Why did Third Harmonic Bio's operating expenses surge in Q4 2024?

Third Harmonic Bio's operating expenses surged in Q4 2024 primarily due to increased research and development (R&D) and general and administrative (G&A) expenses, which were driven by the company's ongoing efforts to develop its lead candidate, THB335: 1. **Increase in R&D Expenses**: The R&D expenses rose to $11,343,000 from $5,969,000 compared to the same quarter the previous year. This increase was primarily attributed to the development of THB335. The company's focus on advancing THB335 through the clinical trial process led to higher expenses related to personnel, materials, and other trial-related costs. 2. **Increase in G&A Expenses**: The G&A expenses rose to $5,730,000 from $4,878,000, primarily due to increased personnel-related expenses. This suggests that the company may have hired more employees or experienced increased costs associated with its existing workforce. Overall, the surge in operating expenses reflects Third Harmonic Bio's investment in its core business activities, particularly in R&D, as the company advances its pipeline and prepares for potential commercialization of its lead candidate, THB335.