corporate presentation · imerge: 2-part phase 2/3 trial ©2020, geron corporation | nasdaq: gern |...
TRANSCRIPT
Geron CorporationNasdaq: GERN
Corporate Presentation
May 2020
Forward Looking Statements
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 2
Except for the historical information contained herein, this presentation contains forward-looking statements made pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the PrivateSecurities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements, include, without limitation, those regarding: (i) that Geron expects tocomplete IMerge enrollment in the first quarter of 2021 and have top-line results in the second half of 2022; (ii) Geron’s plans to start enrollment in the refractory MF Phase3 trial in the first quarter of 2021, have enrollment completed in the second half of 2022, have results from an interim analysis in the first half of 2023, and have final top-lineresults in the first half of 2024; (iii) the therapeutic and commercial potential of imetelstat, including that imetelstat has potential disease-modifying activity; (iv) expectedimetelstat patent coverage in the EU and U.S. and expected market exclusivity related to orphan drug designation in the EU and U.S.; (v) that imetelstat has potential futureopportunities in High Risk Myelodysplastic Syndromes/Acute Myeloid Leukemia (HR MDS/AML), Polycythemia Vera (PV), and Essential Thrombocythemia (ET); (vi) that theU.S. and worldwide annual revenue potential for imetelstat in lower risk MDS (LR MDS) could exceed $500 million and $1 billion, respectively, and for refractory MF couldexceed $750 million and $1.5 billion, respectively; (vii) that in LR MDS, imetelstat has the ability to treat both ring sideroblast positive (RS+) and ring sideroblast negative (RS-)patients; (viii) that imetelstat treatment for MF has a potential survival benefit compared to best available treatment (from real world data); and (ix) other statements thatare not historical facts. These statements involve risks and uncertainties that can cause actual results to differ materially from those in such forward-looking statements.These risks and uncertainties, include, without limitation, risks and uncertainties related to: (a) whether Geron overcomes all the potential delays, added expense and otheradverse impacts caused by the evolving effects of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and overcomes the clinical, safety, efficacy, technical, scientific, intellectualproperty, manufacturing and regulatory challenges in order to meet the expected timelines and planned milestones in (i) and (ii) above; (b) whether Geron’s existing capitalresources will be sufficient to enable Geron to meet the expected timelines and planned milestones in (i) and (ii) above; (c) whether regulatory authorities permit the furtherdevelopment of imetelstat on a timely basis, or at all, without any clinical holds; (d) whether imetelstat is demonstrated to be safe and efficacious in clinical trials; (e) whetherany future efficacy or safety results may cause the benefit-risk profile of imetelstat to become unacceptable; (f) whether imetelstat actually demonstrates disease-modifyingactivity in patients; (g) that imetelstat may not achieve the revenue potential in (vi) above because: Geron may not have the expertise to successfully market imetelstat,competition could cause imetelstat not to achieve the revenue potential in (vi) above and/or that Geron may not have sufficient funds to successfully commercializeimetelstat; (h) whether imetelstat is able to maintain the patent protection and obtain and maintain the orphan drug exclusivity referenced in (iv) above and have freedom tooperate; (i) Geron may decide not to pursue development of imetelstat in HR MDS/AML, PV or ET; and (j) Geron will need to raise substantial additional capital to completethe Phase 3 clinical trial in refractory MF and begin the commercialization of imetelstat. Additional information on the above risks and uncertainties and additional risks,uncertainties and factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements are contained under the heading “Risk Factors” inGeron’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2020 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Undue reliance should not beplaced on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date they are made, and the facts and assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements may change.Except as required by law, Geron disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect future information, events or circumstances.
