<PAGE>
U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-QSB
(Mark one)
/X/ Quarterly Report Under Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934
For the quarterly period ended April 30, 1999
or
/ / Transition Report Under Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934
Commission File Number: 33-23460-LA
AQUASEARCH, INC.
(Exact name of small business issuer as specified in its charter)
Colorado 33-0034535
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
incorporation or organization)
73-4460 Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway, Suite 110
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
(Address of principal executive offices)
(808) 326-9301
(Issuer's telephone number, including area code)
NOT APPLICABLE
(Former name, former address and former fiscal
year, if changes since last report)
Check whether the issuer (1) filed all reports required to be filed by Section
13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act during the past 12 months (or for such shorter
period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been
subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
YES X NO
--- ---
As of April 30, 1999, the number of shares outstanding of issuer's Common Stock,
$0.0001 par value, was 76,401,020 shares.
<PAGE>
Aquasearch, Inc.
Form 10-QSB For The
Quarter Ended April 30, 1999
Contents
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Page
<S> <C>
Item 1: Financial Statements
Balance Sheets 3
Statements of Loss and Accumulated Deficit 4, 5
Statements of Cash Flows 6
Notes to Financial Statements 7
Item 2: Management's Plan of Operation
Overview 8
Management's Plan of Operation for the Next Twelve Months 18
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations 26
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1: Legal Proceedings 28
Item 2: Changes In Securities 28
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities 29
Item 4: Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders 29
Item 5: Other Information 29
Item 6: Exhibits And Reports on Form 8-K 29
</TABLE>
2
<PAGE>
Aquasearch, Inc.
(A Development Stage Enterprise)
Balance Sheets
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
October 31, April 30,
1998 1999
(Audited) (Unaudited)
-----------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Assets
Current assets:
Cash $ 151,473 $ 164,301
Accounts receivable - -
Prepaid expenses 48,703 23,088
Refundable deposits 3,081 3,153
-----------------------------------------
Total current assets 203,257 190,542
-----------------------------------------
Notes receivable from officer 50,000 50,000
Notes receivable 59,696 59,696
Plant and equipment:
Plant 2,519,044 3,641,027
Equipment 167,203 180,267
Less accumulated depreciation (204,292) (282,269)
-----------------------------------------
Net plant and equipment 2,484,955 3,539,025
-----------------------------------------
Total assets $ 2,797,908 $ 3,839,263
=========================================
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $ 1,084,829 $ 1,443,801
Notes payable 315,000 1,090,000
Notes payable to officer 265,000 820,000
-----------------------------------------
Total current liabilities 1,664,829 3,353,801
-----------------------------------------
Stockholders' Equity
Preferred stock (5,000,000 shares authorized) - -
Common stock ($0.0001 par value, 100,000,000 shares
authorized, 68,564,013 and 76,401,020 shares
outstanding at October 31, 1998 and April 30, 1999,
respectively) 7,979 8,762
Additional paid-in capital 8,189,414 9,448,034
Deficit accumulated during the development stage (7,064,314) (8,971,334)
-----------------------------------------
Total stockholders' equity 1,133,079 485,462
-----------------------------------------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $ 2,797,908 $ 3,839,263
=========================================
</TABLE>
3
<PAGE>
Aquasearch, Inc.
(A Development Stage Enterprise)
Statements of Loss and Accumulated Deficit
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For the Period For the Three For the Three
From Inception Months Ended Months Ended
To April 30, April 30, April 30,
1999 1999 1998
(Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited)
-----------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Sales $ 11,077 $ - $ -
Cost of sales 23,464 - -
-----------------------------------------------------------
Gross profit (loss) (12,387) - -
Research and development costs 3,744,507 365,110 319,677
General and administrative expenses 4,807,585 734,539 218,361
-----------------------------------------------------------
Loss from operations (8,564,479) (1,099,649) (538,038)
Other Income (Expense)
Interest (203,237) (45,740) (16,508)
Other (7,452) (151) (324)
Investment in joint venture (147,096) - -
-----------------------------------------------------------
Total other income (expense) (357,785) (45,891) (16,382)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Loss before income taxes and extraordinary
item (8,922,264) (1,145,540) (554,870)
Extraordinary item - loss on write down of
assets to liquidation basis (14,502) - -
-----------------------------------------------------------
Loss before income taxes (8,936,766) (1,145,540) (554,870)
Federal and State income taxes - - -
-----------------------------------------------------------
Net loss (8,936,766) (1,145,540) (554,870)
Accumulated Deficit
Balance, beginning of period (34,268) (7,825,494) (5,254,289)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Balance, end of period $ (8,971,034) $ (8,971,034) $ (5,809,159)
===========================================================
Loss per share $ (0.35) $ (0.02) $ (0.01)
===========================================================
Weighted average shares outstanding 25,701,408 63,739,962 47,819,881
===========================================================
</TABLE>
4
<PAGE>
Aquasearch, Inc.
(A Development Stage Enterprise)
Statements of Loss and Accumulated Deficit
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For the Period For the Six For the Six
From Inception Ended Months Months Ended
To April 30, April 30, April 30,
1999 1999 1998
(Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited)
-----------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Sales $ 11,077 $ - $ -
Cost of sales 23,464 - -
-----------------------------------------------------------
Gross profit (loss) (12,387) - -
Research and development costs 3,744,507 691,205 545,690
General and administrative expenses 4,807,585 1,138,217 415,884
-----------------------------------------------------------
Loss from operations (8,564,479) (1,829,422) (961,574)
Other Income (Expense)
Interest (203,237) (76,900) (35,340)
Other (7,452) (398) (324)
Investment in joint venture (147,096) - -
-----------------------------------------------------------
Total other income (expense) (357,785) (77,298) (35,664)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Loss before income taxes and extraordinary
item (8,922,264) (1,906,720) (997,238)
Extraordinary item - loss on write down of
assets to liquidation basis (14,502) - -
-----------------------------------------------------------
Loss before income taxes (8,936,766) (1,906,720) (997,238)
Federal and State income taxes - - -
-----------------------------------------------------------
Net loss (8,936,766) (1,906,720) (997,238)
Accumulated Deficit
Balance, beginning of period (34,268) (7,064,314) (4,811,921)
-----------------------------------------------------------
Balance, end of period $ (8,971,034) $ (8,971,034) $ (5,809,159)
===========================================================
Loss per share $ (0.35) $ (0.03) $ (0.02)
===========================================================
Weighted average shares outstanding 25,701,408 63,739,962 47,819,881
===========================================================
</TABLE>
5
<PAGE>
Aquasearch, Inc.
(A Development Stage Enterprise)
Statements of Cash Flows
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For the Period From For the Six For the Six
Inception Months Ended Months Ended
To April 30, April 30, April 30,
1999 1999 1998
(Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited)
---------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
Net loss $ (8,937,066) $ (1,906,720) $ (997,238)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash
used in operating activities:
Amortization 3,527 - -
Depreciation 287,976 80,977 41,067
Expenses paid with common stock 801,198 - -
Loss on write down of assets to
liquidation basis 5,392 - -
Changes in:
Other current assets (26,040) 25,543 18,281
Receivables - - 1,219
Accounts payable 1,360,088 358,972 95,428
Deposits held - - -
---------------------------------------------------------
Cash used in operating activities (6,504,925) (1,441,528) (841,243)
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Purchase of fixed assets (3,730,878) (1,135,047) (69,635)
---------------------------------------------------------
Cash used in investing activities (3,730,878) (1,135,047) (69,635)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Cash (held in) released from escrow - - -
Increase in notes receivable (109,696) - -
Issuance of common stock 8,841,865 1,259,403 -
Increase in notes payable 1,939,800 1,330,000 870,000
Offering costs (271,919) - -
---------------------------------------------------------
Cash provided by financing activities 10,400,050 2,589,403 870,000
---------------------------------------------------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash 164,247 12,828 (40,878)
Cash, beginning of the period 54 151,473 47,006
---------------------------------------------------------
Cash, end of the period $ 164,301 $ 164,301 $ 6,128
=========================================================
</TABLE>
6
<PAGE>
Aquasearch, Inc.
