NAYA Biosciences Spins Off Cancer Drug Business, Refocuses on Fertility

In a strategic shift, NAYA Biosciences has announced the spin-off of its oncology division, reverting to its original focus on fertility treatments. The move comes just six months after the company's merger with INVO Biosciences, signaling a rapid change in corporate direction.

Oncology Assets Transferred to New Entity

NAYA Biosciences has transferred its portfolio of bispecific antibodies to a newly formed private company, NAYA Therapeutics. This portfolio includes several promising candidates:

• NY-303: A GPC3/NKp46 bifunctional antibody targeting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), expected to enter phase 1/2 trials in the latter half of 2025.
• NY-500: A PD-1/VEGF bifunctional antibody for HCC, slated for clinical trials in 2026.
• NY-338: A CD38/NKp46 bifunctional antibody aimed at treating multiple myeloma, with human trials anticipated in 2026.

The oncology assets were initially acquired through the merger with INVO Biosciences in October 2024, which saw INVO rename itself to NAYA Biosciences at the time.

Rebranding and Refocusing on Fertility

As part of this restructuring, NAYA Biosciences has rebranded itself as INVO Fertility, reflecting its renewed commitment to fertility care. The company has updated its Nasdaq ticker to "IVF" to align with this focus.

CEO Steve Shum explained the rationale behind the decision: "We remain enthusiastic about NAYA TX's assets and their significant potential upside, which we hope to monetize in the future through value appreciation in the minority stake we plan to retain. At the same time, the return of the two businesses to independent entities is expected to enable a more focused effort with dedicated teams."

INVO Fertility will retain a minority stake in NAYA Therapeutics, potentially allowing for future benefits from the oncology pipeline's development. The newly independent NAYA Therapeutics will continue under its current management team, ensuring continuity in the development of its cancer drug candidates.

This strategic realignment reflects a trend in the pharmaceutical industry towards specialization and focused development efforts, as companies seek to maximize value in specific therapeutic areas.