PRE 14A

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

SCHEDULE 14A

Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of the

Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Filed by the Registrant ☒

Filed by a Party other than the Registrant ☐

Check the appropriate box:

☒	Preliminary Proxy Statement

☐	Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))

☐	Definitive Proxy Statement

☐	Definitive Additional Materials

☐	Soliciting Material under § 240.14a-12

Quince Therapeutics, Inc.

(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)

(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement if other than the Registrant)

Payment of Filing Fee (Check all boxes that apply):

☒	No fee required

☐	Fee paid previously with preliminary materials

☐	Fee computed on table in exhibit required by Item 25(b) per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11

PRELIMINARY PROXY STATEMENT DATED JULY 31, 2026—SUBJECT TO COMPLETION

LOGO

Dear Quince Stockholders:

You are cordially invited to attend a Special Meeting of Stockholders of Quince Therapeutics, Inc. (“Quince,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” or “us”), which will be held on , September , 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time (the “Special Meeting”), unless postponed or adjourned to a later date. To facilitate stockholder participation in the Special Meeting, the Special Meeting will be held through a live webcast at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/yb6vakam. You will not be able to attend the meeting in person. The record date for the Special Meeting is July 29, 2026. Only stockholders of record at the close of business on that date are entitled to notice of and to vote at the Special Meeting or any adjournment thereof.

On May 18, 2026, the Company acquired Orphai Holdings Therapeutics, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Orphai HoldCo”) and Orphai Therapeutics, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and wholly owned subsidiary of Orphai HoldCo (“Orphai Subsidiary” and, together with Orphai HoldCo, “Orphai” or “Orphai Therapeutics”), in accordance with the terms of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated May 17, 2026 (the “Merger Agreement”), by and among the Company, Phoenix Merger Sub I, Inc., a Delaware corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (“First Merger Sub”), Phoenix Merger Sub II, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (“Second Merger Sub”), Orphai HoldCo and Orphai Subsidiary. Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, First Merger Sub merged with and into Orphai HoldCo, pursuant to which Orphai HoldCo was the surviving corporation and became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (the “First Merger”). Immediately following the First Merger, Orphai HoldCo merged with and into Second Merger Sub, pursuant to which Second Merger Sub was the surviving entity (together with the First Merger, the “Acquisition”).

Under the terms of the Merger Agreement, following the closing of the Acquisition (the “Closing”), (i) the Company issued to the stockholders of Orphai HoldCo: (a) an aggregate of 162,971 shares of common stock, par value $0.001 per share of the Company (“common stock”) (after giving effect to a 1-for-20 reverse stock split, which occurred on June 29, 2026 (the “Reverse Stock Split”)) and (b) an aggregate of 67,101.235 shares of Series C Non-Voting Convertible Preferred Stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “Series C Preferred Stock”) (as described below), each share of which is convertible into 52 shares of common stock (after giving effect to the adjustment to the conversion ratio as a result of the Reverse Stock Split and representing 3,489,281 shares on an as-converted-to-common basis and without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations), subject to certain conditions described below, (ii) all outstanding warrants to purchase shares of Orphai HoldCo capital stock were cancelled and exchanged, in accordance with the terms of such warrants, for PIPE Warrants (as defined below) to purchase an aggregate of 10,964.505 shares of Series C Preferred Stock (representing an aggregate of 570,169 shares of common stock on an as-converted-to-common basis, after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split and without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations) at an exercise price of $996.90 per share of Series C Preferred Stock, for up to approximately $10.9 million in proceeds to the Company upon exercise thereof (the “Acquisition Warrants”) and (iii) all outstanding options to purchase Orphai Subsidiary common stock (the “Orphai Options”) were assumed by the Company and converted into options to purchase an aggregate of 1,308,804 shares of common stock (after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split).

In connection with the Acquisition, on May 18, 2026, the Company entered into a Securities Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with the purchasers named therein (the “Investors”), pursuant to which, on May 21, 2026 (the “PIPE Closing”), the Company issued and sold (i) an aggregate of 144,200.633 shares of Series C Preferred Stock

(the “PIPE Preferred Shares”) (representing 7,498,447 shares of common stock on an as-converted-to-common basis, after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split and without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations) and (ii) warrants (the “PIPE Warrants” and, together with the Acquisition Warrants, the “Warrants”) to purchase 72,100.322 shares of Series C Preferred Stock (together with the PIPE Preferred Shares, the “PIPE Securities”) (representing 3,749,231 shares of common stock on an as-converted-to-common basis, after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split and without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations) at an exercise price of $996.90 per share of Series C Preferred Stock, for an aggregate upfront cash purchase price of approximately $115 million, with up to an additional approximately $72 million upon exercise of the PIPE Warrants (such transaction, the “2026 Private Placement” and, together with the Acquisition and the other transactions and actions contemplated by the Merger Agreement, the “Acquisition Transactions”).

Subject to the receipt of stockholder approval of Proposals No. 1 through No. 3 (the “Required Company Stockholder Matters”), each outstanding share of Series C Preferred Stock will automatically convert into 52 shares of common stock, subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations established by each holder. As a result of the transactions, immediately following the PIPE Closing, equityholders of the Company immediately prior to the acquisition owned approximately 6.9% of the common stock, equityholders of Orphai Therapeutics immediately prior to the acquisition owned approximately 31.9% of the common stock and the Investors in the 2026 Private Placement owned approximately 61.2% of the common stock, in each case, calculated on a fully-diluted, as-converted-to-common basis (and without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations) using the treasury stock method and based on the implied equity values of the Company and Orphai Therapeutics.

At the Special Meeting, we will ask our stockholders:

To approve the issuance of shares of our common stock, upon conversion of our Series C Preferred Stock and exercise of the Warrants and Orphai Options, which (a) will represent more than 20% of the shares of common stock outstanding pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(a) and (b) may, together with certain changes to management and our Board, result in the change of control of the Company pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(b) (the “Conversion Proposal” or “Proposal No. 1”);

To approve the issuance of shares of our common stock, upon conversion of the PIPE Preferred Shares and upon exercise of the PIPE Warrants pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(d) (the “Minimum Price Proposal” or “Proposal No. 2”);

To approve an amendment to our certificate of incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of our common stock from 250,000,000 to 275,000,000 (the “Authorized Share Proposal” or “Proposal No. 3”);

To approve the 2026 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2026 Plan Proposal” or “Proposal No. 4”);

To approve the 2026 ESPP (the “2026 ESPP Proposal” or “Proposal No. 5”); and

To approve the adjournment or postponement of the Special Meeting, if necessary, to continue to solicit votes for Proposals Nos. 1, 2 and/or 3 (the “Adjournment Proposal” or “Proposal No. 6”).

As described in the accompanying Proxy Statement, in connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement, the Company and Orphai Subsidiary entered into stockholder support agreements (the “Support Agreements”) with certain of the Company’s officers and directors (solely in their capacity as stockholders), representing approximately 2.9% of shares of common stock outstanding on the record date. The Support Agreements provide that, among other things, each of the parties thereto has agreed to vote or cause to be voted all of the shares of common stock owned by such stockholder in favor of Proposals Nos. 1, 2 and 3 at the Special Meeting, subject to and in accordance with the terms of the Support Agreements.

After careful consideration, the Board has unanimously determined to recommend that our stockholders vote “FOR” the Conversion Proposal, “FOR” the Minimum Price Proposal, “FOR” the Authorized Share Proposal, “FOR” the 2026 Plan Proposal, “FOR” the 2026 ESPP Proposal and “FOR” the Adjournment Proposal.

Shares of our common stock are currently listed on The Nasdaq Global Select Market under the symbol “QNCX.” If the Required Company Stockholder Matters are approved, it is expected that we will change our name to “IRulya Therapeutics Inc.” and our common stock will trade under the symbol “IRLA.”

More information about the Acquisition and the Required Company Stockholder Matters is contained in the accompanying Proxy Statement. We urge you to read the Proxy Statement carefully and in its entirety.

Your vote is important. Whether or not you expect to attend the Special Meeting, please submit voting instructions for your shares promptly by using the directions on your Notice, or, if you elected to receive printed proxy materials by mail, on your proxy card, to vote by one of the following methods: (1) over the Internet before the Special Meeting at www.voteproxy.com and during the Special Meeting at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/yb6vakam, (2) by telephone by calling the toll-free number 1-800-776-9437, or (3) if you elected to receive printed proxy materials by mail, by marking, dating, and signing your proxy card and returning it in the accompanying postage-paid envelope. Even if you have voted by proxy, you may still vote online if you attend the virtual Special Meeting. Please note, however, that if your shares are held of record by a broker, bank, or other nominee and you wish to vote online at the Special Meeting, you must obtain a proxy issued in your name from that record holder.

We thank you for your consideration and continued support.

Yours sincerely,

/s/ Dirk Thye

Dirk Thye

Chief Executive Officer

South San Francisco, California

This Proxy Statement is dated August , 2026 and is first being mailed to stockholders on or about August , 2026.

PRELIMINARY PROXY STATEMENT DATED JULY 31, 2026—SUBJECT TO COMPLETION

QUINCE THERAPEUTICS, INC.

611 Gateway Boulevard, Suite 273

South San Francisco, California 94080

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS

To Be Held On September , 2026

Dear Stockholder:

The Special Meeting of stockholders of Quince Therapeutics, Inc. (the “Company”) will be held on , September , 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time (the “Special Meeting”). To facilitate stockholder participation in the Special Meeting, the Special Meeting will be held through a live webcast at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/yb6vakam. You will not be able to attend the meeting in person. The meeting will be held for the following purposes:

1. To approve the issuance of shares of our common stock, upon conversion of our Series C Preferred Stock and exercise of the Warrants and Orphai Options, which (a) will represent more than 20% of the shares of common stock outstanding pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(a) and (b) may, together with certain changes to management and our Board, result in the change of control of the Company pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(b) (the “Conversion Proposal” or “Proposal No. 1”);

2. To approve the issuance of shares of our common stock, upon conversion of the PIPE Preferred Shares and upon exercise of the PIPE Warrants pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(d) (the “Minimum Price Proposal” or “Proposal No. 2”);

3. To approve an amendment to our certificate of incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of our common stock from 250,000,000 to 275,000,000 (the “Authorized Share Proposal” or “Proposal No. 3”);

4. To approve the 2026 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2026 Plan Proposal” or “Proposal No. 4”);

5. To approve the 2026 ESPP (the “2026 ESPP Proposal” or “Proposal No. 5”); and

6. To approve the adjournment or postponement of the Special Meeting, if necessary, to continue to solicit votes for Proposals Nos. 1, 2 and/or 3 (the “Adjournment Proposal” or “Proposal No. 6”).

These items of business are more fully described in the Proxy Statement accompanying this Notice. The Special Meeting will be held virtually through a live webcast. You will be able to attend the Special Meeting, submit questions and vote during the live webcast by visiting https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/yb6vakam and entering the Control Number included in your proxy card, voting instruction form, or in the instructions that you received via email. Please refer to the additional logistical details and recommendations in the accompanying Proxy Statement. You may log-in beginning at 10:45 a.m. Eastern Time, on , September , 2026. The record date for the Special Meeting is July 29, 2026. Only stockholders of record at the close of business on that date are entitled to notice of and to vote at the meeting or any adjournment thereof.

By Order of the Board of Directors,

Dirk Thye

Chief Executive Officer

South San Francisco, California

August , 2026

We are primarily providing access to our proxy materials over the internet pursuant to the Securities and Exchange Commission’s notice and access rules. On or about August , 2026, we expect to mail to our stockholders a Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials that will indicate how to access the Proxy Statement on the internet and will include instructions on how you can receive a paper copy of the Special Meeting materials, including the notice of Special Meeting, Proxy Statement and proxy card.