Geron Snapshot
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 3
Compelling and Differentiating Phase 2 Data
Unique mechanism of action inhibiting telomerase, an upregulated target in hematologic myeloid malignancies
Evidence of potential disease-modifying activity across a spectrum of hematologic malignancies
100% owned by Geron
Imetelstat: First-In-Class Telomerase Inhibitor
Clinical/regulatory team highly experienced in developing therapeutics for hematologic malignancies
Includes employees in clinical, regulatory, statistics, translational science and commercial who guided earlier imetelstat development at Janssen
Highly Experienced Development Team
Ongoing, randomized, placebo-controlled Phase 3 in LR MDS relapsed/refractory to ESAs; top-line results expected 2H 2022
Planned randomized, overall survival Phase 3 in Int-2/High-risk MF patients refractory to JAKi vs. BAT; expected milestones: open trial 1Q 2021, completion of enrollment 2H 2022, interim analysis 1H 2023, final top-line results 1H 2024
Two Phase 3 Trials with Registration Intent
LR MDS: Meaningful and durable transfusion independence, and increase in hemoglobin levels
MF: 28.1 mos.a median OS in Int-2/High-risk MF patients relapsed/refractory to JAKi compares favorably to historical controls of 14-16b
mos. and 12 mos.c from RWD analyses of best available therapy (BAT)
aEHA 2020 Abstract: Mascarenhas J, et al bKuykendall et al, Ann Hematol 2018; 97:435-441; Newberry et al, Blood 2017; 130:1125-1131; Spiegel et al, Blood Advances 2017; 1:1729-1738 cEHA 2019 Poster: Kuykendall A, et al LR MDS, lower risk myelodysplastic syndromes; MF, myelofibrosis; OS, overall survival; JAKi, janus kinase inhibitor; ESAs, erythropoiesis stimulating agents
About Imetelstat
• Structure: Proprietary 13-mer thio-phosphoramidate (NPS) oligonucleotide, with covalently-bound lipid tail to increase cell permeability/tissue distribution
• Potent competitive inhibitor of telomerase activity
• FDA has granted Fast Track and Orphan Drug designations for both lower risk MDS and Int-2/High-risk MF
• Clinical experience: more than 600 patients treated in Phase 1 and 2 trials
• Phase 3 clinical trial in lower risk MDS currently enrolling
• Patent/Market exclusivity:
➢ Composition of matter patent coverage expires in 2024 in EU and 2025 in U.S.
➢ Patent term extension includes potential five-years in EU, until2029 and until 2030 in U.S.
➢ Methods of use patents until 2033 for MF in EU and until 2033 for both MDS and MF in U.S.
➢ Expected market exclusivity extension related to orphan drug designation in EU for up to ten years and in U.S. for up to seven years
A novel telomerase inhibitor discovered and developed by Geron
Imetelstat
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 5
Telomerase Continuously Upregulated
Imetelstat Mechanism of Action in Hematologic Malignancies
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 6
In normal stem and progenitor cells, telomerase is transiently upregulated, enabling maintenance of normal hematopoiesis
Normal Hematopoiesis Malignant Hematopoiesis
Malignant hematopoietic progenitor cells
Malignant blood cells
Malignanthematopoietic
stem cells
Hematopoietic progenitor cells
Mature blood cells
Hematopoietic stem cells
The accumulation of these malignant cells is associated with clinical manifestations of disease
*Data on file
Telomerase Transiently Upregulated
In malignant stem, progenitor and blood cells, telomerase is continuously upregulated, resulting in malignant hematopoiesis
Imetelstat selectively targets malignant cells with continuously upregulated telomerase, inducing their apoptosis (cell death), and enabling potential recovery of normal hematopoiesis*
Imetelstat Indications in Hematologic Myeloid Malignancies
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 7
Potential to benefit patients across multiple indications
Lower Risk MyelodysplasticSyndromes (LR MDS)
Unmet Need
Patients lose transfusion independence and need more durable transfusion independence
Program Status
IMerge Phase 3 ongoing. Top-line results expected 2H 2022
Imetelstat target patient population is non-del(5q), LR MDS patients relapsed/refractory to ESAs
U.S. Annual Revenue Potential**
$500M+
Int-2 / High-Risk Myelofibrosis (MF)
Polycythemia Vera (PV)
Essential Thrombocythemia(ET)
~25,0002nd line
U.S. Patients
~40,0002nd line
U.S. Patients
Unmet Need
Patients are non-responsive to hydroxyurea (HU) and have a sub-optimal response to JAKi in HU failures
Unmet Need
Patients who have failed standard therapy have limited options
~5,0002nd line+
U.S. Patients
Unmet Need
Patients fail HMA and/or BCL-2 treatments
Potential Future Opportunities
Other diseases characterized by telomerase upregulation, associated with malignant stem and progenitor cell proliferation
ImetelstatPhase 2 ClinicalData
Anti-leukemic activity in blast phase MF (n=9)Company data
ImetelstatPhase 2 ClinicalData
100% hematologic response (n=2) Company data
ImetelstatPhase 2 ClinicalData
100% hematologic response (n=18)NEJM 2015
~12,500Int-2/HR MF U.S. Patients
Unmet Need
