily suspended due to the Merck discontinuation of Intron-A production but has since resumed recruitment (See: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT04093323).
Metastatic
or Unresectable Triple Negative Breast Cancer – This phase 1/2a trial tests the safety, side effects, and best dose of chemokine
modulation therapy (CKM) (rintatolimod, celecoxib, and interferon alpha 2b) in combination with pembrolizumab for the treatment of patients
with triple negative breast cancer that has spread from where it first started (primary site) to other places in the body (metastatic)
or that cannot be removed by surgery (unresectable). The study is recruiting subjects. (See: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05756166).
Additional
Progress and Analysis Related to Pancreatic Cancer
In
January 2017, the EAP established under our agreement with myTomorrows to enable access of Ampligen to ME/CFS patients was extended to
pancreatic cancer patients beginning in the Netherlands. myTomorrows is our exclusive service provider in Europe and Turkey and will
manage all EAP activities relating to the pancreatic cancer extension of the program. In February 2018, the agreement with myTomorrows
was extended to cover Canada to treat pancreatic cancer patients, pending government approval. There have been no physician requests
to date that would cause the program to move forward with the approval process.
A
total of 42 pancreatic cancer patients initially received treatment with Ampligen immuno-oncology therapy under the EAP program at
Erasmus MC in the Netherlands, with more than 50 patients ultimately receiving treatment. Prof. C.H.J. van Eijck, MD, was the lead
investigator. In March 2024, the team at Erasmus MC published a thorough data analysis
in an article titled “Rintatolimod in Advanced Pancreatic Cancer enhances Anti-Tumor Immunity through Dendritic Cell-Mediated
T Cell Responses” in the journal Clinical Cancer Research. The positive clinical findings relate to changes in the tumor
microenvironment after Ampligen use. We are working with our Contract Research Organization, Amarex Clinical Research LLC, to seek
FDA “fast-track.” We have applied for fast-track status; have received denials to date; and are currently working
through the FDA process to provide all the materials and information required to achieve fast-track status.
A
manuscript titled “Rintatolimod in Advanced Pancreatic Cancer enhances Anti-Tumor Immunity through Dendritic Cell-Mediated T Cell
Responses,” was published in the print version of the journal Clinical Cancer Research in August 2024. Researchers at the Erasmus
University Medical Center (“Erasmus MC”) found that Ampligen treatment in pancreatic cancer patients enhances peripheral
immune activity at the transcriptomic and proteomic levels, particularly involving type 1 conventional dendritic cells (cDC1s) and T
cells. Post-Ampligen, the increased peripheral abundance of BTLA+XCR1+ cDC1s and CD4+SELL+ T cells correlated with improved clinical
outcomes. Patients with stable disease exhibited pronounced overexpression of genes related to DC and T cell activation. Notably, the
expression of immune checkpoints PD-L1 and PD-L2 decreased post-Ampligen across all patients.
14
Additionally:
●
In
December 2020, the FDA granted Ampligen Orphan Drug Designation status for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. The Orphan Drug Designation
program provides orphan status to drugs and biologics which are defined as those intended for the treatment, prevention or diagnosis
of a rare disease or condition, which is one that affects less than 200,000 persons in the United States or meets cost recovery provisions
of the act. The status helps incentivize the treatment of therapies to treat unmet medical needs by providing a company with seven
years of exclusivity rights once a drug reaches market.
●
In
February 2021, our subsidiary, NV Hemispherx Biopharma Europe (now AIM ImmunoTech Europe N.V./S.A.), received formal notification
from the European Commission (“EC”) granting Orphan Medicinal Product Designation for Ampligen as a treatment for pancreatic
cancer. Orphan products, once commercially approved in the European Union (“EU”), receive benefits including up to ten
years of protection from market competition from similar medicines with similar active component and indication for use that are
not shown to be clinically superior.
In
June 2021, Ampligen was featured in a publication containing state-of-the-art methodologies in the peer-reviewed medical journal Cancers
as a potential treatment option for cancer patients who are infected with SARS-CoV-2. The study’s authors stated that Ampligen
has the potential to reduce the severity of the deadly respiratory disease COVID-19. According to laboratory data presented in the publication,
“Rintatolimod [Ampligen] activated the innate and the adaptive immune systems by activating a cascade of actions in human pancreatic
cancer cells”, including:
●
Stimulation
of interferon regulatory factors and activation of the interferon signaling pathway,
●
Production
of immunomodulatory activity and
●
Induction
of the expression of MHC class I and II histocompatibility
The
full journal article is titled: “Rintatolimod Induces Antiviral Activities in Human Pancreatic Cancer Cells: Opening for an Anti-COVID-19
Opportunity in Cancer Patients?” Cancers is a peer-reviewed, open access journal of oncology published semimonthly online by MDPI.
