CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Oct. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wave Life Sciences, Inc. (Nasdaq: WVE), a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on unlocking the broad potential of RNA medicines to transform human health, will host a live webcast and conference call at 8:30 a.m. ET on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, to review the company’s third quarter 2026 financial results and provide business updates.
Analysts planning to participate during the Q&A portion of the live call can join the conference call at the audio-conferencing link here.
Following the live event, an archived version of the webcast will be available on the Wave Life Sciences website.
About Wave Life Sciences Wave Life Sciences (Nasdaq: WVE) is a biotechnology company focused on unlocking the broad potential of RNA medicines to transform human health. Wave’s PRISM® platform combines multiple RNA medicine modalities, chemistry innovation, and deep insights in human genetics to deliver scientific breakthroughs that treat both rare and common disorders. Its toolkit of RNA-targeting modalities, including RNAi (SpiNA) and RNA editing (AIMers), provides Wave with unmatched capabilities for designing and sustainably delivering candidates that optimally address disease biology. Wave’s pipeline is focused on its obesity (WVE-007), alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (WVE-006) and PNPLA3 I148M liver disease (WVE-008) programs, and also includes clinical programs in Duchenne muscular dystrophy and Huntington’s disease, as well as several preclinical programs utilizing the company’s versatile RNA medicines platform. Driven by the calling to “Reimagine Possible,” Wave is leading the charge toward a world in which human potential is no longer hindered by the burden of disease. Wave is headquartered in Cambridge, MA. For more information on Wave’s science, pipeline and people, please visit www.wavelifesciences.com and follow Wave on X and LinkedIn.
Contact: Kate Rausch VP, Corporate Affairs and Investor Relations +1 617-949-4827
MediaMeta advances AI-driven automation through U.S. client collaboration, following GMEX’s recent strategic investment
SYDNEY, Australia, Oct. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GMEX Robotics Corporation (NASDAQ: GMEX) (“GMEX” or the “Company”), an AI-powered robotics and intelligent automation company, today announced that its strategic investee, Alpha Meta AI Pte. Ltd. (“MediaMeta”), has commenced a co-development project with U.S.-based clients to develop an AI-powered autonomous adaptive canine washing and grooming station.
The project aims to integrate AI-driven decision-making, adaptive control and automated grooming processes to accommodate varying canine characteristics and grooming requirements, with the objective of improving service efficiency, consistency and the overall grooming experience. In connection with the project, MediaMeta has also submitted a U.S. patent application relating to the technology under development, marking a milestone in its efforts to build proprietary intellectual property in intelligent automation.
The initiative follows GMEX’s ompletion of its acquisition of an initial 30% fully diluted equity interest in MediaMeta on October 14, 2026, and represents early progress in applying MediaMeta’s AI capabilities to real-world commercial services.
Beyond canine grooming, the underlying adaptive AI technologies being developed may have potential applications across other autonomous service environments, supporting GMEX’s broader strategy of integrating artificial intelligence with physical robotics and automation.
“We are encouraged by MediaMeta’s progress shortly after our strategic investment. The launch of this U.S. client co-development project and the submission of a U.S. patent application demonstrate its commitment to developing practical AI-powered automation solutions,” said Sam Lu, Chief Executive Officer of GMEX Robotics. “We believe the adaptive AI capabilities being explored through this initiative may offer opportunities extending beyond pet-care services, consistent with our long-term vision of advancing intelligent robotics and creating potential value for our shareholders.”
The project remains in development, and any future commercialization is subject to successful testing, client acceptance and other commercial considerations. The patent application remains pending, and there can be no assurance that a patent will be granted.
About GMEX Robotics
GMEX Robotics is a technology company focused on the development and commercialization of AI-powered robotics and intelligent automation solutions. The Company is advancing robotics applications across consumer, hospitality, and commercial environments, combining artificial intelligence with hardware innovation to deliver efficient and scalable automation technologies.
About MediaMeta
Alpha Meta AI Pte. Ltd., operating as MediaMeta.Ai, is a Singapore-based artificial intelligence company focused on digital content, AI applications and generative engine optimization (GEO). The company is developing social intelligence capabilities designed to help AI systems interpret human behavior and social context, with robotics as a priority new application area.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact in this press release are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including market and other conditions, and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “is/are likely to,” “propose,” “potential,” “continue” or similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s annual report on Form 20-F and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
TAMPA, Fla., Oct. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HCI Group, Inc. (NYSE: HCI) will hold a conference call on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 4:45 p.m. Eastern Time to discuss results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2026. Financial results will be issued in a press release the same day after the close of the market.
HCI management will host the presentation, followed by a question-and-answer period.
Interested parties can listen to the live presentation by dialing the listen-only number below or by clicking the webcast link available on the Investor Information section of the company’s website at www.hcigroup.com.
Please call the conference telephone number 10 minutes before the start time. An operator will register your name and organization. If you have any difficulty connecting with the conference call, please contact Gateway Group at 949-574-3860.