75% of patients discontinue ruxolitinib after five years, and have poor survival of ~14-16 mosa
No specifically approved therapies for JAKi refractory patients
Program Status
Plan to start Phase 3 1Q 2021
Imetelstat target patient populationis Int-2/HR MF patients who are refractory to JAKi treatment
U.S. Annual Revenue Potential**
$750M+
HR MDS / Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
Phase 3 Development
Source: MDS: Zeidan Blood 2019; MF: Decision Resources 2019; AML/HR-MDS: Smart Analyst 2020; ET/PV NORD est.** Company estimates; Geron Proprietary Market ResearchaKuykendall et al, Ann Hematol 2018; 97:435-441; Newberry et al, Blood 2017; 130:1125-1131; Spiegel et al, Blood Advances 2017; 1:1729-1738HMA, hypomethylating agent; BCL-2, b-cell lymphoma-2
~40,000LR MDS
U.S. Patients
Lower Risk
Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS)
Lower Risk Myelodysplastic Syndromes (LR MDS)
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 9
Imetelstat to address significant unmet need with a large market opportunity
Disease Characteristics• Ineffective production of RBCs, WBCs, and platelets (hematopoiesis)
• Chronic anemia
• Patient subgroups include Ring Sideroblast Positive (RS+) and Ring Sideroblast Negative (RS-)
Current Treatment Paradigm• Treated initially with erythropoiesis stimulating agents (ESAs)
• Patients relapsed/refractory to ESAs are RBC transfusion dependent
• Serial RBC transfusions result in lower quality of life, significant costs, lengthy office visits, iron overload, shorter survival and higher risk of transformation to AML
Opportunity*
~70% of all MDS patients are lower risk
>40,000 LR MDS U.S. patients today
>10,000 LR MDS U.S. patients diagnosed annually
Imetelstat U.S. annual revenue potential >$500M**
*Lower risk MDS patients without chromosomal 5q deletion (non-del(5q)), relapsed/refractory to ESAs prior to being treated with lenalidomide or hypomethylating agents (HMAs)Source: SEER; Greenberg 2012 Revised IPSS MDS; Platzbecker, Treatment of MDS 2019 Blood; Cogle, Curr Hematol Malig Rep; 2015; Greenberg, et al, Blood 1997;89:2079-2088**Company Estimates; Geron Proprietary Market Research.
The Unmet NeedHigher rate of transfusion independence than currently available options
Durable transfusion independence
Ability to treat both RS+ and RS- patients
Disease-modifying therapy
RBCs, red blood cells; WBCs, white blood cells; AML, acute myeloid leukemia
ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02598661)
IMerge: 2-Part Phase 2/3 Trial
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 10
Part 1 – Phase 2 portion
Imetelstat
7.5mg/kg every 4weeks
• Transfusion dependent is defined as an RBC transfusion requirement of ≥4 units over 8-week period during the 16
weeks prior to trial entry
• Relapsed/Refractory to Erythropoiesis Stimulating Agents (ESAs) following ≥8 weeks of weekly epoetin alfa 40,000
units or darbepoetin alfa 150 mcg (or equivalent) or serum erythropoietin (sEPO) >500 mU/mL
• Both RS+ and RS- MDS subgroups permitted
• Supportive care permitted: RBC transfusions, myeloid growth factors per investigator discretion as clinically needed and local guidelines
Transfusion Dependent, Low or Intermediate-1 Risk MDS, non-del(5q), R/R to ESAs, no prior treatment with lenalidomide or HMAs(n=38)
1° Efficacy:
Red Blood Cell (RBC) TransfusionIndependence (TI) ≥8 weeks
2° Efficacy:
RBC-TI ≥24 weeks;time to and duration of RBC-TI; hematologic improvement (HI); reduction in RBC burden
IMerge Part 1: Phase 2 Portion single arm, open label
ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02598661)
IMerge Phase 2 Data: Efficacy
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 11
1-Year RBC-TI rate now reported
a Kaplan Meier method
All data is from EHA 2019 Presentation: Fenaux P, et al, unless otherwise noted*EHA 2020 Abstract: Platzbecker U, et al, published May 14, 2020; oral presentation to occur at EHA 2020
75% of TI responders had hemoglobin rise of > 3g/dL from pretreatment level, suggesting potential recovery of normal hematopoiesis
No. of patients 38
Median baseline transfusion burden, units/8 weeks (range) 8 (4-14)
Rate of 8-week RBC-TI, % (n)Median durationa of RBC-TI, weeksMedian time to onset of RBC-TI, weeks (range)
42% (16/38)88*
8.3 (0.1-40.7)
Rate of 24-week RBC-TI, % (n) 32% (12/38)*
Rate of 1-year RBC-TI, % (n) 29% (11/38)*
Hematologic improvement-erythroid (HI-E), % (n)
≥1.5 g/dL increase in hemoglobin lasting ≥8 weeks
Transfusion reduction by ≥4 units/8 weeks
Median durationa of HI-E, weeks
68% (26/38)
32% (12/38)
68% (26/38)
93*
Mean relative reduction of RBC transfusion burden from baseline, % -68%
Confidential & Proprietary
ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02598661)
IMerge Phase 2 Data
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 12
Similar activity across different patient subgroups
Similar 8-week TI responses across different patient subgroups
• RS Subgroups:
RS+ (RARS/RCMD- RS) vs. RS- (Other)
• Baseline transfusion burden:
High (4-6 units) vs. Very High (>6 units)
• Serum EPO level:
≤ 500 mU/mL vs. > 500 mU/mL
Source: EHA 2019 Presentation: Fenaux P, et.al.
ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02598661)
IMerge Phase 2 Data: Safety
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 13
Most frequent hematologic and non-hematologic adverse events (AEs)
ALT, alanine aminotransferase; AST, aspartate aminotransferase; LFT, liver function testGrade 3 LFT elevations were reversible
aIn 3/7 (43%) patients back pain was an AE associated with infusion related reaction
bnasopharyngitis, diarrhea, constipation, edema peripheral and asthenia
Hematologic AEs
TEAEAll GradesN=38 (n, %)
Grade 3/4N=38 (n, %)
Thrombocytopenia 25 (66) 23 (61)
Neutropenia 22 (58) 21 (55)
Anemia 10 (26) 8 (21)
Non-Hematologic AEs
TEAEAll GradesN=38 (n, %)
Grade 3/4N=38 (n, %)
Back paina 7 (18) 0
ALT increased 7 (18) 2 (5)
AST increased 6 (16) 3 (8)
Bronchitis 6 (16) 3 (8)
Other AEsb 6 (16) 0
Headache 6 (16) 1 (3)
Source: EHA 2019 Presentation: Fenaux P, et al
ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02598661)
IMerge Phase 2 Data: Safety
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 14
Reversible grade 3/4 cytopenias without significant clinical consequences
• 2/38 patients (5%) had febrile neutropenia
• 4/38 patients (10%) had bleeding events, 2/38 (5%) were Grade 3/4
91% 92%
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
Neutrophils Platelets
%
Recovery of Grade 3/4 Cytopenia by Laboratory Value
Did not resolvewithin 4 weeks
Resolved within 4weeks
Source: EHA 2019 Presentation: Fenaux P, et al
ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02598661)
IMerge Part 1 – Phase 2 MEDALIST1 - Phase 3**
Imetelstat Luspatercept Placebo
38 No. of patients 153 76
Non-del(5q) R/R to ESAs Target patient population Non-del(5q) R/R to ESAs
RS+ and RS- MDS ring sideroblast (RS) subgroups RS+ only
8 (4-14) Median baseline transfusion burden# units/8 weeks (range)
5 (2-20)66 (29%) < 4U / 8 wks
42% (16/38) ≥8-week RBC-TI rate, % (n) 48% (73/153) 16% (12/76)
42% (16/38)≥8-week RBC-TI rate, % (n)
Patients with baseline transfusion burden ≥ 4 units / 8weeks
32% (34/107) 7% (4/56)
32% (12/38)* ≥24-week RBC-TI rate, % (n) Not reported/assessed
29% (11/38)* ≥1-year RBC-TI rate, % (n) Not reported/assessed
88 weeks* Median duration of RBC-TI 31 weeks 14 weeks
Key Imetelstat Efficacy Results in LR MDS
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 15
Breadth (RS+/RS-), depth (RBC-TI Rate) and durability of response
1 Comparative MEDALIST Phase 3 data provided for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as demonstrative or indicative of imetelstat’s potential in LR MDS. There are several limitations when comparing results from an open-label Phase 2 trial to a blinded, placebo-controlled Phase 3 trial with a significantly greater patient population, and also, luspatercept is an approved treatment with a relatively benign safety profile.All IMerge Phase 2 data is from EHA 2019 Presentation: Fenaux P, et al, unless otherwise noted. *EHA 2020 Abstract: Platzbecker U, et al, published May 14, 2020; oral presentation to occur at EHA 2020.
**MEDALIST sponsor – Celgene/Acceleron. ASH 2019 Presentation: Assessment of Longer-Term Efficacy and Safety in the Phase 3, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled MEDALIST Trial of Luspatercept to Treat Anemia in IPSS-R Very Low-, Low-, or Int-Risk RBC Transfusion-Dependent MDS with Ring Sideroblasts; Fenaux P, et al; NEJM 2020 Supplementary Appendix 2020; 382:140-51.
