Vireo Health Announces DTC Eligibility for Publicly Traded Shares

VIEW ALL NEWS

University of Maryland, Baltimore Grants Spherix Exclusive Option to License Anthrax Based Ovarian Cancer Drug PrAg-PAS

Complements Spherix’s Recent Deals Related to Two Other Promising Anticancer Drugs

NEW YORKSept. 17, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Spherix Incorporated (Nasdaq: SPEX) today announced that the Company has executed an exclusive option agreement (“Option”) with the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) related to its anticancer drug designated PrAg-PAS, a novel protein drug designed by re-engineering the anthrax toxin delivery mechanism so that any one of a number of anticancer drug payloads may be specifically transported into ovarian cancer cells.

Spherix Logo. (PRNewsFoto/Spherix Incorporated)

The Option includes rights to U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/747,255, which is currently under active examination at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.  Under the Option, Spherix has until early December of 2019 to complete its due diligence and execute a license agreement for commercial development.

The execution of this Option closely follows shareholder approval on September 5th of the Asset Purchase Agreement with CBM BioPharma, Inc. (“CBM”), under which Spherix acquires the assets of CBM, including rights to CBM’s lead drug candidate Gem-DHA for the treatment of pancreatic cancer (see press release dated June 26, 2019).  It also follows Spherix’s execution on August 26th of an option to license anticancer drug G4-1 from the University of Kentucky (see September 11, 2019 Press Release)

Mr. Anthony Hayes, CEO of Spherix stated, “This invention from the University of Maryland, Baltimore is ingenious.  In simple terms, they have modified the Anthrax toxin so that it kills cancer cells, but not other cells.  By using an elegant protein engineering strategy, the inventors have hijacked the complex anthrax toxin delivery mechanism to create a highly efficient drug delivery system specific to ovarian cancer cells.  In mouse models tested, the data show that tumor growth halted following treatment with PrAg-PAS and did not increase compared to the control mice.  The inventors also find that the drug is well-tolerated with no obvious adverse interactions.  I believe that PrAg-PAS has the potential to strongly enhance our anticancer clinical development program and we look forward to completing our diligence on this promising anticancer drug.”

A report of  a related re-engineered PrAg’s anticancer effects has been published in Martin et al. (2015), “Targeting the membrane-anchored serine protease testisin with a novel engineered anthrax toxin prodrug to kill tumor cells and reduce tumor burden,” Oncotarget Vol. 6, 32:33534-53 (the “Martin Paper”) (see https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26392335).  According to the Martin Paper, after the first injection of PrAg-PCIS, tumor growth arrested and did not increase compared with vehicle treated tumors, over the course of the experiment.  In addition, treatments with the PrAg-PCIS toxin were well-tolerated by the mice and did not appear to have any overt off-target side effects.  Treated mice did not experience substantial weight loss and necropsies revealed no gross abnormalities or organ damage.

“Spherix is an excellent commercial partner for this promising technology,” said Phil Robilotto,  Associate Vice President, Office of Technology Transfer at UMB, and Director of UM Ventures, Baltimore. “They have a strong track record of successfully collaborating with universities and we are very excited by Spherix’s goals for PrAG-PAS program.”

About Spherix

Spherix Incorporated is a technology development company committed to the fostering of innovative ideas. Spherix Incorporated was formed in 1967 as a scientific research company.

Our activities generally include the acquisition and development of technology through internal or external research and development. In addition, we seek to acquire existing rights to intellectual property through the acquisition of already issued patents and pending patent applications, both in the United States and abroad. We may alone, or in conjunction with others, develop products and processes associated with technology development and monetizing related intellectual property.

About University of Maryland, Baltimore
The University of Maryland, Baltimore is commercializing breakthrough therapies, diagnostics and devices, fueling the creation of innovative start-up companies, and attracting industry leaders and entrepreneurs to its thriving campus. Founded in 1807 as the first public medical school in the nation, the University is a fast-growing biomedical research center with nationally ranked professional schools of dentistry, law, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, social work, an interdisciplinary graduate school as well as a 14-acre biomedical research park. www.umaryland.edu

