BioCryst to close Birmingham research site, ends internal discovery programs

BioCryst Pharmaceuticals said on June 29, 2026 that its board approved a plan on June 25 to discontinue the company's internal discovery programs and close its Discovery Center of Excellence facility in Birmingham, Alabama.¹ The company said the move follows a comprehensive strategic review and scientific diligence of its research capabilities, programs and priorities, after which it concluded that leaning on outside innovation offers a leaner, less capital-intensive way to grow its rare disease pipeline beyond current clinical programs.¹ The wind-down is expected to be substantially complete by the end of 2026.¹

On the pipeline, BioCryst said it completed enrollment in the Phase 3 ALPHA-ORBIT study of navenibart in June, potentially positioning the drug to be the first HAE therapy with both 3-month and 6-month dosing regimens evaluated for efficacy out to 12 months.¹ Top-line data on 6- and 12-month efficacy endpoints are expected in the third quarter of 2027.¹ For BCX17725, targeting Netherton syndrome, dosing continues in the Phase 1 Part 4 study of up to 12 patients, with proof-of-concept data expected by year-end 2026.¹

The company also said it resolved a previously disclosed manufacturing delay affecting ORLADEYO oral pellets for patients aged 2 to under 12, with availability now expected in early August 2026.¹

On costs, BioCryst said charges from the closure plan could include expenses tied to ending contracts and leases plus employee termination benefits and severance, among other items, though the company said its review of these costs is not yet finished.¹ As a result, it cannot yet estimate the total amount or range of costs, or which charges will require future cash payments.¹

BioCryst lowered its 2026 non-GAAP operating expense guidance to $420-$440 million, down from its prior range of $450-$470 million,¹ while reaffirming its full-year 2026 ORLADEYO and total company revenue guidance issued on January 12, 2026.¹