Lower Risk Myelodysplastic Syndromes (LR MDS)
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 16
A significant addressable market opportunity
Source: SEER; Zeidan Blood 2019 ** Company Estimates; Geron Proprietary Market Research; Worldwide revenue estimates: EU revenue potential ~45% of U.S., additional markets ex-U.S./ex-EU ~ 20% of U.S. revenue potential
>100,000LR MDS patients worldwide
>40,000LR MDS patients in the U.S.
>10,000LR MDS cases diagnosed
annually in the U.S.
$500M+U.S. annual revenue potential for
Imetelstat in LR MDS**
$1.0B+Worldwide annual revenue potential
for imetelstat in LR MDS**
Imetelstat target patient population
is non-del(5q) LR MDS patients
relapsed/refractory to ESAs
Imetelstat in LR MDS*
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 17
Highly differentiated therapy designed to address unmet need in patients R/R to ESAs
Novel Mechanism of ActionFirst-in-class Telomerase Inhibitor
Selectively targets malignant stem, progenitor and blood cells with continuously upregulated telomerase, inducing their apoptosis (cell death), enabling potential recovery of normal hematopoiesis1
Ability to Treat Both RS+ and RS- PatientsTI similar in both RS+ and RS- patients
High Rates of Transfusion Independence (TI)42% of patients achieved 8-week TI and 68% achieved hematologic improvement (HI-E)
Potential Disease-Modifying Activity29% of patients were transfusion free for ≥1 year**
75% of TI responders had hemoglobin rise of > 3g/dL from pretreatment level, which suggests potential recovery of normal hematopoiesis
Durability of Transfusion Independence29% of patients were transfusion free for ≥1 year**
Median duration of TI was 88 weeks**
*Imetelstat target patient population is non-del(5q)LR MDS patients relapsed/refractory to ESAs
R/R, relapsed/refractoryAll data is from EHA 2019 Presentation: Fenaux P, et al, unless otherwise noted**EHA 2020 Abstract: Platzbecker U, et al published May 14, 2020 1Data on file
ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02598661)
IMerge Phase 3 in LR MDS
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 18
Currently enrolling
Imetelstat(n = ~115)
7.5mg/kg every 4 weeks
Placebo(n = ~55)R
and
om
ize
(2
:1)
Do
ub
le-b
lind
Transfusion Dependent, Low or Intermediate-1 Risk MDS, non-del(5q), R/R to ESAs, no prior treatment with lenalidomide or HMAs(n = ~170)
1° Efficacy:Red Blood Cell (RBC) Transfusion Independence (TI) ≥8 weeks
2° Efficacy: RBC-TI ≥24 weeks;time to and duration of RBC-TI; hematologic improvement (HI); reduction in RBC burden
Clinical Trial Design for IMerge Part 2: Phase 3 Portion
Phase 3 Trial Design• Same dose and schedule as Phase 2
• Same primary and secondary endpoints as Phase 2
• Same target patient population as Phase 2, including both RS+ and RS- patient subgroups
• Many of the clinical sites participated in Phase 2
• Many of the key imetelstat Phase 2 clinical team members are managing Phase 3
Current Status/Progress➢ First patient was dosed in October 2019
➢ As of the end of April 2020, 68% of planned clinical sites were opened for enrollment
➢ Targeting completion of enrollment in 1Q 2021
➢ Top-line results expected 2H 2022
Intermediate-2 or High-Risk Myelofibrosis (MF)
Int-2/High-Risk Myelofibrosis
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 20
Imetelstat to address significant unmet need with a large market opportunity
Source: Decision resources**Company estimates
Opportunity*
~70% of all MF patients are Int-2 or HR
>12,500 Int-2/HR MF patients in the U.S.
>2,100 Int-2/HR MF patients diagnosed each year in the U.S.