(A Development Stage Enterprise)
Notes To Financial Statements
April 30, 1999
(Unaudited)
1. Common Stock and Common Stock Purchase Warrants
As of April 30, 1999, there were a total of 10,031,731 Common Stock
Purchase Warrants (the "Warrants") issued and outstanding, of which 5,347,244
Warrants had an exercise price of $1.00 per share, 25,974 Warrants had an
exercise price of $0.21 per share, and 4,658,513 Warrants had an exercise price
of $0.50 per share. No Warrants were exercised during the three months ended
April 30, 1999. Aquasearch can redeem the $1.00 per share Warrants at $.01 per
Warrant during their three-year exercise period upon 30 days' notice anytime
that the closing bid price per share of the Common Stock exceeds $1.50 per share
for 20 trading days out of 30 consecutive trading days ending on the third day
prior to the date of the notice of redemption. At April 30, 1999, we had
reserved a sufficient number of shares of our Common Stock to issue when the
Warrants are exercised.
An analysis of the changes in stockholders' equity is as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Shares of Additional Total
Common Common Paid-In Accumulated Stockholders'
Description Stock Stock Capital Deficit Equity (Deficit)
--------------- ------------ ---------------- ----------------- --------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Balance, January 31, 1999 70,963,112 $ 8,218 $8,587,744 $ (7,825,494) $ 770,468
Conversion of convertible notes
to common stock ($0.158 per share) 5,437,908 544 860,290 -- 860,834
Loss for the three months
ended April 30, 1999 -- -- -- (1,145,540) (1,145,540)
--------------- ------------ ---------------- ----------------- --------------------
Balance, April 30, 1999 76,401,020 $ 8,762 $9,448,034 $ (8,971,034) $ 485,462
=============== ============ ================ ================= ====================
</TABLE>
In November 1996, we executed a Letter of Intent with C. Brewer and
Company, Limited ("C. Brewer"). Under the proposed agreement, we would acquire
between 80 and 90 acres of property in the Ka'u region of the Big Island of
Hawaii valued at between $900,000 and $1,000,000. In return, C. Brewer would
receive between 2,570,000 and 2,850,000 shares of our Common Stock at a purchase
price of $0.35 per share. In addition, C. Brewer acquired a three-year warrant
to purchase up to 500,000 shares of our Common Stock at a purchase price of
$1.25 per share. The stockholders' equity at April 30, 1999 does not reflect the
issuance of the Common Stock or the warrant to C. Brewer. We have not
consummated the transaction with C. Brewer. We have decided that we do not yet
need 80 to 90 acres of land, because production at our current facility has
increased beyond expectation. We want to delay any transaction with C. Brewer
until we determine the best strategy and location for future development.
7
<PAGE>
2. Management's Representations of Interim Financial Information
These financial statements reflect all adjustments that are, in the
opinion of management, necessary to a fair statement of the results of
operations for the interim period presented. These adjustments are of a normal
and recurring nature.
Item 2. Management's Plan of Operation
THE FOLLOWING DISCUSSION OF MANAGEMENT'S PLAN OF OPERATION CONTAINS CERTAIN
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS WITHIN THE MEANING OF SECTION 21E OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934, AS AMENDED, INCLUDING STATEMENTS THAT INDICATE WHAT THE
COMPANY "BELIEVES," "EXPECTS" AND "ANTICIPATES" OR SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS. THESE
STATEMENTS INVOLVE KNOWN AND UNKNOWN RISKS, UNCERTAINTIES AND OTHER FACTORS
WHICH MAY CAUSE ACTUAL RESULTS, PERFORMANCE OR ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE COMPANY TO
DIFFER MATERIALLY FROM THOSE EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED BY SUCH FORWARD-LOOKING
STATEMENTS. SUCH FACTORS INCLUDE, AMONG OTHERS, THE INFORMATION CONTAINED UNDER
THE CAPTION "FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE OPERATING RESULTS" IN THE COMPANY'S
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-KSB FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED OCTOBER 31, 1998 (THE
"1998 FORM 10-KSB"). YOU ARE CAUTIONED NOT TO PLACE UNDUE RELIANCE ON THESE
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS, WHICH REFLECT MANAGEMENT'S ANALYSIS ONLY AS OF THE
DATE OF THIS QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-QSB. WE UNDERTAKE NO OBLIGATION TO
PUBLICLY RELEASE THE RESULTS OF ANY REVISION OF THESE FORWARD-LOOKING
STATEMENTS. YOU ARE STRONGLY URGED TO READ THE INFORMATION SET FORTH UNDER THE
CAPTION "FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE OPERATING RESULTS" IN THE 1998 FORM
10-KSB FOR A MORE DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THESE SIGNIFICANT RISKS AND
UNCERTAINTIES.
OVERVIEW
We are a development stage company that develops and commercializes natural
products from microalgae using our proprietary photobioreactor technology known
as the Aquasearch Growth Module, or AGM.
Microalgae are a diverse group of over 30,000 species of microscopic plants that
have a wide range of physiological and biochemical characteristics. Microalgae
produce many different and unusual fats, sugars, proteins, amino acids,
vitamins, enzymes, pigments and other bioactive compounds that have existing and
potential commercial applications in such fields as animal and human nutrition,
food colorings, cosmetics, diagnostic products, pharmaceuticals, research grade
chemicals, pigments and dyes. Microalgae grow ten times faster than the fastest
growing land-based crops and represent a largely unexploited and renewable
natural resource with a biodiversity comparable to that of land-based plants.
Although microalgae are believed to be a potential source for many valuable
commercial applications, less than 5,000 species of microalgae have ever been
isolated from nature, and fewer than 10 species of microalgae - less than
one-third of one percent of all such species - have ever been cultivated
commercially.
We believe that the development of a large biotechnology industry, based on
thousands of species of microalgae, has been impeded only by a lack of
technology. We anticipate that our commercial production technology will allow
us to create a market for new and valuable substances derived from microalgae.
Our company, since its inception, has been dedicated to this proposition.
8
<PAGE>
Our key achievements in the past year include major advances in our platform
technology, the AGM, including:
- Successful introduction of the "Ultra-AGM," which has 6-fold
greater capacity than the previous AGM model
- Capacity per unit capital cost of the AGM has tripled
- Productivity per unit capacity of HAEMATOCOCCUS, the microalgae
from which our natural astaxanthin product is derived, has
tripled
- Astaxanthin content of HAEMATOCOCCUS has more than doubled - from
1.5% to greater than 3%
At the same time, we have:
- Tripled our patents - from 3 to 9
- Tripled our total production capacity
- Initiated sales
- Expanded our product pipeline to include nutraceuticals and
pharmaceuticals
- Strengthened our management team in areas of strategic
development and marketing
- Augmented our research team in natural products chemistry and
drug development
In the past year we focused primarily on technology and infrastructure. This
year we are focused on marketing, sales, and further expanding our product
pipeline.
HISTORY: KEY EVENTS
1984
AQUASEARCH FOUNDED. Scientists from Scripps Institution of Oceanography in
La Jolla, California founded Aquasearch, Inc. as a California corporation.
1988
FEB: We incorporated Aquasearch Inc. in Colorado.
MAY: Aquasearch (Colorado) acquired all the assets of Aquasearch
(California) in a stock-for-stock exchange.
JUN: OPERATIONS BEGIN in Borrego Springs, California.
1988-1993
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT. We developed our first prototype of the AGM. Over
the next few years we refined certain details of engineering in the AGM. At
the same time, we cultivated microalgal species of markedly different
varieties.
1993
MAR: AQUASEARCH-CYANOTECH JOINT VENTURE FORMED. We formed a joint venture
company with Cyanotech Corporation ("Cyanotech"), an unaffiliated
producer of microalgae. Our goal was to develop commercial systems for
producing astaxanthin-rich microalgae. We contributed approximately
$147,000 in capital and licensed our AGM technology to the
9
<PAGE>
joint venture. Cyanotech contributed approximately $15,000 in
capital to the joint venture and made available its facilities and
personnel at the Hawaii Ocean Science and Technology (HOST)
Business Park at Keahole Point, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.
1994
JUN: CULTOR NEGOTIATION BEGINS. We began discussions with Cultor, Ltd.
("Cultor"), a Finnish food conglomerate, regarding the purchase of
astaxanthin-rich microalgae.
JUL: FIRST ASTAXANTHIN PRODUCED. We constructed AGMs that demonstrated the
economics of the production process. We also produced samples of
astaxanthin-rich microalgae for analysis and trial applications.
Samples were sent to Cultor for testing.
NOV: AQUASEARCH-CYANOTECH JOINT VENTURE TERMINATED. We decided to
discontinue the joint venture with Cyanotech. Under our dissolution
agreement, all intellectual property rights to AGM technology reverted
to Aquasearch.
DEC: CULTOR STARTS FEEDING TRIALS on farmed salmon using the using
astaxanthin-rich microalgae we produced.