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements made herein are not historical facts but are forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as “may”, “should”, “would”, “plan”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “seem”, “seek”, “continue”, “future”, “will”, “expect”, “outlook” or other similar words, phrases or expressions. These forward-looking statements include statements regarding Spherix’s and CBM’s industry, future events, the proposed transaction between the parties to the Asset Purchase Agreement, the estimated or anticipated future results and benefits of the Company following the transaction, including the likelihood and ability of the parties to successfully consummate the proposed transaction, future opportunities for the combined company, and other statements that are not historical facts. These statements are based on the current expectations of Spherix’s management and are not predictions of actual performance. These statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties regarding the businesses of Spherix and the transaction, and actual results may differ materially. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, changes in the business environment in which Spherix or CBM operates, including inflation and interest rates, and general financial, economic, regulatory and political conditions affecting the industry in which Spherix or CBM operates; changes in taxes, governmental laws, and regulations; competitive product and pricing activity; difficulties of managing growth profitably; the inability of the parties to successfully or timely consummate the proposed transaction, including the risk that any required regulatory approvals are not obtained, are delayed or are subject to unanticipated conditions that could adversely affect the combined company or the expected benefits of the transaction are not obtained; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction, including as a result of a delay in consummating the transaction or a delay or difficulty in integrating the assets of CBM; delays or failure to obtain any required approvals for the proposed special dividend; uncertainty as to the long-term value of Spherix’s common stock; those discussed in the Spherix’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents of Spherix on file with the SEC or in the registration statement that will be filed with the SEC by Spherix. There may be additional risks that Spherix presently does not know or that Spherix currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements provide Spherix’s expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this communication. Spherix anticipates that subsequent events and developments will cause Spherix’s assessments to change. However, while Spherix may elect to update these forward- looking statements at some point in the future, Spherix specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Spherix’s assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this communication.

Contact:

Investor Relations:

Hayden IR

Brett Maas, Managing Partner

Phone: (646) 536-7331

Email: brett@haydenir.com

www.haydenir.com

Spherix:

Phone: 212-745-1373

Email: investorrelations@spherix.com

www.spherix.com

 

 

CisionView original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/university-of-maryland-baltimore-grants-spherix-exclusive-option-to-license-anthrax-based-ovarian-cancer-drug-prag-pas-300920025.html

SOURCE Spherix Incorporated

News Provided by PR Newswire via QuoteMedia

Spherix is Granted Exclusive Option to License Anticancer Drug from the University of Kentucky

Intended to Compliment CBM BioPharma’s Existing Anticancer Drug Gem-DHA

NEW YORKSept. 11, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Spherix Incorporated (Nasdaq: SPEX) today announced that the Company has executed an exclusive option agreement (“Option”) with the University of Kentucky (UK) related to its anticancer drug designated G4-1, a novel proteasome inhibitor.

Spherix Logo. (PRNewsFoto/Spherix Incorporated)

Spherix’s Option includes two issued patents, United States Patent Nos. 9,493,439 and 9,586,946, each having expiration dates in the mid-2030’s. The lead inventors for both patents are Chang-Guo Zhan, professor, and Kyung Bo Kim, associate professor, in UK’s College of Pharmacy. Under the Option, Spherix has until late November to complete its due diligence and execute a license agreement for commercial development.

“Early research indicates great potential for the University of Kentucky’s anticancer drug G4-1. The published data is extremely encouraging, especially the drug’s benefits over already-approved drugs,” stated Mr. Anthony Hayes, CEO of Spherix. “We believe G4-1 will be a strong compliment to CBM’s lead compound, the pancreatic drug Gem-DHA, for which a U.S. patent will soon be issued.  We expect it will add great value to our overall clinical development strategy and look forward to completing our diligence on this promising anticancer drug.”

“I am pleased that our team has once again identified and completed a transaction that we believe can yield exceptional financial benefit to Spherix and its shareholders,” added Hayes.

