MediciNova (MNOV) Provides 2026 Update for Shareholders

LA JOLLA, Calif., Jan. 06, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MediciNova, Inc. (NASDAQ: MNOV), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, has released a corporate update through a letter to shareholders from CEO Yuichi Iwaki, M.D., Ph.D. The letter highlights the company’s achievements and goals for the upcoming year amidst the backdrop of global economic uncertainties.

2025 Achievements Amidst Challenges

Despite the challenges posed by accelerating inflation, shifting U.S. trade policies, and ongoing geopolitical risks in 2025, MediciNova accomplished key milestones:

• Completion of patient enrollment in three major clinical trials.
• Launch of a large-scale Expanded Access Program for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

Clinical Development Highlights for MNOV

MN-166 (Ibudilast) Updates

The COMBAT-ALS Study, a Phase 2b/3 trial for ALS, completed enrollment in September 2025. Data analysis is set to commence once the final participant finishes the 12-month double-blind treatment, with top-line results expected by year-end. A successful outcome may pave the way for regulatory submissions, which preparations are already underway.

Expanded Access Program for ALS

This program, initiated in March 2025 with a $22 million National Institutes of Health (NIH) research grant, has become operational in 12 U.S. sites, enrolling 87 patients as of December 15, 2025.

OXTOX Study for Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy

The Phase 2b trial for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) in metastatic colon cancer has also finished enrollment as of December 2025. Participants will continue treatment based on disease progression criteria, and while results timing is still undetermined, optimism surrounds the advancement of this program.

Looking Ahead: 2026 Goals

For MediciNova, 2026 is poised to be a momentous year, filled with opportunities to achieve long-sought objectives. The company intends to unify efforts in enhancing treatment options for patients dealing with serious conditions.

About MediciNova, Inc.

MediciNova is dedicated to developing innovative small molecule therapies targeting inflammatory, fibrotic, and neurodegenerative diseases. The company boasts a robust late-stage pipeline, with its lead assets, MN-166 (Ibudilast) and MN-001 (Tipelukast), entering critical stages of clinical trials. MN-166 is currently in Phase 3 for ALS and ready for progressive multiple sclerosis, while MN-001 is in Phase 2 for hypertriglyceridemia in Type 2 diabetes patients.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements as defined by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including the potential future efficacy of MN-166 and MN-001. These statements carry inherent risks and uncertainties that could lead to different outcomes than anticipated. Stakeholders are encouraged to refer to the Securities and Exchange Commission filings for more information on the risks involved.