Biggest changeHowever, our ongoing collaboration agreement with AstraZeneca for the development and commercialization of roxadustat for the treatment of anemia in China (the “AstraZeneca China Agreement”) continues in full force and is unaffected. 13 Under the AstraZeneca China Agreement, which is conducted through FibroGen China Anemia Holdings, Ltd., FibroGen Beijing, and FibroGen International (Hong Kong) Limited (collectively, “FibroGen China”), the commercial collaboration was structured as a 50/50 profit share, which was amended by the AstraZeneca China Amendment in the third quarter of 2020, as discussed and defined below.
Biggest changeUnder the AstraZeneca collaboration agreement for the development and commercialization of roxadustat for the treatment of anemia in China (the “AstraZeneca China Agreement”), which is conducted through FibroGen China Anemia Holdings, Ltd., FibroGen Beijing, and FibroGen International (Hong Kong) Limited (collectively, “FibroGen China”), the commercial collaboration was structured as a 50/50 profit share, which was amended by the AstraZeneca China Amendment in the third quarter of 2020, as discussed and defined below. 10 In 2020, we entered into a Master Supply Agreement under the AstraZeneca U.S./RoW Agreement to define general forecast, order, supply, and payment terms for AstraZeneca to purchase roxadustat bulk drug product from FibroGen in support of commercial supplies.
AstraZeneca Our collaboration agreement with AstraZeneca for roxadustat for the treatment of anemia in the U.S. and all territories except for China and those territories previously licensed to Astellas (the “AstraZeneca U.S./RoW Agreement”) was terminated (except South Korea) on February 23, 2024.
Our collaboration agreement with AstraZeneca for roxadustat for the treatment of anemia in the U.S. and all territories except for China and those territories previously licensed to Astellas (the “AstraZeneca U.S./RoW Agreement”) was terminated (except South Korea) on February 23, 2024.
(“WuXi STA”) and Catalent Pharma Solutions, LLC (“Catalent”) as our primary manufacturers of roxadustat drug substance (also known as active pharmaceutical ingredient or “API”) and roxadustat drug product, respectively. WuXi STA is located in China and currently supplies our API globally except for China, for which it manufactures an intermediate to be further manufactured by FibroGen Beijing.
(“WuXi STA”) and Catalent Pharma Solutions, LLC (“Catalent”) as our primary manufacturers of roxadustat drug substance (also known as active pharmaceutical ingredient (“API”) and roxadustat drug product, respectively. WuXi STA is located in China and currently supplies our API globally except for China, for which it manufactures an intermediate to be further manufactured by FibroGen Beijing.
Refer to “Government Regulation — Regulatory Exclusivity for Approved Products.” 23 We cannot ensure that patents will be granted with respect to any of our pending patent applications or with respect to any patent applications that may be filed by us in the future, nor can we ensure that any of our existing or subsequently granted patents will be useful in protecting our drug candidates, technological innovations, and processes.
Refer to “Government Regulation — Regulatory Exclusivity for Approved Products.” We cannot ensure that patents will be granted with respect to any of our pending patent applications or with respect to any patent applications that may be filed by us in the future, nor can we ensure that any of our existing or subsequently granted patents will be useful in protecting our drug candidates, technological innovations, and processes.
As part of the clinical development strategy, we will continue the work to develop a PET-based biomarker utilizing a radiolabeled version of the targeting antibody for patient selection. 14 FibroGen is obligated to make four quarterly payments totaling $5.0 million to Fortis in support of its continued development obligations.
As part of the clinical development strategy, we will continue the work to develop a PET-based biomarker utilizing a radiolabeled version of the targeting antibody for patient selection. FibroGen is obligated to make four quarterly payments totaling $5.0 million to Fortis in support of its continued development obligations.
The patent positions for our most advanced programs are summarized below. Roxadustat Patent Portfolio While the composition-of-matter patents covering roxadustat expire in 2024 (except in the U.S., where they expire in 2025), the roxadustat patent portfolio includes additional patents providing protection for roxadustat, including protection for the commercial crystalline form, pharmaceutical compositions, and key intermediates in roxadustat synthesis.
The patent positions for our most advanced programs are summarized below. Roxadustat Patent Portfolio While the composition-of-matter patents covering roxadustat expired in 2024 (except in the U.S., where they expire in 2025), the roxadustat patent portfolio includes additional patents providing protection for roxadustat, including protection for the commercial crystalline form, pharmaceutical compositions, and key intermediates in roxadustat synthesis.
Patients receiving red blood cell transfusions may require an iron chelator in order to address toxic elements of iron overload such as lipid peroxidation and cell membrane, protein, DNA, and organ damage. 11 Lower-risk MDS patients represent approximately 77% of the total diagnosed MDS population.
Patients receiving red blood cell transfusions may require an iron chelator in order to address toxic elements of iron overload such as lipid peroxidation and cell membrane, protein, DNA, and organ damage. Lower-risk MDS patients represent approximately 77% of the total diagnosed MDS population.