Whether or not you expect to attend the virtual Special Meeting, please submit voting instructions for your shares promptly using the directions on your Notice, or, if you elected to receive printed proxy materials by mail, your proxy card, to vote by one of the following methods: (1) over the Internet before the Special Meeting at www.voteproxy.com and during the Special Meeting at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/yb6vakam, (2) by telephone by calling the toll-free number 1-800-776-9437, or (3) if you elected to receive printed proxy materials by mail, by marking, dating, and signing your proxy card and returning it in the accompanying postage-paid envelope. Even if you have voted by proxy, you may still vote online if you attend the virtual Special Meeting. Please note, however, that if your shares are held of record by a broker, bank, or other nominee and you wish to vote online at the Special Meeting, you must obtain a proxy issued in your name from that record holder.

TABLE OF CONTENTS


	Page
PROXY STATEMENT		1
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THESE PROXY MATERIALS AND VOTING		1
CAUTIONARY INFORMATION REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS		8
NOTE REGARDING STOCK SPLITS AND SHARE AMOUNTS		9
DESCRIPTION OF THE TRANSACTIONS		10
RISK FACTORS		13
PROPOSAL NO. 1 APPROVAL OF ISSUANCE OF COMMON STOCK UPON CONVERSION OF SERIES C PREFERRED STOCK AND EXERCISE OF THE WARRANTS AND ORPHAI OPTIONS, WHICH (A) WILL REPRESENT MORE THAN 20% OF THE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK OUTSTANDING PURSUANT TO NASDAQ LISTING RULE 5635(A) AND (B) MAY, TOGETHER WITH CERTAIN CHANGES TO MANAGEMENT AND OUR BOARD, RESULT IN THE CHANGE OF CONTROL OF THE COMPANY PURSUANT TO NASDAQ LISTING RULE 5635(B)		15
PROPOSAL NO. 2 APPROVAL OF ISSUANCE OF SHARES OF OUR COMMON STOCK UPON CONVERSION OF THE PIPE PREFERRED SHARES AND UPON EXERCISE OF THE PIPE WARRANTS PURSUANT TO NASDAQ LISTING RULE 5635(D)		23
PROPOSAL NO. 3 APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT OF THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED SHARES OF COMMON STOCK FROM 250,000,000 TO 275,000,000		26
PROPOSAL NO. 4 APPROVAL OF THE 2026 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN		29
PROPOSAL NO. 5 APPROVAL OF THE 2026 ESPP		38
PROPOSAL NO. 6 APPROVAL OF ADJOURNMENT OR POSTPONEMENT OF THE SPECIAL MEETING TO A LATER DATE OR DATES, IF NECESSARY, TO SOLICIT VOTES FOR PROPOSALS NOS. 1, 2 AND/OR 3		42
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT		43
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION		45
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION		55
DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK		58
EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION		63
HOUSEHOLDING OF PROXY MATERIALS		64
OTHER MATTERS		65
ANNEX A		A-1
ANNEX B		B-1
ANNEX C		C-1
ANNEX D		D-1

QUINCE THERAPEUTICS, INC.

611 Gateway Boulevard, Suite 273

South San Francisco, California 94080

PROXY STATEMENT

For the Special Meeting of Stockholders

To Be Held on September , 2026

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THESE PROXY MATERIALS AND VOTING

Why did I receive a notice regarding the availability of proxy materials on the internet?

Pursuant to rules adopted by the SEC, we have elected to provide access to our proxy materials over the internet. Accordingly, we have sent you a Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials (the “Notice”) because the Board of Directors (the “Board” or “Board of Directors”) of Quince Therapeutics, Inc. (the “Company”) is soliciting your proxy to vote at the Special Meeting of Stockholders, including at any adjournments or postponements of the meeting. All stockholders will have the ability to access the proxy materials on the website referred to in the Notice or request to receive a printed set of the proxy materials. Instructions on how to access the proxy materials over the internet or to request a printed copy may be found in the Notice.

We intend to mail the Notice on or about August , 2026 to all stockholders of record entitled to vote at the Special Meeting.

How do I attend the Special Meeting?

To facilitate stockholder participation in the Special Meeting, this year the Special Meeting will be held through a live webcast at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/yb6vakam. You will not be able to attend the Special Meeting in person. If you attend the Special Meeting online, you will be able to vote and submit questions at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/yb6vakam.

You are entitled to attend the Special Meeting if you were a stockholder as of the close of business on July 29, 2026, the record date, or hold a valid proxy for the meeting. To be admitted to the Special Meeting, you will need to visit https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/yb6vakam and enter the Control Number found next to the label “Control Number” on your proxy card, or voting instruction form, or in the email sending you the Proxy Statement. If you are a beneficial stockholder, you should contact the bank, broker or other institution where you hold your account well in advance of the meeting if you have questions about obtaining your control number/ proxy to vote.

Whether or not you participate in the Special Meeting, it is important that you vote your shares.

We encourage you to access the Special Meeting before it begins. Online check-in will start approximately 15 minutes before the meeting on September , 2026.

What if I cannot find my Control Number?

We will have access to a list of control numbers for registered stockholders in the event of a lost number. You may contact us through our Investor Relations section of our website at https://ir.quincetx.com for assistance. Typically, “guest” access is not permitted. Please contact us through our Investor Relations section of our website at https://ir.quincetx.com if you would like to permit guest access.

If you are a beneficial owner (that is, you hold your shares in an account at a bank, broker or other holder of record), you will need to contact that bank, broker or other holder of record to obtain your Control Number prior to the Special Meeting.

Will a list of record stockholders as of the record date be available?

A list of our record stockholders as of the close of business on July 29, 2026, which is the record date for the Special Meeting, will be available for inspection at our corporate office for the 10 days ending on the day before the Special Meeting. If you want to inspect the stockholder list, call our office at (415) 910-5717 to speak with our Investor Relations department to schedule an appointment.

Where can we get technical assistance?

We will have technicians ready to assist you with any technical difficulties you may have accessing the Special Meeting. If you encounter any difficulties accessing the virtual-only Special Meeting platform, including any difficulties voting or submitting questions, you may call the technical support number that will be posted in your instructional email. The technical support number will not be posted publicly; it will be provided to meeting attendees via e-mail one hour prior to the meeting start time.

For the Special Meeting, how do we ask questions of management and the board?

Stockholders may submit questions that are relevant to our business in advance of the Special Meeting. If you are a stockholder, you may submit a question in advance of the meeting at www.voteproxy.com after logging in with your Control Number. We do not intend to post questions or answers to stockholder questions received during the Special Meeting on our website.

Who can vote at the Special Meeting?

Only stockholders of record at the close of business on July 29, 2026 will be entitled to vote at the Special Meeting. On this record date, there were 1,017,063 shares of common stock outstanding and entitled to vote. On the record date, there were 211,301.868 shares of Series C Preferred Stock issued and outstanding; however, the shares of Series C Preferred Stock are not entitled to vote on the matters being considered at the Special Meeting. Of the shares of common stock issued and outstanding on the record date, 162,971 shares of common stock were issued in the Acquisition and are not entitled to vote on Proposal No. 1 pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rules. However, to comply with Nasdaq rules, we will instruct the inspector of elections to conduct a separate tabulation that subtracts 162,971 shares from the total number of shares voted in favor of Proposal No. 1 to determine whether the proposal has been adopted in accordance with applicable Nasdaq Listing Rules.

Stockholder of Record: Shares Registered in Your Name

If on July 29, 2026 your shares were registered directly in your name with our transfer agent, Equiniti Trust Company, LLC (formerly American Stock Transfer & Trust Company, LLC), then you are a stockholder of record. As a stockholder of record, you may vote virtually at the meeting or vote by proxy. Whether or not you plan to attend the meeting, we urge you to fill out and return the proxy card or vote by proxy over the telephone or on the internet as instructed below to ensure your vote is counted.

Beneficial Owner: Shares Registered in the Name of a Broker or Bank

If on July 29, 2026 your shares were held, not in your name, but rather in an account at a brokerage firm, bank, dealer or other similar organization, then you are the beneficial owner of shares held in “street name” and the Notice is being forwarded to you by that organization. The organization holding your account is considered to be the stockholder of record for purposes of voting at the Special Meeting. As a beneficial owner, you have the right to direct your broker or other agent regarding how to vote the shares in your account. You are also invited to attend the Special Meeting. However, since you are not the stockholder of record, you may not vote your shares virtually at the meeting unless you request and obtain a valid legal proxy from your broker or other agent.

What am I voting on?

There are six matters scheduled for a vote:

•

Proposal No. 1 – Approval of issuance of shares of our common stock, upon conversion of our Series C Preferred Stock and exercise of the Warrants and Orphai Options, which (a) will represent more than 20% of the shares of common stock outstanding pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(a) and (b) may, together with certain changes to management and our Board, result in the change of control of the Company pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(b);

•

Proposal No. 2 – Approval of issuance of shares of our common stock, upon conversion of the PIPE Preferred Shares and upon exercise of the PIPE Warrants pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(d);

•

Proposal No. 3 – Approval of an amendment to our certificate of incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of our common stock from 250,000,000 to 275,000,000;

•

Proposal No. 4 – Approval of the 2026 Equity Incentive Plan;

•

Proposal No. 5 – Approval of the 2026 ESPP; and

•

Proposal No. 6 – Approval of the adjournment or postponement of the Special Meeting, if necessary, to continue to solicit votes for Proposals Nos. 1, 2 and/or 3.

With respect to the Conversion Proposal, stockholders should note that a “change of control” as described under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(b) applies only with respect to the application of such rule and does not constitute a “change of control” for purposes of Delaware law or our organizational documents.

What if another matter is properly brought before the meeting?

The Board of Directors knows of no other matters that will be presented for consideration at the Special Meeting. If any other matters are properly brought before the meeting, it is the intention of the persons named in the accompanying proxy to vote on those matters in accordance with their best judgment.

Are stockholders being asked to vote on the Merger Agreement or the Acquisition described herein?

No. The Acquisition was completed on May 18, 2026 and we are not required to seek, nor are we seeking, stockholder approval of the Acquisition or the Merger Agreement. Rather, for purposes of complying with the Nasdaq Listing Rules, we are seeking stockholder approval for the issuance of shares of common stock of the Company upon conversion of the outstanding shares of Series C Preferred Stock and exercise of the Warrants and Orphai Options that we issued, or assumed (as applicable), in the Acquisition. The Company and Orphai discussed various potential transaction structures and, due to the desire of both parties to consummate the Acquisition at the earliest possible time, the Board approved a transaction structure that did not require the approval of the stockholders of the Company for the consummation of the Merger.

How do I vote?

You may vote “For” or “Against” or abstain from voting on each of the six proposals presented at the Special Meeting.

The procedures for voting are:

Stockholder of Record: Shares Registered in Your Name

If you are a stockholder of record, you may vote virtually at the Special Meeting or vote by proxy in one of three ways: online, by telephone or using the proxy card that you may request or that we may elect to deliver at a later time. Whether or not you plan to attend the meeting, we urge you to vote by proxy to ensure your vote is counted. You may still attend the Special Meeting and vote virtually even if you have already voted by proxy.

To vote during the Special Meeting, if you are a stockholder of record as of the record date, follow the instructions provided via e-mail after registering at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/yb6vakam. You will need to enter the Control Number found on your Notice or notice you receive or in the email sending you the Proxy Statement.

To vote prior to the Special Meeting you may vote via the Internet at www.voteproxy.com; by telephone; or by completing and returning the proxy card or voting instruction form, as described below.

•

To vote online, go to www.voteproxy.com. You will be asked to provide the Company number and control number from the Notice. Your vote must be received to be counted.

•

To vote over the telephone, dial toll-free 1-800-776-9437. You will be asked to provide the control number from the Notice. Your vote must be received to be counted.

