Analyst Jonathan Wolleben of JMP Securities reiterated a Buy rating on Aura Biosciences Inc (AURA – Research Report), retaining the price target of $21.00.
Jonathan Wolleben has given his Buy rating due to a combination of factors related to Aura Biosciences Inc’s promising clinical data. The Phase 1 trial results for their bladder cancer treatment, bel-sar, demonstrated both a direct cytotoxic effect and an early immune response, which supports its dual mechanism of action. These findings suggest that bel-sar could become a differentiated and targeted treatment option for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC), potentially replacing the current standard of care, TURBT, for patients with both primary and recurrent low-grade NMIBC.
Moreover, the trial results showed promising responses within just 7-12 days after a single dose of bel-sar, indicating potential for improved outcomes with higher or multiple doses. Despite the open-label nature of the study and the absence of a control arm, the lack of activity in patients without light activation further supports the efficacy of bel-sar when combined with light activation. Given the significant market opportunity and unmet need in the treatment of low-grade NMIBC, Wolleben views the bladder cancer opportunity as a positive addition to Aura’s valuation.
Wolleben covers the Healthcare sector, focusing on stocks such as BioCryst, KalVista Pharmaceuticals, and Astria Therapeutics. According to TipRanks, Wolleben has an average return of 4.5% and a 40.41% success rate on recommended stocks.
In another report released today, LifeSci Capital also maintained a Buy rating on the stock with a $23.00 price target.