A replay of the call will be available after 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time on the same day as the call, as well as via the Investor Information section of the HCI Group website at www.hcigroup.com.
About HCI Group, Inc. HCI Group is a diversified holding company founded in 2006 which, through its subsidiaries, is engaged in homeowners insurance, reinsurance, real estate, insurance claims services, and insurance technology. The HCI Group portfolio of companies includes multiple property and casualty underwriters, exchanges, and captive reinsurers as well as a claims management business, a commercial real estate investment company, and a leading insurance technology company, Exzeo Group, Inc.
HCI’s common shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “HCI” and are included in the Russell 2000 and S&P SmallCap 600 Index. HCI Group, Inc. regularly publishes financial and other information in the Investor Information section of the company’s website. For more information about HCI Group and its subsidiaries, visit www.hcigroup.com. Exzeo’s common shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “XZO.” For more information about Exzeo, visit www.exzeo.com.
Investor Relations Contacts: Nat Otis Investor Relations HCI Group, Inc. Tel (813) 355-5341 notis@hcigroup.com
The Company now holds 44 issued patents and 49 pending patents globally. Commercialization continues to advance across both U.S. and international markets.
HINGHAM, Mass., Oct. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Microbot Medical Inc. (Nasdaq: MBOT), developer and distributor of the innovative LIBERTY® Endovascular Robotic System, announced that it has received several new patent approvals across the U.S., Japan, China and Canada, further strengthening its global intellectual property portfolio as the Company continues to expand commercial adoption of the LIBERTY® System in the U.S. and position it for growth in key international markets as it pursues a CE Mark. As a result of these latest developments, the Company now holds 44 issued patents and 49 pending patent applications across North America, Europe, Israel, and Asia.
The patent approvals reflect the Company’s ongoing strategy to protect and maximize the value of its innovations through a growing global intellectual property portfolio. The Company believes that a strong patent estate is critical to supporting future market expansion and monetizing its novel technology.
“Our commercial growth since the launch of LIBERTY goes hand in hand with our strategy to enhance and strengthen our intellectual property portfolio while simultaneously building the global infrastructure needed to support broader market access for the LIBERTY System,” commented Dr. Sarit Garten, Director of Intellectual Property. “Our R&D and Business Development teams’ ongoing collaboration is resulting in a robust and diverse intellectual property portfolio, which we expect to expand significantly over the coming months. These developments align with our strategy for market entry into the EU and other jurisdictions.”
LIBERTY is the only FDA-cleared, single-use, remotely operated robotic system for peripheral endovascular procedures, and it is designed for precise vascular navigation while aiming to reduce radiation exposure and physical strain.
About Microbot Medical Microbot Medical Inc. (NASDAQ: MBOT) is a commercial stage medical device company focused on transforming endovascular procedures through advanced robotic technology. Microbot’s LIBERTY® Endovascular Robotic System is the first single-use, remotely operated robotic solution designed for precision, efficiency and safety. Backed by a strong intellectual property portfolio and a commitment to innovation, Microbot is driving the future of endovascular care.
Statements to future financial and/or operating results, future adoption of products, future growth in research, technology, clinical development, commercialization and potential opportunities for Microbot Medical Inc. and its subsidiaries, along with other statements about the future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans, or prospects expressed by management, constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and the Federal securities laws. Any statements that are not historical fact (including, but not limited to statements that contain words such as “contemplates,” “continues,” “could,” “forecasts,” “intends,” “may,” “might,” “possible,” “potential,” “predicts,” “projects,” “should,” “would,” “will,” “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “estimates” and similar expressions) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, market conditions, risks inherent in the commercialization of the LIBERTY® Endovascular Robotic System, and in the development of future versions of or applications for the system, uncertainty in the results of regulatory pathways and regulatory approvals, uncertainty resulting from political, social and geopolitical conditions, disruptions resulting from new and ongoing hostilities between Israel and the Palestinians, Iran and other neighboring countries, and maintenance of intellectual property rights. Additional information on risks facing Microbot Medical® can be found under the heading “Risk Factors” in Microbot Medical’s periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which are available on the SEC’s web site at www.sec.gov. Microbot Medical® disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law.
THORNTON, Colo., Oct. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: ASTI) (“Ascent” or the “Company”), the leading U.S. innovator in the design and manufacturing of featherweight, flexible thin-film photovoltaic (PV) solutions, today announced a new partnership with Darley Defense, a leading global provider of defense, fire and emergency services equipment, to expand access to Ascent’s thin-film PV products throughout defense, federal, space and public sector markets.
The partnership will combine Ascent’s CIGS solar products with Darley Defense’s established procurement channels and robust reach across the defense and government sectors. This further enables market penetration and supports the Company’s ongoing mission to simplify how military and government customers evaluate, procure and deploy its advanced solar solutions to meet a broad range of power generation needs.