We received an $8.0 million upfront payment from Eluminex in 2022 and thereafter recognized a $3.0 million milestone payment based on Eluminex implanting a biosynthetic cornea in the first patient of its clinical trial in China, a $3.0 million manufacturing related milestone payment and a $1.0 million upfront payment.
We received an $8.0 million upfront payment from Eluminex in 2022 and thereafter recognized a $3.0 million milestone payment based on Eluminex implanting a biosynthetic cornea in the first patient of its clinical trial in China, a $3.0 million manufacturing related milestone payment and a $1.0 million upfront payment in 2023.
Regulatory approval in one country or jurisdiction does not ensure regulatory approval in another, but a failure or delay in obtaining regulatory approval in one country or jurisdiction may negatively impact the regulatory approval process in other countries. 21 Regulatory Exclusivity for Approved Products U.S.
Regulatory approval in one country or jurisdiction does not ensure regulatory approval in another, but a failure or delay in obtaining regulatory approval in one country or jurisdiction may negatively impact the regulatory approval process in other countries. Regulatory Exclusivity for Approved Products U.S.
It is unclear whether these or similar policy initiatives will be implemented in the future. 20 Some states implemented, and other states are considering, price controls or patient access constraints under the Medicaid program, and some states are considering price-control regimes that would apply to broader segments of their populations that are not Medicaid-eligible.
It is unclear whether these or similar policy initiatives will be implemented in the future. 17 Some states implemented, and other states are considering, price controls or patient access constraints under the Medicaid program, and some states are considering price-control regimes that would apply to broader segments of their populations that are not Medicaid-eligible.
Patent term extensions (PTEs) have also been granted for several roxadustat-related patents in Japan, where roxadustat has been granted marketing approval, including on composition-of-matter and crystal form patents extending patent protection to 2029 and 2035, respectively. In China, no photostable formulation patent has yet been granted (applications are pending).
Patent term extensions (PTEs) have also been granted for several roxadustat-related patents in Japan, where roxadustat has been granted marketing approval, including on composition-of-matter and crystal form patents extending patent protection to 2029 and 2035, respectively. In China, no photostable formulation patent has yet been granted (applications are pending under reexamination).
Exclusive License and Option to Acquire Fortis Therapeutics On May 5, 2023, we entered into an exclusive option agreement to acquire Fortis with its novel Phase 1 antibody-drug conjugate, FG-3246 (previously FOR46), that targets a novel epitope on CD46 preferentially expressed on certain cancer cells.
Exclusive License and Option to Acquire Fortis Therapeutics In May 2023, we entered into an exclusive option agreement to acquire Fortis with its novel Phase 1 antibody-drug conjugate, FG-3246 (previously FOR46), that targets a novel epitope on CD46 preferentially expressed on certain cancer cells.
In addition, significant uncertainty exists as to the coverage and reimbursement status of newly approved healthcare product candidates. 19 Because each third-party payor individually approves coverage and reimbursement levels, obtaining coverage and adequate reimbursement is a time-consuming, costly and sometimes unpredictable process.
In addition, significant uncertainty exists as to the coverage and reimbursement status of newly approved healthcare product candidates. 16 Because each third-party payor individually approves coverage and reimbursement levels, obtaining coverage and adequate reimbursement is a time-consuming, costly and sometimes unpredictable process.
Additional information related to the Eluminex license revenue is set forth in Note 3, Collaboration Agreements, License Agreement and Revenues , to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report.
Additional information related to the Eluminex license revenue is set forth in Note 4, Collaboration Agreements, License Agreement and Revenues , to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report.
Additional Information Related to Collaboration Agreements Additional information related to our collaboration agreements is set forth in Item 7 of this Annual Report, and Note 3, Collaboration Agreements, License Agreement and Revenues, to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report.
Additional Information Related to Collaboration Agreements Additional information related to our collaboration agreements is set forth in Item 7 of this Annual Report, and Note 4, Collaboration Agreements, License Agreement and Revenues, to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report.
We do not intend our use or display of other companies’ trade names, trademarks or service marks to imply a relationship with, or endorsement or sponsorship of us by, these other companies. 29
We do not intend our use or display of other companies’ trade names, trademarks or service marks to imply a relationship with, or endorsement or sponsorship of us by, these other companies. 23
STRATEGIC FINANCING AGREEMENT On November 4, 2022, we entered into a revenue interest financing agreement (“RIFA”) with an affiliate of NovaQuest Capital Management (“NovaQuest”) with respect to our revenues from Astellas’ sales of roxadustat in Europe, Japan and the other Astellas territories.
STRATEGIC FINANCING AGREEMENTS In November 2022, we entered into a revenue interest financing agreement (“RIFA”) with an affiliate of NovaQuest Capital Management (“NovaQuest”) with respect to our revenues from Astellas’ sales of roxadustat in Europe, Japan and the other Astellas territories.
