New cell-free therapy for fibrotic diseases clears key manufacturing step

Pluri Inc. (PLUR) and ZEO ScientifiX (ZEOX) have partnered to expand their U.S. manufacturing and commercial platform for regenerative medicine. The deal combines Pluri's cell technology and clinical experience with ZEO's biologics manufacturing and sales network. Pluri will own 50% of ZEO post-closing, with the transaction expected to close in Q4 2026.

Stephens initiated coverage on Mama's Creations with an Overweight rating and $19 price target. Analyst Jim Salera highlighted the company's expansion from a single-brand meatball business to a multi-facility deli solutions platform.

Longeveron Inc. (LGVN) reported that its Phase 2b trial of laromestrocel for hypoplastic left heart syndrome met a secondary endpoint, showing fewer major adverse cardiac events compared to standard care, despite missing the primary endpoint. The trial involved 40 infants and followed them for 12 months. LGVN plans to discuss the results with the FDA and will present findings at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions. LGVN shares are up 5.66% at $1.69.

60 Degrees Pharmaceuticals (SXTP) reported negative PCR results in 5 patients from its expanded access study of tafenoquine for babesiosis, with 4 also testing negative on a sensitive NAT test. All patients showed clinical improvement. The stock is down 29% to $0.60. The company expects to unblind a separate study in January 2027. Tafenoquine is not FDA-approved for babesiosis.

TD Cowen kept a Buy rating on Verizon Communications with a $55 price target, implying 27.6% upside from the Oct 26 close. The company reported 406,000 postpaid phone customer additions, exceeding expectations, and raised financial guidance, including free cash flow and adjusted EPS growth.

RBC Capital maintained an Outperform rating on Xencor with a $43 price target, implying a 47.4% upside. The firm cited strong clinical data for XmAb819 and Xencor's robust pipeline as reasons for the target.