Capricor and NextCure disclose layoffs amid FDA review and merger preparations

Capricor Therapeutics disclosed a roughly 10% workforce reduction in its third-quarter results, saying it was cutting costs and focusing resources on priorities. The company had 231 employees at the end of 2025, so the reduction could represent about 23 jobs.

Capricor is concentrating on deramiocel, its experimental Duchenne muscular dystrophy therapy. The FDA’s decision is expected November 22, 2026, after the review timeline was extended to consider additional data. Approval is uncertain:
the FDA previously rejected an application, and an advisory committee voted against the latest attempt.

NextCure reported substantial third-quarter restructuring ahead of its proposed merger with Avere Therapeutics. The measures included workforce reductions, ending facility leases, and disposing of laboratory, manufacturing, and facility assets; the company did not give a precise layoff count.

NextCure shareholders are scheduled to vote on the merger December 9, 2026. The deal remains subject to shareholder approvals and other closing conditions; the combined company is expected to operate as Avere and use the ticker AVRX.

The report portrays both companies’ cuts as moves to reduce costs and refocus:
Capricor while awaiting a regulatory decision, and NextCure as it prepares to transition into the proposed Avere combination.