On April 29, 2023, we entered into a financing agreement (the “Financing Agreement”) with a $75.0 million senior secured term loan with investment funds managed by Morgan Stanley Tactical Value, as lenders, and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as the administrative agent.
In April 2023, we entered into a financing agreement (the “Financing Agreement”) with a $75.0 million senior secured term loan with investment funds managed by Morgan Stanley Tactical Value, as lenders, and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as the administrative agent.
We consistently review and evaluate our people practices to ensure that we attract, develop and retain a diverse, engaged and talented workforce. Our offerings include competitive, innovative and equitable pay practices, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, retirement and life insurance offerings, learning and giving programs, and flexible work arrangements.
We consistently review and evaluate our people practices to ensure that we attract, develop and retain a diverse, engaged and talented workforce. Our offerings include competitive, innovative and equitable pay practices, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, retirement and life insurance offerings, and flexible work arrangements.
We believe this manufacturing strategy enables us to more efficiently direct financial resources to the research, development and commercialization of product candidates rather than diverting resources to establishing a significant internal manufacturing infrastructure, unless there is additional strategic value for establishing manufacturing capabilities, such as in China.
We believe this manufacturing strategy enables us to more efficiently direct financial resources to the research, development and commercialization of product candidates rather than diverting resources to establishing a significant internal manufacturing infrastructure, unless there is additional strategic value for establishing manufacturing capabilities.
Although this procedure was reportedly still active for drugs that had qualified prior to changes in the law ending the monitoring surveillance provisions, the CDE started accepting marketing authorization applications for generic forms of roxadustat, starting in May 2023. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY We own or license numerous patents in the U.S. and foreign countries primarily covering our products.
Although this procedure was reportedly still active for drugs that had qualified prior to changes in the law ending the monitoring surveillance provisions, the CDE started accepting marketing authorization applications for generic forms of roxadustat, starting in May 2023, and have now approved eight generic forms of roxadustat for marketing in China. 19 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY We own or license numerous patents in the U.S. and foreign countries primarily covering our products.
Several states within the United States have enacted or proposed data privacy and security laws. For example, Virginia passed the Consumer Data Protection Act, and Colorado passed the Colorado Privacy Act.
Several states within the U.S. have enacted or proposed data privacy and security laws. For example, Virginia passed the Consumer Data Protection Act, and Colorado passed the Colorado Privacy Act.
Information about collaboration partners that accounted for more than 10% of our total revenue or accounts receivable for the last three fiscal years is set forth in Note 17, Segment and Geographic Information , to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report.
Information about collaboration partners that accounted for more than 10% of our total revenue for the last two fiscal years is set forth in Note 16, Segment and Geographic Information , to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8 of this Annual Report.
The results of the preclinical studies, together with manufacturing information and analytical data, are submitted to the FDA as part of the IND, which includes a protocol detailing, among other things, the objectives of the clinical trial.
The results of the preclinical studies, together with manufacturing information and analytical data, are submitted to the FDA as part of the Investigational New Drug Application (“IND”), which includes a protocol detailing, among other things, the objectives of the clinical trial.
If we acquire Fortis, we would also be responsible to pay UCSF, an upstream licensor to Fortis, development milestone fees and a single digit royalty on net sales of therapeutic or diagnostic products arising from the collaboration. If FibroGen chooses not to acquire Fortis, its exclusive license to FG-3246 would expire.
If we acquire Fortis, we would also be responsible to pay UCSF, an upstream licensor to Fortis, development milestone fees and a single digit royalty on net sales of therapeutic or diagnostic products arising from the collaboration.
In addition, we may also terminate the agreement for convenience upon written notice. 26 Fortis Therapeutics / University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Effective May 5, 2023, we entered into an Evaluation Agreement with Fortis Therapeutics, Inc., under which FibroGen was granted an exclusive license to certain Fortis intellectual property (IP) and additional IP in-licensed by Fortis from UCSF for the purpose of performing evaluation activities associated with use of FG-3246/FOR46 particularly for treatment of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC).
In-Licenses Fortis Therapeutics / University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Effective May 5, 2023, we entered into an Evaluation Agreement with Fortis Therapeutics, Inc., under which FibroGen was granted an exclusive license to certain Fortis intellectual property (IP) and additional IP in-licensed by Fortis from UCSF for the purpose of performing evaluation activities associated with use of FG-3246/FOR46 particularly for treatment of mCRPC.
To the extent that any of our products will be sold in a foreign country, we may be subject to similar foreign laws and regulations, which may include, for instance, applicable post-marketing requirements, including safety surveillance, anti-fraud and abuse laws and implementation of corporate compliance programs and reporting of payments or transfers of value to healthcare professionals. 18 Data Privacy and Security In the ordinary course of our business, we may process confidential, proprietary, and sensitive information, including personal data.
To the extent that any of our products will be sold in a foreign country, we may be subject to similar foreign laws and regulations, which may include, for instance, applicable post-marketing requirements, including safety surveillance, anti-fraud and abuse laws and implementation of corporate compliance programs and reporting of payments or transfers of value to healthcare professionals.