The study’s authors include Prof. C.H.J. van Eijck, MD, PhD, the lead investigator at Erasmus Medical Center in the Netherlands.
In
October 2021, we and Amarex submitted an IND application with the FDA for a planned Phase 2 study of Ampligen as a therapy for locally
advanced or metastatic late-stage pancreatic cancer. In December 2021, the FDA responded with a Clinical Hold on the proposed study.
We submitted our response to the FDA in February 2022. In March 2022, we received notification from the FDA that the Clinical Hold was
released and cleared, meaning that we are now able to proceed with the study specifically to treat locally advanced pancreatic cancer
patients. In August 2022, we received IRB approval of the trial protocol and so announced the trial’s commencement.
A
Type D meeting package seeking the FDA guidance on expansion of inclusion criteria and treatment arms to be included was submitted to
the FDA. We subsequently amended the study protocol. AIM recently made a business decision to place screening/enrollment on hold and suspend the study.
Positive
data was published in March 2022 in a manuscript titled, “Rintatolimod (Ampligen®) enhances numbers of peripheral B cells and
is associated with longer survival in patients with locally advanced and metastasized pancreatic cancer pre-treated with FOLFIRINOX:
a single-center named patient program,” in Cancers Special Issue: Combination and Innovative Therapies for Pancreatic Cancer. In
the single-center, named-patient program, patients with locally advanced pancreatic cancer (LAPC) or metastatic disease were treated
with Ampligen for 6 weeks, at 2 doses per week with 400 mg per infusion. The study found that Ampligen improved the median survival of
these patients. The study’s primary endpoints were the Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SIII), the Neutrophils to Lymphocyte
Ratio (NLR), and absolute counts of 18 different populations of circulating immune cells as measured by flow cytometry. Secondary endpoints
were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). The median overall survival in the Ampligen group was 19 months, compared
to a historical control group and subgroup (7.5 and 12.5, respectively) that did not receive Ampligen.
Also
in March 2022, we announced that study data evaluating the direct effects of Ampligen on human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC)
cells was accepted for presentation at the 15th Annual International Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association World Congress in New York,
NY. For the study, three PDAC cell lines (CFPAC-1, MIAPaCa-2, and PANC-1) were treated with various concentrations of Ampligen and their
corresponding vehicle control. The proliferation and migration effects were examined using in-vitro assays and the molecular effect was
examined by targeted gene expression profiling. Additionally human PDAC samples were used to validate the expression of toll-like receptor
3 (TLR3) by immunohistochemistry. Results from the study demonstrated Ampligen decreased the proliferation and migration ability of CFPAC-1
cells. In addition, it decreased the proliferation of MIAPaCa-2 cells and the migration of PANC-1 cells. However, it did not have a dual
effect in MIAPaCa-2 and PANC-1 cells. Interestingly, TLR3 was highly expressed in CFPAC-1 cells, low expressed in MIAPaCa-2 and not expressed
in PANC-1. Gene expression analysis revealed the upregulation of interferon-related genes, chemokines, interleukins and cell cycle regulatory
genes. The heterogeneity of TLR3 expression was confirmed in human PDAC samples. Based on these results, treating pancreatic cancer with
Ampligen may have a direct anti-tumor effect in pancreatic cancer cells expressing TLR-3.
15
Ampligen
as a Potential Antiviral
Following
the SARS-CoV-1 outbreak in 2002-03, Ampligen exhibited excellent antiviral properties and protective survival effect in NIH-contracted
studies of SARS-CoV-1-infected mice, which is very similar to SARS-CoV-2, the novel virus that causes COVID-19.
●
The
Barnard 2006 study ( https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/095632020601700505 ) found that Ampligen reduced virus lung
levels to below detectable limits.
●
The
Day 2009 study ( https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0042682209005832 ) found that, instead of 100% mortality,
there was 100% protective survival using Ampligen.
We
compared key transcription regulatory sequences of SARS-CoV-1 to SARS-CoV-2 and found significant similarities, suggesting highly probable
extension of the antiviral effects of Ampligen in the earlier NIH-contracted SARS experiments to COVID-19. The SARS-CoV-2 virus –
which causes COVID-19 – shares important genomic and pathogenic similarities with SARS-CoV-1 (hence its name). Since Ampligen has
shown antiviral activity against more distantly related coronaviruses, there was a reasonable probability that the antiviral effects
of Ampligen against SARS-CoV-1 will likely extend to SARS-CoV-2, and as discussed below, recently, Ampligen has demonstrated ex vivo
antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2. We believe that this creates a compelling case for clinical trials to evaluate Ampligen as a potential
tool in the fight against COVID-19.