•

To vote by mail if you requested printed proxy materials, you can vote by promptly completing and returning your signed proxy card in the envelope provided. You should mail your signed proxy card sufficiently in advance for it to be received by September , 2026.

Beneficial Owner: Shares Registered in the Name of Broker or Bank

If you are a beneficial owner of shares registered in the name of your broker, bank or other agent, you should have received a notice containing voting instructions from that organization rather than from us. Please follow the voting instructions in the notice to ensure that your vote is counted. Alternatively, you may vote by telephone or over the internet as instructed by your broker or bank. You may access and vote at the meeting by registering to attend the meeting at https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/yb6vakam using your control number on your voting instruction form and by requesting a valid proxy from your broker, bank or other agent.

Internet proxy voting will be provided to allow you to vote your shares online, with procedures designed to ensure the authenticity and correctness of your proxy vote instructions. However, please be aware that you must bear any costs associated with your internet access, such as usage charges from internet access providers and telephone companies.

How many votes do I have?

On each matter to be voted upon, you have one vote for each share of common stock you own as of July 29, 2026, subject to the separate tabulation of votes for Proposal No. 1 described above under “Who can vote at the Special Meeting?”.

What happens if I do not vote?

Stockholder of Record: Shares Registered in Your Name

If you are a stockholder of record and do not vote by completing your proxy card, by telephone or through the internet at the Special Meeting, your shares will not be voted.

Beneficial Owner: Shares Registered in the Name of Broker or Bank

If you are a beneficial owner and do not instruct your broker, bank, or other agent how to vote your shares, the question of whether your broker or nominee will still be able to vote your shares depends on whether the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) deems the particular proposal to be a “routine” matter. Brokers and nominees can use their discretion to vote “uninstructed” shares with respect to matters that are considered to be “routine,” but not with respect to “non-routine” matters. Under the rules and interpretations of the NYSE, “non-routine” matters are matters that may substantially affect the rights or privileges of stockholders, such as mergers,

stockholder proposals, elections of directors (even if not contested), executive compensation (including any advisory stockholder votes on executive compensation and on the frequency of stockholder votes on executive compensation), and certain corporate governance proposals, even if management-supported. Accordingly, your broker or nominee may not vote your shares on any of the proposals presented at the Special Meeting.

What if I return a proxy card or otherwise vote but do not make specific choices?

If you return a signed and dated proxy card or otherwise vote without marking voting selections, your shares will be voted, as applicable, “FOR” the Conversion Proposal, “FOR” the Minimum Price Proposal, “FOR” the Authorized Share Proposal, “FOR” the 2026 Plan Proposal, “FOR” the 2026 ESPP Proposal and “FOR” the Adjournment Proposal. If any other matter is properly presented at the meeting, your proxyholder (one of the individuals named on your proxy card) will vote your shares using his or her best judgment.

Who is paying for this proxy solicitation?

The Company will pay for the entire cost of soliciting proxies. In addition to our proxy materials, our directors and employees may also solicit proxies virtually, by telephone, or by other means of communication. Directors and employees will not be paid any additional compensation for soliciting proxies. We will also reimburse brokerage firms, banks and other agents for the cost of forwarding proxy materials to beneficial owners. In addition, we have retained MacKenzie Partners, Inc. as a proxy solicitor to solicit proxies for the Special Meeting and provide related advice and information support, for a service fee of $20,000 and the reimbursement of customary disbursements.

What does it mean if I receive more than one Notice?

If you receive more than one Notice, your shares may be registered in more than one name or in different accounts. Please follow the voting instructions on the Notice to ensure that all of your shares are voted.

Can I change my vote after submitting my proxy?

Stockholder of Record: Shares Registered in Your Name

Yes. You can revoke your proxy at any time before the final vote at the meeting. If you are the record holder of your shares, you may revoke your proxy in any one of the following ways:

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You may submit another properly completed proxy card with a later date.

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You may grant a subsequent proxy by telephone or through the internet.

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You may send a timely written notice that you are revoking your proxy to our Corporate Secretary at 611 Gateway Boulevard, Suite 273, South San Francisco, California 94080.

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You may attend the Special Meeting and vote online. Simply attending the meeting will not, by itself, revoke your proxy.

Your most current proxy card or telephone or internet proxy is the one that is counted.

Beneficial Owner: Shares Registered in the Name of Broker or Bank

If your shares are held by your broker or bank as a nominee or agent, you should follow the instructions provided by your broker or bank.

How are votes counted?

Votes will be counted by the inspector of election appointed for the meeting, who will separately count votes “For,” “Against,” abstentions and broker non-votes for each of the six proposals presented at the Special Meeting.

For each of the proposals presented at the Special Meeting, only “For” and “Against” votes will be counted. Abstentions and broker non-votes will have no effect and will not be counted as votes cast for purposes of determining whether any such proposal has been approved. In addition, for Proposal No. 1, of the shares of common stock issued and outstanding on the record date, 162,971 shares of common stock were issued in the Acquisition and are not entitled to vote on Proposal No. 1 pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rules. However, to comply with Nasdaq rules, we will instruct the inspector of elections to conduct a separate tabulation that subtracts 162,971 shares from the total number of shares voted in favor of Proposal No. 1 to determine whether the proposal has been adopted in accordance with applicable Nasdaq Listing Rules.

What are “broker non-votes”?

As discussed above, when a beneficial owner of shares held in “street name” does not give instructions to the broker or nominee holding the shares as to how to vote on matters deemed by the NYSE to be “non-routine,” the broker or nominee cannot vote the shares. These unvoted shares are counted as “broker non-votes.”

How many votes are needed to approve each proposal?

The following table summarizes the minimum vote needed to approve each proposal and the effect of abstentions and broker non-votes.


Proposal Number	Proposal Description	Vote Required for Approval	Effect of Abstentions	Effect of Broker Non-Votes
1	Approval of issuance of shares of our common stock, upon conversion of our Series C Preferred Stock and exercise of the Warrants and Orphai Options, which (a) will represent more than 20% of the shares of common stock outstanding pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(a) and (b) may, together with certain changes to management and our Board, result in the change of control of the Company pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(b)	“For” votes from a majority of the votes cast for such proposal, subject to the separate tabulation of votes for Proposal No. 1 described above under “Who can vote at the Special Meeting?”	No effect	No effect

2	Approval of issuance of shares of our common stock, upon conversion of the PIPE Preferred Shares and upon exercise of the PIPE Warrants pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(d)	“For” votes from a majority of the votes cast for such proposal.	No effect	No effect

3	Approval of an amendment to our certificate of incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares of our common stock from 250,000,000 to 275,000,000	“For” votes from a majority of the votes cast for such proposal	No effect	No effect

4	Approval of the 2026 Equity Incentive Plan	“For” votes from a majority of the votes cast for such proposal	No effect	No effect
5	Approval of the 2026 ESPP	“For” votes from a majority of the votes cast for such proposal	No effect	No effect


Proposal Number	Proposal Description	Vote Required for Approval	Effect of Abstentions	Effect of Broker Non-Votes

6	Approval of the adjournment or postponement of the Special Meeting, if necessary, to continue to solicit votes for Proposals Nos. 1, 2 and/or 3	“For” votes from holders of a majority of the voting power of the shares of stock entitled to vote on such matter that are present in person or represented by proxy at the Special Meeting and are voted for or against the matter	No effect	No effect

What is the quorum requirement?

A quorum of stockholders is necessary to hold a valid meeting. A quorum is present if stockholders holding at least one-third of the voting power of the shares of stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote are present at the Special Meeting virtually or represented by proxy. On the record date, there were 1,017,063 shares outstanding and entitled to vote. Thus, the holders of 339,021 shares must be present virtually or represented by proxy at the Special Meeting to have a quorum.

Your shares will be counted towards the quorum only if you submit a valid proxy (or one is submitted on your behalf by your broker, bank or other nominee) or if you vote online at the meeting. Abstentions will be counted towards the quorum requirement. If there is no quorum, either the chairman of the Special Meeting or the holders of a majority of shares present at the Special Meeting virtually or represented by proxy may adjourn the meeting to another date.

How can I find out the results of the voting at the Special Meeting?

Preliminary voting results will be announced at the Special Meeting. In addition, final voting results will be published in a current report on Form 8-K that we expect to file within four business days after the Special Meeting.

CAUTIONARY INFORMATION REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this Proxy Statement including, without limitation, statements regarding our business strategy and the plans and objectives of management for future operations, are forward-looking statements. When used in this Proxy Statement, words and phrases such as “aim,” “anticipate,” “assume,” “believe,” “can,” “continue,” “could,” “designed to,” “estimate,” “evaluate,” “expect,” “explore,” “intend,” “intended to,” “likely,” “may,” “might,” “objective,” “ongoing,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “pursue,” “seek,” “should,” “to be,” “will,” and “would,” or the negative of such terms or other similar expressions, as they relate to us or our management, identify forward-looking statements. Any statements in this Proxy Statement about our expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not historical facts and are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act.

These forward-looking statements include statements regarding: our expectations for the Board, management team, Company name and ticker if the Required Company Stockholder Matters are approved; our ability to comply with Nasdaq’s continued listing standards or, if necessary, to meet Nasdaq’s initial listing standards; the potential benefits of the Authorized Share Proposal; and the Company’s ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the Acquisition, including with respect to the development of LAM-001.

These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, levels of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from the information expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update these forward-looking statements publicly, or to revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or developments occurring after the date of this Proxy Statement, even if new information becomes available in the future. You should refer to the Risk Factors section of this Proxy Statement and of our Annual Report for a discussion of important factors that may cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements.

NOTE REGARDING STOCK SPLITS AND SHARE AMOUNTS

Unless otherwise indicated, all share amounts, per-share prices, and option exercise prices presented in this Proxy Statement give retroactive effect to (i) a 1-for-10 reverse stock split of our common stock that became effective on April 10, 2026 (the “April 2026 Reverse Stock Split”) and (ii) the 1-for-20 reverse stock split of our common stock that became effective on June 29, 2026 (the “Reverse Stock Split”). When taken together, the April 2026 Reverse Stock Split and the Reverse Stock Split result in a cumulative 1-for-200 adjustment to share counts, per-share prices, and exercise prices for periods prior to April 10, 2026. Share counts and per-share prices for periods between April 10, 2026 and June 28, 2026 give effect to the April 2026 Reverse Stock Split but not the Reverse Stock Split and have been retroactively adjusted to reflect the Reverse Stock Split for purposes of this Proxy Statement. Accordingly, historical share and per-share amounts may differ from those previously reported in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, and other prior filings with the SEC.

DESCRIPTION OF THE TRANSACTIONS

Acquisition of Orphai Therapeutics

In the ordinary course of business, the Board regularly reviewed the strategy, prospects and financial condition of the Company, including opportunities and risks associated with the Company’s product candidates and strategic alternatives potentially available to the Company. Beginning in February 2026, in light of challenging conditions in the biotechnology capital markets and the Company’s declining cash balance, the Board, together with the Company’s management, Dorsey & Whitney LLP (“Dorsey”), the Company’s legal counsel, and LifeSci Capital (“LifeSci Capital”), the Company’s financial advisor, began to evaluate its restructuring activities and strategic alternatives available to the Company aimed at maximizing stockholder value, including a potential sale, business combination or liquidation, as well as licensing and other business development opportunities related to its lead product candidate, eDSP. Over the course of the following three months, the Board pursued a strategy of restructuring its indebtedness under its unsecured line of credit between Quince Therapeutics, S.p.A and the European Investment Bank (the “EIB Loan”), exploration of potential reverse merger transactions and additional funding through available financing sources to pursue strategic alternatives. During this period, LifeSci Capital and the Company’s management team reviewed more than at least nine potential reverse merger candidates transaction proposals, the proposal from Orphai Therapeutics, and the Company’s management and banking partners conducted extensive investor outreach in an effort to obtain financing. While the Company utilized its existing at-the-market offering to raise additional capital, the amount available under such a facility was limited by the Company’s stock price and the trading volume of the Company’s common stock. In addition, the Company was unable to identify viable financing options sufficient to fund the Company’s operations and exploration of strategic alternatives beyond September 2026. The Board considered the terms of the transaction proposals, including the relative valuation of the Company under each proposal, dilution of existing stockholders, likelihood of success and potential concurrent financing opportunities.

