Release Date: November 13, 2024

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

Positive Points

• Seres Therapeutics Inc (NASDAQ:MCRB) reported positive results from their phase one B cohort two clinical study for C 155, showing a significant reduction in bacterial bloodstream infections.
• The sale of VOUS to Nestle Health Science has strengthened Seres Therapeutics Inc (NASDAQ:MCRB)'s balance sheet, providing substantial immediate and future financial resources.
• The company has applied for breakthrough therapy designation and qualified infectious disease product designation for C 155, which could expedite development and review processes.
• Seres Therapeutics Inc (NASDAQ:MCRB) has fully retired its debt using proceeds from the VOUS transaction, improving its financial position.
• The company is actively seeking a partner to maximize the potential of C 155, indicating strategic growth plans and potential for expanded market reach.

Negative Points

• Seres Therapeutics Inc (NASDAQ:MCRB) reported a net loss from continuing operations of $51 million for the third quarter, an increase from the previous year.
• The company experienced a loss of $23.4 million associated with the extinguishment of debt, impacting financial results.
• There is uncertainty regarding the timeline for securing a partnership for C 155, which could affect future development plans.
• Despite positive clinical results, the company faces challenges in expanding C 155 to additional patient populations without a partner.
• The company has undergone a significant reduction in headcount, which may impact operational capabilities.

Q & A Highlights

• Warning! GuruFocus has detected 6 Warning Signs with MCRB.

Q: Could you elaborate on the potential for expanding C 155 into additional patient populations like auto HSCT and cancer neutropenia? Would these require separate phase one studies, or could they be part of a basket trial? Also, would you pursue these independently or with a partner? A: (Eric Schafft, CEO) The mechanism of C 155 is applicable to both allo and auto HSCT, among other populations. We are considering synergies in clinical trial design, potentially through a basket study. We don't anticipate needing to start over with phase one due to the established safety profile. We are open to partnerships to accelerate these efforts.

Q: Can you explain the differences between C 147 and C 155 in terms of composition and target pathogens? A: (Dr. Lisa Von Molke, Chief Medical Officer) C 155 and C 147 are different bacterial consortia. C 155 targets pathogens common in hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients, while C 147 is optimized for pathogens in chronic liver disease patients. Both aim to improve epithelial barrier integrity.

Q: What are you looking for in a potential partner for C 155, and what is your timeline for securing a partnership? A: (Eric Schafft, CEO) We seek partners who can provide capital and capabilities to accelerate C 155's development, especially for global studies. We aim for alignment in values and objectives. While we are actively pursuing partnerships, timelines can be unpredictable. We are preparing to move forward independently if necessary.

Q: How do you envision Seres Therapeutics' role in the biotech space over the next 3-5 years? Will you focus on being a research and discovery arm, or do you plan to commercialize products independently? A: (Eric Schafft, CEO) We aim to be an engine for creating multiple therapeutic opportunities, starting with C 155. Our long-term goal is to be vertically integrated, potentially commercializing products with a focused footprint. However, our current focus is on R&D and partnerships to drive shareholder value.

Q: What are the financial implications of the VTT sale, and how does it impact your cash runway and operational focus? A: (Marilla THL, CFO) The VTT sale provided a significant capital infusion, allowing us to retire debt and reduce our cash burn rate. We expect to fund operations into Q4 2025. The transaction enables us to focus on advancing our live biotherapeutic programs with a streamlined team.

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.