A report of G4-1’s anticancer effects has been published in Miller et al. (2015), Proteasome Inhibitors with Pyrazole Scaffolds from Structure-Based Virtual Screening, J. Med. Chem. 58:2036-2041 (the “Miller Article”).  According to the Miller Article:

  • G4-1 is highly effective in mice in suppressing tumor growth in a mouse xenograft model of prostate cancer.
  • It demonstrates excellent metabolic stability profiles in mouse and human liver microsomes, as compared with two other FDA-approved proteasome inhibitors, bortezomib (Velcade®) and carfilzomib (Kyprolis®) (“FDA-Approved Drugs”), which are known to undergo rapid metabolic inactivation.
  • It was identified from ~340,000 small molecule candidates against the active site of proteosomes.
  • It was highly effective in suppressing solid tumor growth in vivo, a utility that the FDA Approved Drugs lack, as clearly demonstrated by multiple clinical trials.
  • Its anticancer effect was not negatively impacted in cancer cell line models by acquired resistance to the FDA Approved Drugs.
  • It exhibited no apparent systemic toxicity in the xenograft mouse model.

Announcement of Spherix’s exclusive Option with the University of Kentucky follows a recent positive report related to the issuance of a patent application, licensed by CMB BioPharma, Inc. from the University of Texas at Austin, covering CBM’s lead drug candidate Gem-DHA, which is intended for the treatment of pancreatic cancer (see https://ir.spherix.com/news-releases/?qmodStoryID=6754416076980803). The patent application (U.S. Serial No. 15/115.393) is among the assets to be sold to Spherix as part of the previously announced Asset Purchase Agreement between CBM and Spherix. The purchase transaction is subject to customary closing conditions.

About Spherix
Spherix Incorporated is a technology development company committed to the fostering of innovative ideas. Spherix Incorporated was formed in 1967 as a scientific research company.

Our activities generally include the acquisition and development of technology through internal or external research and development. In addition, we seek to acquire existing rights to intellectual property through the acquisition of already issued patents and pending patent applications, both in the United States and abroad. We may alone, or in conjunction with others, develop products and processes associated with technology development and monetizing related intellectual property.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements made herein are not historical facts but are forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as “may”, “should”, “would”, “plan”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “seem”, “seek”, “continue”, “future”, “will”, “expect”, “outlook” or other similar words, phrases or expressions. These forward-looking statements include statements regarding Spherix’s and CBM’s industry, future events, the proposed transaction between the parties to the Asset Purchase Agreement, the estimated or anticipated future results and benefits of the Company following the transaction, including the likelihood and ability of the parties to successfully consummate the proposed transaction, future opportunities for the combined company, and other statements that are not historical facts. These statements are based on the current expectations of Spherix’s management and are not predictions of actual performance. These statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties regarding the businesses of Spherix and the transaction, and actual results may differ materially. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, changes in the business environment in which Spherix or CBM operates, including inflation and interest rates, and general financial, economic, regulatory and political conditions affecting the industry in which Spherix or CBM operates; changes in taxes, governmental laws, and regulations; competitive product and pricing activity; difficulties of managing growth profitably; the inability of the parties to successfully or timely consummate the proposed transaction, including the risk that any required regulatory approvals are not obtained, are delayed or are subject to unanticipated conditions that could adversely affect the combined company or the expected benefits of the transaction are not obtained; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction, including as a result of a delay in consummating the transaction or a delay or difficulty in integrating the assets of CBM; delays or failure to obtain any required approvals for the proposed special dividend; uncertainty as to the long-term value of Spherix’s common stock; those discussed in the Spherix’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents of Spherix on file with the SEC or in the registration statement that will be filed with the SEC by Spherix. There may be additional risks that Spherix presently does not know or that Spherix currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements provide Spherix’s expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this communication. Spherix anticipates that subsequent events and developments will cause Spherix’s assessments to change. However, while Spherix may elect to update these forward- looking statements at some point in the future, Spherix specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Spherix’s assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this communication.

Contact:

Investor Relations:

Hayden IR

Brett Maas, Managing Partner

Phone: (646) 536-7331

Email: brett@haydenir.com

www.haydenir.com

Spherix:

Phone: 212-745-1373

Email: investorrelations@spherix.com

www.spherix.com

 

CisionView original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/spherix-is-granted-exclusive-option-to-license-anticancer-drug-from-the-university-of-kentucky-300915983.html

SOURCE Spherix Incorporated

News Provided by PR Newswire via QuoteMedia

Spherix Announces Results of Special Meeting of Shareholders

-CBM transaction approved -Company moving forward with special dividend

NEW YORKSept. 9, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Spherix Incorporated (Nasdaq: SPEX) today announced results from the Special Meeting of Shareholders held on September 5th (the “Meeting”).