Following LifeSci Capital’s outreach process and the Board’s review of strategic alternatives available to the Company, including acquisition, licensing, wind-down and reverse merger alternatives, the Company focused its efforts on Orphai Therapeutics as a potential business combination partner. The Board determined that Orphai Therapeutics merited serious consideration based on the development status of Orphai Therapeutics’ lead program, LAM-001, a proprietary investigational inhaled dry powder formulation of rapamycin whose differentiated characteristics may permit treatment of conditions associated with dysfunctional mammalian target of rapamycin (“mTOR”) activity that cannot be adequately treated using a systemically delivered formulation, including oral solution or tablets, including results from its recently completed Phase 2a trial of LAM-001 in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension and pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease, interest in Orphai Therapeutics from a broad syndicate of investors for up to $90 million in upfront financing (which was subsequently increased to $115 million) and the opportunity to increase the potential financing amount in connection with the exercise of warrants in an acquisition transaction, the superior valuation of the Company under the Orphai Therapeutics proposal compared to other proposals received, and the accelerated timeline to closing compared to other proposals.

Beginning on April 9, 2026 and continuing through May 17, 2026, representatives of the Company’s management, Dorsey, LifeSci Capital, Orphai Therapeutics’ management, Cooley LLP, Orphai Therapeutics’ legal counsel, and LifeSci Capital, Orphai Therapeutics’ financial advisor, conducted business, financial, legal, tax, intellectual property and other due diligence with respect to the Company, Orphai Therapeutics and the potential transaction.

On May 18, 2026, the Company acquired Orphai Therapeutics pursuant to the Merger Agreement, pursuant to which First Merger Sub merged with and into Orphai HoldCo, pursuant to which Orphai HoldCo was the surviving corporation and became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. Immediately following the First Merger, Orphai HoldCo merged with and into Second Merger Sub, pursuant to which Second Merger Sub was

the surviving entity. The simultaneous sign-and-close structure of the Acquisition, combined with the 2026 Private Placement, preserved cash that would otherwise have been spent during a more extended closing process and enabled the financing to close more quickly and with greater certainty.

The Acquisition was structured as a stock-for-stock transaction pursuant to which all of Orphai Subsidiary’s outstanding equity interests were exchanged based on a fixed exchange ratio for aggregate consideration of (i) 162,971 shares of common stock (after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split) and (ii) 67,101.235 shares of Series C Preferred Stock, each share of which is convertible into 52 shares of common stock (after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split and representing 3,489,281 shares of common stock on an as-converted-to-common basis and without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations), subject to certain conditions described below under Proposal No. 1. In addition, all outstanding warrants to purchase shares of Orphai HoldCo capital stock were cancelled and exchanged, in accordance with the terms of such warrants, for PIPE Warrants to purchase an aggregate 10,964.505 shares of Series C Preferred Stock (representing an aggregate of 570,169 shares of common stock on an as-converted-to-common basis, after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split and without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations) at an exercise price of $996.90 per share of Series C Preferred Stock, for up to approximately $10.9 million in proceeds to the Company upon exercise thereof and all outstanding options to purchase Orphai Subsidiary common stock were assumed by the Company and converted into options to purchase an aggregate of approximately 1,308,804 shares of common stock (after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split). The Series C Preferred Stock was a newly designated series of preferred stock and was intended to have economic rights equivalent to our common stock, but with no voting rights. The rights of the Series C Preferred Stock are set forth in the Certificate of Designation of Series C Non-Voting Convertible Preferred Stock (the “Certificate of Designation”) that we filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware. Please see “Description of Series C Preferred Stock” under Proposal No. 1 for a complete description of the Certificate of Designation and the rights of the Series C Preferred Stock. The Acquisition Transactions were approved by the Board, as well as the board of directors and stockholders of Orphai Therapeutics.

In connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement, the Company and Orphai Subsidiary entered into Support Agreements with certain of our officers and directors (solely in their capacity as stockholders), representing approximately 2.9% of shares of common stock outstanding on the record date. The Support Agreements provide that, among other things, each of the parties thereto has agreed to vote or cause to be voted all of the shares of common stock beneficially owned by such stockholder in favor of Proposals Nos. 1, 2 and 3 at the Special Meeting, subject to and in accordance with the terms of the Support Agreements. The Acquisition has already been consummated, and stockholder approval of the Acquisition or the Merger Agreement is not being sought at this Special Meeting.

2026 Private Placement

Concurrently with the Acquisition, we entered into the Purchase Agreement with the Investors with respect to the 2026 Private Placement, pursuant to which, on May 21, 2026, the Company issued and sold (i) an aggregate of 144,200.633 shares of Series C Preferred Stock, each share of which is convertible into 52 shares of common stock (after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split and representing 7,498,447 shares on an as-converted-to-common basis and without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations), subject to certain conditions described below under Proposal Nos. 1 and 2, at a price of $797.50 per share of Series C Preferred Stock and (ii) PIPE Warrants to purchase 72,100.322 shares of Series C Preferred Stock (representing 3,749,231 shares of common stock on an as-converted-to-common basis, after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split and without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations) at an exercise price of $996.90 per share of Series C Preferred Stock, for aggregate upfront gross proceeds of approximately $115 million, with up to an additional approximately $72 million upon exercise of the PIPE Warrants. Each Warrant will be exercisable beginning on the trading day following the earlier of the Company’s public announcement of (a) top line data from the ongoing LAM-001 Phase 2 trial of Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome and (b) the termination or suspension of such trial, and through the 30^th day following such public announcement. Upon approval of the

Required Company Stockholder Matters, the Warrants will become exercisable for common stock, subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations.

On an as-converted-to-common basis (excluding shares underlying warrants and equity awards) and after accounting for the Acquisition Transactions, the total number of outstanding shares of common stock was 1,017,063 immediately following the PIPE Closing (after giving retroactive effect to the Reverse Stock Split).

On May 18, 2026, we entered into a Registration Rights Agreement (the “RRA”) with the Investors. Pursuant to the RRA, we are obligated to prepare and file a resale registration statement with the SEC within 75 calendar days following the closing of the 2026 Private Placement. The RRA also contains customary terms, including an obligation to indemnify the Investors and certain affiliates from certain liabilities relating to any misstatements or omissions in the resale registration statement.

As a result of the transactions, immediately following the PIPE Closing, equityholders of the Company immediately prior to the acquisition owned approximately 6.9% of the common stock, equityholders of Orphai Therapeutics immediately prior to the acquisition owned approximately 31.9% of the common stock and the Investors in the 2026 Private Placement owned approximately 61.2% of the common stock, in each case, calculated on a fully-diluted, as-converted-to-common basis (and without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations) using the treasury stock method and based on the implied equity values of the Company and Orphai Therapeutics.

Under the terms of the Merger Agreement and the Purchase Agreement, we are required to call and hold a meeting of our stockholders, as promptly as practicable following the date of the Merger Agreement and pursuant to the Nasdaq Stock Market Rules, to obtain the requisite approval from our legacy stockholders for Proposals Nos. 1 through 6.

On May 18, 2026, the Company publicly announced the Acquisition Transactions and filed a Current Report on Form 8-K attaching the Merger Agreement and related transaction documents. In that announcement, the Company stated that the Company expected to use the proceeds of the 2026 Private Placement primarily to advance LAM-001 through key clinical milestones, including Phase 2 data in Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome post-lung transplant, Phase 2 data in pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease and Phase 2 data in sarcoidosis associated pulmonary hypertension.

The foregoing summary of the terms of the Merger Agreement, the Certificate of Designation, the Warrants, the Purchase Agreement and the RRA are not complete and are qualified in their entirety by the provisions of Merger Agreement, the Certificate of Designation, the form of Warrant, the form of Purchase Agreement and the form of RRA, which are filed as Exhibits 2.1, 3.1, 4.1, 10.1 and 10.2, respectively, to our Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on May 18, 2026.

Accounting Treatment

The Acquisition was accounted for as an asset acquisition as Orphai did not meet the definition of a business under Accounting Standard Codification Topic 805, Business Combinations (“ASC 805”) as substantially all of its value was in the IPR&D asset. Accordingly, the assets and liabilities of the Company are recorded as of the Orphai Acquisition closing date at their respective carrying values, and the acquired net assets and assumed net liabilities of Orphai are recorded as of the Acquisition closing date at their fair value. The Company was determined to be the accounting acquirer based upon the terms of the Acquisition.

Orphai was determined to be a variable interest entity (“VIE”) as it was insufficiently capitalized to fund future operations, where the Company is the primary beneficiary. As such, the acquisition costs were expensed and not capitalized as part of the purchase price in accordance with ASC 805. In addition, the excess of the consideration transferred, and the fair value of the net asset acquired, IPR&D, and net liabilities assumed were recorded as an asset acquisition loss and included in the loss on acquisition line item in the condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss).

RISK FACTORS

You should carefully consider the risks described below, together with all of the other information contained in this Proxy Statement (including the unaudited pro forma financial information included elsewhere in this Proxy Statement), in deciding how to vote on matters being considered at the Special Meeting. In addition, for a discussion of risks relating to our business, financial condition, results of operations and industry generally, you should review the risk factors described under the caption “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, filed with SEC on April 10, 2026 and in Exhibit 99.5 to our Current Report on Form 8-K/A, filed with the SEC on July 30, 2026, as such risk factors may be updated from time to time in our subsequent reports filed with the SEC.

Pursuant to the terms of the Acquisition, we are required to recommend that our stockholders approve the Conversion Proposal, the Minimum Price Proposal and the Authorized Share Proposal. We cannot guarantee that our stockholders will approve these matters, and if they fail to do so we may be required to settle all outstanding shares of our Series C Preferred Stock in cash and our operations may be materially harmed.

Under the terms of the Merger Agreement and the Purchase Agreement, as promptly as practicable following the date of the Merger Agreement and pursuant to the Nasdaq Stock Market Rules, we are required to call and hold a meeting of our stockholders to obtain the requisite approval from our legacy stockholders for, among other things, (i) the Conversion Proposal, (ii) the Minimum Price Proposal, (iii) the Authorized Share Proposal, (iv) the 2026 Plan Proposal and (v) the 2026 ESPP Proposal. If we fail to receive sufficient proxies to constitute a quorum or to obtain the required vote on the Required Company Stockholder Matters (Proposals No. 1 through No. 3 herein) or we are otherwise required by Nasdaq Listing Rules, we would be required to adjourn or postpone the Special Meeting one or more times for up to 30 days per adjournment or postponement. If stockholder approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters is still not obtained following such adjournment(s) or postponement(s), we will be obligated to continue soliciting stockholder approval at subsequent annual or special meetings of our stockholders, held at intervals of at least every six months, until such approvals are obtained, which would be time consuming and costly.

There can be no assurance that our legacy stockholders will approve the Required Company Stockholder Matters. Additionally, if the Required Company Stockholder Matters are not approved by the date that is six months following the initial issuance date of the Series C Preferred Stock, the holders of the Series C Preferred Stock would be entitled to require us to settle their shares of our common stock underlying the Series C Preferred Stock for cash at a price per share equal to the fair value of our common stock at such time as described in the Certificate of Designation. If we are forced to cash settle a significant amount of the shares of our common stock underlying the Series C Preferred Stock, it could materially affect our results of operations, business and financial condition.

