Catalyst-rich period ahead for key trial results from BioLineRx

Israeli drug developer BioLineRx (TASE: BLRX, also listed in the USA) is entering a catalyst-rich phase over the next 12 months, which will see early clinical data from studies of two internal R&D projects, BL-8040 (for acute myeloid leukemia) and BL-8020 (for hepatitis C virus; HCV), say analysts at Edison Investment Research initiating coverage of the company.

Pivotal data should also emerge in 2014 from BioLineRx’ lead partnered program, BL-1040, for the prevention of cardiac remodelling following acute myocardial infarction and from BL-5010 for benign skin lesions, they noted.

The outcome, due in 2014, of the 306-patient PRESERVATION-1 study of BL-1040 is likely to be a major stock catalyst. The study has been conducted by BioLineRx’ partner Ikaria and is designed to support a CE Mark application. A separate US registration study is expected to get underway in the near future. BL-1040 addresses a large and currently unserved market opportunity, which could potentially be valued at around $2 billion a year.