Since
the late 2019 outbreak of SARS-CoV-2, we have been actively engaged in determining whether Ampligen could be an effective treatment for
this virus or could be part of a vaccine. We believe that Ampligen has the potential to be both an early-onset treatment for and prophylaxis
against SARS-CoV-2. We believe that prior studies of Ampligen in SARS-CoV-1 animal experimentation may predict similar protective effects
against the new virus.
In
February 2020, we filed three provisional patent applications related to Ampligen in our efforts toward joining the global health community
in the fight against the deadly coronavirus (See: https://aimimmuno.com/press-release/aim-immunotech-files-provisional-patent-application-for-the-use-of-ampligenr-as-a-potential-therapy-for-covid-19-induced-chronic-fatigue/).
Our three provisional patent applications include: 1) Ampligen as a therapy for the coronavirus; 2) Ampligen as part of a proposed intranasal
universal coronavirus vaccine that combines Ampligen with inactivated coronavirus, conveying immunity and cross-protection and; 3) a
high-volume manufacturing process for Ampligen. Under the Patent Cooperation Treaty of 1970, which provides international protections
for patents, these three provisional patent applications were converted into two international patent applications based on the date
of their filings.
In
August 2020, we contracted Amarex to act as our Clinical Research Organization and provide regulatory support with regard to a possible
clinical trial testing Ampligen’s potential as a COVID-19 prophylaxis via intranasal delivery.
Beginning
in April 2020, we entered into confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements with numerous companies for the potential outsourcing of
the production of polymer, enzyme, placebo as well as Ampligen.
In
May 2020, the FDA authorized an IND for Roswell Park to conduct a Phase 1/2a study of a regimen of Ampligen and interferon alpha in cancer
patients with COVID-19 infections. This clinical trial, sponsored by Roswell Park in collaboration with us, will test the safety of this
combination regimen in patients with cancer and COVID-19, and the extent to which this therapy will promote clearance of the SARS-CoV-2
virus from the upper airway. Several subjects have been treated. It is planned that the phase 1/2a study will enroll up to 44 patients
in two stages. Phase 1 will see 12-24 patients receiving both Ampligen and interferon alpha-2b at escalating doses. Once that initial
phase is complete, further study participants will be randomized to two arms: one receiving the two-drug combination and a control group
who will not receive Ampligen or interferon alpha but will receive best available care. We are a financial sponsor of the study and will
provide Ampligen at no charge for this study. In November 2020, the first patient in the study had been enrolled and treated. This study
was amended to add 20 patients, with 10 randomized to receive a single dose of Ampligen and 10 patients to receive current best therapies.
(See clinicaltrials.gov/NCT04379518). Due to a shortage of qualifying subjects with COVID-19 and cancer as a result of the positive impact
of vaccinations and treatments for COVID-19, Roswell is seeking approval to expand the qualifying subject criteria to include other diseases
lethal to immuno-compromised cancer patients, such as influenza. Accordingly, the study is temporarily suspended while seeking said approvals.
We
also entered into a specialized services agreement with Utah State University and have supplied Ampligen to support the University’s
Institute for Viral Research in its research into SARS-CoV-2. The Utah State results show that Ampligen was able to decrease SARS-CoV-2
infectious viral yields by 90% at clinically achievable intranasal Ampligen dosage levels.
In
October 2020, we received IRB approval for the expansion of the AMP-511 Expanded Access Program clinical trial for ME/CFS to include
patients previously diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2, but who still demonstrate chronic fatigue-like symptoms. Patients in the trial are treated
with our flagship pipeline drug Ampligen. In January 2021, we commenced with the treatment of the first previously diagnosed COVID-19
patient with long-COVID symptoms (i.e., Long Hauler) also known as Post-COVID Conditions in the AMP-511 study. Enrollment of post-COVID
patients continues in the study.
16
In
January 2021, we entered into a Sponsor Agreement with CHDR to manage a Phase 1 randomized, double-blind study to evaluate the safety
and activity of repeated intranasal administration of Ampligen. AIM funded and sponsored the study. This study was designed to assess
the safety, tolerability and biological activity of repeated administration of Ampligen intranasally. A total of 40 healthy subjects
received either Ampligen or a placebo in the trial, with the Ampligen given at four escalating dosages across four cohorts, to a maximum
level of 1,250 micrograms. The study was completed, and the Final Safety Report reported no Serious or Severe Adverse Events at any dosage
level. We believe that the trial is a critical step in our ongoing efforts to develop Ampligen as a potential prophylaxis or treatment
for COVID-19 and other respiratory viral diseases. Amarex provided us with monitoring support during the trial.