Failure to obtain approval of the Nasdaq Listing Application, if required, could materially affect our results of operations, business and financial condition.

Pursuant to the Merger Agreement, we are required to use our reasonable best efforts to file an initial listing application with Nasdaq (the “Nasdaq Listing Application”) to the extent required by the Nasdaq Listing Rules and to cause such Nasdaq Listing Application to be conditionally approved prior to the date of our stockholder meeting to approve the Required Company Stockholder Matters. Approval of a Nasdaq Listing Application may be required if Nasdaq determines there is a “change of control” Nasdaq Listing Rule 5110(a). If we fail to meet the Nasdaq initial listing requirements and Nasdaq does not approve the Nasdaq Listing Application if and when required, we may be required to adjourn or postpone our stockholder meeting to approve the Required Company Stockholder Matters one or more times for up to 30 days per adjournment, continue to use our reasonable best efforts to obtain approval of the Nasdaq Listing Application and to continue soliciting stockholder approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters at subsequent annual or special meetings of our stockholders, held at intervals of at least every six months, until such approval and the approval of the Required Company Stockholder

Matters are obtained, which would be time consuming and costly. Additionally, if the Required Company Stockholder Matters are not approved by the date that is six months following the initial issuance date of the Series C Preferred Stock, the holders of the Series C Preferred Stock would be entitled to require us to settle their shares of Series C Preferred Stock for cash at a price per share equal to the fair value of the Series C Preferred Stock at such time as described in the Certificate of Designation. If we are forced to cash settle a significant amount of the shares of our common stock underlying the Series C Preferred Stock, it could materially affect our results of operations, business and financial condition. We cannot assure you that we will be able to meet Nasdaq’s initial listing standards if required. Furthermore, if we fail to obtain approval of the Nasdaq Listing Application to the extent required, we may be unable to execute on our plans for the Company following the Acquisition, which could materially affect our results of operations, business and financial condition.

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information included in this Proxy Statement are presented for illustrative purposes only and may not be an indication of our financial condition or results of operations following the completion of the Acquisition.

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information contained in this Proxy Statement as Annex A are presented for illustrative purposes only and may not be an indication of our financial condition or results of operations following the Acquisition for several reasons. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been derived from the historical audited financial statements of the Company and Orphai Therapeutics for the year ended December 31, 2025 and for the three months ended March 31, 2026 and certain adjustments and assumptions have been made regarding the Company after giving effect to the Acquisition. The information upon which these adjustments and assumptions have been made is preliminary, and these kinds of adjustments and assumptions are difficult to make with accuracy. Moreover, the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information does not reflect all costs that are expected to be incurred by us in connection with the Acquisition. For example, the impact of any incremental costs incurred in integrating the two companies is not reflected in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information. As a result, the actual financial condition of the combined company following the Acquisition may not be consistent with, or evident from, these unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information. The assumptions used in preparing the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information may not prove to be accurate, and other factors may affect our financial condition following the Acquisition. For more information, please see Annex A.

PROPOSAL NO. 1

APPROVAL OF ISSUANCE OF COMMON STOCK UPON CONVERSION OF SERIES C PREFERRED STOCK AND EXERCISE OF THE WARRANTS AND ORPHAI OPTIONS, WHICH (A) WILL REPRESENT MORE THAN 20% OF THE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK OUTSTANDING PURSUANT TO NASDAQ LISTING RULE 5635(A) AND (B) MAY, TOGETHER WITH CERTAIN CHANGES TO MANAGEMENT AND OUR BOARD, RESULT IN THE CHANGE OF CONTROL OF THE COMPANY PURSUANT TO NASDAQ LISTING RULE 5635(B)

Overview

As described above, we issued (i) in the Acquisition, (a) an aggregate of 162,971 shares of common stock, (b) an aggregate of 67,101.235 shares of Series C Preferred Stock (representing 3,489,281 shares of common stock on an as-converted-to-common basis, after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split and without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations), and (c) Acquisition Warrants to purchase up to an aggregate of 10,964.505 shares of Series C Preferred Stock (representing an aggregate of 570,169 shares of common stock on an as-converted-to-common basis, after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split and without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations) and (ii) in the 2026 Private Placement, (a) an aggregate of 144,200.633 shares of Series C Preferred Stock (representing 7,498,447 shares of common stock on an as-converted-to-common basis, after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split and without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations) and (b) PIPE Warrants to purchase up to an aggregate of 72,100.322 shares of Series C Preferred Stock (representing 3,749,231 shares of common stock on an as-converted-to-common basis, after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split and without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations). In addition, in the Acquisition, we assumed the Orphai Options, which will become exercisable for up to an aggregate of 1,308,804 shares of common stock (after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split) upon approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters.

The Series C Preferred Stock is intended to have rights that are generally equivalent to our common stock, provided that the Series C Preferred Stock does not have the right to vote on most matters (including the election of directors or any proposals herein). The shares of Series C Preferred Stock will automatically convert into an aggregate of 10,987,728 shares of common stock upon the third business day following receipt of approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters in accordance with Nasdaq listing rules up to the beneficial ownership limitations set by each holder.

Nasdaq Listing Rule 5110 may require that the Company submit, and Nasdaq approve, the Nasdaq Listing Application prior to there being a “change of control”. The approval being sought in this Proposal No. 1, along with the filing of the Nasdaq Listing Application with Nasdaq, to the extent required, is intended to satisfy this obligation of the Company. If we do not submit the Nasdaq Listing Application, or such application is not approved, the Company will be prohibited from taking any actions, that together with the conversion of the Series C Preferred Stock, would constitute a “change of control” under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5110 until such time as such Nasdaq Listing Application is approved.

With respect to the Nasdaq Listing Application and compliance with the initial listing standards of Nasdaq, Annex A of this Proxy Statement sets forth certain unaudited pro forma financial information for the Company as of and for the year ended December 31, 2025 and the three months ended March 31, 2026, after giving effect to the entrance into the Acquisition Transactions and the automatic conversion of all of the Series C Preferred Stock into common stock following stockholder approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters.

Shares Issuable Upon Conversion and Exercise

Set forth below is a table summarizing the issued and outstanding shares of Series C Preferred Stock, Orphai Options and the number of Series C Preferred Stock underlying issued and outstanding Warrants, and the number

of shares of common stock that are potentially issuable upon conversion of the Series C Preferred Stock and exercise of the Warrants and Orphai Options. The sale into the public market of the underlying common stock could materially and adversely affect the market price of our common stock.


	Acquisition		2026 Private Placement		Total
Series C Preferred Stock Issued and Outstanding		67,101.235		144,200.633		211,301.868
Series C Preferred Stock Issuable Upon Exercise of Issued and Outstanding Warrants⁽¹⁾		10,964.505		72,100.322		83,064.827
Common Stock (as converted, including the Warrants and the Series C Preferred Stock)⁽²⁾⁽³⁾		4,059,450		11,247,678		15,307,128
Common Stock Issuable Upon Exercise of Orphai Options⁽³⁾		1,308,804		n/a		1,308,804
Total Common Stock Issuable⁽²⁾⁽³⁾		5,368,254		11,247,678		16,615,932

(1)

Upon conversion of the Series C Preferred Stock into common stock, the Warrants will be exercisable for shares of common stock or the shares of Series C Preferred Stock issued upon exercise thereof will be convertible into shares of common stock, in each case, subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations.

(2)	Does not give effect to any beneficial ownership limitations.

(3)	Gives effect to the Reverse Stock Split.

Description of Series C Preferred Stock

The following summary of the terms of the Series C Preferred Stock is not complete and is qualified in its entirety by the provisions of the Certificate of Designation, which is filed as Exhibit 3.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on May 18, 2026.

Conversion. Following stockholder approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters, effective as of 5:00 p.m. (Eastern time) on the third business day after the date on which such stockholder approval is received, each outstanding share of Series C Preferred Stock will automatically convert into 52 shares of common stock, after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split and subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations, including that a holder of Series C Preferred Stock is prohibited from converting shares of Series C Preferred Stock into shares of common stock if, as a result of such conversion, such holder, together with its affiliates, would beneficially own more than a specified percentage (initially set by the holder to a number between 4.99% and 19.99% and thereafter adjusted) of the total number of shares of common stock issued and outstanding immediately after giving effect to such conversion. If any shares of Series C Preferred Stock continue to be outstanding following such automatic conversion due to the application of beneficial ownership limitations, such shares of Series C Preferred Stock will be convertible at the option of the holder, subject to such beneficial ownership limitations.

Voting Rights. Except as otherwise required by the Certificate of Designation or the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (“DGCL”), the Series C Preferred Stock does not have voting rights. However, as long as any shares of Series C Preferred Stock are outstanding, we will not, without the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the then outstanding shares of the Series C Preferred Stock, (i) alter or change adversely the powers, preferences or rights given to the Series C Preferred Stock, or alter or amend the Certificate of Designation, amend or repeal any provision of, or add any provision to, our certificate of incorporation or bylaws, or file any articles of amendment, certificate of designations, preferences, limitations and relative rights of any series of our preferred stock, in each case, if such action would adversely alter or change the preferences, rights, privileges or powers of, or restrictions provided for the benefit of the Series C Preferred Stock, regardless

of whether any of the foregoing actions shall be by means of amendment to our certificate of incorporation or by merger, consolidation, recapitalization, reclassification, conversion or otherwise, (ii) issue further shares of Series C Preferred Stock or increase or decrease (other than by conversion) the number of authorized shares of Series C Preferred Stock, (iii) prior to receipt of stockholder approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters, consummate either (A) any Fundamental Transaction (as defined in the Certificate of Designation) or (B) any merger or consolidation of the Company or any stock sale to or other business combination (including, without limitation, a reorganization, recapitalization, spin-off, share exchange or scheme of arrangement) with or into another person in which our stockholders immediately before such transaction do not hold at least a majority of our capital stock immediately after such transaction or in which the Company issues securities in such transaction that represent or are convertible into securities representing more than a majority of the voting power of the Company immediately before such transaction (a “Change of Control Transaction”), (iv) prior to receipt of stockholder approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters, authorize or issue any class or series of stock that has powers, preferences or rights that are senior to those of the Series C Preferred Stock, (v) amend, waive or modify the Merger Agreement in any manner that would be reasonably likely to prevent, impede or materially delay the receipt of stockholder approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters or the automatic conversion of the Series C Preferred Stock, or (vi) enter into any agreement with respect to any of the foregoing.

Cash Settlement. If, at any time after the earlier of (i) receipt of approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters and (ii) November 18, 2026, the Company fails to deliver to the holder of shares of Series C Preferred Stock a certificate or certificates representing shares of common stock, or electronically deliver (or cause its transfer agent to electronically deliver) such shares, on or prior to the first trading day after the applicable Share Delivery Date (as defined in the Certificate of Designation), subject to certain limited exceptions, the Company shall, at the request of the holder of the shares of Series C Preferred Stock, pay an amount in cash by wire transfer of immediately available funds equal to the Fair Value (as defined below) of such undelivered shares, with such payment to be made within two business days from the date of request by such holder, whereupon the Company’s obligations to deliver such shares underlying the Notice of Conversion (as defined in the Certificate of Designation) shall be extinguished upon payment in full of the Fair Value of such undelivered shares. The cash settlement provisions set forth in the Certificate of Designation shall be available irrespective of the reason for the Company’s failure to timely deliver the applicable shares of common stock including due to the lack of obtaining the approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters. The “Fair Value” of shares shall be fixed with reference to the last reported closing sale price on the Nasdaq Global Select Market, or other principal trading market on which the Company’s common stock is listed, as of the trading day immediately prior to the date on which the Notice of Conversion is delivered to the Company.