Additionally the Securities and Exchange Commission maintains an internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information. The address of the SEC’s website is www.sec.gov. CORPORATE INFORMATION Our headquarters are located at 409 Illinois Street, San Francisco, California 94158 and our telephone number is (415) 978-1200. Our website address is www.FibroGen.com.
Additionally the Securities and Exchange Commission maintains an internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements and other information. The address of the SEC’s website is www.sec.gov. CORPORATE INFORMATION Our mailing address is at 350 Bay Street, Suite 100, #6009, San Francisco, California 94133 and our telephone number is (415) 978-1200. Our website address is www.FibroGen.com.
Moreover, in anemia of CKD, roxadustat has demonstrated the ability in clinical trials to increase and maintain hemoglobin levels in the presence of inflammation as measured by CRP, where ESAs have shown limited effect.
Moreover, in anemia of chronic kidney disease (“CKD”), roxadustat has demonstrated the ability in clinical trials to increase and maintain hemoglobin levels in the presence of inflammation as measured by C-reactive protein (“CRP”), where ESAs have shown limited effect.
However, in a post-hoc analysis of patients with higher transfusion burden (2 or more units of packed red blood cells every 4 weeks), 36.1% of the 36 roxadustat patients achieved transfusion independence, versus 11.5% of the 26 patients in the placebo arm (p=0.047).
However, in a post-hoc analysis of patients with higher transfusion burden (2 or more units of packed red blood cells every 4 weeks), 36.1% of the 36 roxadustat patients achieved transfusion independence, versus 11.5% of the 26 patients in the placebo arm (p=0.047). 8 FibroGen intends to meet with the FDA in the second quarter 2025 to discuss the potential path forward for roxadustat in MDS.
(“Falikang”), which performs roxadustat distribution, as well as conduct sales and marketing through AstraZeneca. FibroGen Beijing manufactures and supplies commercial product to Falikang based on a gross transaction price, adjusted for the estimated profit share.
Under the AstraZeneca China Amendment, in September 2020, FibroGen Beijing and AstraZeneca completed the establishment of a jointly owned entity, Falikang, which performs roxadustat distribution, as well as conduct sales and marketing through AstraZeneca. FibroGen Beijing manufactures and supplies commercial product to Falikang based on a gross transaction price, adjusted for the estimated profit share.
Compliance with environmental laws, rules, and regulations has not had, and is not expected to have, a material effect on our capital expenditures, results of operations, or competitive position, and we do not currently anticipate material capital expenditures for environmental control facilities. 16 Failure to comply with the applicable requirements at any time during the product development process, approval process or after approval may subject an applicant and/or sponsor to a variety of administrative or judicial sanctions, including refusal by the applicable regulatory authority to approve pending applications, withdrawal of an approval, imposition of a clinical hold, issuance of warning letters and other types of letters, product recalls, product seizures, total or partial suspension of production or distribution, injunctions, fines, refusals of government contracts, restitution, disgorgement of profits, or civil or criminal investigations and penalties brought by FDA and the Department of Justice, or other governmental entities.
Failure to comply with the applicable requirements at any time during the product development process, approval process or after approval may subject an applicant and/or sponsor to a variety of administrative or judicial sanctions, including refusal by the applicable regulatory authority to approve pending applications, withdrawal of an approval, imposition of a clinical hold, issuance of warning letters and other types of letters, product recalls, product seizures, total or partial suspension of production or distribution, injunctions, fines, refusals of government contracts, restitution, disgorgement of profits, or civil or criminal investigations and penalties brought by FDA and the Department of Justice, or other governmental entities.
Under the Orphan Drug Act, the FDA may grant orphan designation to a drug or biological product intended to treat a rare disease or condition, which is a disease or condition that affects fewer than 200,000 individuals in the U.S., or if it affects more than 200,000 individuals in the U.S. there is no reasonable expectation that the cost of developing and making a drug product available in the U.S. for this type of disease or condition will be recovered from sales of the product.
However, an application may be submitted after four years if it contains a certification of patent invalidity or non-infringement with respect to the patents listed with the FDA by the innovator BLA holder. 18 Orphan Drug Act Under the Orphan Drug Act, the FDA may grant orphan designation to a drug or biological product intended to treat a rare disease or condition, which is a disease or condition that affects fewer than 200,000 individuals in the U.S., or if it affects more than 200,000 individuals in the U.S. there is no reasonable expectation that the cost of developing and making a drug product available in the U.S. for this type of disease or condition will be recovered from sales of the product.
Exclusive License with Eluminex In July 2021, we exclusively licensed to Eluminex Biosciences (Suzhou) Limited (“Eluminex”) global rights to our investigational biosynthetic cornea derived from recombinant human collagen type III.