1995
APR: CONSTRUCTION BEGINS on our own half-acre facility in Hawaii, leased
from the HOST Business Park. We designed the facility for research and
development, and for production of small amounts of astaxanthin-rich
microalgae for marketing.
JUN: CONSTRUCTION COMPLETED. Our first facility was comprised of AGMs and
an operating laboratory.
JUL: SVENSKA FODER CONTRACT. We entered into a three-year Supply Agreement
with Svenska Foder, then a subsidiary of Cultor. Svenska Foder agreed
to act as the exclusive distributor of our natural astaxanthin product
for animal feed applications in Sweden, Norway and Finland. In
December 1996, Cultor sold Svenska Foder to KKR, a Danish animal feeds
company, and assumed all of Svenska Foder's rights and obligations
under the Supply Agreement.
FACILITY EXPANSION BEGINS. We leased additional space in the HOST
Business Park to expand our half-acre research and development
facility to one acre.
OCT: ONE-ACRE EXPANSION COMPLETED. We expanded the facility to include
finishing ponds (the second stage of our production process), and
additional laboratory space.
1996
MAY: CULTOR AGREEMENT. We entered into a three-year Distribution and
Development Agreement with Cultor (recently extended to four years).
We agreed to act as the exclusive worldwide supplier to Cultor of
natural astaxanthin derived from microalgae for animal feed
applications. Cultor agreed to act as the exclusive worldwide
distributor of our natural astaxanthin product for animal feed
applications. Under our agreement, Cultor and Aquasearch may, at
Cultor's option, create a new joint venture company for
10
<PAGE>
the sole purpose of producing and selling natural astaxanthin derived
from microalgae for animal feed applications.
SCIENTIFIC ADVISORY BOARD FORMED. We created an active Scientific
Advisory Board consisting of Ph.D.s with expertise in the fields of
aquaculture; marine biology; fluid dynamics; and the chemistry,
photobiology, physiology, genetics and mass culture of microalgae.
JUL: PROCESS PATENT IN THE U.S. We were awarded U.S. Patent Number
5,541,056 for a "Method of Control of Microorganism Growth Process."
This patent claims certain processes that operate in our proprietary,
closed-system photobioreactor, the AGM. Our U.S. filing was made under
the Patent Cooperation Treaty. We began to pursue international
patents in certain treaty-member nations.
OCT: CULTOR ACQUIRES AQUASEARCH STOCK. Cultor acquired 400,000 shares of
our Common Stock at a purchase price of $0.50 per share.
NOV: C. BREWER AGREEMENT. We executed a Letter of Intent with C. Brewer and
Company, Limited ("C. Brewer"). Under the proposed agreement we would
acquire between 80 and 90 acres of C. Brewer property in the Ka'u
region of the Big Island of Hawaii, valued at between $900,000 and
$1,000,000. In return, C. Brewer would acquire approximately 4% of our
outstanding Common Stock. In addition, C. Brewer acquired a three-year
warrant to purchase up to 500,000 shares of Aquasearch Common Stock at
$1.25 per share. To date, we have not consummated the transaction with
C. Brewer because production at our current facility has increased
beyond expectation.
1997
APR: EARL FUSATO NAMED CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER, JOINS BOARD. Mr. Fusato
brought considerable experience to our management team. At VeriFone,
Inc., global leader in the transaction automation industry, he served
as VP Finance (1983-87), Treasurer (1987-90) and Director of Internal
Audit and Manager of Transaction Automation (1990-92). He served as
CFO of RESCO Inc., a residential real estate brokerage company
(1992-94). He also served in various key positions at Ernst and Young
(1978-83) and KPMG Peat Marwick (1971-77).
JUN: APPARATUS PATENT IN EUROPE. We were awarded European Patent Number
0494887 for a "Process and Apparatus for the Production of
Photosynthetic Microbes." This patent not only claims certain
processes, but also certain features of our core technology, the
Aquasearch Growth Module. The European patent complements, but does
not supplant claims made in the U.S. Patent awarded in 1996. Our
European filing was made under the Patent Cooperation Treaty. We are
pursuing additional patents in certain treaty-member nations.
SEP: DR. EDWARD DAVID JOINS BOARD. Dr. David has a long history of
management experience in the fields of science and technology. During
his career he has served as President of Exxon Research and
Engineering, Science Advisor to the President of the United States,
Executive Director of the Communications Systems Division at Bell
Laboratories, and Director of the White House Office of Science and
Technology Policy.
11
<PAGE>
1998
APR: EXPANSION BEGINS TO TRIPLE OUR PRODUCTION FACILITY. We began
construction to expand our production facility in Kona, Hawaii from
one acre to three acres. At the same time, we began upgrading every
component of our production system hardware.
JUN: WE QUESTION CYANOTECH REGARDING INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY. We formally
notified Cyanotech of our concern that their use of photobioreactor
technology may violate one of our patents (U.S. patent No. 5,541,056)
relating to processes for controlling microalgae growth. We also
expressed concern regarding possible trade secret misappropriation.
JUL: DAVID WATUMULL NAMED EXECUTIVE VP, CORPORATE FINANCE AND STRATEGIC
DEVELOPMENT. Mr. Watumull brought more strength to our management
team. He has been a respected biotechnology industry analyst,
investment banker and money manager for more than 15 years, serving at
both Paine Webber and First Honolulu Securities.
WE TEST A NEW PHOTOBIOREACTOR - THE ULTRA-AGM. In previous months we
designed and engineered the Ultra-AGM. The Ultra-AGM is more than six
times larger than any standard production growth module we have used.
To our knowledge, the Ultra-AGM is larger than any closed-system
photobioreactor ever operated. A six-month testing period begins.
CYANOTECH FILES LAWSUIT. Our former joint venture partner filed a
complaint in the United States District Court for the District of
Hawaii (Case No. CV98-00600ACK) against us. They sought a declaratory
judgment of:
- invalidity of our U.S. patent (No. 5,541,056) for a method
to grow microalgae;
- non-infringement (by Cyanotech) of our same patent; and
- non-misappropriation of our trade secrets regarding the
Aquasearch Growth Module.
SEP: WE COUNTER-SUE CYANOTECH. We asserted the validity of our U.S. patent.
We also alleged that Cyanotech:
- infringed our U.S. patent;,
- misappropriated trade secrets related to our AGM technology;
- breached our joint venture dissolution agreement; and
- engaged in unfair competition.
We requested a combination of damages, injunctive relief and
attorney's fees on each count.
APPARATUS PATENT IN HONG KONG. We were awarded patent number HK1001232
for the "Process and Apparatus for the Production of Photosynthetic
Microbes." This patent was awarded under the Patent Cooperation
Treaty, based on the original filing approved by the European Patent
Office in 1997.
NOV: CHARTER MEMBERSHIP IN THE MARINE BIOPRODUCTS ENGINEERING CENTER
(MARBEC). MarBEC is a 10-year, $40 million Engineering Research
Center, funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation. MarBEC is
focused on developing new enzymes, pigments and pharmaceuticals,
primarily from microalgae. It is based at the University
12
<PAGE>
of Hawaii and the University of California, Berkeley. Aquasearch,
Monsanto and Eastman Chemical are among the charter industry members,
which have certain preferential rights to new products developed by
MarBEC. We are the only member of MarBEC that has developed
photobioreactor technology, which we believe is likely to be required
for the commercial exploitation of any new product from microalgae.
DEC: ENZYMED AGREEMENT. We entered into a Compound Library Agreement with
EnzyMed, Inc. of Iowa, a privately-held biotechnology company. Under
the agreement, we will provide extracts of microalgae that contain
unexplored or unexploited substances with biomedical value. EnzyMed
agreed to generate compounds from our microalgae extracts using their
method of "combinatorial biocatalysis." This method generally produces
several hundred compounds from a single extract. We expect some of
these compounds to be novel and proprietary. Both companies intend to
commercialize the resulting compound "libraries." Compound libraries
are typically screened for possible medical applications by the
pharmaceutical industry. The pharmaceutical company typically pays an
"access fee" for the right to screen the library for a limited time
and for limited applications. Under our agreement, Aquasearch and
EnzyMed will share revenues from commercialization, including access
fees, licensing fees, milestone payments, royalties, and commercial
sales.
1999
JAN: MARTIN GUERIN NAMED VP, SALES AND MARKETING. Mr. Guerin has
international experience with world-leading groups in food and feed
industries. He held top management positions for marketing and
business development with Finfeeds International (1996-98) and EWOS
(1994-96), both Cultor companies. His previous experience includes
management positions with BP Nutrition (now Nutreco) and Champagnes
Cereales.
