BUZZ - aTyr shares rise as FDA reaches agreement on advanced lung disease research program

September 24 - ** Biotechnology company aTyr Pharma (ATYR.O) shares rose 5.6% to $0.40 in premarket trading

** The company said the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the planned late-stage clinical trial protocol for efzofitimod for the treatment of pulmonary sarcoidosis, an inflammatory lung disease that can lead to lung scarring

** This global study will enroll around 372 patients and compare the investigational drug against placebo

** The primary goal is to improve lung function; key secondary objectives are to relieve respiratory symptoms and enhance quality of life

** The company expects to launch the study in the fourth quarter of 2026 and to advance regulatory filings in the United States and Europe

** Previously released subgroup data indicated that the drug produced clinically meaningful improvements in lung function for sarcoidosis patients with restrictive lung disease

** The company said further development of efzofitimod will require raising additional funds through equity financing, debt financing, partnerships, or licensing agreements

** As of the previous trading session close, the stock was down about 52% so far this year

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