If FibroGen chooses not to acquire Fortis, its exclusive license to FG-3246 would expire. 11 Exclusive License with Eluminex In July 2021, we exclusively licensed to Eluminex Biosciences (Suzhou) Limited (“Eluminex”) global rights to our investigational biosynthetic cornea derived from recombinant human collagen type III.
The IND will become effective automatically 30 days after receipt by the FDA, unless the FDA raises concerns or questions about the conduct of the trials as outlined in the IND prior to that time. In this case, the IND sponsor and the FDA must resolve any outstanding concerns before clinical trials can proceed.
The IND will become effective automatically 30 days after receipt by the FDA, unless the FDA raises concerns or questions about the conduct of the trials as outlined in the IND prior to that time.
The FDA requires prior approval before implementing any changes to the manufacturing process, investigations and corrections of any deviations from cGMP, and impose reporting and documentation requirements on the sponsor and any third-party manufacturer the sponsor may use.
The FDA requires prior approval before implementing any changes to the manufacturing process, investigations and corrections of any deviations from cGMP, and impose reporting and documentation requirements on the sponsor and any third-party manufacturer the sponsor may use. Accordingly, manufacturers must expend time, money, and effort in the area of production and quality control to maintain cGMP compliance.
Accordingly, manufacturers must expend time, money, and effort in the area of production and quality control to maintain cGMP compliance. 17 The FDA strictly regulates marketing, labeling, advertising and promotion of products that are placed on the market. Drugs may be promoted only for the approved indications and in accordance with the provisions of the approved label.
The FDA strictly regulates marketing, labeling, advertising and promotion of products that are placed on the market. Drugs may be promoted only for the approved indications and in accordance with the provisions of the approved label.
While we have an Exclusive Option Agreement and Evaluation Agreement with Fortis, Fortis currently holds the IND for FG-3246/FOR46. Further, the protocol for each clinical trial must be reviewed and approved by an independent institutional review board, either centrally or individually at each institution at which the clinical trial will be conducted.
Further, the protocol for each clinical trial must be reviewed and approved by an independent institutional review board, either centrally or individually at each institution at which the clinical trial will be conducted.
Accordingly, we are, or may become, subject to numerous data privacy and security obligations, including federal, state, local, and foreign laws, regulations, guidance, and industry standards related to data privacy and security.
Data Privacy and Security 15 In the ordinary course of our business, we may process confidential, proprietary, and sensitive information, including personal data. Accordingly, we are, or may become, subject to numerous data privacy and security obligations, including federal, state, local, and foreign laws, regulations, guidance, and industry standards related to data privacy and security.
In July 2020, FibroGen China and AstraZeneca entered into an amendment, effective July 1, 2020, to the AstraZeneca China Agreement, relating to the development and commercialization of roxadustat in China (the “AstraZeneca China Amendment”). Under the AstraZeneca China Amendment, in September 2020, FibroGen Beijing and AstraZeneca completed the establishment of a jointly owned entity, Beijing Falikang Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.
In July 2020, FibroGen China and AstraZeneca entered into an amendment, effective July 1, 2020, to the AstraZeneca China Agreement, relating to the development and commercialization of roxadustat in China (the “AstraZeneca China Amendment”).
In particular, patent challenges have been filed against our crystal form patents in Europe and China, and against our photostable formulations patent in Europe. While European Patent No. 2872488 (the “`488 Patent”), which claims the commercial crystalline form of roxadustat, was originally revoked in opposition, the decision is currently under appeal.
While European Patent No. 2872488 (the “`488 Patent”), which claims the commercial crystalline form of roxadustat, was originally revoked in opposition, the decision is currently under appeal. The `397 Patent was upheld in opposition, and the opponents have appealed the decision.
Ltd., an unconsolidated variable interest entity incorporated in China in 2020. “FibroGen,” the FibroGen logo and other trademarks or service marks of FibroGen, Inc. appearing in this Annual Report are the property of FibroGen, Inc. This Annual Report contains additional trade names, trademarks and service marks of others, which are the property of their respective owners.
The information contained on our website is not incorporated by reference herein. “FibroGen,” the FibroGen logo and other trademarks or service marks of FibroGen, Inc. appearing in this Annual Report are the property of FibroGen, Inc. This Annual Report contains additional trade names, trademarks and service marks of others, which are the property of their respective owners.
Further, in 2022, an independent firm established a diversity, equity, and inclusion index based upon 10 employee questions within the survey to measure the effectiveness of, and employee sentiment about, our progress in nurturing a culture of diversity, equity, belonging and inclusion; our diversity index score was 89% (China 90%, U.S. 88%), an increase compared to 88% in 2022.
Further, in 2022, an independent firm established a diversity, equity, and inclusion index based upon 10 employee questions within the survey to measure the effectiveness of, and employee sentiment about, our progress in nurturing a culture of diversity, equity, belonging and inclusion; our diversity index score was 86% in 2024 a slight reduction from previous years reporting compared to 89% (China 90%, U.S. 88%) in 2023 and 88% in 2022. 22 The biotechnology industry is an extremely competitive labor market and recruiting and retaining employees is critical to the continued success of our business.