NEW EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION BEGINS. With construction nearly complete
on our expanded 3-acre facility, we began to install new equipment for
process control and for final processing of raw products.
THE ULTRA-AGM GOES INTO OPERATION. After a successful 6-month testing
period, we installed and began to operate the new Ultra-AGM. This new
photobioreactor is much larger, more efficient, and less costly than
any previous AGM. It also requires 75% less manpower to operate.
FEB: CONSTRUCTION COMPLETED ON 3-ACRE PHYSICAL PLANT. We completed all new
structures at our production facility. We tripled the area for both
AGMs and finishing ponds. We quadrupled the area under roof to more
than 8,000 square feet. We added a multi-purpose building for product
processing, packaging and storage. The processing building can
accommodate further increases in production at our current site. We
laid the foundation for a 10,000 square-foot laboratory that will
accommodate expansion of our drug discovery program.
NEW PLANT BEGINS PRODUCTION AT FULL CAPACITY. While installing our
final processing equipment, we increased our production of raw product
to full capacity. We began to store raw product. Final processing of
the product will be done once equipment installation is complete.
13
<PAGE>
DAVID TARNAS JOINS BOARD. Mr. Tarnas brings political experience to
our Board of Directors. As a Hawaii State Representative and Chairman
of the House Committee on Ocean Recreation and Marine Resources, he
led many important policy initiatives in Hawaii until 1998.
PROCESS PATENT IN EUROPE. We were awarded European Patent Number
0772676 for a "Method of Control of Microorganism Growth Process."
This patent, originally granted in the U.S., was awarded in Europe
under the Patent Cooperation Treaty. It claims certain processes that
operate in our proprietary, closed-system photobioreactor, the AGM.
MAR: PROCESS PATENT IN U.S. We received U.S. Patent Number 5,882,849 for a
"Method of Control of HAEMATOCOCCUS Species Growth Process." This
patent applies to proprietary techniques we use to grow HAEMATOCOCCUS,
our principal source of astaxanthin. We are pursuing international
patents in certain member nations that are signatories of the Patent
Cooperation Treaty.
APR: APPARATUS PATENT IN NORWAY. We were awarded Norwegian Patent Number
304556 for a "Process and Apparatus for the Production of
Photosynthetic Microbes." This patent not only claims certain
processes, but also certain features of our core technology, the
Aquasearch Growth Module. Originally granted in Europe, this patent
was awarded in Norway under the Patent Cooperation Treaty.
PRODUCT FORMULATION BEGINS ON OUR FIRST NUTRACEUTICAL PRODUCT. A large
U.S. chemical company began collaborating with us - under a
confidentiality agreement - to formulate an astaxanthin-rich
nutraceutical product.
MAY: PROCESS PATENT IN AUSTRALIA. We were awarded Australian Patent Number
698772 for a "Method of Control of Microorganism Growth Process." This
patent, originally granted in the U.S., was awarded in Australia under
the Patent Cooperation Treaty.
APPARATUS PATENT IN SOUTH KOREA. We received South Korea Patent Number
700834 for a "Process and Apparatus for the Production of
Photosynthetic Microbes." Originally granted in Europe, this patent
was awarded in South Korea under the Patent Cooperation Treaty.
MICROALGAE FOR OUR SECOND NUTRACEUTICAL PRODUCT APPROVED. The State of
Hawaii Department of Agriculture approved our permit application to
import a new microalgae species. This species is the basis for our
second nutraceutical product, planned for product launch in 2000.
THE MARINE BIOTECHNOLOGY INDUSTRY
There are 30,000 species of microalgae. Many of these are known to contain
valuable substances, including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and certain
commodities. Fewer than one-tenth of one percent of these 30,000 species have
been produced commercially.
The total market for only three species of microalgae that are now produced
commercially (SPIRULINA, CHLORELLA and HAEMATOCOCCUS) is estimated to be in the
range of $200-300 million per year. We believe that
14
<PAGE>
the total market for all products derived from microalgae could eventually
range into the billions of dollars, provided that: (1) the products are
unique, valuable, and numerous; and (2) production technology is reliable and
cost-effective.
Scientific literature demonstrates that:
- - microalgae contain unique substances;
- - these unique substances are potentially valuable as pharmaceuticals and
nutraceuticals; and
- - these unique substances are numerous among the microalgae.
Until recently, however, there was no technology to provide for the
cost-effective production of microalgae in commercial quantities. We believe
that our AGM provides a reliable and cost-effective production technology
that will contribute to the development of a multi-billion dollar marine
biotechnology industry. However, there can be no assurance that such an
industry will develop.
OUR KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
(1) RELIABLE AND COST EFFECTIVE PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY
The Aquasearch Growth Module is a novel, reliable and cost-effective production
technology. We have proven the efficacy of the AGM through a 10-year process of
engineering, development, and demonstration.
We continue to achieve targeted improvements in AGM technology and performance,
as this table shows:
<TABLE>
- -------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------- ----------------------------------
IMPROVEMENT PLANNED IN 1998 ACHIEVED IN 1999
- -------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------- ----------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Increase AGM size 6X Greater than 6X
Decrease capital cost 2X 3X
(per gallon capacity)
Increase AGM production cycle 30 days 60 days
HAEMATOCOCCUS production rate Increase 3X Greater than 3X
Astaxanthin content of product 2.0% of dry weight Greater than 3.0% of dry weight
- -------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------- ----------------------------------
</TABLE>
These improvements to the AGM have reduced costs and increased productivity. We
believe the AGM is the largest commercial photobioreactor in operation. To our
knowledge, our current HAEMATOCOCCUS production rate is higher than any reported
in the scientific literature.
(2) INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
We now have issued patents relating to:
- the AGM apparatus (Europe, Australia, Norway, Hong Kong, South
Korea)
- general processes for cultivating microalgae in photobioreactors
(U.S., Europe, Australia)
- specific processes for cultivating HAEMATOCOCCUS (U.S.)
15
<PAGE>
Five of these patents issued in the first 5 months of 1999 alone. Additional
patents are pending.
We continue to develop trade secrets. We believe that our trade secrets have
been critical to our recent improvements in production rates and product
quality.
(3) PRODUCTION CAPACITY
In the past year we expanded our physical plant by a factor of three. We now
have a completely new manufacturing plant. The plant includes new processing
equipment and an upgraded process-control system.
Our HAEMATOCOCCUS cultivation process is done in two steps. We use two types of
large-scale production systems: (1) Aquasearch Growth Modules, and (2)
"finishing" ponds. This table shows the key features of these two production
systems:
<TABLE>
- ------------------------ --------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------
FEATURE AQUASEARCH GROWTH MODULE FINISHING POND
- ------------------------ --------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------
<C> <C> <C>
Function Produce HAEMATOCOCCUS biomass Convert biomass to astaxanthin
Technology Proprietary Public domain
Utilized capacity 20% 100%
- ------------------------ --------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
We have achieved much greater improvements in AGM performance than anticipated.
As a result, we are now using only 20% of our AGM production capacity. If the
market demands, we could increase total production by 5X by increasing our
finishing pond capacity. Relative to AGMs, finishing ponds are less costly to
construct.
(4) SALES
In 1998 we projected sales to begin as soon as our expanded facility was
constructed, and our new processing equipment was installed.
We completed construction of the expanded facility in February 1999. New
processing equipment is expected to be installed in June 1999. Product sales are
projected to begin soon thereafter.
(5) PRODUCT PIPELINE
In 1998 our pipeline consisted of a single product: natural astaxanthin for use
in animal nutrition. We have now expanded our pipeline to include:
1) Nutraceuticals
- Natural astaxanthin
- A second microalgae-based product
2) Drug discovery
- Compound libraries
16
<PAGE>
These products are all in active development. A large U.S. chemical company is
collaborating with us - under a confidentiality agreement - to formulate our
natural astaxanthin nutraceutical. However, we cannot guarantee that the
collaboration will extend beyond product formulation. The State of Hawaii
Department of Agriculture has just approved our import permit for a new species
of microalgae that is the basis of our second nutraceutical product. EnzyMed has
received our first microalgae extracts, and has begun work to produce our first
compound library.
(6) OUR TEAM
NEW MANAGEMENT. We believe our team is stronger than ever - at all levels.
Within the last year we added important experience and expertise at the
management level, including David Watumull, Martin Guerin and David Tarnas.