Spherix Logo. (PRNewsFoto/Spherix Incorporated)

At the Meeting, the Company’s shareholders approved the issuance of shares of our Common Stock, including shares of our common stock underlying Series L convertible preferred stock, to be issued by us pursuant to the terms of that certain Asset Purchase Agreement, dated May 15, 2019, by and between the Company and CBM BioPharma, Inc., as amended by Amendment No. 1 to the Asset Purchase Agreement, dated May 30, 2019, in an amount equal to or in excess of 20% of our common stock outstanding before the issuance of such common stock and such Series L convertible preferred stock (including upon the operation of anti-dilution provisions contained in such Series L convertible preferred stock).

Shareholders also approved the amendment to the Company’s Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to decrease the number of authorized shares of common stock from 100,000,000 to 99,000,000.

As a result of obtaining these shareholder approvals, the Company will seek to close the CBM BioPharma, Inc. acquisition expeditiously upon satisfaction of remaining closing conditions or waiver thereof.  The Company is also moving forward with issuing a special dividend, as previously discussed.  Complete details regarding the dividend will be announced shortly.

The detailed voting results for the Meeting are provided in the Company’s Form 8-K, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 6, 2019.

About Spherix
Spherix Incorporated is a technology development company committed to the fostering of innovative ideas. Spherix Incorporated was formed in 1967 as a scientific research company.

Our activities generally include the acquisition and development of technology through internal or external research and development. In addition, we seek to acquire existing rights to intellectual property through the acquisition of already issued patents and pending patent applications, both in the United States and abroad. We may alone, or in conjunction with others, develop products and processes associated with technology development and monetizing related intellectual property.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements made herein are not historical facts but are forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as “may”, “should”, “would”, “plan”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “seem”, “seek”, “continue”, “future”, “will”, “expect”, “outlook” or other similar words, phrases or expressions. These forward-looking statements include statements regarding Spherix’s and CBM’s industry, future events, the proposed transaction between the parties to the Asset Purchase Agreement, the estimated or anticipated future results and benefits of the Company following the transaction, including the likelihood and ability of the parties to successfully consummate the proposed transaction, future opportunities for the combined company, and other statements that are not historical facts. These statements are based on the current expectations of Spherix’s management and are not predictions of actual performance. These statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties regarding the businesses of Spherix and the transaction, and actual results may differ materially. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, changes in the business environment in which Spherix or CBM operates, including inflation and interest rates, and general financial, economic, regulatory and political conditions affecting the industry in which Spherix or CBM operates; changes in taxes, governmental laws, and regulations; competitive product and pricing activity; difficulties of managing growth profitably; the inability of the parties to successfully or timely consummate the proposed transaction, including the risk that any required regulatory approvals are not obtained, are delayed or are subject to unanticipated conditions that could adversely affect the combined company or the expected benefits of the transaction are not obtained; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction, including as a result of a delay in consummating the transaction or a delay or difficulty in integrating the assets of CBM; delays or failure to obtain any required approvals for the proposed special dividend; uncertainty as to the long-term value of Spherix’s common stock; those discussed in the Spherix’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents of Spherix on file with the SEC or in the registration statement that will be filed with the SEC by Spherix. There may be additional risks that Spherix presently does not know or that Spherix currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements provide Spherix’s expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this communication. Spherix anticipates that subsequent events and developments will cause Spherix’s assessments to change. However, while Spherix may elect to update these forward- looking statements at some point in the future, Spherix specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Spherix’s assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this communication.

Contact:  

Investor Relations:   

Hayden IR

Brett Maas, Managing Partner

Phone: (646) 536-7331

Email: brett@haydenir.com

www.haydenir.com

Spherix:      

Phone: 212-745-1373

Email: investorrelations@spherix.com

www.spherix.com

 

CisionView original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/spherix-announces-results-of-special-meeting-of-shareholders-300913785.html

SOURCE Spherix Incorporated

News Provided by PR Newswire via QuoteMedia

Vireo Health Announces Second Quarter 2019 Financial Results

VIEW ALL NEWS

Vireo Health to Report Second Quarter 2019 Results on August 29, 2019

VIEW ALL NEWS

Goodness Growth Holdings Opens Two Additional Green Goods® Cannabis Dispensaries in New Mexico