Additionally,
we filed two COVID-19-related provisional patent applications in the third quarter of 2021. In August, we filed an application for Ampligen
as both an intranasal and an intravenous therapy for what we describe as Post-COVID conditions. The people suffering from Post-COVID
conditions, including some young adults, can be afflicted with severe difficulties in concentrating; serious memory problems; and the
inability to live an active lifestyle, to work and even to perform everyday tasks. Early data has demonstrated that patients with symptoms
of Post-COVID conditions being treated with Ampligen in the ongoing AMP-511 Expanded Access Program have reported improvements in fatigue
symptoms. Similarly, in ME/CFS, data supports the claim that Ampligen improves fatigue symptoms. Then in September 2022, we filed a patent
application for Ampligen as a potential early-onset intranasal therapy designed to enhance and expand infection-induced immunity, epitope
spreading, cross-reactivity and cross-protection in patients exposed to a wide range of RNA respiratory viruses, such as influenza, Rhinoviruses
and SARS-CoV-2.
In
addition to securing these two provisional patent applications, we also moved forward with proposed studies in these areas and with Pre-Investigational
New Drug Applications in September 2021. One pre-IND was for a Phase 2, two-arm, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter
study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Ampligen in patients experiencing Post-COVID conditions (originally referred to as Post-COVID
Cognitive Dysfunction (PCCD) and has been revised to Post-COVID conditions).
Since
the late 2019 outbreak of SARS-CoV-2, we have been actively engaged in determining whether Ampligen could be an effective treatment for
this virus or could be part of a vaccine. We believe that Ampligen has the potential to be both an early-onset treatment for and prophylaxis
against SARS-CoV-2. We believe that prior studies of Ampligen in SARS-CoV-1 animal experimentation may predict similar protective effects
against the new virus.
Ampligen
as a Treatment for ME/CFS and Post-COVID Conditions
In
July 2023, we enrolled and dosed the first patient in our Phase 2 study evaluating Ampligen® as a potential therapeutic for people
with post-COVID conditions (“AMP-518”). We announced in August 2023 that the study had met the planned enrollment of 80 subjects
ages 18 to 60 years who have been randomized 1:1 to receive twice-weekly intravenous infusions of Ampligen or placebo for 12 weeks, with
a follow-up phase of two weeks. All patients have completed the study and topline data was reported in February 2024.
In
January 2025, we announced that the final Clinical Study results from AMP-518 had been posted to ClinicalTrials.gov. The results support
our belief in Ampligen as a potential therapeutic for people with the moderate-to-severe Post-COVID condition of fatigue, and that this
would be the likely subject population for AIM’s planned follow-up clinical trial. Study subjects with Long COVID were, on average,
able to walk farther in a Six-Minute Walk Test (“6MWT”) when compared to subjects who received a placebo. The 6MWT measured
the distance a subject was able to walk in six minutes as a baseline and then again at 13 weeks. A clear signal of significant potential
(p <0.02, two-tailed T-test) was observed in Ampligen-treated subjects with a baseline 6MWT less than 205 meters, who saw a mean improvement
of 139 meters, compared to a mean improvement of 91 meters in the corresponding part of the group who received the placebo. AIM therefore
believes that any future trial design should focus on Ampligen’s therapeutic potential for subjects whose Long COVID-related fatigue
can be categorized as moderate or worse.
Myalgic
Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), also known as Chronic Fatigue Immune Dysfunction Syndrome (“CFIDS”)
and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), is a serious and debilitating chronic illness and a major public health problem. ME/CFS is recognized
by both the government and private sector as a significant unmet medical need, including the U.S. National Institutes of Health (“NIH”),
FDA and the CDC.
Many
severe ME/CFS patients become completely disabled or totally bedridden and are afflicted with severe pain and mental confusion even at
rest. ME/CFS is characterized by incapacitating fatigue with profound exhaustion and extremely poor stamina, sleep difficulties and problems
with concentration and short-term memory. It is also accompanied by flu-like symptoms, pain in the joints and muscles, tender lymph nodes,
sore throat and new headaches. A distinctive characteristic of the illness is a worsening of symptoms following physical or mental exertion,
which do not subside with rest.
17
The
high number of younger people being hospitalized for COVID-19 suggests considerable numbers of people in the prime of their lives may
have a COVID-induced ME/CFS-like illness in their future. According to a 2016 journal article, the estimated annual cost of lost productivity
related to ME/CFS was $9-37 billion in the United States, and for direct medical costs it was $9-14 billion.