Together, these individuals bring us new experience and expertise in:
- international marketing and sales in food and feed
industries;
- strategic development in biotechnology and pharmaceutical
industries;
- public/private sector collaboration; and
- fund raising.
NEW RESEARCH SCIENTISTS. Dr. Walter Nordhausen, Dr. Mai Lopez, and Dr. Mia Unson
have joined our research team in the past six months. Together, they more than
double our research effort, and bring us proven experience in:
- biopharmaceutical product development;
- marine biology and biochemistry;
- natural products chemistry; and
- research program management.
EMPLOYEES. We believe our employees are strongly motivated for success. In 1998
we introduced a pay-for-performance compensation plan that includes both stock
options and cash bonus programs. We structured the compensation plan to reward
both teamwork and individual excellence. Rewards are generated by performance on
quarterly targets. We believe that our employees are directly responsible for
Aquasearch's recent achievements.
(7) RECENT FINANCING ACTIVITY
From June 1997 to September 1998, the Company raised $3,305,000 through the
private placement of convertible notes. Between July and September 1998, all of
the outstanding convertible notes (together with accrued interest), were
converted into 20,075,648 shares of Common Stock. We also issued 3,305,000
Warrants under the terms of the Notes. The Warrants have an exercise price of
$0.50 per share and have a term of three years.
Additionally, from September 1998 through April 1999, the Company raised
$2,870,000 through the private placement of convertible notes. These convertible
notes bear interest at 10 percent per annum, have a term of one year and are
convertible into shares of Common Stock. Upon conversion of the notes, each note
holder will receive warrants to purchase 1,000 shares of Common Stock at $0.50
per share for each $1,000 aggregate principal amount of convertible notes
purchased. In the six months ended April 30, 1999, some of these convertible
note holders along with other outstanding convertible note holders converted
their notes into a total of 7,837,007 shares of the Company's Common Stock and
received an aggregate of 1,259,800 warrants.
17
<PAGE>
MANAGEMENT'S PLAN OF OPERATION FOR THE NEXT TWELVE MONTHS
Last year we focused on technology and infrastructure. We strengthened our
intellectual property, expanded our physical plant, and augmented production
capacity. During the next twelve months we will focus on sales and product
development, specifically:
- Initiating sales of our first nutraceutical product, natural
astaxanthin
- Formulating our second nutraceutical product
- Growing sales of natural astaxanthin for animal feed
- Marketing and selling compound libraries for drug discovery
- Expanding our product pipeline
(1) NUTRACEUTICAL ASTAXANTHIN
THE PRODUCT. Our first major nutraceutical product is a dietary supplement rich
in astaxanthin. Astaxanthin is a powerful, bioactive anti-oxidant (approximately
100 times more potent than Vitamin E). Astaxanthin has demonstrated efficacy in
animal or human models of:
- ALZHEIMER'S AND PARKINSON'S DISEASE: major neurodegenerative
diseases
- MACULAR DEGENERATION: the leading cause of blindness in the
U.S.
- CHOLESTEROL DISEASE: ameliorates the effects of LDL (the
"bad" cholesterol)
- STROKE: repairs damage caused by lack of oxygen
- CANCER: protects against several types of cancer
THE MARKET. We believe a strong market could develop for our nutraceutical
astaxanthin product among persons afflicted with these ailments because of:
- LARGE SIZE OF POTENTIAL MARKET: millions of Americans are
affected
- POOR PROGNOSIS: some of these diseases have ineffective or
no approved treatments
- PROMISING DATA: quality of data in relevant human and
animal models to date is promising
Our analysis of reasonable dosage and customary pricing in the nutraceutical
industry suggests that nutraceutical astaxanthin may command retail prices in
the range of $50,000 per kilogram, depending on various factors. If the
estimate of the retail market price for nutraceutical astaxanthin proves to
be accurate, then we would estimate the potential U.S. market to exceed $500
million per year. This estimate is based on just one of the six diseases
described above, and is derived from the number of persons affected by the
condition, as estimated by physicians providing treatment for the disease,
and the conventional price of an appropriate daily dosage. Certain consumers
may be highly motivated to use nutraceutical astaxanthin because:
- Treatment alternatives do not exist for some ailments
- Sufferers have used nutraceuticals with less demonstrated
efficacy than astaxanthin
PRODUCTION CAPACITY. Our current production capacity would satisfy approximately
1% of the estimated U.S. market. We estimate this would generate retail sales of
more than $5 million per year. We can expand most cost-effectively by adding
only finishing ponds on adjacent property. We do have space available for
expansion. We estimate this would allow a 5-fold expansion at a cost of
approximately $1.8 million.
18
<PAGE>
PRODUCT FORMULATION. We are collaborating in product formulation with a large
U.S. chemical company that has significant experience in nutraceutical products.
Our collaboration is being carried out under a confidentiality agreement.
However, we cannot guarantee that the collaboration will extend beyond product
formulation.
MARKETING STRATEGY. We intend to sell this product directly to consumers.
Several wholesale purchasers of nutraceutical products have also contacted us
regarding our product. We may or may not enter into supply agreements with one
or more wholesalers.
REGULATORY ISSUES. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has primary
regulatory responsibility in nutraceutical markets. Many regulations apply.
The DSHEA Act of 1994 governs certain conditions of sale of all nutraceutical
products or dietary supplements in the U.S. The FDA details certain
procedures that comprise "Good Manufacturing Practice" (GMP) with which we
will have to comply. The State of Hawaii Department of Health imposes certain
regulations on the preparation of substances for human consumption. We are
taking action to comply with all relevant regulations and recommended
procedures. We plan to achieve compliance in 1999.
COMPETITION. AstaCarotene AB of Sweden produces and sells an astaxanthin-rich
nutraceutical product in Europe that, like ours, is based on HAEMATOCOCCUS
microalgae. AstaCarotene must produce their product in a controlled climate,
rather than in Sweden's natural climate. We believe their cost of production is
significantly higher than ours.
Cyanotech recently announced its intention to launch a HAEMATOCOCCUS-based
nutraceutical in the summer of 1999. Cyanotech advertises its natural
astaxanthin product to contain 1.5% astaxanthin. Our product contains 3% --
double that amount. To produce the same amount of astaxanthin, therefore,
Aquasearch requires only half the HAEMATOCOCCUS production capacity. We
therefore believe our cost of production may be less than Cyanotech's. We also
believe that customers may perceive our 3% product as superior to a 1.5%
product, which could confer a competitive advantage over Cyanotech's product.
Igene, a subsidiary of Archer Daniels Midland, produces astaxanthin from
genetically engineered yeast. The chemical form of astaxanthin in HAEMATOCOCCUS
is the one that prevails in nature, and is different from that in yeast. We
believe the nutraceutical market will view the prevailing natural form of
astaxanthin - from HAEMATOCOCCUS - as superior. We anticipate that consumers of
nutraceuticals will prefer the naturally-developed astaxanthin product over the
genetically-engineered one.
Itano of Japan produces an astaxanthin extract from Antarctic krill, a marine
microcrustacean. The product is distributed in the U.S. in very small amounts
and at very high prices (GREATER THAN $650,000 per kilogram). Krill fishing
in Antarctica is very expensive and highly regulated. Krill fishing vessels
must travel for more than two weeks, at a cost of approximately $50,000 per
day, to complete the voyage between Japan and the Southern Ocean. Suitably
equipped vessels cost approximately $30 million and typically have a lifetime
of only 20 years. The krill fishery is regulated by the Committee for
Conservation of Antarctic Living Resources, an international body comprised
of scientists from Antarctic Treaty member nations. The krill fishery reached
its peak in the mid-1980s and has since declined.
BASF and Hoffman La-Roche both produce synthetic astaxanthin from
petrochemicals. Their compound is chemically different than natural astaxanthin.
The effect of the difference has not been studied. However, the natural form of
a closely related antioxidant, Vitamin E, was found by its manufacturer (Eastman
Chemical) to be four times more potent than the synthetic form. We believe the
19
<PAGE>
nutraceutical market shows less interest in synthetic products than in natural
products, and will pay a premium for a natural product.
TIMING OF PRODUCT RELEASE. We plan to release our nutraceutical astaxanthin
product in 1999.
(2) OUR SECOND NUTRACEUTICAL PRODUCT
THE PRODUCT. Our second nutraceutical product is a dietary supplement rich in a
certain carotenoid pro-vitamin. The pro-vitamin is known to perform certain
vital functions in human physiology. Like astaxanthin, it is a potent
anti-oxidant. Like astaxanthin, which has very similar molecular properties, it
is present in trace quantities in certain common foods. Also like astaxanthin,
it is overproduced in certain microalgae.