VIEW ALL NEWS

Spherix Urges Shareholders to Approve Purchase of CBM BioPharma, Inc. Assets at Special Meeting

Board Intends to Return Capital via a Special Dividend

 

NEW YORKAug. 19, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Spherix Incorporated, (NASDAQ: SPEX) a technology development company committed to the fostering of innovative ideas, today issued a letter to shareholders:

Spherix Logo. (PRNewsFoto/Spherix Incorporated)

Dear Shareholder,

In advance of our Special Meeting on September 5th, I write to update you on certain developments and to encourage you to vote in favor of the proposals recommended by the Board of Directors and set forth in the Special Meeting Proxy.

The acquisition of the CBM BioPharma, Inc. (“CBM”) pharmaceutical assets is an integral step in building Spherix into a cutting edge pharmaceutical company.  It also builds upon the success we have already realized as a part of the Company’s transformation.  Two years ago, Spherix made an investment in Hoth Therapeutics, Inc., which is now estimated to be worth over $10,000,000.  In our effort to deliver value to our shareholders and to continue the transformation at Spherix, the Board intends to propose a special dividend of One Hundred Thousand shares (100,000) of Hoth stock. Effectuating the dividend is contingent upon obtaining the necessary votes for the CBM acquisition at the Special Meeting to be held on September 5th.  The dividend will be paid upon the consummation of the transaction with CBM to shareholders of record prior to the date of such consummation.  Upon closing the acquisition of the CBM assets, the Company expects to focus its efforts on growing and developing its portfolio.

The proposed Hoth dividend represents over $500,000 of value at today’s stock price. Should Spherix not receive the necessary votes to acquire the CBM assets on September 5th, it is unlikely that the Hoth dividend will be declared.   The Company would instead retain this stock to use as a valuable resource for other corporate and strategic matters.

There are three ways to vote your shares of Spherix, each only taking a few moments:

  • By Telephone – Stockholders in the United States can submit their vote by calling the toll-free number indicated on the Special Proxy you received by mail; please have your control number located on the enclosed vote instruction form available when calling;
  • By Internet – Stockholders can submit their vote via internet at www.proxyvote.com; please have the control number located on the enclosed vote instruction form available; or
  • By Mail – Stockholders can vote by mail by signing, dating and returning the enclosed vote instruction form in the postage-paid envelope provided.

If you need any assistance in voting your shares or have questions regarding the special meeting of stockholders, please contact Spherix’s proxy solicitor, MacKenzie Partners, Inc., at (800) 322-2885 (toll-free) or (212) 929-5500 (collect), or email at proxy@mackenziepartners.com.

I thank you for your continued support and investment in our Company. We believe with conviction that we are taking the right steps to drive shareholder value, make sound investment decisions, and return capital to shareholders when appropriate.

Sincerely,

Anthony Hayes

About Spherix

Spherix Incorporated is a technology development company committed to the fostering of innovative ideas. Spherix Incorporated was formed in 1967 as a scientific research company.

Our activities generally include the acquisition and development of technology through internal or external research and development. In addition, we seek to acquire existing rights to intellectual property through the acquisition of already issued patents and pending patent applications, both in the United States and abroad. We may alone, or in conjunction with others, develop products and processes associated with technology development and monetizing related intellectual property.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements made herein are not historical facts but are forward-looking statements for purposes of the safe harbor provisions under The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements generally are accompanied by words such as “may”, “should”, “would”, “plan”, “intend”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “predict”, “potential”, “seem”, “seek”, “continue”, “future”, “will”, “expect”, “outlook” or other similar words, phrases or expressions. These forward-looking statements include statements regarding Spherix’s and CBM’s industry, future events, the proposed transaction between the parties to the Asset Purchase Agreement, the estimated or anticipated future results and benefits of the Company following the transaction, including the likelihood and ability of the parties to successfully consummate the proposed transaction, future opportunities for the combined company, and other statements that are not historical facts. These statements are based on the current expectations of Spherix’s management and are not predictions of actual performance. These statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties regarding the businesses of Spherix and the transaction, and actual results may differ materially. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, changes in the business environment in which Spherix or CBM operates, including inflation and interest rates, and general financial, economic, regulatory and political conditions affecting the industry in which Spherix or CBM operates; changes in taxes, governmental laws, and regulations; competitive product and pricing activity; difficulties of managing growth profitably; the inability of the parties to successfully or timely consummate the proposed transaction, including the risk that any required regulatory approvals are not obtained, are delayed or are subject to unanticipated conditions that could adversely affect the combined company or the expected benefits of the transaction or that the approval of the stockholders of Spherix are not obtained; failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction, including as a result of a delay in consummating the transaction or a delay or difficulty in integrating the assets of CBM; uncertainty as to the long-term value of Spherix’s common stock; those discussed in the Spherix’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents of Spherix on file with the SEC or in the registration statement that will be filed with the SEC by Spherix. There may be additional risks that Spherix presently does not know or that Spherix currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements provide Spherix’s expectations, plans or forecasts of future events and views as of the date of this communication. Spherix anticipates that subsequent events and developments will cause Spherix’s assessments to change. However, while Spherix may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, Spherix specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Spherix’s assessments as of any date subsequent to the date of this communication.

