Astex Pharmaceuticals
Today, let's look at three things investors should be watching regarding Astex Pharmaceuticals, which will provide us with better insight into the company.
1. Clinical-phase pipeline
Astex currently has one FDA-approved drug on the market, Dacogen, for the treatment of myelodysplastic syndrome. It markets this drug in cooperation with Eisai Pharmaceuticals in North America and Janssen Cilag, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson
With four drugs in phase 1 trials, five hopefuls in phase 2, and an expansion of Dacogen in phase 3 trials, Astex offers shareholders a seemingly endless parade of study data with plenty more in the pre-clinical and discovery stages. The basis for Astex's success in discovering potential therapies lies in its proprietary fragment-based drug discovery platform known as Pyramid. This technology is able to computationally determine how low-weight molecules (fragments) and proteins will interact with one another, and has allowed Astex to create a bountiful clinical-phase pipeline.
2. Partnerships
In addition to discovering potentially new therapies, a small biotechnology company having a partner with an experienced sales and marketing team, and deep pockets, is often appreciated. Astex has worked rigorously to set itself up for success by partnering with many large pharmaceutical names.
In addition to partnering with Eisai and Janssen Cilag on marketing Dacogen, Astex has collaborative clinical-phase agreements with Novartis
These partnerships provide milestone payments, and in some cases cost-sharing initiatives, which allow Astex to carry on multiple trials at the same time.
3. Cash
Finally, with Astex spending so much on researching and developing its now-extensive pipeline, it's imperative that you keep a close eye on its usage of cash.
Astex, thus far, has done a pretty good job of putting itself in position to receive milestone payments from its partners and spend within its means. As of its latest quarter Astex had $122.5 million in cash with no debt. Forming partnerships and Dacogen's approval have made Astex profitable and cash flow positive since 2009. Astex shareholders shouldn't have too much to worry about in terms of cash burn.
Foolish roundup
Now that you know what to watch for, it should be easier to analyze Astex Pharmaceuticals' successes and pitfalls in the future, and hopefully you'll gain a competitive investing edge.
If you're still craving even more info on Astex Pharmaceuticals, I would recommend adding the stock to your free and personalized Watchlist so you can keep up on all of the latest news with the company.
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