Imetelstat U.S. annual revenue potential > $750M**
The Unmet NeedTherapies that can extend survival
Treatment options for patients who are refractory to JAKi therapy
Disease-modifying therapy
Non-JAKi mechanism of action
Disease Characteristics• Malignant stem and progenitor cell proliferation give rise to malignant
megakaryocytes, bone marrow fibrosis and impaired hematopoiesis
• Splenomegaly: normal blood production shifts to other organs, such as the spleen, which can cause the spleen to enlarge
• Symptoms: fever, weight loss, night sweats)
• Fibrosis: thought to be induced by inflammatory cytokines produced by megakaryocytes originating from malignant progenitor cell clones
Current Treatment Paradigm for Int-2/HR MF• Only approved therapies in the U.S. are JAKi (ruxolitinib and fedratinib)
• Most patients lose response to ruxolitinib
• ~50% patients discontinue ruxolitinib within 3 years and 75% within 5 years
• Poor survival of 14-16a months for patients who discontinue ruxolitinib
* Int-2/HR MF patients who are refractory to JAKi treatment
aKuykendall et al, Ann Hematol 2018; Newberry et al, Blood 2017; 130:1125-1131; 97:435-441; Spiegel et al, Blood Advances 2017; 1:1729-1738
ClincialTrials.gov (NCT02426086)
IMbark Phase 2 Trial
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 21
Clinical activity in relapsed/refractory MF patients
Trial Population:
• Patients with Intermediate-2 or High-risk MF (Int-2/High-risk) patients who have relapsed after or are refractory to prior treatment with a janus kinase inhibitor (JAKi)
• Relapsed or refractory to JAKi defined as documented progressive disease during or after JAKi:
o Patients must have worsening of splenomegaly-related abdominal pain at any time after the start of JAKi therapy and EITHER:
▪ No reduction in spleen volume or size after 12 weeks of JAKi therapy, OR
▪ Worsening splenomegaly* at any time after the start of JAKi therapy documented by:
➢ Increase in spleen volume from nadir by 25% measured by MRI or CT, or
➢ Increase in spleen size by palpation
Intermediate-2 or High-risk MF
R/R to JAKi treatment
Ran
do
miz
e(1
:1) Imetelstat
9.4 mg/kgevery 3 weeksn=59
Imetelstat4.7 mg/kgevery 3 weeksn=48
Co-primary endpoints:Spleen response rate and symptom response rate
Secondary endpoints:CR, PR and CI, anemia response per 2013 IWG-MRTcriteria, duration of responses,and overall survival (OS)
Exploratory endpoints:Cytogenetic and molecular responses, leukemia free survival
* Adapted from IWG-MRT response criteria definition of progressive disease.
Confidential & Proprietary
ClincialTrials.gov (NCT02426086)
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 22
IMbark Phase 2: Symptom Response at Week 24
19 (32%) patients in the 9.4 mg/kg arm had ≥ 50% decrease in TSS from baseline at Week 24
TSS, total symptom score.
31 (52%) patients in the 9.4 mg/kg arm had ≥ 50% symptom response at any time **
** Data on file
3 symptom respondersin 4.7 mg/kg
19 symptom responders in 9.4 mg/kg
Source: ASH 2018 Presentation: Mascarenhas J, et al
Confidential & Proprietary
ClincialTrials.gov (NCT02426086)
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 23
IMbark Phase 2: Spleen Volume Reduction (SVR) at Week 24
6 (10%) patients in the 9.4 mg/kg arm had ≥ 35% SVR at Week 24
22 (37%) patients in the 9.4 mg/kg arm had ≥ 10% SVR at Week 24
0 SVR responder in4.7 mg/kg
6 SVR responders in 9.4 mg/kg
SVR, spleen volume reduction.
Source: ASH 2018 Presentation: Mascarenhas J, et al
ClincialTrials.gov (NCT02426086)
IMbark Phase 2 Data: Safety
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 24
Most frequent hematologic* and non-hematologic adverse events (AEs)
*Treatment emergent, per reported AEs (not laboratory values). Frequency of reported Grade 3/4 hematologic AEs were consistent with cytopenias reported through lab values.
4.7 mg/kg (n=48)
9.4 mg/kg (n=59)
n (%) All Grades Grade ≥ 3 All Grades Grade ≥ 3
Hematologic (≥ 10% in either arm)
Thrombocytopenia 11 (23) 11 (23) 29 (49) 24 (41)
Anemia 15 (31) 15 (31) 26 (44) 23 (39)
Neutropenia 5 (10) 5 (10) 21 (36) 19 (32)
Leukopenia 3 (6) 3 (6) 8 (14) 8 (14)
Non-hematologic (≥ 20% in either arm)
Nausea 15 (31) 1 (2) 20 (34) 2 (3)
Vomiting 10 (21) 1 (2) 8 (14) 1 (2)
Diarrhea 18 (38) 2 (4) 18 (31) 0
Fatigue 10 (21) 3 (6) 16 (27) 4 (7)
Cough 11 (23) 0 9 (15) 0
Dyspnea 9 (19) 6 (13) 14 (24) 3 (5)
Abdominal Pain 10 (21) 2 (4) 14 (24) 3 (5)
Asthenia 9 (19) 3 (6) 14 (24) 6 (10)
Pyrexia 8 (17) 1 (2) 13 (22) 3 (5)
Edema peripheral 13 (27) 0 11 (19) 0
Source: ASH 2018 Presentation: Mascarenhas J, et al
ClincialTrials.gov (NCT02426086)
IMbark Phase 2 Data: Safety
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 25
Reversible grade 3/4 cytopenias and no observed hepatic toxicities
Grade 3/4 Liver Function Test (LFT) elevations were observed in 7 patients on study
• An independent Hepatic Review Committee reviewed all LFT and hepatic data
• Imetelstat-related hepatic toxicities were not observed
Most grade 3/4 cytopenias were reversible within 4 weeks
Clinical consequences of cytopenias
n(%)4.7 mg/kg
(n=48)9.4 mg/kg
(n=59)
Grade 3 Febrile Neutropenia 1 (2) 1 (2)
Grade ≥ 3 Hemorrhagic events 2 (4) 3 (5)
Grade ≥ 3 Infections 10 (21) 6 (10)
Source: ASH 2018 Presentation: Mascarenhas J, et al
ClincialTrials.gov (NCT02426086)
IMbark Phase 2 Data: Survival
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 26
Data suggest potential improvement in survival
Clinical cut-off (Feb 19, 2020):
Median follow-up: 41.7 months
Median overall survival:
28.1 mos. (95% CI 22.8-31.6)
** Kuykendall et al, Ann Hematol 2018; 97:435-441; Newberry et al, Blood 2017; 130:1125-1131; Spiegel et al, Blood Advances 2017; 1:1729-1738
All data is from EHA 2020 abstract: Mascarenhas J, et al, unless otherwise noted; published May 14; poster available at EHA 2020
After discontinuation of ruxolitinib:**
Median overall survival is ~14-16 mos.
