How did Aptose Biosciences reduce operating expenses significantly in Q4 2024?

Aptose Biosciences reduced its operating expenses significantly in Q4 2024 primarily due to lower research and development and general and administrative expenses, as evidenced by the following key points:

1. **Decrease in Research and Development Expenses**: The company's research and development expenses decreased to $4,702,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2024, from $8,256,000 in the same period of the previous year. This reduction was attributed to reduced activity in clinical trials and lower manufacturing costs.
2. **Decrease in General and Administrative Expenses**: General and administrative expenses also decreased to $2,263,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2024, from $3,425,000 in the same period of the previous year. This decrease was primarily due to lower salaries and professional fees.
3. **Strategic Initiatives**: Aptose is actively pursuing several strategic initiatives to support its long-term goals and address financial challenges. These initiatives likely include a focused approach on promising compounds like tuspetinib, which has led to a reduction in expenses related to less promising research areas.

In summary, Aptose Biosciences reduced its operating expenses significantly in Q4 2024 by decreasing research and development and general and administrative expenses through a combination of reduced clinical trial activity, lower manufacturing costs, and lower salaries and professional fees.