THE MARKET. We believe the market for this product is similar to that for
nutraceutical astaxanthin. Animal and human models have demonstrated the
efficacy of this product in its effect on certain common illnesses. We believe
the potential market for this product could exceed $100 million per year.
PRODUCTION CAPACITY. In mid-1999 we received approval from the State of Hawaii
Department of Agriculture to import the microalgae that it is the basis of our
second nutraceutical product. We plan to begin cultivation at AGM (commercial)
scale in late 1999. We intend to devote approximately six months to optimizing
production in AGMs. Based on our knowledge and observations of this microalgae,
we believe we have enough production capacity to sustain product introduction.
After approximately one year of production, we project that initial sales would
support the cost of expanding our physical plant.
PRODUCT FORMULATION. The pro-vitamin in this product has chemical properties
that are similar to astaxanthin, and therefore we believe the product
formulation would also be very similar. We have not yet conducted any studies on
product formulation.
MARKETING STRATEGY. We intend to market this product directly to consumers,
building on the experience we will have developed with nutraceutical
astaxanthin. We may also sell limited amounts to wholesalers.
REGULATORY ISSUES. We expect this product to be subject to the same regulatory
issues that govern nutraceutical astaxanthin.
COMPETITION. We know of no competition for this product, nor for the pro-vitamin
it contains.
TIMING OF PRODUCT RELEASE. We plan to release this product within the next 12 to
18 months.
(3) NATURAL ASTAXANTHIN FOR ANIMAL FEED
THE PRODUCT. We have spent several years developing this product in conjunction
with Cultor. Astaxanthin is proven to be a vital dietary component in salmon,
trout, red sea bream, and several other species of cultivated seafood products.
In salmon, the primary market, astaxanthin is important as the main source of
their pink flesh color. Recent studies have also demonstrated the importance of
astaxanthin in enhancing the growth rate, vision, and fertility of salmon.
Astaxanthin is routinely used as a feed additive in poultry feeds, for the
purpose of improving the coloration of eggs and reducing the incidence of
infections. Astaxanthin in the diet of swine has been shown to increase
fertility. Several feeding studies with our astaxanthin-rich microalgae in fish
diets have produced the desired results.
20
<PAGE>
THE MARKET. The market for astaxanthin in aquaculture has grown at about 10% per
year over the past 15 years. The markets for astaxanthin in feeds for poultry,
swine, and other domestic animals are not yet well developed, and are much
smaller. The 1998 global market for astaxanthin was estimated at approximately
$185 million. The sales price for astaxanthin has remained at about $2,500 per
kilogram for the past decade. Consumers in certain niche markets are willing to
pay a premium price. Global annual consumption of astaxanthin is in excess of
65,000 kilograms. Almost all astaxanthin is consumed in five countries which
are, in order of importance, Norway, Chile, Scotland, Canada and Japan.
PRODUCTION CAPACITY. Our current production capacity amounts to less than
1.0% of the global market. We plan to increase production capacity only in
response to demand. We have the option to increase capacity in two phases.
The first phase would involve constructing more finishing ponds, which would
result in an expansion of our current production capacity by a factor of
five. We estimate this first phase would cost less than $1.8 million, and
could generate annual sales approaching $2.0 million. The second phase would
probably require a new site, because adjacent space is limited at our current
site. The modular nature of the AGM-based production system lends itself well
to expansion at any foreseeable scale. We believe that the experience gained
in our recent plant expansion will make it easier for us to expand our
capacity at our existing site or at adjacent or other sites.
PRODUCT FORMULATION. Any feed ingredient, including astaxanthin-rich microalgae,
requires careful formulation and testing prior to market. Our primary goal has
been to create a product that is at least equal, if not superior to, competitive
feed ingredients. We have focused on creating a product with longer shelf life
that is safer and easier to handle, and produces a better result in the diet. We
believe we have achieved these and other goals to a great degree, some on our
own, and some in collaboration with Cultor. We also believe that further
improvement is possible. If significant changes are made in product formulation,
then new regulatory approvals may have to be obtained. Therefore, we have been
very careful to develop our product to a high standard before placing it on the
market.
MARKETING STRATEGY. We believe that astaxanthin-rich microalgae will account
for a very significant share of the global astaxanthin market. We intend to
be a leader in this market for the following reasons:
1) A SUPERIOR PRODUCT. We believe a product that is safer,
easier to handle, has a longer shelf life, and provides
equal or greater efficacy per unit cost will eventually take
significant market share.
2) CONSUMER AWARENESS. Farmed salmon now account for almost 40%
of global salmon production. Consumers are generally not
aware that the farmed salmon they eat contain a synthetic,
petrochemical-based coloring. Recent studies by the U.S. FDA
have shown that farmed salmon are easily distinguished from
wild salmon because they do not contain the natural form of
astaxanthin. All other factors being equal, we believe
that informed consumers will generally prefer a natural
astaxanthin product over a synthetic one.
We distribute our product through Cultor and other companies. The former lead
manager of sales and marketing of astaxanthin at Cultor, Martin Guerin, is
now our VP, Sales and Marketing.
REGULATORY ISSUES. All feed ingredients are regulated in the countries where
they are sold. Regulations differ among astaxanthin-consuming nations. Product
specifications may differ, the stringency of regulations may differ, and the
time required for the application process may differ. In Europe, for example, we
expect regulatory approval could take up to three years, whereas in Chile we
expect such
21
<PAGE>
approval should take substantially less time.
TIMING OF PRODUCT RELEASE. We project our first sales of astaxanthin-rich
microalgae for use in animal feeds in June 1999. Product formulations may differ
from country to country, depending on regulatory approval. We expect to
release products in countries as we obtain regulatory approval.
(4) DRUG DISCOVERY LIBRARIES
THE DRUG DISCOVERY PROCESS. A large number of modern medicines were originally
discovered in plants. The drug discovery process generally starts by identifying
a plant that has "bioactive" properties. The compound responsible for
bioactivity is identified through a sequence of chemical extraction, testing,
and purification. The pure compound is tested, first in animal models and then
in human clinical trials. If the entire process is completed, the result is a
new drug.
In conjunction with EnzyMed, we have developed a drug discovery process adapted
to microalgae. Our role in this process is to (1) identify and cultivate
bioactive microalgae species, and (2) chemically extract, test, and purify the
bioactive fractions. Our tests rely on cell cultures, human tissue cultures and
genomic screens, conducted in collaboration with certain university research
laboratories. Bioactive fractions are then subjected to Combinatorial
Biocatalysis, a process which creates, on average, hundreds of derivative
compounds from each pure bioactive compound using EnzyMed's proprietary
enzymatic methods. The resulting Microalgae Compound Libraries are then ready to
market.
THE PRODUCT. Compound libraries are a major source of drug discovery in today's
pharmaceutical industry. The "library" consists of pure compounds, commonly in
sets of 96, packaged in special containers designed for "High-Throughput
Screening." The screening process identifies new drug candidates by testing for
bioactivity, often targeted at certain diseases. Tests might be based on the
ability to kill certain types of cells (e.g. bacteria, cancer), or they might be
based on genetic pathways involved in specific diseases. Any positive result
from a screening test could eventually lead to a new medicine.
We believe the Aquasearch/EnzyMed Microalgae Compound Library is unique because
it has these features:
1) Unexplored resource
- Few microalgae have been screened by the pharmaceutical
industry
2) Quantity
- Species: 30,000
- Bioactive compounds: thousands
- Average derivatives of each bioactive compound: hundreds via
Combinatorial Biocatalysis
3) Possible Patentability
- Bioactive compounds in microalgae may be new to science
- Bioactive derivatives from Combinatorial Biocatalysis may be
new to science
THE MARKET. Consumers of compound libraries are biopharmaceutical companies.
These companies are strongly motivated to find new sources of drugs. According
to a 1997 study by Andersen Consulting, the pharmaceutical industry must
increase its rate of discovery of new drugs by a factor of 10 in five years in
order to maintain its historic growth rate.