Dividends. Holders of Series C Preferred Stock are entitled to receive dividends on shares of Series C Preferred Stock equal, on an as-if-converted-to-common stock basis, and in the same form as dividends actually paid on shares of our common stock.

Liquidation and Dissolution. The Series C Preferred Stock ranks on parity with our common stock upon any liquidation, dissolution or winding-up of the Company.

Description of Warrants

The following summary of the terms of the Warrants is not complete and is qualified in its entirety by the provisions of the Warrants, a form of which is filed as Exhibit 4.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on May 18, 2026.

Exercisability. The Warrants are exercisable at any time and from time to time beginning on or after the trading day following the earlier of our public disclosure of (i) topline results from our ongoing LAM-001 Phase 2 trial of Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome (the “LAM-001 Trial”) and (ii) the termination or suspension of the LAM-001 Trial (such date, as applicable, the “Triggering Event”) and through (and including) the 30th day

following the applicable Triggering Event (the “Termination Date”) but not thereafter. We currently anticipate announcing topline results from the LAM-001 Trial in the first quarter of 2027.

Shares Issuable Upon Exercise. The Warrants are initially exercisable for shares of Series C Preferred Stock. Following approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters and the filing and effectiveness of the amendment to our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation described in Proposal No. 3, the Warrants will also be exercisable for shares of common stock or the Series C Preferred Stock issued upon exercise thereof will be convertible into shares of common stock, in each case, subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations, including that a holder of Warrants is prohibited from exercising a Warrant for shares of common stock if, as a result of such exercise, such holder, together with its affiliates, would beneficially own more than a specified percentage (initially set by the holder to a number between 4.99% and 19.99% and thereafter adjusted) of the total number of shares of common stock issued and outstanding immediately after giving effect to such exercise. To the extent any beneficial ownership limitations apply, the Warrants will be exercisable for shares of Series C Preferred Stock for any amount that would exceed such limitation.

Exercise Price. The exercise price of the Warrants is $996.90 per share of Series C Preferred Stock for up to an aggregate of approximately $82.8 million upon exercise of the Warrants. The Warrants may only be exercised for cash.

Forfeiture Provisions. Except in limited circumstances, any transfer of any number of shares of Series C Preferred Stock issued to the holder of the Warrant in connection with the Purchase Agreement, shares of Series C Preferred Stock issued to such holder in exchange for such holder’s Orphai HoldCo common stock, which Orphai HoldCo common stock was issued to such holder upon conversion of such holder’s Orphai HoldCo convertible notes in accordance with Section 1.9(b) of the Merger Agreement, or any shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of any such shares of Series C Preferred Stock (as applicable), shall result in the automatic, pro rata forfeiture of a corresponding portion of shares of Series C Preferred Stock or common stock, as applicable, issuable upon the exercise of such holder’s Warrant.

Expiration. As described above, the Warrants will expire on the Termination Date.

Description of Orphai Options

The following summary of the assumption and conversion of the Orphai Options is not complete and is qualified in its entirety by the provisions of the Merger Agreement, which is filed as Exhibit 2.1 to our Current Report on Form 8-K, filed with the SEC on May 18, 2026.

In accordance with the Merger Agreement, at the effective time of the First Merger (the “First Effective Time”), each Orphai Option that was outstanding and unexercised was assumed by us and converted into an option to purchase common stock with (i) the number of shares underlying such option determined by multiplying (a) the number of shares of Orphai Subsidiary common stock that were subject to the corresponding Orphai Option, as in effect immediately prior to the First Effective Time, by (b) the Exchange Ratio (as defined in the Merger Agreement), and rounding the resulting number down to the nearest whole number of shares of common stock, and (ii) the per share exercise price for the common stock issuable upon exercise of each Orphai Option was determined by dividing (a) the per share exercise price of Orphai Subsidiary common stock subject to the corresponding Orphai Option, as in effect immediately prior to the First Effective Time, by (b) the Exchange Ratio and rounding the resulting exercise price up to the nearest whole cent, which number of shares and exercise prices were further adjusted based on the Reverse Stock Split.

Following our assumption of the Orphai Options, the terms thereof (including, but not limited to, the expiration date, restrictions on exercisability, and vesting schedule) otherwise remained unchanged; provided, that, (i) in the case of any Orphai Option that subject to Section 421 of the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) as of the First Effective Time by reason of its

qualification under Section 422 of the Code, the per share exercise price, the number of shares of common stock subject to such Orphai Option and the terms and conditions of such Orphai Option were determined in a manner consistent with the requirements of Section 424(a) of the Code; and (ii) the exercise price, the number of shares of common stock subject to, and the terms and conditions of exercise of each Orphai Option were also determined in a manner consistent with the requirements of Section 409A of the Code; provided, further, that: (a) no Orphai Option is exercisable until the date on which the Required Company Stockholder Matters are approved; (b) the terms of the Orphai Options were further amended, as needed, to reflect such assumption by us (including that any change in control or similar definition relate to us instead of Orphai and any provision that provides for the adjustment of the Orphai Options upon the occurrence of certain corporate events of Orphai relate to similar corporate events of us instead); and (c) our Board or a committee thereof succeeded to the authority and responsibility of the Orphai board of directors or any committee thereof with respect to each Orphai Option.

Executive Officers and Directors Following the Special Meeting

If the Required Company Stockholder Matters are approved, (i) Brigette Roberts, M.D., our current Chief of Corporate Affairs, is expected to be appointed as our Chief Executive Officer, (ii) John Militello, our current Head of Finance, is expected to be appointed as our Chief Financial Officer and (iii) Keith Fandrick, our current Head of Technical Operations, is expected to be appointed as our Chief Operating Officer. Each of Dirk Thye, our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Medical Officer and member of our Board, and Brendan Hannah, our Chief Operating Officer, Chief Business Officer and Chief Compliance Officer, have tendered their resignations, which resignations are conditioned upon the receipt of stockholder approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters and will become effective two business days after the date of the Special Meeting, or , 2026. The Board approved a reduction in the size of the Board from five directors to four directors immediately upon effectiveness of Dr. Thye’s resignation. The Board continues to consider potential director candidates and intends to appoint an independent director to the Board.

Expected Chief Executive Officer

On July 29, 2026, Dr. Thye tendered his resignation as our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Medical Officer and member of our Board, which resignation is conditioned upon the receipt of stockholder approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters and will become effective two business days after the date of the Special Meeting, or , 2026. The Board has appointed Dr. Roberts as our Chief Executive Officer, which appointment is conditioned upon the effectiveness of the resignation of Mr. Thye. Dr. Roberts will serve as the Company’s Principal Executive Officer upon her appointment.

Brigette Roberts, M.D., age 50

Dr. Roberts has served as our Chief of Corporate Affairs and member of our Board since the closing of the Acquisition. Prior to that, she served as the Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board of Directors of Orphai from May 2021 until the closing of the Acquisition, and prior to that she served as the Chief Medical Officer of Orphai from February 2021 until May 2021. During her time at Orphai, Dr. Roberts built a differentiated pulmonary franchise centered on LAM-001, an inhaled formulation of rapamycin for pulmonary vascular and fibrotic lung diseases, initiated two Phase 2 studies of LAM-001, secured U.S. and EU orphan drug designations for LAM-001 across multiple indications and raised more than $45 million in new private investment. Prior to Orphai, Dr. Roberts served as an Entrepreneur in Residence at Fortress Biotech from 2017 to January 2021 where she identified new assets to spin into new biotechnology companies. Prior to that, Dr. Roberts spent over 15 years as a healthcare investor and portfolio manager including at CDP Capital, Angel Lane Principal Strategies, YYC Capital (which she founded), Third Point, LLC and DKR Capital. Dr. Roberts also served as a director of Ligand Pharmaceuticals from December 2005 to February 2007.

Dr. Roberts holds a B.A. in Physics and Chemistry from Harvard University and an M.D. from New York University. We believe Dr. Roberts’ extensive experience in the biotechnology industry as an executive officer, investor, as well as her medical training qualifies her to serve as a director.

Expected Chief Financial Officer

On July 29, 2026, Mr. Hannah tendered his resignation as our Chief Operating Officer, Chief Business Officer and Chief Compliance Officer, which resignation is conditioned upon the receipt of stockholder approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters and will become effective two business days after the date of the Special Meeting, or , 2026. Mr. Hannah currently serves as our Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer. The Board has appointed John Militello, CPA, who currently serves as our Head of Finance, as our Chief Financial Officer, which appointment is conditioned upon the effectiveness of the resignation of Mr. Hannah. Mr. Militello will serve as the Company’s Principal Financial and Accounting Officer upon his appointment.

John Militello, CPA, age 52

John Militello, CPA, has served as Head of Finance of Orphai Therapeutics, LLC since July 2026. Before joining the Company, Mr. Militello served as VP of Finance, Sr. Controller, Treasurer and Principal Accounting Officer of Rocket Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a publicly traded gene therapy company, from January 2018 to July 2026. Mr. Militello was also the Interim Principal Financial Officer of Rocket Pharmaceuticals from January 2018 to December 2020 and March 2022 to March 2024. Previously, Mr. Militello served as the Vice President of Finance and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer at Immune Pharmaceuticals Inc. from April 2015 to November 2017. Prior to that, Mr. Militello was an Assistant Controller at Travere Therapeutics, formerly Retrophin, Inc., a publicly traded biotechnology company, and a Senior Manager in the biotech practice of BDO USA, LLP serving multi-national SEC registrants. Mr. Militello is a Certified Public Accountant and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from St. Joseph’s College.

Expected Chief Operating Officer

As described above, on July 29, 2026, Mr. Hannah tendered his resignation as our Chief Operating Officer, Chief Business Officer and Chief Compliance Officer, which resignation is conditioned upon the receipt of stockholder approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters and will become effective two days after the date of the Special Meeting, or , 2026. The Board has appointed Keith Fandrick, our Head of Technical Operations, as our Chief Operating Officer, which appointment is conditioned upon the effectiveness of the resignation of Mr. Hannah.

Keith Fandrick, age 47

Keith R. Fandrick, Ph.D., has served as our Head of Technical Operations since the Acquisition. Prior to that time, Dr. Fandrick served as Chief Operating Officer of Orphai, where he led operations, chemistry, manufacturing and controls, program management, regulatory strategy, external manufacturing and intellectual property activities for clinical-stage therapeutic programs since 2017, and he previously served in various other roles at Orphai, including as Chief Development Officer and Head of CMC. Previously, Dr. Fandrick served as a member of the Scientific Advisory Board of Drug Farm, Inc., where he advised on pharmaceutical development and CMC strategy. From 2007 to 2017, Dr. Fandrick held positions of increasing responsibility at Boehringer-Ingelheim. Dr. Fandrick is an author or co-author of 78 publications and patents. He holds Ph.D. and A.M. degrees in chemistry from Harvard University, an M.B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Kenan-Flagler Business School, B.S. in chemistry from the University of California, San Diego, and a Regulatory Affairs Certification.

Reasons for Stockholder Approval

Our common stock is listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market, and, as such, we are subject to the applicable rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC, including Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(a), which requires stockholder approval in connection with the acquisition of another company if the Nasdaq-listed company will issue more than 20% of its common stock. For purposes of Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(a), the issuance of any common stock in the Acquisition Transactions would be aggregated together. If all shares of Series C Preferred Stock are converted into shares of our common stock (without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations), the shares of common stock issued upon such conversion and the shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the Warrants and Orphai Options, would constitute approximately 94.23% of our issued and outstanding stock as of the record date. Thus, in order to permit the issuance of common stock upon conversion of the Series C Preferred Stock and exercise of the Warrants and Orphai Options, we must first obtain stockholder approval of this issuance.