Ascent’s thin-film products are uniquely suited to thrive within expeditionary operations in punishing environments with limited access to power sources that often render conventional energy solutions inoperable. Thin-film PV’s lightweight, flexible design allows for extended field operations by alleviating dependence on batteries that regularly need time to recharge.
“This partnership with Darley Defense advances our commercial strategy of growing our presence in defense, space and other high-value industries in need of durable, reliable power solutions in strenuous conditions,” said Paul Warley, Chief Executive Officer of Ascent Solar Technologies. “As military operations become increasingly reliant on advanced electronics deployed in dangerous environments, the durability of our thin-film products will play a crucial role in providing the power generation needed to carry out mission objectives. Together, with Darley Defense’s established relationships within these markets, we plan to accelerate the adoption of our thin-film solar technology for applications in need of reduced logistical burdens and enhanced operational efficiency.”
The partnership opens opportunities for Ascent’s technology to be incorporated across a wide range of defense and government applications, such as dismounted military operations, tactical communications equipment, remote sensors, unmanned aerial sensors (UAS), mobile command-and-control infrastructure and other mission-critical systems that require reliable expeditionary power.
About Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc.
Backed by 40 years of R&D, 15 years of manufacturing experience, numerous awards, and a comprehensive IP and patent portfolio, Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. is a leading provider of innovative, high-performance, flexible thin-film solar panels, optimized for use in space, military and defense, and other applications where mass, performance, reliability, and resilience are paramount.
Ascent’s photovoltaic (PV) modules have been deployed on space missions, multiple airborne vehicles, agrivoltaic installations, in industrial/commercial construction as well as an extensive range of consumer goods, revolutionizing the use cases and environments for solar power. Ascent Solar’s research and development center and 5-MW nameplate production facility is in Thornton, Colorado.
Statements in this press release that are not statements of historical or current fact constitute “forward-looking statements” including statements about the financing transaction, our business strategy, and the potential uses of the proceeds from the transaction. Such statements also include, but are not limited to, statements related to the intended use of proceeds from the offering and the potential exercise of the series warrants. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other unknown factors that could cause the company’s actual operating results to be materially different from any historical results or from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements on our current assumptions, expectations, and projections about future events. In addition to statements that explicitly describe these risks and uncertainties, readers are urged to consider statements that contain terms such as “will,” “believes,” “belief,” “expects,” “expect,” “intends,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “plan,” to be uncertain and forward-looking. No information in this press release should be construed as any indication whatsoever of our future revenues, stock price, or results of operations. The forward-looking statements contained herein are also subject generally to other risks and uncertainties that are described from time to time in the company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including those discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in our most recently filed reports on Forms 10-K and 10-Q.
Secretary of Energy Chris Wright with 2026 Secretary’s Honor Award recipients, including Roy Boyd, STS President. Credit: U.S. Department of Energy
Recognition and recent specialized uranium hexafluoride shipment for LIS Technologies highlight STS’s capabilities across government and commercial nuclear transportation projects
New York, N.Y., Oct. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or the “Company”), an advanced nuclear energy and technology company developing microreactors, nuclear fuel cycle capabilities and nuclear transportation solutions, today announced that its subsidiary Secured Transportation Services LLC (“STS”) was recognized for its contributions to two nuclear material transportation missions whose teams received 2026 U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) Secretary of Energy Achievement Awards. The awards, presented on September 28, 2026, recognized the Japan High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium (“HALEU”) Removal and Venezuela Highly Enriched Uranium (“HEU”) Removal teams for their successful execution of complex international nuclear material removal and transportation operations.
For the Japan HALEU removal mission, STS served as DOE’s prime logistics contractor, coordinating the international shipment of approximately 1.7 metric tons of HALEU to the United States, the largest single international uranium shipment in the history of the National Nuclear Security Administration (“NNSA”), along with associated spent nuclear fuel. STS coordinated international transportation logistics, licensing, security coordination and delivery to designated U.S. facilities. Separately, for the Venezuela HEU removal mission, STS coordinated the U.S. receipt and inland transportation of approximately 13.5 kilograms of HEU removed from a dormant research reactor, facilitating its secure delivery to the Savannah River Site in South Carolina.
Both missions highlight STS’ specialized nuclear transportation capabilities, which are integral to supporting national security, international nonproliferation cooperation and the development of a more resilient domestic nuclear fuel supply chain. The HALEU transferred from Japan is expected to support advanced reactor fuel development through DOE’s HALEU Availability Program, while the HEU removed from Venezuela is expected to be processed for future use in the U.S. advanced nuclear fuel supply chain.
Figure 1: Secretary of Energy Chris Wright with 2026 Secretary’s Honor Award recipients, including Roy Boyd, STS President. Credit: U.S. Department of Energy.