 

Contact:

Investor Relations:     

Hayden IR

Brett Maas, Managing Partner

Phone: (646) 536-7331

Email: brett@haydenir.com

www.haydenir.com

Spherix: 

Phone: 212-745-1373

Email: investorrelations@spherix.com

www.spherix.com

 

CisionView original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/spherix-urges-shareholders-to-approve-purchase-of-cbm-biopharma-inc-assets-at-special-meeting-300903366.html

SOURCE Spherix Incorporated

News Provided by PR Newswire via QuoteMedia

Wuhan General Group Appoints Distinguished Scientist Dr. Hyder A. Khoja as Chief Scientific Officer

Barcelona, Spain, Aug. 15, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — via NEWMEDIAWIRE — Wuhan General Group, Inc. (OTC PINK: WUHN) (the “Company” and “Wuhan”), is positioning itself to become a major player in the US$166B medical CBD (cannabidiol) space, as well as the promising psilocybin and medicinal mushroom health sector. The company is pleased to announce that Dr. Hyder A. Khoja (“Dr. Khoja”) is joining Wuhan General Group as Chief Scientific Officer. In his role as CSO, Dr. Khoja will oversee the company’s core research and product development to commercialization.

Dr. Khoja is a trusted and distinguished global leader in cannabinoid & psychedelic medicine. He possesses comprehensive knowledge of the pharmaceutical and dietary supplements industries. His extensive industrial experience spans from advising, innovating and developing cutting-edge projects, to holding various senior-level executive and senior research positions at various biotech companies, universities, and research institutes. His expertise in science and policy domains have led to a distinguished career in scientific research and business development. Dr. Khoja is excited to apply his extensive knowledge with Wuhan to advance botanical-based medicine within the realm of cannabis and mushrooms.

“We extend a warm welcome to Dr. Khoja in this new post,” said Jeff Robinson, CEO of Wuhan. “I have great confidence in Dr. Khoja as an accomplished scientist and recognized leader with a passion for molecular biology and genetic engineering, and with a track record of translating ideas into action, including innovation, commercialization and knowledge mobilization. Dr. Khoja also brings an extensive background in building multi-stakeholder teams and achieving impact on a national and international scale,” Jeff further commented. “This is a huge move forward for Wuhan to bring onboard such remarkable caliber as we move into drug discovery. We will be able to leverage his knowledge and our lab’s cannabis and psychedelics analytics to validate consistent medical-grade compounds for therapeutics. I expect that after we showcase our abilities, we will look for potential licensing opportunities with pharmaceutical companies.”

Dr. Hyder A. Khoja said: “It is the ideal time and opportunity for me to step in and guide Wuhan along the right path and continue my passion for bringing plant genomics and metabolomics for therapeutics to market. As the company is developing its drug discovery and diversifying its technology, I’m eager to leverage my expertise for the goals of the company and its shareholders.”

“We are delighted to have Dr. Khoja on board, with his scientific and industrial expertise, to support our mission of bringing botanical-based medicine to the forefront and lead our scientific and clinical research endeavors,” said Wuhan Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Anna Morera Leralta.

About Dr. Hyder A. Khoja, Ph.D., PAg., eMBA., MSc.