In addition, pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(b), stockholder approval is required prior to the issuance of securities that will result in a “change of control” of a listing company. Nasdaq has not formally defined what constitutes a “change of control” but Nasdaq guidance provides that generally a change of control occurs when, as a result of the issuance of securities in such transaction, an investor or a group of investors would own, or have the right to acquire, 20% or more of the outstanding shares of common stock or voting power and such ownership or voting power would be the largest ownership position. In addition, Nasdaq will consider all facts and circumstances concerning a transaction, including whether there are any other relationships or agreements between a company and an investor. Additionally, under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5110(a), Nasdaq guidance suggests that a change of control could result based on changes to the voting power and/or share ownership, management and board of directors of the listed company. Although the conversion of the Series C Preferred Stock will not result in an investor beneficially owning more than 20% of our voting power due to the beneficial ownership blockers and upon the closing of the Acquisition Dr. Roberts was the only newly appointed executive officer and director of the Company, any subsequent changes to the Board and management of the Company, even if occurring after the closing of the Acquisition Transactions and even if such changes are not a result of any contractual rights of any investor or group of investors, may be deemed a “change of control” by Nasdaq. Because we desire to make changes to our Board and management team after the Special Meeting as noted above, we are seeking stockholder approval of a “change of control” under Nasdaq Listing Rules. In addition, if and as required by the Nasdaq Listing Rules, we will file the Nasdaq Listing Application in connection with such “change of control.” Stockholders should note that a “change of control” as described under Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(b) applies only with respect to the application of such rule and does not constitute a “change of control” for purposes of Delaware law, our organizational documents or any other purpose.

Effect of Proposal No. 1

In the event that our stockholders approve this Proposal No. 1, and Proposal Nos. 2 and 3 are also approved, at the Special Meeting, (i) the Series C Preferred Stock will become immediately convertible into shares of common stock, subject to any beneficial ownership limitations set by the holder; (ii) the Warrants will become exercisable for shares of common stock or the shares of Series C Preferred Stock issued upon exercise thereof will be convertible into shares of common stock, in each case, subject to any beneficial ownership limitations set by the holder; (iii) the restrictions prohibiting the Orphai Options from being exercisable will be lifted; and (iv) our management team and Board will change as described above under “Executive Officers and Directors Following the Special Meeting”. The issuance of our shares of common stock upon the conversion of the Series C Preferred Stock or exercise of the Warrants or Orphai Options, as applicable, will not affect the rights or privileges of our existing stockholders, except that the economic and voting interests of each of our existing stockholders will be diluted. Although the number of shares of common stock that our existing stockholders own will not decrease, the shares of common stock owned by our existing stockholders will represent a substantially smaller percentage of our total outstanding shares of common stock after any such conversion or exercise.

In the event that our stockholders do not approve this Proposal No. 1 at the Special Meeting, the Series C Preferred Stock will not become convertible, and the Warrants and Orphai Options will not become exercisable for common stock, as applicable, unless and until stockholders approve of such conversion and exercise and issuance of shares of common stock for the purposes of complying with the applicable provisions of Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635. Pursuant to the Merger Agreement and the Purchase Agreement, if we fail to receive sufficient proxies to constitute a quorum or to obtain the required vote on this Proposal No. 1, we would be required to postpone or adjourn the Special Meeting one or more times for up to 30 days per postponement or adjournment. Further, in the event that our stockholders do not approve this Proposal No. 1 at the Special Meeting, we are required to use our reasonable best efforts to secure the approvals sought in this Proposal No. 1 as soon as practicable following the date of the Special Meeting. We will be required to hold an annual meeting or a special meeting at least every six months to solicit and take a vote on the approvals sought in this Proposal No. 1 until such approvals are obtained. The process of continuing to hold stockholder meetings to obtain such approvals would cause us to incur significant legal expenses and could divert our management’s attention from the operation of our business. In addition, if we are unable to obtain approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters, including this Proposal No. 1, we may be required to make significant cash settlement payments to the holders of Series C Preferred Stock, including any Series C Preferred Stock issued upon exercise of the Warrants (if any), who submit Notices of Conversion after November 18, 2026.

Interests of Certain Parties

In connection with the Acquisition Transactions, Brigette Roberts, M.D., was appointed as our Chief of Corporate Affairs and a member of our Board. Dr. Roberts is expected to be appointed as our Chief Executive Officer if the Required Company Stockholder Matters are approved. Dr. Roberts also holds Orphai Options exercisable for an aggregate of 834,902 shares of common stock that were assumed in the Acquisition and that will become exercisable upon approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters. In addition, as described in “Executive Officers and Directors Following the Special Meeting—Expected Chief Financial Officer” and “Executive Officers and Directors Following the Special Meeting—Expected Chief Operating Officer,” Mr. Militello is expected to be appointed as our Chief Financial Officer and Mr. Fandrick is expected to be appointed as our Chief Operating Officer, respectively, if the Required Company Stockholder Matters are approved. Mr. Fandrick, who previously served as the Chief Operating Officer of Orphai, holds Orphai Options exercisable for an aggregate of 233,767 shares of common stock that were assumed in the Acquisition and that will become exercisable upon approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters. In addition, each of Dr. Thye and Mr. Hannah will receive retention bonuses of $700,000 and $500,000, respectively, if he is employed by us through the approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters. Further, in connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement, the Company and Orphai Subsidiary entered into Support Agreements with certain of our officers and directors (solely in their capacity as stockholders), representing approximately 2.9% of shares of common stock outstanding on the record date. The Support Agreements provide that, among other things, each of the parties thereto has agreed to vote or cause to be voted all of the shares of common stock beneficially owned by such stockholder in favor of Proposals Nos. 1, 2 and 3 at the Special Meeting, subject to and in accordance with the terms of the Support Agreements.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS

A VOTE “FOR” PROPOSAL NO. 1.

PROPOSAL NO. 2

APPROVAL OF ISSUANCE OF SHARES OF OUR COMMON STOCK UPON CONVERSION OF THE PIPE PREFERRED SHARES AND UPON EXERCISE OF THE PIPE WARRANTS PURSUANT TO NASDAQ LISTING RULE 5635(D)

Overview

As described above, in the 2026 Private Placement, we issued (i) an aggregate of 144,200.633 shares of Series C Preferred Stock (representing 7,498,447 shares of common stock on an as-converted-to-common basis, after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split and without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations) and (ii) PIPE Warrants to purchase up to an aggregate of 72,100.322 shares of Series C Preferred Stock (representing 3,749,231 shares of common stock on an as-converted-to-common basis, after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split and without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations).

Shares Issuable Upon Conversion

Set forth below is a table summarizing the issued and outstanding shares of Series C Preferred Stock and the number of Series C Preferred Stock underlying issued and outstanding PIPE Warrants, and the number of shares of common stock that are potentially issuable upon conversion of the Series C Preferred Stock and exercise of the PIPE Warrants. The sale into the public market of the underlying common stock could materially and adversely affect the market price of our common stock.


	2026 Private Placement
Series C Preferred Stock Issued and Outstanding		144,200.633
Series C Preferred Stock Issuable Upon Exercise of Issued and Outstanding PIPE Warrants⁽¹⁾		72,100.322
Common Stock (as converted)⁽²⁾⁽³⁾		11,247,678
Total Common Stock Issuable⁽²⁾⁽³⁾		11,247,678

(1)

Upon conversion of the Series C Preferred Stock into common stock, the PIPE Warrants will be exercisable for shares of common stock or the shares of Series C Preferred Stock issued upon exercise thereof will be convertible into shares of common stock, in each case, subject to certain beneficial ownership limitations.

(2)	Does not give effect to any beneficial ownership limitations.

(3)	Gives effect to the Reverse Stock Split.

Description of Series C Preferred Stock

See the section titled “Proposal No. 1—Approval of issuance of shares of our common stock, upon conversion of our Series C Preferred Stock and exercise of the Warrants and Orphai Options, which (a) will represent more than 20% of the shares of common stock outstanding pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(a) and (b) may, together with certain changes to management and our Board, result in the change of control of the Company pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(b)” for a description of the Series C Preferred Stock.

Reasons for Stockholder Approval

Our common stock is listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market, and, as such, we are subject to the applicable rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC, including Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(d), which requires stockholder approval prior to the sale, issuance, or potential issuance by a listed company, in a transaction other than a public offering, of shares of common stock (or securities convertible into or exercisable for common stock) equal to 20% or more of the common stock outstanding or 20% or more of the voting power outstanding before the issuance for a price that is less than the lower of (i) the company’s Nasdaq Official Closing Price (as reflected on Nasdaq.com) immediately preceding the signing of the binding agreement, or (ii) the average of the

company’s Nasdaq Official Closing Price of the common stock (as reflected on Nasdaq.com) for the five trading days immediately preceding the signing of the binding agreement (the “Minimum Price”).

As discussed above, on May 18, 2026 (the “Execution Date”), we entered into the Purchase Agreement with the Investors, pursuant to which, on May 21, 2026, we issued and sold the PIPE Securities at a price of $797.50 per share of Series C Preferred Stock. Accordingly, the deemed price at which each share of Series C Preferred Stock shall convert into a share of our common stock is approximately $15.3365 (after giving retroactive effect to the Reverse Stock Split). Additionally, the exercise price of each PIPE Warrant is $996.90 per share of Series C Preferred Stock (prior to giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split). The closing price of our common stock on May 15, 2026, the trading date immediately preceding the signing of the Purchase Agreement, was $23.00 (after giving retroactive effect to the Reverse Stock Split), and the average closing price of our common stock for the five trading days immediately preceding the signing of the Purchase Agreement was $24.20 (after giving retroactive effect to the Reverse Stock Split). As a result, it is possible that we may issue shares of our common stock upon conversion of the shares of Series C Preferred Stock and exercise of the PIPE Warrants at a price below the Minimum Price in the future. In addition, if all of the PIPE Preferred Shares are converted into shares of our common stock (without giving effect to any beneficial ownership limitations), the shares of common stock issued upon such conversion and the shares of common stock issuable upon exercise of the PIPE Warrants, would constitute approximately 71.40% of our issued and outstanding stock as of the record date. Thus, in order to permit the issuance of common stock upon conversion of the PIPE Preferred Shares and exercise of the PIPE Warrants, we must first obtain stockholder approval of this issuance.

Accordingly, we are seeking stockholder approval of this Proposal No. 2 in order to permit us to issue shares of common stock upon conversion of the shares of the PIPE Preferred Shares and exercise of the PIPE Warrants at a price below the Minimum Price.

Effect of Proposal No. 2

In the event that our stockholders approve this Proposal No. 2, and Proposal Nos. 1 and 3 are also approved, at the Special Meeting, (i) the PIPE Preferred Shares will become immediately convertible into shares of common stock, subject to any beneficial ownership limitations set by the holder, (ii) the PIPE Warrants will become exercisable for shares of common stock or the shares of Series C Preferred Stock issued upon exercise thereof will be convertible into shares of common stock, in each case, subject to any beneficial ownership limitations set by the holder and beginning on the trading day following the earlier of the Company’s public announcement of (a) top line data from the ongoing LAM-001 Phase 2 trial of Bronchiolitis Obliterans Syndrome and (b) the termination or suspension of such trial, and through the 30^th day following such public announcement; and (iii) each of the other effects that are contingent upon approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters will also occur. See the section titled “Proposal No. 1—Approval of issuance of shares of our common stock, upon conversion of our Series C Preferred Stock and exercise of the Warrants and Orphai Options, which (a) will represent more than 20% of the shares of common stock outstanding pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(a) and (b) may, together with certain changes to management and our Board, result in the change of control of the Company pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(b)—Effect of Proposal No. 1” for more information. The issuance of our shares of common stock upon the conversion of the PIPE Preferred Shares or exercise of the PIPE Warrants will not affect the rights or privileges of our existing stockholders, except that the economic and voting interests of each of our existing stockholders will be diluted. Although the number of shares of common stock that our existing stockholders own will not decrease, the shares of common stock owned by our existing stockholders will represent a substantially smaller percentage of our total outstanding shares of common stock after any such conversion or exercise.