Separately, STS recently completed a specialized uranium hexafluoride (“UF₆”) shipment to LIS Technologies Inc. (“LIST”), supporting LIST’s ongoing uranium enrichment technology development and testing activities. STS served as the lead logistics and transportation coordinator, overseeing shipment planning, packaging arrangements and delivery. To address the highly specialized packaging requirements associated with the material’s 5B UF₆ cylinders, STS worked with a subcontractor to arrange for the modification and use of a UX-30 transportation overpack. STS also contracted with Tri-State Secure Trucking to perform the over-the-road transportation. The shipment delivered the first physical UF₆ material for LIST’s testing program in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, enabling further evaluation of its laser-based uranium enrichment technology. NANO Nuclear and LIST are affiliated companies.
“These awards reflect the exceptional teamwork and specialized expertise required to safely execute some of the most complex nuclear material transportation missions,” said Roy Boyd, President of STS. “We are proud of our contributions to these important DOE and NNSA initiatives, as well as our continued work supporting commercial customers such as LIS Technologies. Each project demonstrates the critical role that experienced logistics coordination, specialized packaging solutions and regulatory expertise play in advancing the U.S. nuclear industry.”
“STS’s contributions to these nationally significant missions highlight the value of the specialized capabilities we added through its acquisition earlier this year,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer of NANO Nuclear. “As we continue developing our microreactor technology and expanding our nuclear fuel cycle capabilities, STS provides an established platform for supporting the safe and secure movement of nuclear materials for both government and commercial customers.”
About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.
NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is a North American advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel supply chain, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services.
Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include the proprietary KRONOS MMR™ Energy System, a stationary high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that is in construction permit pre-application engagement U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in collaboration with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, the ZEUS™ system, a portable solid core battery reactor, and the space focused, portable LOKI MMR™ system, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.
Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, bolstered by the May 2026 acquisition of Secured Transportation Services (STS), is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world and provides nuclear engineering and materials transport services in the U.S. and globally. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy.
HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.
NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.
This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management and collaborators in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “explore,” “plans”, “aim,” “goal,” “believes”, “potential”, “future,” “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” or derivations of these words and other words of similar meaning about the future, although forward-looking statements could be denoted by other terms as well. In this press release, forward-looking statements include those relating to STS’ specialized nuclear transportation capabilities and their potential contribution to NANO Nuclear’s strategy and results of operations. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to, risks associated with STS’s future performance and its ability to generate and grow revenues, as well as the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”), NRC, Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (“CNSC”) or related state or other U.S. or non-U.S nuclear licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complementary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) risks related to our ability to obtain key vendor, technology and customer contracts and the significant funding necessary to execute on our business plan, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the U.S. Department of Energy, and the NRC, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act and the May 23, 2025 Executive Orders seeking to streamline nuclear regulation, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating a developing business a highly regulated, competitive and rapidly evolving industry, including that our plans may change and we may use our cash on hand faster or in different ways than anticipated as our business requires. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.
Collaboration combines Vistagen’s neuroscience expertise and datasets with GATC Health’s predictive modeling capabilities to provide additional insights for protocol development and resource allocation
SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., Oct. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Vistagen (Nasdaq: VTGN) a late clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company pioneering neuroscience with nose-to-brain neurocircuitry, today announced its collaboration with GATC Health, a tech-bio company applying artificial intelligence and multiomics to drug discovery and development. The collaboration brings GATC Health’s proprietary Operon® platform and Derisq® report to Vistagen’s lead clinical-stage programs.
Through the collaboration, GATC Health uses its Operon® platform and Derisq® predictive intelligence capabilities to provide strategic insights for Vistagen’s potential next Phase 3 study of fasedienol for treatment of social anxiety disorder with the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS) as the primary efficacy endpoint, as well as potential Phase 2 studies of itruvone for major depressive disorder and refisolone for menopausal hot flashes. Vistagen and GATC Health are now leveraging predictive modeling to complement traditional drug development approaches, providing deeper insights on complex scientific and development questions that impact protocol development, pipeline prioritization, and resource allocation.
“GATC Health’s predictive, purpose-built AI technology and methods are powerful and designed to model complex biological interactions that impact drug development, including potential efficacy and safety,” said Shawn Singh, President and Chief Executive Officer of Vistagen. “We are incorporating key predictive insights from our collaboration with GATC Health into protocol development for our fasedienol program in social anxiety disorder, complementing our experience and existing datasets.”
“The hardest thing to get in drug development is a true outside read on your own assumptions,” said Jayson Uffens, Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of GATC Health. “Vistagen knows these programs better than anyone. What we add is that independent perspective. Operon® looks at each candidate end-to-end: its chemistry, the biology it acts on, and how it’s likely to perform in people. Derisq® gives the team a second signal to test their thinking against as they plan the next studies. Their clinical judgment plus our predictive work is how these decisions should be made.”