22
<PAGE>
Compound libraries are typically marketed as a package that includes the
following terms and conditions:
1) Library Access Fee
- $25,000 to $100,000 per customer
- access time: limited to 3-12 months
- application: limited to certain diseases or disease
areas
- multiple customers allowed
2) Licensing Fee
- $3 million to $15 million per compound
- activated by decision to begin trials
3) Milestone Payments
- $500,000 to $25 million per event
- activated by the results of pre-clinical and clinical
trials
4) Royalties
- activated by FDA approval and full commercialization
PRODUCTION CAPACITY. We are producing our first compound library in
collaboration with EnzyMed. We have provided EnzyMed with a purified extract of
a known bioactive compound, and they are now producing derivatives using
Combinatorial Biocatalysis.
We have demonstrated capability in identification, microalgae cultivation,
extraction, purification, and testing of bioactivity. Our research team
includes professional scientists with expertise in all these areas. However,
we have only limited facilities and equipment for chemistry (extraction,
purification) and biochemistry (testing). In these areas, we now rely on
collaborations with several universities and members of our Scientific
Advisory Board. We plan to expand capacity with a 6,000 sq. ft. laboratory
dedicated to drug discovery and appropriate equipment, at an estimated cost
of $2.0 million. Our ability to finance this expansion depends on funds we
would have to raise through revenues, debt or equity.
EnzyMed has demonstrated capability in Combinatorial Biocatalysis. Its contract
customers for this type of "lead optimization" currently include Merck,
Lilly, Roche, Novartis and other biopharmaceutical companies.
MARKETING STRATEGY. Both Aquasearch and EnzyMed have considerable marketing
know-how in the drug discovery market. A number of major pharmaceutical and
biotech companies have already expressed an interest in our first compound
library. Senior officers of both companies are responsible for marketing the
compound libraries.
TIMING OF PRODUCT RELEASE. We plan to release our first library for access
within six months.
(5) EXPANDING OUR PRODUCT PIPELINE
PRODUCT AREAS. We have established two areas to expand our product pipeline:
- Nutraceuticals
- Pharmaceutical drug development
BASIC STRATEGY: NUTRACEUTICALS. We plan to expand our nutraceutical product
pipeline using a common process. A fundamental principle of this process is that
we rely on strategic collaborations and alliances whenever special Aquasearch
expertise and technology is not required. We have already identified many
23
<PAGE>
potential nutraceutical products among the microalgae, mostly through the
published scientific literature. We are focused on markets for high-value
products that, like those for natural astaxanthin and our second nutraceutical
product, have potential sales of more than $100 million, and few or no known
competitors. At our recently completed facility, we can directly measure
economic feasibility from data gathered during a six-month production run in our
commercial-scale Ultra-AGM.
We are well aware that nutraceutical products, because they are not highly
regulated, have caused concern among some consumers. Our goal is to
self-regulate at a higher standard than required by law. We are implementing a
variety of testing procedures designed to maximize product safety and product
efficacy.
Our marketing approach may determine many aspects of product development. We
would prefer to sell products directly to the consumer. However, if a strategic
partner can contribute significantly to product development or marketing, then
we will consider an alliance that could accelerate or maximize the process.
BASIC STRATEGY: PHARMACEUTICAL DRUG DEVELOPMENT. Our process for expanding the
pipeline in drug development is firmly founded on strategic collaborations and
alliances. We have leveraged our ability to identify, extract, test, and
purify novel bioactive substances from microalgae through partnerships with
major universities. We have enhanced our ability to produce Microalgae
Compound Libraries through our collaboration with EnzyMed.
We are focused in the next year on developing strategic license agreements with
biopharmaceutical companies. We expect many biopharmaceutical companies will be
interested to access our Compound Libraries for drug discovery. We believe our
management team has well-developed networks and relationships in the
biotechnology industry that bring credibility to our marketing approach.
PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT: MARBEC. The Marine Bioproducts Engineering is a 10-year,
$40 million Engineering Research Center ("ERC"), funded in 1998 by the U.S.
National Science Foundation. There are fewer than two dozen ERCs in the U.S. In
1998, more than 160 universities competed for only 5 ERCs awarded by the
National Science Foundation.
MarBEC combines the expertise of world-leading marine science and ocean
engineering programs at the School of Ocean and Earth Sciences and Technology at
University of Hawaii with the nationally-famous chemical engineering program at
the Department of Chemical Engineering at University of California, Berkeley.
CORE RESEARCH: Discovery and development of new products from
microalgae
COST: Industrial Partnership, $20,000 annually
BENEFITS TO AQUASEARCH:
- New research results prior to public disclosure
- Preferential rights to intellectual property
- Privilege to sponsor focused research, resulting in
exclusive intellectual property rights
- Preferred access to specialized and unique facilities and
equipment
- Preferred access to microalgae culture collections
- Membership on Industrial Advisory Board (current members:
Aquasearch, Monsanto, Eastman Chemical)
- Opportunity to influence specific research
- Preferential access to student interns
24
<PAGE>
In the first ten years of the ERC program, two dozen centers generated more than
1,000 patents. Industry members in other ERCs have cited the principal benefits
as (1) strategic relationships arising out of the academic/industry network, (2)
access to specialized equipment and facilities, and (3) better educated ERC
graduates.
PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT: OTHER UNIVERSITIES. We are currently negotiating research
agreements with medical schools at four universities. If consummated, these
agreements will strongly leverage our own product development efforts. Our
goals are as follows:
CORE RESEARCH: Pre-clinical screening for drug candidates
- Purification of extracts from approximately 1,200 species of
microalgae in 3 years
- Tissue culture screening
- Genomic screening: allows extracts to be tested for effects
on specific diseases
- Genetic control of microalgae biochemistry
- Targets: skin cancer, breast cancer, antivirals, antifungals
COST: Approximately $500,000 per year. Projects range from 1 to 3
years. One project requires no funds.
BENEFITS TO AQUASEARCH:
- Ownership of intellectual property
- Increases value of drug candidates to $3 to $15 million per
compound
We recognize that pre-clinical screening is costly. However, we believe it is a
very cost-effective investment. The industry-standard license fee for one
compound alone would more than double our anticipated investment.
If we are able to enter into agreements with all four universities, we expect to
generate and screen approximately 10,000 extracts over 3 years at a cost of $1.5
million. If our pre-clinical trials yield only one bioactive compound, the
minimum license fee we expect would be $3 million.
We have three options for screening and pre-clinical trials. We can do them
ourselves, with a corporate partner, or with a university partner. The cost of
facilities, equipment and expertise dictates that we work with a partner. The
advantage of the university partners we have chosen is significant, because the
universities perform contract research and we retain ownership of the compounds.
TIMING OF PRODUCT RELEASE. Our pipeline expansion is a process designed to yield
many more products at minimal cost. Our goal is two products per year. The
result could be less, or it could be far greater.
GENERAL ASPECTS OF PLANNED OPERATIONS
We expect to steadily increase revenues from sales of our natural astaxanthin
for animal feed. However, we do not expect this product alone to be profitable,
because we intend to reserve significant production capacity for nutraceutical
astaxanthin.
We intend to launch our nutraceutical astaxanthin product in late 1999. We
anticipate that we will become profitable within one year of the launch if we
hit our targets - with no increase in production capacity. However, there can be
no assurance that this will occur.
25
<PAGE>
Strategic relationships and collaborations will continue to be an important part
of our business strategy. We now have such relationships with EnzyMed, MarBEC
and Cultor. We expect collaborations will expand to include other corporations
and other universities. However, we cannot be certain to maintain existing
partner relationships, nor can we guarantee to develop other successful
relationships.
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS
Since inception, our primary operating activities have consisted of basic
research and development and production process development; recruiting
personnel; purchasing operating assets; and raising capital. From inception
through April 30, 1999, we had an accumulated deficit of approximately $9.0
million. Our losses to date have resulted primarily from costs incurred in
research and development and from general and administrative costs associated
with operations. We expect to continue to incur operating losses for at least
the next year as we increase the expansion of our product pipeline. We expect to
have quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year fluctuations in revenues, expenses and
losses, some of which could be significant.
We do have a limited operating history. Your assessment of our prospects should
include the technology risks, market risks, expenses and other difficulties
frequently encountered by development stage companies, and particularly
companies attempting to enter competitive industries with significant technology
risks and barriers to entry. We have attempted to address these risks by, among
other things, hiring and retaining highly qualified persons and forging
strategic alliances with companies and universities that complement and leverage
our technical strengths. However, our best efforts cannot guarantee that we will
overcome these risks in a timely manner, if at all.