In
June of 2020, we filed a provisional patent application for, among other discoveries, the use of Ampligen as a potential early-onset
therapy for the treatment of COVID-19-induced chronic fatigue.
Many
survivors of the first SARS-CoV-1 epidemic in 2003 continued to report chronic fatigue, difficulty sleeping and shortness of breath months
after recovering from the acute illness. “After one year, 17% of patients had not returned to work and 9% more had not returned
to their pre-SARS work levels,” according to Simmaron Research. Now there is increasing evidence that patients with COVID-19 can
develop a similar, ME/CFS-like illness. These patients are commonly referred to as “Long Haulers.”
In
October 2020, we received IRB approval for the expansion of the AMP-511 Expanded Access Program clinical trial for ME/CFS to include
patients previously diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 following clearance of the virus, but who still demonstrate chronic fatigue-like symptoms.
For more information on our AMP-511 Expanded Access Program, please see “OUR PRODUCTS: Ampligen” above.
In
November 2020, we announced the publication of statistically significant data detailing how Ampligen could have a considerable positive
impact on people living with ME/CFS when administered in the early stages of the disease. The data were published in PLOS ONE, a peer-reviewed
open access scientific journal published by the Public Library of Science. AIM researchers found that the TLR3 agonist Ampligen substantially
improved physical performance in a subset of ME/CFS patients.
As
noted above in Overview; General; Ampligen as a treatment for ME/CFS, we have long been focused on seeking the FDA’s approval for
the use of Ampligen to treat ME/CFS. In fact, in February 2013, we received a CRL from the FDA for our Ampligen NDA for ME/CFS. We believe
Phase 3 results provided in the NDA were positive. The CRL indicated that we should conduct at least one additional clinical trial, complete
various nonclinical studies and perform a number of data analyses.
While
developing a comprehensive response to the FDA and a plan for a confirmatory trial for the FDA NDA, we proceeded independently in Argentina
and, in August 2016, we received approval of an NDA from ANMAT for commercial sale of Ampligen in the Argentine Republic for the treatment
of severe CFS. In September 2019, we received clearance from the FDA to ship Ampligen to Argentina for the commercial launch and subsequent
sales. On June 10, 2020, we received import clearance from ANMAT to import the first shipment of commercial grade vials of Ampligen into
Argentina. The next steps in the commercial launch of Ampligen include ANMAT conducting a final inspection of the product and release
tests before granting final approval to begin commercial sales. This testing and approval process is currently delayed due to ANMAT’s
internal processes. Once final approval by ANMAT is obtained, we will begin distributing Ampligen in Argentina.
We
plan on a comprehensive follow-up with the FDA regarding the use of Ampligen as a treatment for ME/CFS. We have learned a great
deal since the FDA’s CRL and plan to adjust our approach to concentrate on specific ME/CFS symptoms. Responses to the CRL and a
proposed confirmatory trial are being worked on now by our R&D team and consultants.
Other
Diseases
In
Europe, the EMA has approved the Orphan Medicinal Products Designation for Ampligen as a potential treatment of Ebola virus disease and
for Alferon N Injection as a potential treatment of MERS.
We
concluded our series of collaborations designed to determine the potential effectiveness of Ampligen and Alferon N Injection as potential
preventive and/or therapeutic treatments for Ebola-related disorders. Although we believe that the threat of both MERS and Ebola globally
may reemerge in the future, it appears that the spread of these disorders has diminished.
In
April 2021, we entered into an MTA with the University of Cagliari Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita e dell’Ambiente (“UNICA”),
an educational institution, under the laws of Italy, located in Monserrato (Cagliari), Italy. The MTA relates to the research and development
of the effects of Ampligen and its ability to induce interferon production in several cell lines, and also on the ability of the Ebola
virus protein VP35 to bind to viral dsRNA and impede interferon’s upregulation and activity, and on Ampligen’s ability to
reverse VP35 inhibition of interferon production in biological systems. The data analysis was published in the peer-reviewed journal
Antiviral Research, in a manuscript titled “Ebola virus disease: In vivo protection provided by the PAMP restricted TLR3 agonist
rintatolimod and its mechanism of action.” We believe that the analysis supports a dual mechanism of action when Ampligen is used
as a prophylactic therapy against Ebola Virus Disease.
In
May 2021, we filed a U.S. Provisional Patent Application for Ampligen as a potential therapeutic to possibly slow, halt, or reverse the
progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
18
In
November 2022, we received notice that the FDA had granted Orphan Drug Designation to Ampligen for the treatment of Ebola virus disease.