About Vistagen Vistagen (Nasdaq: VTGN) is a late clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company leveraging a deep understanding of nose-to-brain neurocircuitry to develop and commercialize a new class of rapid-onset neurocircuitry-focused intranasal product candidates called pherines. Vistagen’s pherine product candidates are designed to achieve therapeutic benefits without requiring absorption into the blood or uptake into the brain, giving them the potential to be a safer alternative to other pharmacological options, if successfully developed and approved. Vistagen’s most advanced intranasal pherine product candidates are fasedienol for the acute treatment of social anxiety disorder, itruvone for treatment of major depressive disorder, and refisolone for treatment of vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes) due to menopause. Connect at www.Vistagen.com
About GATC Health GATC Health is a tech-bio company supporting critical decision-making across the life sciences ecosystem. Its proprietary AI platform, Operon®, unites advanced AI, multiomics, and thousands of models to simulate human biology, prospectively quantifying risk and generating solutions from discovery through development. The company’s risk prediction product, the Derisq® report, simulates clinical trial outcomes in silico to identify safety, efficacy and off-target outcomes prior to the commitment of development capital. Operon® is a purpose-built platform for drug discovery, pipeline prioritization, asset de-risking and optimization, clinical trial design, and reducing financial risk and costly late-stage failures.
Forward-looking Statements This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including, without limitation, whether Vistagen’s collaboration with GATC will provide any benefit to the development of product candidates in Vistagen’s pipeline or whether future trials of such product candidates will occur. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks that are difficult to predict and include all matters that are not historical facts. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the use of words such as “may,” “could,” “expect,” “project,” “outlook,” “strategy,” “intend,” “plan,” “seek,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “strive,” “goal,” “continue,” “likely,” “will,” “would” and variations of these terms and similar expressions, or the negative of these terms or similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by Vistagen and its management, are inherently uncertain. As with all pharmaceutical products, there are substantial risks and uncertainties in the process of development and commercialization, and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected or implied in these forward-looking statements. There can be no guarantee that any of Vistagen’s product candidates, including fasedienol, will successfully complete ongoing or future clinical trials within estimated timelines or at all, receive regulatory approval or be commercially successful. These risks and others are more fully discussed in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in Vistagen’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended March 31, 2026, and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2026, as well as discussions of potential risks, uncertainties, and other important factors in our other filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Vistagen’s SEC filings are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this press release and should not be relied upon as representing Vistagen’s views as of any subsequent date. Vistagen explicitly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements other than as may be required by law. If Vistagen does update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be made that Vistagen will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.
– Personalized Cancer Detection provides flexible approach to cover multiple types of cancer screening in a single blood draw –
– In an independent cohort, SimpleScreen Lung showed 85% sensitivity at 50% specificity and a 99.8% negative predictive value for lung cancer in its intended use population –
BRISBANE, Calif., Oct. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Freenome, Inc. (Nasdaq: FRNM), an early cancer detection company developing blood-based tests, today announced the launch of SimpleScreen™ Lung and a first-of-its-kind offering that enables eligible patients to be screened for both lung and colorectal cancer (CRC) through a single blood draw, using two independently validated, indication-specific tests. Freenome’s Personalized Cancer Detection (PCD) approach combines risk-based screening with a portfolio of single-cancer and multi-cancer tests that are developed specifically for each population and to meet individual patient screening needs.
SimpleScreen Lung is a laboratory-developed test intended for adults ages 50 to 80 with a ≥20 pack-year smoking history who are not currently participating in guideline-recommended screening. It can be ordered independently or alongside the FDA-approved SimpleScreen™ CRC test when average-risk patients are also eligible for blood-based CRC screening. Together, these tests offer patients and providers an opportunity to address one or both screening needs in a single encounter, with the potential to expand access and improve screening participation.
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States, and less than 20% of people (more than 10 million individuals) eligible for lung cancer screening are up to date with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT), the standard-of-care screening method.1 Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death,2,3 and nearly two in five eligible adults – up to 60 million people in the U.S. – are not up to date with CRC screening.4
“Lung cancer screening can save lives, but its potential depends on reaching people who are eligible,” said Douglas Flora, M.D., the executive medical director of oncology services for St. Elizabeth Healthcare in Kentucky and president-elect of the Association of Cancer Care Centers. “When so many people are not up to date, we need to understand what is keeping them from participating and consider new approaches. A blood-based test adds a practical option to our patient conversations and helps us make progress toward our goal of connecting more eligible people with screening and getting them to take the next step.”
SimpleScreen Lung was clinically validated in a case-control study of adults ages 50 to 80 with a ≥20 pack-year smoking history who meet American Cancer Society (ACS) lung cancer screening eligibility.5 In an independent cohort of 172 lung cancer cases and 436 controls, the test achieved 85% sensitivity at 50% specificity and a 99.8% negative predictive value (NPV). This NPV means that about two of every 1,000 people with a negative result would be expected to have lung cancer. Sensitivity was 82% for stage I, 75% for stage II, 91% for stage III, and 94% for stage IV.
Performance estimates were adjusted to reflect target distributions of age, sex, lung cancer stage and histologic subtype. The intended use population includes former smokers regardless of how long ago they quit, consistent with the 2023 ACS lung cancer screening guideline update.