28.1mos
ClincialTrials.gov (NCT02426086)
IMbark Phase 2 Data vs. Real World Data
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 27
Further evidence of potential survival benefit
IMbark Phase 2 Data vs. Real-World Data(RWD)
Source: Kuykendall A., et al, EHA 2019 Poster
Purpose: Assess potential overall survival benefit withimetelstat treatment
• IMbark data compared to RWD of a closely-matched cohort of patients from Moffitt Cancer Center who had discontinued ruxolitinib and were subsequently treated with best available therapy(BAT)
• Propensity score analysis approach taken to match individual patients withineach dataset to mimic the effect of randomization and improve comparability
Results: Analyses suggest potential survival benefit and lower risk of death for imetelstat vs. BAT fromRWD
• In an unweighted analysis prior to statistical adjustments comparing the two patientcohorts:
o Median OS of 33.8 months for imetelstat-treated patients from IMbark is more than double the median OS of 12.0 months for BAT from RWD
o Imetelstat conferred 65% lower risk of death compared to BAT from RWD
o Results suggest favorable OS with imetelstat treatment when compared to closely-matched RWD from patients treated with BAT
• Analyses using two statistical adjustment methods resulted in similar outcomes to the unweighted analysis (imetelstat: 30.7 mos; BAT: 12.0 mos)
Acknowledging the limitations of such comparative analyses between RWD and clinical trial data, we believe that the favorable OS of imetelstat treatment suggested by these comparative analyses in this very poor prognosis patient population warrants further evaluation
12.0 mos33.8 mos
ClincialTrials.gov (NCT02426086)
Three Abstracts to be Presented at EHA 2020
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 28
Abstracts support overall survival observed in IMbark
EHA 2020 Abstracts published May 14, 2020; posters available at EHA 2020
Telomerase Activity, Telomere Length and hTERT Expression Correlate with Clinical Outcomes in Higher-RiskMyelofibrosis (MF) Relapsed/Refractory (R/R) to Janus Kinase Inhibitor Treated with Imetelstat; Mascarenhas J, et. al.
▪ Provides evidence for on-target mechanism of action of imetelstat through telomerase inhibition
Favorable Overall Survival with Imetelstat Treatment Correlates with Other Clinical Benefits in Intermediate-2 or High-Risk Myelofibrosis Relapsed/Refractory to Janus Kinase Inhibitor; Mascarenhas J, et. al.
▪ The potential survival benefit observed with imetelstat was supported by the trend of correlations with other clinicalbenefits, such as symptom and spleen response, as well as fibrosis improvement
Imetelstat Treatment Results in Clinical Benefits, Including Improved Overall Survival, in Patients with Higher-Risk Triple-Negative Myelofibrosis Relapsed/Refractory to Janus Kinase Inhibitors (JAKi); Kiladjian, et. al.