Dr. Khoja is a discovery scientist and serial entrepreneur within the high-tech scientific sector. He received his doctorate (Ph.D.), with honors in “Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering” from the French Ivy league: INP-ENSAT. He conducted his post-doctoral training from Michigan State University. Soon after, he was appointed as a Research Faculty for Virginia-Tech, University of Wyoming & Texas-Tech University-Health Science Center, respectively. A prolific author, Dr. Khoja has published numerous articles, reviews and books on pharmacological research during his 18-year career in health, pharma and nutraceutical industries on a broader vision to drug discovery for remedial, salubrious and sanative remedies in peer-reviewed journals. In 2011, his work was honored by the United Nations – FAO. Early in 2014, he Co-Founded InMed Pharmaceuticals and directed Botanical Drug Research and Development for their pre-clinical stage novel therapies into the extensive pharmacological application and helped in raising over $90 Million for the venture. He has a command over 12 languages.

About Wuhan General Group, Inc.

Wuhan General Group, Inc. through its wholly-owned subsidiary MJ MedTech is a nutraceutical biotechnology company that researches, develops and commercializes a range of CBD-based products under the Dr. AnnaRx brand. In addition, its new wholly-owned division, M2Bio is researching and developing indications for psilocybin new therapies that will help patients who suffer from mental illness, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Our mission is to advance botanical-based medicine to the forefront by deploying best-practice science and medicine, clinical research and emerging technologies. Wuhan is listed and traded on the Over the Counter Bulletin Board of NASDAQ under the trading symbol “WUHN”.

For further information:

Publicly traded company (OTC Pink: WUHN)

Website: www.wuhn.org

E-mail: info@wuhn.org

Forward-Looking Statements:

Safe Harbour Statement – In addition to historical information, this press release may contain statements that constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release include the intent, belief, or expectations of the Company and members of its management team with respect to the Company’s future business operations and the assumptions upon which such statements are based. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and involve risks and uncertainties and that actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause these differences include, but are not limited to, failure to complete anticipated sales under negotiations, lack of revenue growth, client discontinuances, failure to realize improvements in performance, efficiency and profitability, and adverse developments with respect to litigation or increased litigation costs, the operation or performance of the Company’s business units or the market price of its common stock. Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated within this press release can also be found on the Company’s website. The Company disclaims any responsibility to update any forward-looking statements.

Primary Logo

Vireo Health Affiliate Given Green Light to Operate Medical Cannabis Processing Facility in Ohio

Ohio Medical Solutions will manufacture and wholesale Vireo-branded medical cannabis products to third-party dispensaries throughout the Buckeye State

MINNEAPOLIS, Aug. 15, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Vireo Health International, Inc. (“Vireo” or the “Company”) (CNSX: VREO, OTCQX: VREOF), a leading physician-led, science-focused multi-state cannabis company, today announced that the Company’s affiliate, Ohio Medical Solutions (“OMS”), was granted a Certificate of Operation by the Ohio Department of Commerce. OMS, which will begin operating immediately, was previously awarded a provisional processing license.

Vireo Logo (PRNewsfoto/Vireo Health, Inc.)

OMS is now permitted to purchase plant material from licensed cultivators, manufacture a wide variety of Vireo-branded pharmaceutical-grade cannabis products, and wholesale these products to third-party dispensaries throughout the state of Ohio.

“We are delighted that Ohio Medical Solutions will begin manufacturing Vireo products for the benefit of Ohio patients,” said Chief Executive Officer, Kyle Kingsley, M.D. “The City of Akron has been great to us and as our business grows, we look forward to continuing to create new jobs and make a positive impact on the local economy.”

Located in a former factory building that had fallen into disuse and disrepair, the Company’s 11,500 square-foot facility, in Akron, Ohio has been transformed, through a multi-million-dollar investment, into a state-of-the-art pharmaceutical manufacturing facility. The renovated facility features new building systems, a new roof, complete interior redesign, and the installation of a best-in-class security system and fence.

“I am honored to serve as General Manager and lead this facility,” said Marie Walchalk, OMS General Manager. “As a life-long Ohioan I have personally witnessed too many manufacturing jobs leave our State and it’s great to be part of an industry adding new good-paying local jobs.”

Ohio’s Medical Marijuana Bill (HB 523) was signed into law on June 8, 2016 by Governor Kasich. The State’s medical marijuana program is rapidly expanding. Sales of medical marijuana officially began on January 16, 2019. There are now 527 certified physicians and 25 active dispensaries serving the State’s 53,082 registered patients and almost 4,000 registered caregivers.