In
October 2024, we were granted U.S. patent No. 12,102,649, covering both compositions and methods comprising Ampligen in the treatment
of endometriosis, a painful chronic condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing severe
pelvic pain and making it difficult or impossible to become pregnant. The patented method involves the administration of a therapeutically
effective amount of a pharmaceutical composition containing our proprietary double-stranded RNA products. The versatile administration
options offer flexibility for patient-specific needs and care. The patent also covers treatments targeting recurrent endometriosis and
includes options for co-administration with interferons, including well-known types such as alpha and beta interferons.
We
announced in February 2025 our intention to pursue a study of a potential avian influenza combination therapy of Ampligen and AstraZeneca’s
FluMist, a nasal spray vaccine that helps prevent seasonal influenza. The new proposed clinical trial would expand upon previous Company-sponsored
clinical research at the University of Alabama-Birmingham (“UAB”), which indicated that intranasal delivery of Ampligen after
the intranasal delivery of the FluMist seasonal influenza vaccine increased the immune response to seasonal variants in the vaccine by
greater than four-fold and induced cross-reactive secretory Immunoglobulin A against highly pathogenic avian influenza virus strains
H5N1, H7N9 and H7N3. We are seeking collaborative grants from government and industry to defray the cost of the study. We believe that pre-clinical and clinical work to date – combined with the ever-growing threat of Avian influenza – strongly supports
our decision to move forward with this second Ampligen and FluMist study in humans.
MANUFACTURING
ANMAT
in Argentina approved Ampligen for commercial distribution for the treatment of CFS in 2016. Shipment of the drug product to Argentina
was initiated in 2018 to complete the release testing by ANMAT needed for commercial distribution. In September 2019, we received clearance
from the FDA to ship Ampligen to Argentina for the commercial launch and subsequent sales. In June 2020, we received import clearance
from ANMAT to import the first shipment of commercial grade vials of Ampligen into Argentina. We are currently collaborating with GP Pharm
on the commercial launch of Ampligen in Argentina (See “Our Products; Ampligen” above).
Following
our approval in Argentina, in 2017 we engaged Jubilant HollisterStier (“Jubilant”) to be our authorized CMO for Ampligen.
Two lots of Ampligen consisting of more than 16,000 units were manufactured and released in 2018; these lots have been designated for
human use in the United States in the cost recovery CFS program and for expanded oncology clinical trials. The production of additional
polymer (Ampligen intermediates) took place in 2019 at our New Brunswick facility. Additionally, Jubilant manufactured three more lots
of Ampligen in December 2019, January 2020 and December 2023. In addition, we have supplied GP Pharm with the Ampligen required for testing
and ANMAT release under the agreement that GP Pharm would be the eventual distributor in Argentina.
In
December 2020, we added Pii as a “Fill & Finish” provider to enhance our capacity to produce Ampligen. This addition
amplifies our manufacturing capability by providing redundancy and cost savings. The contracts augment our existing fill and finish capacity.
We are prepared to initiate the production of additional Ampligen when and if needed.
In
June 2022 we entered into a lease agreement with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority for a 5,210 square-foot, state-of-the-art
R&D facility at the New Jersey Bioscience Center (NJBC), primarily consisting of two separate laboratory suites. The lease commenced
on July 1, 2022, and runs through August 31, 2027, but can be extended for an additional five-year period. The facility is AIM’s
operations, research and development center.
Our
business plan calls for the utilization of one or more CMOs to produce Ampligen API. While we believe we have sufficient Ampligen API
to meet our current needs, we are also continually exploring new efficiencies so as to maximize our ability to fulfill future obligations.
In this regard, on December 5, 2022, we entered into a Master Service Agreement and a Quality Agreement with Sterling Pharma Solutions
(“Sterling”) for the manufacture of our Poly I and Poly C12U polynucleotides and transfer of associated test methods at Sterling’s
Dudley, UK location to produce the polymer precursors to manufacture the drug Ampligen. We are utilizing Sterling’s expertise to
refine our approach to polymer production; the validation of the polymer production process with Sterling is ongoing. In March 2023,
we submitted a purchase order for a total of $1,432,257 to manufacture additional lots of Ampligen at Jubilant. An additional lot was
manufactured by Jubilant in December 2023.
19
Our
second product, Alferon N Injection, is approved by the FDA for commercial sales in the United States for the treatment of genital warts.
It is also approved by ANMAT in Argentina for commercial sales for the treatment of genital warts and in patients who are refractory
to treatment with recombinant interferons. Commercial sales of Alferon N Injection in the United States will not resume until new batches
of commercial filled and finished product are produced and released by the FDA. We will need the FDA’s approval to release commercial
product once we have identified our new manufacturing approach and submitted satisfactory stability and quality release data. Currently,
we are not manufacturing Alferon N Injection and there is no definitive timetable to resume production.