Pursuant to an evaluation agreement entered into with Fortis concurrent with the option agreement, FibroGen has exclusively licensed FG-3246 and will control and fund future research and development, including a Phase 2 clinical study sponsored by FibroGen, and manufacturing of FG-3246 during the option period.
Pursuant to an evaluation agreement entered into with Fortis concurrent with the option agreement, FibroGen has exclusively licensed FG-3246 and will control and fund future research and development, including a Phase 2 clinical study sponsored by FibroGen, and manufacturing of FG-3246 during the option period (which ends on the earlier of 120 days after Fortis or FibroGen submits data from any Phase 2 clinical trial of a product to the FDA for the purpose of progressing to a Phase 3 clinical trial or May 2027 absent extension).
We expect any products that we develop and commercialize to compete based on, among other things, efficacy, safety, convenience of administration and delivery, price, the level of generic competition, and the availability of reimbursement from government and other third-party payors. 15 We expect that in many cases, the products that we commercialize will compete with existing marketed products, as well as product candidates that may be approved in the future, from companies that have large, established commercial organizations.
We expect any products that we develop and commercialize to compete based on, among other things, efficacy, safety, convenience of administration and delivery, price, the level of generic competition, and the availability of reimbursement from government and other third-party payors.
If a drug product designated as an orphan product receives marketing approval for an indication broader than what is designated, it may not be entitled to orphan product exclusivity in any indication. 22 Products receiving orphan designation in Europe can receive ten years of market exclusivity, during which time no similar medicinal product for the same indication may be placed on the market.
Products receiving orphan designation in Europe can receive ten years of market exclusivity, during which time no similar medicinal product for the same indication may be placed on the market.
In China, three roxadustat crystal form patents were revoked in first-round proceedings and two revocations were upheld on first appeal; however, all decisions currently remain on appeal. Final resolution of these proceedings in Europe and China will take time and we cannot be assured that these patents will survive these proceedings as originally granted or at all.
Final resolution of these proceedings in Europe and China will take time and we cannot be assured that these patents will survive these proceedings as originally granted or at all.
Supplemental Protection Certificates (SPCs) are pending or have been granted in European Union member states, where roxadustat has been granted marketing approval, on our European Patent No. 3470397 (the “`397 Patent”), which claims formulations comprising the commercial crystalline form of roxadustat, thereby extending patent protection to 2036.
Subject to the additional details outlined below for particular territories, and exclusive of any patent term extension, U.S. and foreign patents relating to crystalline forms of roxadustat and key intermediates in roxadustat synthesis are due to expire in 2033, and U.S. and foreign patents relating to photostable formulations of roxadustat are due to expire in 2034. 20 Supplemental Protection Certificates (SPCs) are pending or have been granted in European Union member states, where roxadustat has been granted marketing approval, on our European Patent No. 3470397 (the “`397 Patent”), which claims formulations comprising the commercial crystalline form of roxadustat, thereby extending patent protection to 2036.
Our roxadustat China patent portfolio additionally includes a granted patent and pending patent applications directed to roxadustat particle size distribution (PSD) in commercial formulations and use of roxadustat to treat select CIA patient populations.
Our roxadustat China patent portfolio additionally includes a granted patent and pending patent applications directed to roxadustat particle size distribution (PSD) in commercial formulations and use of roxadustat to treat select chemotherapy-induced anemia patient populations. These patents and patent applications, upon grant, could extend the exclusivity of the roxadustat franchise with respect to the claimed subject matter to 2043.
We are manufacturing API at our Cangzhou manufacturing facility, which is fully qualified and licensed. We may also qualify a third-party manufacturer to produce commercial API under the Marketing Authorization Holder System program.
We have decommissioned our API manufacturing facility in Cangzhou, China, and intend to source roxadustat API for China from WuXi STA. We may also qualify a third-party manufacturer to produce commercial API under the Marketing Authorization Holder System program.
The employees of FibroGen Beijing are represented by a labor union under the China Labor Union Law. None of our employees have entered into a collective agreement with us. We are highly committed to building a diverse, dedicated, and impassioned team to deliver innovative therapies to patients facing serious unmet medical needs.
None of our employees have entered into a collective agreement with us. We are highly committed to building a diverse, dedicated, and impassioned team to deliver innovative therapies to patients facing serious unmet medical needs. Our core values of excellence, respect for people, integrity, and empowerment are fundamental to how we attract, grow, engage, and retain our people.
The FDA and other agencies actively enforce the laws and regulations prohibiting the promotion of off-label uses, and a company in violation may be subject to significant liability.
The FDA and other agencies actively enforce the laws and regulations prohibiting the promotion of off-label uses, and a company in violation may be subject to significant liability. 14 Federal and State Fraud and Abuse and Healthcare and Transparency Laws and Regulations In addition to FDA restrictions on marketing of pharmaceutical products, federal and state healthcare laws restrict certain business practices in the biopharmaceutical industry.