A person who qualifies for lung cancer screening may also be eligible for CRC screening. During a patient visit, a provider can discuss both screening needs and, when appropriate, add SimpleScreen CRC to a SimpleScreen Lung order. The Freenome-developed SimpleScreen CRC is FDA-approved for adults 45 and older at average risk, is included in the ACS CRC screening guideline, and meets Medicare coverage criteria. Abbott has exclusive U.S. commercial rights to SimpleScreen CRC when it is ordered as a standalone test. In the PREEMPT CRC® study, which enrolled more than 48,000 participants, the test demonstrated 81% sensitivity for CRC, 90% specificity for advanced colorectal neoplasia, and a 99.9% NPV in an analysis adjusted to the 2020 U.S. Census age and sex distribution.6
“SimpleScreen CRC proved what our discovery platform can achieve for colorectal cancer screening, and expanding into lung cancer screening is the next step in extending this science to broader patient populations,” said Aaron Elliott, Ph.D., CEO of Freenome. “By coupling indication-specific screens together, we make it vastly easier for patients to say yes to screening. As our portfolio grows, Personalized Cancer Detection will offer clinicians more screening options and enable health systems to provide more comprehensive coverage without adding complexity to existing clinical workflows.”
Freenome will be introducing the SimpleScreen portfolio and the PCD approach to attendees at booth 2705 at the American Academy of Family Physicians Family Medicine Experience (FMX) conference, Oct. 20 to 24 in Nashville.
About the SimpleScreen Portfolio
SimpleScreen CRC is a cancer screening option for colorectal cancer. It uses a simple blood draw and detects signals associated with CRC from cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in the blood. The test is indicated for adults aged 45 years and older who are at average risk for CRC and referred by a healthcare provider for CRC screening. A positive result indicates a signal was detected that may suggest the presence of colorectal cancer or advanced precancerous lesions and should be followed by colonoscopy. SimpleScreen CRC is not a replacement for diagnostic colonoscopy or for surveillance colonoscopy in high-risk individuals.
The SimpleScreen Lung laboratory-developed test has not been reviewed or cleared/approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
About Freenome
Freenome is an early cancer detection company developing blood-based screening tests to identify cancer in its earliest, most treatable stages. The company’s proprietary multiomics discovery platform analyzes circulating cell-free DNA methylation patterns at single-base resolution alongside additional biomarkers to detect multiple cancers. Freenome’s development of SimpleScreen™ CRC for colorectal cancer screening and a pipeline of tests for lung cancer and additional indications is designed to increase cancer detection among millions of at-risk individuals. For more information, visit www.freenome.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements we make in this press release may include statements that are not historical facts and are considered forward-looking within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which are usually identified by the use of words such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “plans,” “projects,” “seeks,” “should,” “will” and variations of such words or similar expressions. We intend these forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements contained in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and are making this statement for purposes of complying with those safe harbor provisions. Any statements in this press release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, express or implied statements regarding SimpleScreen portfolio and Personalized Cancer Detection’s impact and ability to reach additional patients. These forward-looking statements reflect our current views about our plans, intentions, expectations, strategies and prospects, which are based on the information currently available to us and on assumptions we have made. Although we believe that our plans, intentions, expectations, strategies and prospects as reflected in or suggested by those forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no assurance that the plans, intentions, expectations or strategies will be attained or achieved. Furthermore, actual results may differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements and will be affected by a variety of risks and factors that are beyond our control including, without limitation, risks related to the approval of Freenome’s products and tests and the timing of expected regulatory and business milestones; ability to negotiate definitive contractual arrangements with potential customers; the impact of competitive products and tests; ability to obtain sufficient supply of materials; ability to obtain additional financing; ability to attract and retain qualified personnel; global economic and political conditions; legal and regulatory changes; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Freenome; the effects of competition on Freenome’s future business; as well as those set forth in the S-1 that was filed with the SEC, as updated by our subsequently filed SEC filings. We assume no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
References 1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Screening for Lung Cancer. Last updated May 12, 2026. Accessed Oct. 7, 2026 at https://www.cdc.gov/lung-cancer/screening/index.html 2. Siegel RL, Kratzer TB, Wagle NS, Sung H, Jemal A. Cancer statistics, 2026. CA Cancer J Clin. 2026;76(1):e70043. doi:10.3322/caac.70043. 3. DW, Kisiel JB, Fendrick AM, et al. Estimated Average-Risk Colorectal Cancer Screening-Eligible Population in the US. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(3):e245537. 4. King SC, King J, Thomas CC, Richardson LC. Baseline estimates of colorectal cancer screening among adults aged 45 to 75 years, Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, 2022. Prev Chronic Dis. 2025;22:250175. doi:10.5888/pcd22.250175. 5. Freenome, LLC. Data on file. 6. Shaukat A, Burke CA, Chan AT, et al. Clinical Validation of a Circulating Tumor DNA-Based Blood Test to Screen for Colorectal Cancer. JAMA. Published online June 2, 2025. doi: 10.1001/jama.2025.7515.