About Vireo Health International, Inc.

Vireo Health International, Inc.’s mission is to build the cannabis company of the future by bringing the best of medicine, engineering and science to the cannabis industry.  Vireo’s physician-led team of more than 300 employees provides best-in-class cannabis products and customer experience. Vireo cultivates cannabis in environmentally friendly greenhouses, manufactures pharmaceutical-grade cannabis extracts, and sells its products at both company-owned and third-party dispensaries. The Company currently is licensed in eleven markets including Arizona, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Mexico, New York, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, and Rhode Island.  For more information about the company, please visit www.vireohealth.com.

Contact Information 

Investor Inquiries
Sam Gibbons
Vice President, Investor Relations
samgibbons@vireohealth.com
(612) 314-8995

Media Inquiries
Albe Zakes
Vice President, Corporate Communications
albezakes@vireohealth.com
(267) 221-4800

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell any of the securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”) or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

Forward-Looking Statement Disclosure

This news release contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws, based on current expectations. Generally, any statements that are not historical facts may contain forward-looking information, and forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “look forward to”, “budget” “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “will continue”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or indicates that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will be” taken, “occur” or “be achieved.” Forward looking information may include, without limitation, statements regarding the operations, business, financial condition, expected financial results, performance, prospects, opportunities, priorities, targets, goals, ongoing objectives, milestones, strategies and outlook of Vireo, and includes statements about, among other things, future developments, the future operations, potential market opportunities, strengths and strategy of the Company. Forward-looking information is provided for the purpose of presenting information about management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future and readers are cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. These statements should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results. These statements are based upon certain material factors, assumptions and analyses that were applied in drawing a conclusion or making a forecast or projection, including Vireo’s experience and perceptions of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that are believed to be reasonable in the circumstances.

Examples of the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements contained herein include, but are not limited to those related to: the achievement of goals, the closing of acquisitions, obtaining of necessary permits and governmental approvals, future market positioning, as well as expectations regarding availability of equipment, skilled labor and services needed for cannabis operations, intellectual property rights,  development, operating or regulatory risks, trends and developments in the cannabis industry, business strategy and outlook, expansion and growth of business and operations, the timing and amount of capital expenditures; future exchange rates; the impact of increasing competition; conditions in general economic and financial markets; access to capital; future operating costs; government regulations, including future legislative and regulatory developments involving medical and recreational marijuana and the timing thereto; receipt of appropriate and necessary licenses in a timely manner; the effects of regulation by governmental agencies; the anticipated changes to laws regarding the recreational use of cannabis; the demand for cannabis products and corresponding forecasted increase in revenues; and the size of the medical marijuana market and the recreational marijuana market.

Although such statements are based on management’s reasonable assumptions at the date such statements are made, there can be no assurance that it will be completed on the terms described above and that such forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking information. Vireo assumes no responsibility to update or revise forward-looking information to reflect new events or circumstances unless required by applicable law.

By its nature, forward-looking information is subject to risks and uncertainties, and there are a variety of material factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company and that may cause actual outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to: denial or delayed receipt of all necessary consents and approvals; need for additional capital expenditures; increased costs and timing of operations; unexpected costs associated with environmental liabilities; requirements for additional capital; reduced future prices of cannabis; failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the cannabis industry; delays in obtaining governmental approvals, permits or financing or in the completion of development or construction activities; title disputes; claims limitations on insurance coverage; risks related to the integration of acquisitions; fluctuations in the spot and forward price of certain commodities (such as diesel fuel and electricity); changes in national and local government legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in the countries where the Company may carry on business in the future;  liabilities inherent in cannabis operations;  risks relating to medical and recreational cannabis; cultivation, extraction and distribution problems; competition for, among other things, capital, licences and skilled personnel;  risks relating to the timing of legalization of recreational cannabis; changes in laws relating to the cannabis industry; and management’s success in anticipating and managing the foregoing factors.

 

CisionView original content to download multimedia:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vireo-health-affiliate-given-green-light-to-operate-medical-cannabis-processing-facility-in-ohio-300902399.html

SOURCE Vireo Health International, Inc.