Composition-of-matter patents for FG-3246 are due to expire in 2035, and formulation and dosing regimen patents are due to expire in 2041, in each case exclusive of any patent term extension or adjustment that may be available.
Composition-of-matter patents for FG-3246 are due to expire in 2035, and formulation and dosing regimen patents are due to expire in 2041, in each case exclusive of any patent term extension or adjustment that may be available. 21 Under the agreement, we have first right to prepare, file, prosecute, and maintain patents and patent applications in the Fortis IP at our own expense and using mutually agreed-upon counsel.
The IRA also eliminates the “donut hole” under the Medicare Part D program beginning in 2025 by significantly lowering the beneficiary maximum out-of-pocket cost and creating a new manufacturer discount program.
The IRA also eliminates the “donut hole” under the Medicare Part D program beginning in 2025 by significantly lowering the beneficiary maximum out-of-pocket cost and creating a new manufacturer discount program. It is possible that the PPACA will be subject to future judicial or Congressional challenges, other litigation, and healthcare reform measures that may impact the PPACA and our business.
Japan - Roxadustat Commercial Program In Japan, our partner Astellas continues the commercialization of EVRENZO (roxadustat), targeting healthcare providers that care for approximately 330,000 dialysis patients across Japan. EVRENZO is approved for the treatment of anemia associated with CKD in both non-dialysis and dialysis patients. EVRENZO is one of five HIF-PH inhibitors currently on the market in Japan.
Europe - Roxadustat Commercial Program In Europe, our partner Astellas continues the commercialization of EVRENZO TM (roxadustat), which is approved for the treatment of anemia associated with CKD in both non-dialysis and dialysis patients. 9 Japan - Roxadustat Commercial Program In Japan, our partner Astellas continues the commercialization of EVRENZO TM (roxadustat), which is approved for the treatment of anemia associated with CKD in both non-dialysis and dialysis patients.
COLLABORATIONS Collaboration Partnerships for Roxadustat Our revenue to date has been generated primarily from our collaboration agreements with Astellas and AstraZeneca for the development and commercialization of roxadustat. In addition, we started roxadustat commercial sales in China in 2019.
COLLABORATIONS Collaboration Partnerships for Roxadustat Our revenue to date has been generated primarily from our collaboration agreements with Astellas and AstraZeneca for the development and commercialization of roxadustat. For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, our revenue for continuing operations was substantially related to our collaboration agreements.
We face competition from multiple other pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, many of which have significantly greater financial, technical and human resources and experience in product development, manufacturing and marketing. These potential advantages of our competitors are particularly a risk in pancreatic cancer, where we do not currently have a development or commercialization partner.
COMPETITION The pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries are highly competitive, particularly in some of the indications of our developing drug candidates. We face competition from multiple other pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, many of which have significantly greater financial, technical and human resources and experience in product development, manufacturing and marketing.
If we do not exercise our merger option, the license will terminate at the option exercise deadline which is the earlier of 90 days from the receipt of end of phase 2 meeting minutes from FDA regarding FG-3246 or May 5, 2027 absent extension.
If we do not exercise our merger option, the license will terminate at the option exercise deadline which is the earlier of 120 days after Fortis or FibroGen submits data from any Phase 2 clinical trial of a product to the FDA for the purpose of progressing to a Phase 3 clinical trial or May 2027 absent extension.
This study provided the basis for the study design for the China Phase 3 study. ANEMIA ASSOCIATED WITH MYELODYSPLASTIC SYNDROMES Myelodysplastic syndromes (“MDS”) are a diverse group of bone marrow disorders characterized by ineffective production of healthy blood cells and premature destruction of blood cells in the bone marrow, leading to anemia.
We expect topline results from the Phase 2 portion of this study, including data on the CD46-targeted PET imaging agent FG-3180, in the second half of 2025. 7 ROXADUSTAT IN ANEMIA ASSOCIATED WITH MYELODYSPLASTIC SYNDROMES MDS are a diverse group of bone marrow disorders characterized by ineffective production of healthy blood cells and premature destruction of blood cells in the bone marrow, leading to anemia.
Federal and State Fraud and Abuse and Healthcare and Transparency Laws and Regulations In addition to FDA restrictions on marketing of pharmaceutical products, federal and state healthcare laws restrict certain business practices in the biopharmaceutical industry. These laws include, but are not limited to, anti-kickback, false claims, data privacy and security, and transparency statutes and regulations.
These laws include, but are not limited to, anti-kickback, false claims, data privacy and security, and transparency statutes and regulations.
(“Astellas”) and AstraZeneca, we have completed 16 Phase 3 studies worldwide in over 11,000 patients to support our marketing approvals of roxadustat (爱瑞卓 ®️ , EVRENZO TM ) to treat anemia in chronic kidney disease in China, Europe, Japan, and numerous other countries.