We are in the process of transition to a full-scale commercial producer of
microalgae products. These changes in our business have placed and will continue
to place significant demands on our management, working capital and financial
and management control systems.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
REVENUES. Since inception, our main activities have been basic research and
development and manufacture process development; recruiting personnel;
purchasing operating assets; and raising capital. We had no revenues for the
quarters ended April 30, 1999 and 1998. Most of the product we produced in 1997
and 1998 was used for product development and testing. All the product we have
produced in 1999 is in inventory, and most of this awaits final formulation
before it can be sold.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT COSTS. Research and development costs include salaries,
consulting fees, development materials, equipment depreciation and costs
associated with operating our three-acre research and development/production
facility. Research and development costs increased by approximately $45,000, or
14%, during the quarter ended April 30, 1999 compared to the quarter ended April
30, 1998. Most of these funds were expended to develop the very large Ultra-AGM,
to expand production capacity, to implement improved computerized process
control, and to reduce capital costs of the AGM technology. From inception
through April 30, 1999, our total research and development costs were
approximately $3.7 million. We expect to incur significant additional research
and development expenses in the future.
GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. General and administrative expenses consist
principally of salaries and fees for professional services. General and
administrative costs increased approximately $516,000, or 51%, for the quarter
ended April 30, 1999 compared with the quarter ended April 30, 1998. The
increase in general and administrative expenses reflects additional costs
associated with personnel
26
<PAGE>
additions, legal fees incurred in connection with developing and protecting
the Company's intellectual property position and raising capital, as well as
other expenses. From inception through April 30, 1999, our total general and
administrative expenses were approximately $4.8 million. We anticipate that
general and administrative expenses will increase over time as we expand
production capacity, develop more new products, increase our intellectual
property protection, and raise additional capital.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
We have financed our operations until now through public and private sales of
equity securities. In the past six months, we raised approximately $2.5 million
from the private placement of convertible notes. In the fiscal years ended
October 31, 1998 and 1997, we raised approximately $3.4 million and $1.3 million
(net), respectively, from the sale of shares of Common Stock and/or the issuance
of Convertible Notes in private placement transactions. From inception through
April 30, 1999, we had raised total net proceeds of approximately $10.5 million
through public and private sales of equity and debt securities.
During the quarter ended April 30, 1999, operating activities consumed
approximately $840,000 compared with $425,000 in the quarter ended April 30,
1998. From inception through April 30, 1999, operating activities have consumed
approximately $6.5 million.
Capital expenditures for the quarters ended April 30, 1999 and 1998 were
$201,000 and $62,000, respectively. From inception through April 30, 1999,
total capital expenditures have been approximately $3.7 million.
As of April 30, 1999, our liquidity was approximately $164,000 in cash and cash
equivalents.
We estimate a need for approximately $3.0 million in operating capital over the
next twelve months. We need an additional $0.5 million to consummate strategic
research agreements with three university medical schools. Projected product
sales will begin to pay some operating costs. We now believe that product sales
could lead to profitability within twelve months after the start of product
sales, and that some future expansion could be financed out of profits. In the
near term, we believe that existing capital resources, funds to be raised
through public and/or private offerings of equity and/or debt securities and
bank financing will be sufficient for continued operations through the next
twelve months. We are now pursuing more sources of capital to maintain
operations and, more importantly, to expand our product pipeline. These capital
sources include government contracts and grants, product sales, license
agreements and equity or debt financing. We cannot guarantee success in raising
the additional capital necessary to sustain or expand operations, nor are we
certain that such capital will be available on terms that prevent substantial
dilution to existing investors. If we cannot raise sufficient capital, then we
might be forced to significantly curtail operations. Any reduction in operating
activity could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial
condition, results of operations, and relationships with corporate partners. See
"Factors That May Affect Future Operating Results--Substantial Near-Term Capital
Needs; Uncertainty of Additional Funding; Dilution" and "--Substantial Long-Term
Capital Needs; Uncertainty of Additional Funding; Dilution" in the 1998 Form
10-KSB.
27
<PAGE>
Part II - Other Information
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
On July 13, 1998, Cyanotech filed a complaint (the "Complaint") in the
United States District Court for the District of Hawaii (Case No. CV98-00600ACK)
against our company. In the Complaint, Cyanotech seeks declaratory judgment of
noninfringement of our U.S. Letters Patent No. 5,541,056 (the "5,541,056
Patent"); invalidity of the 5,541,056 Patent; and non-misappropriation of our
trade secrets relating to closed culture production of astaxanthin. Cyanotech
filed the Complaint after we expressed to Cyanotech our concern that Cyanotech
infringed the 5,541,056 Patent and misappropriated Aquasearch trade secrets. We
do not believe that Cyanotech's Complaint is meritorious. However, we may be
required to dedicate significant management time and incur significant legal
fees and expenses to pursue this action, which could have a material adverse
effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and
relationships with corporate partners. In addition, in the event that Cyanotech
were to prevail in this action, a finding of noninfringement or declaration of
invalidity of the 5,541,056 Patent could have a material adverse effect on our
business, financial condition, results of operations and relationships with
corporate partners.
On September 11, 1998, we filed an answer denying all of Cyanotech's
allegations and a counter claim, alleging infringement of the 5,541,056 Patent;
misappropriation of trade secrets; unfair competition; and breach of contract
relative to our 1994 Dissolution Agreement with Cyanotech.
On December 14, 1998, Cyanotech filed a motion for partial summary
judgment of noninfringement and invalidity of the 5,541,056 Patent. We do not
believe that this motion is meritorious.
On March 1, 1999, we filed a motion for partial summary judgment
against Cyanotech for breach of contract and misappropriation of trade
secrets. On March 26, 1999, we filed a cross-motion for summary judgment of
patent infringement. Both parties' motions for summary judgment are currently
scheduled to be heard in the fall of 1999.
The court has set a hearing for late June 1999 in relation to our
motion to enforce a settlement reached between the parties in the spring of
1999.
The trial in the lawsuit with Cyanotech is currently set to begin on
September 27, 1999.
Item 2. Changes In Securities
During the quarter ended April 30, 1999, we issued $1,070,000 aggregate
principal amount of one-year convertible notes bearing interest at 10% per
annum. The holders of the convertible notes have an option to convert their
convertible notes into our Common Stock. The convertible notes provide that upon
conversion, the holders would receive warrants to purchase shares of our Common
Stock. The warrants have an exercise price of $0.50 per share and a term of
three years. As of April 30, 1999, some of the holders of these convertibles
notes and other outstanding convertible note holders (amounting to $846,000
aggregate principal amount) exercised their option to convert their convertible
notes into shares of Common Stock. Upon conversion of the outstanding principal
of, and interest on, the convertible notes, we issued 5,437,908 shares of
Common Stock and also issued 866,000 warrants in connection thereof. These
transactions were exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933
pursuant to Section 4(2). No underwriters were involved in these transactions.
28
<PAGE>
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities -- None
Item 4. Submission of Matters To A Vote of Security Holders -- None
Item 5. Other Information -- None
Item 6. Exhibits And Reports on Form 8-K
(a) Exhibits -- None
(b) Reports on Form 8-K -- None
29
<PAGE>
SIGNATURE
In accordance with the requirements of the Exchange Act, the registrant
has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned
thereunto duly authorized.
AQUASEARCH, INC.
Dated: June 14, 1999 By: /s/ Mark E. Huntley
--------------------------------------
Mark E. Huntley, Ph.D.
President and Chief Executive Officer
<TABLE> <S> <C>
<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 5
<S> <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE> 3-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END> OCT-31-1999
<PERIOD-START> FEB-01-1999
<PERIOD-END> APR-30-1999
<CASH> 164,301
<SECURITIES> 0
<RECEIVABLES> 0
<ALLOWANCES> 0
<INVENTORY> 0
<CURRENT-ASSETS> 190,542
<PP&E> 3,821,294
<DEPRECIATION> 282,269
<TOTAL-ASSETS> 3,839,263
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES> 3,353,801
<BONDS> 0
0
0
<COMMON> 8,762
<OTHER-SE> 9,448,034
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY> 3,839,263
<SALES> 0
<TOTAL-REVENUES> 0
<CGS> 0
<TOTAL-COSTS> 1,099,649
<OTHER-EXPENSES> (45,891)
<LOSS-PROVISION> 0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE> 0
<INCOME-PRETAX> (1,145,540)
<INCOME-TAX> 0
<INCOME-CONTINUING> (1,145,540)
<DISCONTINUED> 0
<EXTRAORDINARY> 0
<CHANGES> 0
<NET-INCOME> (1,145,540)
<EPS-BASIC> (0.02)
<EPS-DILUTED> (0.02)
</TABLE>