Licensing/Collaborations/Joint
Ventures
To
enable potential availability of Ampligen to patients on a worldwide basis, we have embarked on a strategy to license the product and/or
to collaborate and/or create a joint venture with companies that have the demonstrated capabilities and commitment to successfully gain
approval and commercialize Ampligen in their respective global territories of the world. Ideal partners would have the following characteristics:
well-established global and regional experience and coverage; robust commercial infrastructure; a strong track record of successful development
and registration of in-licensed products; and a therapeutic area fit (e.g., ME/CFS, immuno-oncology).
MARKETING/DISTRIBUTION
In
May 2016, we entered into a five-year, exclusive Renewed Sales, Marketing, Distribution and Supply Agreement (the “Agreement”)
with GP Pharm. Under this Agreement, GP Pharm was responsible for gaining regulatory approval in Argentina for Ampligen to treat severe
CFS in Argentina and for commercializing Ampligen for this indication in Argentina. We granted GP Pharm the right to expand rights to
sell this experimental therapeutic into other Latin America countries based upon GP Pharm achieving certain performance milestones. We
also granted GP Pharm an option to market Alferon N Injection in Argentina and other Latin America countries (See “Our Products;
Ampligen” above). The GP Pharm contract was extended in May 2021 with an end date of May 24, 2024. While we are in discussions
with GP Pharm to extend the agreement, we are also open to the possibility of looking for a new partner. In August 2021, ANMAT granted
a five-year extension to a previous approval to sell and distribute Ampligen to treat severe CFS in Argentina. This extends the approval
until 2026.
In
May 2016, we entered into a five-year agreement (the “Impatients Agreement”) with Impatients, N.V. (“myTomorrows”),
a Netherlands-based company, for the commencement and management of an EAP in Europe and Turkey (the “Territory”) related
to ME/CFS. Pursuant to the agreement, myTomorrows, as our exclusive service provider and distributor in the Territory, is performing
EAP activities. These activities will be directed to (a) the education of physicians and patients regarding the possibility of early
access to innovative medical treatments not yet the subject of a Marketing Authorization (regulatory approval) through named-patient
use, compassionate use, expanded access and hospital exemption, (b) patient and physician outreach related to a patient-physician platform,
(c) the securing of Early Access Approvals (exemptions and/or waivers required by regulatory authorities for medical treatments prior
to Marketing Authorization) for the use of such treatments, (d) the distribution and sale of such treatments pursuant to such Early Access
Approvals, (e) pharmacovigilance (drug safety) activities and/or (f) the collection of data such as patient-reported outcomes, doctor-reported
experiences and registry data. We are supporting these efforts and supplying Ampligen to myTomorrows at a predetermined transfer price.
In the event that we receive Marketing Authorization in any country in the Territory, we will pay myTomorrows a royalty on products sold.
Pursuant to the Impatients Agreement, the royalty would be a percentage of Net Sales (as defined in the Impatients Agreement) of Ampligen
sold in the Territory where Marketing Authorization was obtained. The formula to determine the percentage of Net Sales will be based
on the number of patients that are entered into the EAP. We believe that disclosure of the exact maximum royalty rate and royalty termination
date could cause competitive harm. However, to assist the public in gauging these terms, the actual maximum royalty rate is somewhere
between 2% and 10% and the royalty termination date is somewhere between five and fifteen years from the First Commercial Sale of a product
within a specific country. The parties established a Joint Steering Committee comprised of representatives of both parties to oversee
the EAP. No assurance can be given that activities under the EAP will result in Marketing Authorization or the sale of substantial amounts
of Ampligen in the Territory. The agreement was automatically extended for a period of 12 months on May 20, 2021; has been automatically
extended for 12 months on each subsequent May 20; and will continue to be automatically extended for periods of 12 months every May 20
until terminated or the terms of the agreement are met.
In
January 2017, ANMAT granted a five-year extension to a previous approval to sell and distribute Alferon N Injection (under the brand
name “Naturaferon”) in Argentina. This extended the approval until 2022. A request to extend the approval beyond 2022 has
been filed and is still under review. In February 2013, we received ANMAT approval for the treatment of refractory patients that failed
or were intolerant to treatment with recombinant interferon. We are in continued negotiations with GP Pharm as to how and whether to
move forward with “Naturaferon” in Argentina.
20
In
January 2017, the EAP through our agreement with myTomorrows designed to enable access of Ampligen to ME/CFS patients was extended to
pancreatic cancer patients beginning in the Netherlands. myTomorrows is our exclusive service provider in the Territory and will manage
all EAP activities relating to the pancreatic cancer extension of the program.