ROXADUSTAT IN ANEMIA OF CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE In collaboration with our partners Astellas and AstraZeneca, roxadustat (爱瑞卓 ®️ , EVRENZO TM ) is approved to treat anemia in CKD in China, Europe, Japan, and numerous other countries.
Roxadustat, our orally administered small molecule HIF-PH inhibitor, stimulates the body’s natural mechanism of red blood cell production and iron hemostasis based on cellular-level oxygen-sensing and iron-regulation mechanisms.
Market Opportunity for Roxadustat in Myelodysplastic Syndromes We believe there is a significant need for a safe, effective, and convenient option to address anemia in patients with lower-risk MDS. Roxadustat, our orally administered small molecule hypoxia-inducible prolyl hydroxylase (“HIF-PH”) inhibitor, stimulates the body’s natural mechanism of red blood cell production and iron hemostasis based on cellular-level oxygen-sensing and iron-regulation mechanisms.
MANUFACTURE AND SUPPLY We continue to enter into contractual arrangements with qualified third-party manufacturers to manufacture and package our products and product candidates.
As these generic manufacturers would offer unpatented version of roxadustat at a significantly reduced price, this competition could materially and adversely affect our business results and financial conditions. 12 MANUFACTURE AND SUPPLY We continue to enter into contractual arrangements with qualified third-party manufacturers to manufacture and package our products and product candidates.
Roxadustat has captured the majority of this growth, benefiting from inclusion in the 2019, 2021, and 2023 National Reimbursement Drug Lists. In 2023, roxadustat sales in China continued to see significant volume growth in the treatment of anemia caused by CKD in non-dialysis and dialysis patients.
In 2024, roxadustat sales in China continued to see significant volume growth in the treatment of anemia caused by CKD in non-dialysis and dialysis patients. In 2024, roxadustat was the top CKD anemia brand in China with approximately 46% value share within the segment of ESAs and HIF-PH inhibitors.
Ensuring diversity in our workforce begins with role modeling and striving for diversity in senior management. On our Board of Directors, 3 of 9 members (33%) are female. Further, 2 of 9 members (22%) identify as Asian or Hispanic ethnicity. Notably, our U.S. workforce is 50% female. Our U.S. employees that self-report ethnicity are 58% Asian, Hispanic or Black.
Further, 1 of 5 members (20%) identifies as Asian ethnicity. Notably, our U.S. workforce is 54% female. Our U.S. employees that self-report ethnicity are 62% Asian, Hispanic or Black.
In 2023, we performed an ESG assessment of our operations, finding that we accomplished most of our yearly goals, including high-impact goals such as providing disclosure on investor outreach and feedback on Say-on-Pay proposals and resulting changes, improving Compensation Discussion and Analysis (CD&A) disclosure, and adopting a policy to increase patient diversity in clinical trials.
In 2023, we performed an environmental, social, and governance (“ESG”) assessment of our operations, finding that we accomplished most of our ESG goals, including adopting a policy to increase patient diversity in clinical trials. In 2024, we adopted a cybersecurity incidence response policy and committee charter, and approved a 2024 Equity Incentive Plan.
FG-3246 is a first-in-class antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeting a novel epitope on CD46 that is expressed at high levels in certain tumor types with limited expression in most normal tissues. The cytotoxic payload of FG-3246 is monomethyl auristatin E, an anti-mitotic agent that has been utilized in four commercially approved antibody-drug conjugate drugs.
The cytotoxic payload of FG-3246 is monomethyl auristatin E (“MMAE”), an anti-mitotic agent that has been utilized in four commercially approved antibody-drug conjugate drugs. We have met with the FDA to discuss the development pathway of FG-3246, and we anticipate initiation of a Phase 2 monotherapy dose optimization study of FG-3246 for the treatment of mCRPC in the mid-2025.
For additional details about this financing transaction, see Note 9, Senior Secured Term Loan Facilities , to the consolidated financial statements. COMPETITION The pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries are highly competitive, particularly in some of the indications of our developing drug candidates, including pancreatic cancer and anemia in CKD.
For additional details about this financing transaction, see Note 9, Senior Secured Term Loan Facilities , to the consolidated financial statements. Upon the closing of the sale of FibroGen International and its subsidiaries to AstraZeneca, we intend to repay our term loan facility with Morgan Stanley Tactical Value.
In addition to our employee and manager fundamentals programs, we offer personal coaching and resiliency sessions, as well as access to an on-demand global learning management system. In addition to annual compliance training on harassment prevention, our Code of Conduct, Anti-Bribery and data privacy, our employees are offered internal career development programs each year in addition to tuition reimbursement eligibility.
In addition to annual compliance training on harassment prevention, our Code of Conduct, Anti-Bribery and data privacy, our employees are offered tuition reimbursement eligibility. Ensuring diversity in our workforce begins with role modeling and striving for diversity in senior management. On our Board of Directors, 2 of 5 members (40%) are female.