Dr. Blanchette is a recognized leader in RNAi drug discovery and development was appointed Senior Vice President, Research (siRNA) of Pliant Therapeutics.
Recognized leader in RNAi drug discovery with track record of advancing novel delivery platforms and therapeutics to drive Company’s integrin-mediated delivery platform
SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., Oct. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pliant Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: PLRX), a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of integrin-based therapeutics, today announced the appointment of Craig Blanchette, Ph.D., as Senior Vice President, Research (siRNA). Dr. Blanchette is an accomplished biopharmaceutical research and development executive with more than two decades of drug discovery and development expertise, including a deep proficiency in RNAi and oligonucleotide chemistry, as well as delivery.
“I am excited to welcome Craig to the team and to see his contributions in realizing the potential of our proprietary integrin-mediated delivery platform,” said Bernard Coulie, M.D., Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Pliant. “Craig’s experience in advancing novel delivery platforms and leading siRNA programs from discovery to clinical development will significantly augment Pliant’s deep integrin chemistry and biology expertise.”
Dr. Blanchette joins Pliant from Switch Therapeutics, most recently serving as Chief Scientific Officer. At Switch, Dr. Blanchette built a cross-functional RNAi discovery organization from inception, converted a proprietary platform into a three-program pipeline and advanced two programs through development-candidate nomination into IND-enabling studies. Prior to Switch, Dr. Blanchette held roles of increasing responsibility at Genentech, most recently serving as Head of Protein Chemistry where he led the oligonucleotide delivery strategy and drove strategic portfolio decisions across multiple therapeutic modalities. Prior to Genentech, Dr. Blanchette served as a staff scientist in the Biological Sciences Department at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories where he led a team to build multiple vaccine programs using novel nanoparticle technology. Dr. Blanchette received his B.S. in Biology and Physics from Vassar College and his Ph.D. in Biophysics from the University of California, Davis.
“I am thrilled to join Plaint at such a pivotal moment,” said Dr Blanchette. “The integrin-targeting small molecule discovery platform Pliant has built over the past decade holds immense promise for delivering RNAi to high-value tissues and realizing its full potential for patients with diseases of high unmet need.”
About Pliant Therapeutics, Inc.
Pliant Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery and development of integrin-based therapeutics. Pliant’s lead program is PLN-101095, a small molecule, dual-selective inhibitor of αvß8 and αvß1 integrins, that is being developed for the treatment of ICI-refractory advanced or metastatic solid tumors. PLN-101095 is being investigated in FORTIFY, a Phase 1b indication expansion trial enrolling patients with NSCLC, tumors with high tumor mutational burden or clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Pliant’s preclinical research is focused on tissue-specific delivery and internalization of drug payloads utilizing integrin receptor-binding molecules with programs focused on delivering siRNAs to skeletal muscle cells, adipocytes, and renal cells. For additional information, please visit: www.PliantRx.com. Follow Pliant on social media at X, LinkedIn and Facebook.
Inducement Grant Under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(c)(4)
In connection with the commencement of Dr. Blanchette’s employment with the Company, on October 19, 2026 (the “Grant Date”), the Company granted him non-statutory stock options to purchase an aggregate of 300,000 shares of Company common stock (the “Inducement Grant”). The Inducement Grant was granted under the Company’s 2022 Inducement Plan (the “Plan”) and is subject to the terms and conditions of the Plan. The Inducement Grant was granted as an inducement material to Dr. Blanchette entering into employment with the Company in accordance with Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(c)(4). The Inducement Grant has an exercise price per share that is equal to the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the Grant Date. The Inducement Grant will vest over a four-year period, with 25% of the shares vesting on the one-year anniversary of Dr. Blanchette’s start date, and thereafter the remainder of the shares vest in 36 equal monthly installments, subject to Dr. Blanchette’s continued employment with the Company through the applicable vesting dates.
Investor and Media Contact: Christopher Keenan Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications Pliant Therapeutics, Inc. ir@pliantrx.com
ACR-7280 demonstrated complete tumor regression in aggressive AML xenograft models
Prioritized among multiple AP3-discovered, highly selective CDK11 inhibitor candidates based on potent single agent activity and strong synergy with BCL-2 and menin inhibitors
IND-enabling studies ongoing with IND submission on track for first half of 2027
WATERTOWN, Mass., Oct. 20, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Acrivon Therapeutics, Inc. (“Acrivon” or “Acrivon Therapeutics”) (Nasdaq: ACRV), a clinical-stage biotechnology company discovering and developing precision medicines utilizing its proprietary Generative Phosphoproteomics AP3 (Acrivon Predictive Precision Proteomics) platform deployed for rational drug design and predictive clinical development, today announced the advancement of ACR-7280, a potential first-in-class, oral CDK11 inhibitor, as its next development candidate generated from its AI-enabled AP3 innovation platform. Investigational New Drug (IND)-enabling studies are underway, and the company remains on track to submit an IND to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the first half of 2027.