In
August 2017, we extended our agreement with Asembia LLC, formerly Armada Healthcare, LLC, to undertake the marketing, education and sales
of Alferon N Injection throughout the United States. This agreement has expired. We were in discussions with Asembia about the possibility
of continuing the relationship, while also exploring the possibility of working with other similar companies. However, we still do not
foresee an immediate need for this service and continue to push this search further out in our expected timeline.
In
February 2018, we signed an amendment to the EAP with myTomorrows. This amendment extended the Territory to cover Canada to treat pancreatic
cancer patients, pending government approval. In March 2018, we signed an amendment to the EAP with myTomorrows, pursuant to which myTomorrows
will be our exclusive service provider for special access activities in Canada for the supply of Ampligen for the treatment of ME/CFS.
In
December 2020, we entered into a signed Letter of Agreement with myTomorrows for the delivery of Ampligen for the treatment of up to
16 pancreatic cancer patients. In November 2021, we entered into a signed Letter of Agreement with myTomorrows for the delivery of Ampligen
for the treatment of up to an additional 5 pancreatic cancer patients. In March 2022, we entered into a signed Letter of Agreement with
myTomorrows for the delivery of Ampligen for the treatment of up to an additional 10 pancreatic cancer patients. In November 2022, we
entered into a signed Letter of Agreement with myTomorrows for the delivery of Ampligen for the treatment of up to an additional 10 pancreatic
cancer patients.
COMPETITION
The
major pharmaceutical competitors for Ampligen include Pfizer, GlaxoSmithKline, Merck & Co., Novartis and AstraZeneca. Biotech competitors
include Baxter International, Fletcher/CSI, AVANT Immunotherapeutics, AVI BioPharma and Genta. These potential competitors are among
the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world, are well known to the public and the medical community, and have substantially greater
financial resources, product development, and manufacturing and marketing capabilities than we have. Although we believe our principal
advantage is the unique mechanism of action of Ampligen on the immune system, we cannot assure that we will be able to compete.
GOVERNMENT
REGULATION
Regulation
by governmental authorities in the U.S. and foreign countries is and will be a significant factor in the manufacture and marketing of
our products and our ongoing research and product development activities. Ampligen and other products developed from the ongoing research
and product development activities will require regulatory clearances prior to commercialization. In particular, new drug products for
humans are subject to rigorous pre-clinical and clinical testing as a condition for clearance by the FDA and by similar authorities in
foreign countries. The process of seeking these approvals, and the ongoing process of compliance with applicable statutes and regulations,
has and will continue to require the expenditure of substantial resources. Any failure by us or our collaborators or licensees to obtain,
or any delay in obtaining, regulatory approvals could materially adversely affect the marketing of any products developed by us and our
ability to receive product or royalty revenue. We have received Orphan Drug designation for certain therapeutic indications, which we
believe might under certain conditions help to accelerate the process of drug development and commercialization. Alferon N Injection
is only approved for use in intralesional treatment of refractory or recurring external genital warts in patients 18 years of age or
older. Use of Alferon N Injection for other applications requires regulatory approval.
We
are subject to various federal, state and local laws, regulations and recommendations relating to such matters as safe working conditions,
laboratory and manufacturing practices, the experimental use of animals and the use of and disposal of hazardous or potentially hazardous
substances, including infectious disease agents, used in connection with our research work.
For
more information about the current status of Alferon N Injection and Ampligen, please see “Our Products” above. See also,
“ Our drug and related technologies are investigational and subject to regulatory approval. If we are unable to obtain regulatory
approval in a timely manner, or at all, our operations will be materially harmed and our stock adversely affected ” in “Risk
Factors”.
HUMAN
CAPITAL
As
of December 31, 2024, we had personnel consisting of 21 full-time employees and two part-time employees. Six of the combined personnel
are engaged in our research, development, clinical and manufacturing efforts, with 15 performing regulatory, general administration,
data processing, including bio-statistics, financial and investor relations functions. We have no union employees.
21
Employee
Engagement
Our
business results depend in part on our ability to successfully manage our human capital resources, including attracting, identifying,
and retaining key talent. Factors that may affect our ability to attract and retain qualified employees include employee morale, our
reputation, competition from other employers, and availability of qualified individuals. We believe our commitment to our human capital
resources is an important component of our mission. We provide all employees with the opportunity to share their opinions in open dialogues
with our human resources department and senior management.
Compensation,
Benefits and Wellness
We
offer fair, competitive compensation and benefits that support our employees’ overall wellness. Further, the health and wellness
of our employees are critical to our success. While we have been successful in attracting skilled and experienced scientific personnel,
there can be no assurance that we will be able to attract or retain the necessary qualified employees and/or consultants in the future.