▪ Triple Negative (TN) patients treated with imetelstat 9.4 mg/kg had better clinical outcomes and OS vs. non-TNpatients, suggesting that treatment with imetelstat may overcome the poor outcomes expected with TN patients
Int-2/High-Risk Myelofibrosis
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 29
A significant addressable market opportunity
Source: Decision Resources 2019** Company estimates; Worldwide revenue estimates: EU revenue potential ~45% of U.S., additional markets ex-U.S./ex-EU ~ 20% of U.S. revenue potential
~70% Intemediate-2/High-risk; ~50% patients discontinue Rux within 3 years and 75% within 5 years; Tefferi, JCO 2005; 23:8520-8530; Tefferi, Mayo Clin Proc 2012; 87:25-33; Gangat et al, JCO 2011; 29:392-397
>35,000Int-2/HR MF patients
worldwide
>12,500 Int-2/HR MF patients in
the U.S.
>2,100 Int-2/HR MF cases diagnosed
annually in the U.S.
$750M+U.S. annual revenue potential for imetelstat
in JAKi Refractory MF**
$1.5B+Worldwide annual revenue potential for
imetelstat in Refractory MF**
Imetelstat target patient population
is Int-2/HR MF patients who are refractory to JAKi
treatment
Imetelstat in Int-2/High-Risk Myelofibrosis*
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 30
Highly differentiated therapy designed to address current unmet need
Novel Mechanism of Action
First-in-class Telomerase Inhibitor
Selectively targets malignant stem, progenitor and blood cells with continuously upregulated telomerase, inducing their apoptosis (cell death), enabling potential recovery of normal hematopoiesis1
Non-JAKi Treatment Option75% of patients discontinue ruxolitinib after five yearsc
There is no non-JAKi therapy approved for Int-2/HR MF
Improvement in Overall Survival28.1 mos.a median OS in Int-2/High-risk MF patients relapsed/refractory to JAKi compares favorably to historical controls of 14-16c mos. and 12 mos.b from RWD analyses of best available therapy (BAT)
Planned randomized Phase 3 trial in Int-2/HR refractory MF patients with overall survival as primary endpoint planned to open 1Q 2021 for enrollment
Potential Disease-Modifying ActivityPotential improvement in overall survival
Improvement in MF Symptoms 32%d of patients achieved symptom response (>50% reduction in TSS from baseline) at 24 wks; 52%1 of patients achieved symptom response at any time
aEHA 2020 abstract: Mascarenhas J, et al; published May 14; poster available at EHA 2020
b Kuykendall A, et al, EHA 2019 Posterc Kuykendall et al, Ann Hematol 2018; 97:435-441; Newberry et al, Blood
2017; 130:1125-1131; Spiegel et al, Blood Advances 2017; 1:1729-1738dASH 2018 Presentation: Mascarenhas J, etal
*Imetelstat target patient population is Int-2/HR MF patients who are refractory to JAKi treatment 1Data on file
Population: Int-2/High-risk MF refractory to a JAKi
– Inadequate spleen or symptom response after treatment with JAKi for ≥ 6 months, including an optimal dose of JAKi for at least 2 months
Primary endpoint: Overall Survival (OS; HR=0.6)
– Secondary endpoints include: symptom response, spleen response, progression free survival, complete response, partial response, clinical improvement, duration of responses, safety, pharmacokinetics, patient reported outcomes
Statistical Design and Methods
Comparator arm: Best Available Therapy (BAT), excluding JAKi
Imetelstat treatment arm: 9.4 mg/kg every 3 weeks
Phase 3 Trial Design in Int-2/HR MF with OS as Primary Endpoint
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 31
Plan to open for enrollment 1Q 2021
Imetelstat(9.4 mg/kg q3 wks)
BAT (excl. JAKi)
Refractory MFInt2/High-risk (n=320)
Final Analysis for OSEvent-driven
Est timing: 1H 2024
OS
2:1
Interim Analysis for OS
Event-drivenEst timing: 1H 2023
Closing Remarks
Planned Development Priorities
©2020, Geron Corporation | Nasdaq: GERN | 33
2020 2021+
Data UpdatesEHA 2020 Annual CongressJune 11-14
More mature IMerge Phase 2 data, including durability of transfusion independence
Abstract Online: May 2020
Oral Presentation: June 2020
Three new analyses of IMbark Phase 2 data supporting observed potential improvement in OS as indicator of disease-modifying activity
Abstracts Online: May 2020
Three Posters: June 2020
Lower Risk MDSIMerge Phase 3 Clinical TrialLower risk MDS R/R to ESAs
Complete enrollment 1Q 2021
Top-line results 2H 2022
Refractory MFPhase 3 Clinical Trial Int-2/High-risk MF Refractory to JAKi
FDA accepted Phase 3 trial design May 2020
Open Phase 3 Refractory MF clinical trial 1Q 2021
Complete enrollment 2H 2022
Interim analysis 1H 2023
Final top-line results 1H 2024
✓
✓
✓
Confidential & Proprietary
Thank YouIf you have any questions, please contact us: [email protected]