ACR-7280 was prioritized from multiple series of CDK11 inhibitor compounds the company identified through its co-crystallography and AP3-driven discovery platform. AP3-based indication finding identified acute myeloid leukemia (AML) as a predicted sensitive tumor type, and ACR-7280 has shown complete tumor regression in in vivo AML xenograft models. Moreover, it has demonstrated potent preclinical anti-tumor activity across AML models, including NPM1-mutated and KMT2A-rearranged tumors, as well as strong synergy in combination with both venetoclax and menin inhibitors across several AML models. Based on this, initial development will focus on AML, both as single agent and in combination.
“ACR-7280 provides another powerful validation of our AP3 innovation engine,” said Peter Blume-Jensen, M.D., Ph.D., chief executive officer, president and co-founder of Acrivon. “AP3 profiling and analyses enabled us to identify ACR-7280 as a highly selective CDK11 inhibitor with optimized, desirable cellular pathway effects, which has translated to complete tumor regression in aggressive AML mouse models. While CDK11 has historically been a difficult target to drug, we believe ACR-7280 provides a first-in-class opportunity with broad potential in refractory/relapsed AML. The oral administration route may also provide flexibility for combining with standard-of-care agents, like venetoclax and menin inhibitors, potentially in earlier line settings. We look forward to advancing ACR-7280 swiftly towards the clinic, with IND submission on track for the first half of 2027.”
CDK11 is a challenging but compelling target with multiple isoforms and broad roles in cell cycle control, spanning transcription, pre-mRNA splicing and mitosis. ACR-7280 was rationally designed using the AP3 platform to achieve optimal on-target pathway effects, the same approach that was used to design ACR-2316, the company’s potential first-in-class, oral WEE1/PKMYT1 inhibitor which was rapidly advanced to the randomized dose expansion phase of its Phase 1/2 study.
About Acrivon Therapeutics Acrivon is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company discovering and developing precision medicines utilizing its proprietary Generative Phosphoproteomics AP3 platform. The platform allows the company to interpret and quantify compound specific, drug-regulated pathway activity levels inside the intact cell in an unbiased manner, yielding terabytes of proprietary data and delivering rapid, actionable insights. The AP3 platform is comprised of a growing suite of powerful, internally-developed tools, including the AP3 Data Portal, converting multimodal data into structured data for generative AI analyses, the AP3 Kinase Substrate Relationship Predictor and the AP3 Interactome. These distinctive capabilities enable the company to go beyond the limitations of traditional drug discovery, as well as current AI-based target-centric drug discovery and rapidly design highly differentiated compounds with desirable pathway effects through intracellular protein network analyses and advance these agents into the clinic for streamlined development.
Acrivon is currently advancing its lead program, ACR-368 (also known as prexasertib), a selective small molecule inhibitor targeting CHK1 and CHK2 in a potentially registrational Phase 2 trial for endometrial cancer (EC). The company has received Fast Track designation from the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, for the investigation of ACR-368 as a monotherapy based on OncoSignature-predicted sensitivity in patients with EC. The FDA has granted a Breakthrough Device designation for the ACR-368 OncoSignature assay for the identification of patients with endometrial cancer who may benefit from ACR-368 treatment.
Acrivon is also leveraging its proprietary Generative AI-driven Phosphoproteomics AP3 platform for developing its co-crystallography-driven, internally discovered pipeline programs. These include ACR-2316, a novel, potent, selective WEE1/PKMYT1 inhibitor designed for superior single-agent activity. The Phase 1/2 study of ACR-2316 is advancing in a randomized dose expansion phase. Initial data has shown a highly differentiated, favorable safety profile primarily limited to only transient, mechanism-based hematological adverse events, predominantly only neutropenia. Clinical activity has been observed across multiple tumor types, including small cell lung cancer (SCLC), squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and lung adenocarcinoma, tumor types not shown sensitive to current single-agent WEE1 or PKMYT1 inhibitors. Durable clinical activity has been observed, with certain lung cancer subjects remaining on treatment for more than one year.
In addition, the company is advancing ACR-7280, its next AP3-enabled, potential first-in-class program, an oral CDK11 inhibitor which is currently being advanced in IND-enabling studies. AP3 indication finding identified AML as a predicted sensitive tumor type, and in preclinical studies, ACR-7280 demonstrated potent anti-tumor activity and complete tumor regression in aggressive AML models.
Forward-Looking Statements This press release includes certain disclosures that contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 about us and our industry that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including statements regarding our future results of operations or financial condition, business strategy and plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “will,” or “would” or the negative of these words or other similar terms or expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on Acrivon’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Factors that could cause actual results to differ include, but are not limited to, risks and uncertainties that are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of this date, and Acrivon undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.
Acrivon intends to use its website as a means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. For more information, please visit www.acrivon.com.
Investor and Media Contacts: Adam D. Levy, Ph.D., M.B.A. alevy@acrivon.com
