Financial Highlights
Research and development expenses for the fourth quarter of 2019 were $27.1 million, compared to $17.8 million for the fourth quarter of 2018. Research and development expenses for the year ended December 31, 2019 were $94.7 million, compared to $58.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2018. The increase was primarily attributable to compensation and other costs associated with additional headcount, as well as facility costs and increased expenses related to the clinical development and manufacturing activities forSGT-001.
General and administrative expenses for the fourth quarter of 2019 were $5.3 million, compared to $4.6 million for the fourth quarter of 2018. General and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2019 were $24.6 million, compared to $17.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2018. The increase was primarily attributable to increased personnel costs.
Net loss for the fourth quarter of 2019 was $31.9 million, compared to $21.9 million for the fourth quarter of 2018. Net loss for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $117.2 million, compared to $74.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2018.
Solid had $83.5 million in cash, cash equivalents andavailable-for-sale securities as of December 31, 2019. Solid expects that it has sufficient capital to fund its operations into 2021.
In January 2020, Solid announced a reduction in workforce of approximately one third was implemented as part of a strategic plan designed to create a leaner company focused on advancingSGT-001. In connection with that, Solid curtailed its research and development activities supporting the company’s complementary disease modifying and assistive device programs.
AboutSGT-001
Solid’sSGT-001 is a novel adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector-mediated gene transfer therapy under investigation for its ability to address the underlying genetic cause of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (Duchenne). Duchenne is caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene that result in the absence or near absence of dystrophin protein.SGT-001 is a systemically administered candidate that delivers a synthetic dystrophin gene, called microdystrophin, to the body. This microdystrophin encodes for a functional protein surrogate that is expressed in muscles and stabilizes essential associated proteins, including neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS). Data from Solid’s preclinical program suggests thatSGT-001 has the potential to slow or stop the progression of Duchenne, regardless of genetic mutation or disease stage.
SGT-001 is based on pioneering research in dystrophin biology by Dr. Jeffrey Chamberlain of the University of Washington and Dr. Dongsheng Duan of the University of Missouri.SGT-001 has been granted Rare Pediatric Disease Designation, or RPDD, in the United States and Orphan Drug Designations in both the United States and European Union.
About Solid Biosciences
Solid Biosciences is a life science company focused solely on finding meaningful therapies for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (Duchenne). Founded by those touched by the disease, Solid is a center of excellence for Duchenne, bringing together experts in science, technology and care to bring forward meaningful therapies that have life-changing potential. For more information, please visit www.solidbio.com.