In the event that our stockholders do not approve this Proposal No. 2 at the Special Meeting, the PIPE Preferred Shares and the PIPE Warrants will not become convertible or exercisable, as applicable, unless and until stockholders approve of such conversion and exercise and the issuance of shares of common stock for the purposes of complying with the applicable provisions of Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635. Pursuant to the Purchase

Agreement, if we fail to receive sufficient proxies to constitute a quorum or to obtain the required vote on this Proposal No. 2, we would be required to postpone or adjourn the Special Meeting one or more times for up to 30 days per postponement or adjournment. Further, in the event that our stockholders do not approve this Proposal No. 2 at the Special Meeting, we are required to use our reasonable best efforts to secure the approvals sought in this Proposal No. 2 as soon as practicable following the date of the Special Meeting. We will be required to hold an annual meeting or a special meeting at least every six months to solicit and take a vote on the approvals sought in this Proposal No. 2 until such approvals are obtained. The process of continuing to hold stockholder meetings to obtain such approvals would cause us to incur significant legal expenses and could divert our management’s attention from the operation of our business. In addition, if we are unable to obtain approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters, including this Proposal No. 2, we may be required to make significant cash settlement payments to the holders of Series C Preferred Stock, including any Series C Preferred Stock issued upon exercise of the PIPE Warrants (if any), who submit Notices of Conversion after November 18, 2026.

Interests of Certain Parties

Although none of our directors or executive officers purchased PIPE Securities in the 2026 Private Placement, certain directors and executive officers have certain interests in this Proposal No. 2 as a result of it being one of the proposals contained in the Required Company Stockholder Matters. See the section titled “Proposal No. 1—Approval of issuance of shares of our common stock, upon conversion of our Series C Preferred Stock and exercise of the Warrants and Orphai Options, which (a) will represent more than 20% of the shares of common stock outstanding pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(a) and (b) may, together with certain changes to management and our Board, result in the change of control of the Company pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(b)—Interests of Certain Parties.” for a description of such interests.

In addition, in connection with the execution of the Merger Agreement, the Company and Orphai Subsidiary entered into Support Agreements with certain of our officers and directors (solely in their capacity as stockholders), representing approximately 2.9% of shares of common stock outstanding on the record date. The Support Agreements provide that, among other things, each of the parties thereto has agreed to vote or cause to be voted all of the shares of common stock beneficially owned by such stockholder in favor of Proposals Nos. 1, 2 and 3 at the Special Meeting, subject to and in accordance with the terms of the Support Agreements.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS

A VOTE “FOR” PROPOSAL NO. 2.

PROPOSAL NO. 3

APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT OF THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED SHARES OF COMMON STOCK FROM 250,000,000 TO 275,000,000

The Board is requesting stockholder approval of an amendment to the Company’s Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to increase the Company’s authorized number of shares of common stock from 250,000,000 shares to 275,000,000 shares. The Board of Directors has not approved an increase in the authorized shares of any class of preferred stock, including the Series C Preferred Stock. The text of the proposed amendment is set forth on Annex B to this Proxy Statement.

The additional common stock to be authorized by adoption of the amendment would have rights identical to the currently outstanding common stock of the Company. Adoption of the proposed amendment would not affect the rights of the holders of currently outstanding common stock of the Company, except for effects incidental to increasing the number of shares of common stock available for future issuance, which would result in dilution of the earnings per share and voting rights of current holders of common stock. If the amendment is adopted, it will become effective upon filing of a Certificate of Amendment to the Company’s Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware.

As of the record date, July 29, 2026, there were 1,017,063 shares of common stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote. On the record date, there were 211,301.868 shares of Series C Preferred Stock issued and outstanding; however, the shares of Series C Preferred Stock are not entitled to vote on the matters being considered at the Special Meeting. In addition, as of June 30, 2026, (i) an aggregate of 10,987,728 shares of common stock are issuable upon conversion of the Series C Preferred Stock, (ii) an aggregate of 1,378,309 shares of common stock are issuable upon exercise of outstanding stock options, (iii) 4,319,400 shares of common stock are issuable upon exercise of outstanding warrants, (iv) 78,309 shares of common stock are reserved for issuance under the Quince Therapeutics, Inc. 2019 Equity Incentive Plan, (v) 14,504 shares of common stock are reserved for issuance under the Quince Therapeutics, Inc. 2019 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “2019 ESPP”), (vi) 2,724 shares of common stock are reserved for future issuance under the Novosteo, Inc. 2019 Equity Incentive Plan, (vii) 8,333 shares of common stock are available for issuance under the Quince Therapeutics, Inc. 2022 Inducement Plan (the “2022 Inducement Plan”) and (viii) if Proposals No. 4 and No. 5 are approved, 821,872 and 142,045 shares of common stock, respectively, will be reserved for issuance under the 2026 Plan and the 2026 ESPP. The proposed amendment to our Certificate of Incorporation would increase the number of shares of common stock that we are authorized to issue from 250,000,000 shares of common stock to 275,000,000 shares of common stock, representing an increase of 25,000,000 shares of authorized common stock. The proposed amendment to our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation would not increase the number of shares of preferred stock that we are authorized to issue. The proposed form of amendment to our Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation to effect the Authorized Share Increase Proposal is attached as Annex B to this Proxy Statement.

Reasons for Stockholder Approval

The additional authorized shares of common stock will be available for issuance from time to time at the discretion of our Board of Directors for any proper corporate purpose, including, without limitation:

•

future public or private financings, including potential issuances in connection with warrants or other convertible securities, including the Warrants and the Series C Preferred Stock;

•

acquisitions of other businesses, technologies or assets;

•

issuances in connection with the 2026 Plan and the 2026 ESPP;

•

stock dividends, stock splits or other recapitalizations; and

•

other proper corporate purposes as determined by the Board of Directors from time to time.

Except to the extent required by applicable law, regulation or the rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market, any future issuances of authorized shares of common stock may be approved by the Board of Directors without further action by our stockholders. The availability of additional authorized shares of common stock would be particularly important in the event that the Board of Directors needs to undertake any of the foregoing actions on an expedited basis, in order to avoid the time and expense of seeking stockholder approval in connection with any contemplated issuance, where such approval might not otherwise be required. Although the Board of Directors will issue common stock only when required or when the Board of Directors considers such issuance to be in our and our stockholders’ best interests, the issuance of additional common stock may, among other things, have a dilutive effect on the earnings per share (if any) and on the equity and voting rights of our existing stockholders.

Anti-Takeover and Dilutive Effects

The shares of common stock that are authorized but unissued provide the Board of Directors with flexibility to effect, among other transactions, public or private financings, including the issuance and exercise of warrants, acquisitions, stock dividends, stock splits, and the granting of equity incentive awards. However, these authorized but unissued shares may also be used by the Board of Directors, consistent with and subject to its fiduciary duties, to deter future attempts to gain control of us or make such actions more expensive and less desirable. The Authorized Share Proposal would continue to give the Board of Directors authority to issue additional shares from time to time without delay or further action by the stockholders, except as may be required by applicable law, regulation or Nasdaq Listing Rules.

The Authorized Share Increase is not being recommended in response to any specific effort of which we are aware to obtain control of the Company, nor does the Board of Directors have any present intent to use the authorized but unissued common stock to impede a takeover attempt. While the Authorized Share Increase may be deemed to have potential anti-takeover effects, the proposal is not prompted by any specific effort or takeover threat currently perceived by management. In addition, we do not have any plans to implement additional measures having anti-takeover effects.

The Authorized Share Increase will increase the number of authorized shares of common stock and, as a result, the Board of Directors’ ability to issue authorized and unissued shares without further stockholder action. The issuance of additional shares of common stock may have a dilutive effect on earnings per share and relative voting power and may cause a decline in the trading price of our common stock. We could use the shares that are available for future issuance in dilutive equity financing transactions, or to oppose a hostile takeover attempt or delay or prevent changes in control or changes in or removal of management, including transactions that are favored by a majority of the stockholders or in which the stockholders might otherwise receive a premium for their shares over then-current market prices or benefit in some other manner.

Effect of Proposal No. 3

In the event that stockholders approve this Proposal No. 3, and Proposal Nos. 1 and 2 are also approved, each of the effects that are contingent upon approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters will occur. See the section titled “Proposal No. 1—Approval of issuance of shares of our common stock, upon conversion of our Series C Preferred Stock and exercise of the Warrants and Orphai Options, which (a) will represent more than 20% of the shares of common stock outstanding pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(a) and (b) may, together with certain changes to management and our Board, result in the change of control of the Company pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(b)—Effect of Proposal No. 1” for more information. Other than the obligation to issue shares of common stock upon the conversion of the outstanding Series C Preferred Stock, Warrants and shares issuable upon the exercise of outstanding stock options under our existing equity plans or under the 2026 Plan and 2026 ESPP, if approved, we have no specific plan, commitment, arrangement, understanding or agreement, either oral or written, regarding the issuance of common stock subsequent to the Authorized Share Increase at this time, and we have not allocated any specific portion of the authorized shares to any particular purpose.

Consequences if Proposal No. 3 Is Not Approved

In the event that our stockholders do not approve this Proposal No. 3 at the Special Meeting, we are required to use our reasonable best efforts to secure the approvals sought in this Proposal No. 3 as soon as practicable following the date of the Special Meeting. Pursuant to the Merger Agreement and the Purchase Agreement, if we fail to receive sufficient proxies to constitute a quorum or to obtain the required vote on this Proposal No. 3, we would be required to postpone or adjourn the Special Meeting one or more times for up to 30 days per postponement or adjournment. Further, we will be required to hold an annual meeting or a special meeting at least every six months to solicit and take a vote on the approvals sought in this Proposal No. 3 until such approvals are obtained. The process of continuing to hold stockholder meetings to obtain such approvals would cause us to incur significant legal expenses and could divert our management’s attention from the operation of our business. In addition, if we are unable to obtain approval of the Required Company Stockholder Matters, including this Proposal No. 3, we may be required to make significant cash settlement payments to the holders of Series C Preferred Stock, including any Series C Preferred Stock issued upon exercise of the Warrants (if any), who submit Notices of Conversion after November 18, 2026.

Procedure for Effecting the Authorized Share Increase

If this Proposal No. 3 is approved by our stockholders, we will promptly file the Certificate of Amendment with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware to amend our existing Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation. The Authorized Share Increase will become effective upon the date of filing and acceptance of the Certificate of Amendment by the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware. The text of the Certificate of Amendment is set forth in Annex B to this Proxy Statement and is subject to modification to include such changes as may be required by the office of the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware and as the Board of Directors deems necessary and advisable to effect the Authorized Share Increase.

The description of the Certificate of Amendment set forth above is qualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the Certificate of Amendment, which is attached as Annex B to this Proxy Statement.

Interests of Certain Parties

Certain directors and executive officers have certain interests in this Proposal No. 3 as a result of it being one of the proposals contained in the Required Company Stockholder Matters. See the section titled “Proposal No. 1—Approval of issuance of shares of our common stock, upon conversion of our Series C Preferred Stock and exercise of the Warrants and Orphai Options, which (a) will represent more than 20% of the shares of common stock outstanding pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(a) and (b) may, together with certain changes to management and our Board, result in the change of control of the Company pursuant to Nasdaq Listing Rule 5635(b)—Interests of Certain Parties.” for a description of such interests.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS

A VOTE “FOR” PROPOSAL NO. 3.

PROPOSAL NO. 4

APPROVAL OF THE 2026 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN

Overview

The Company’s stockholders are also being asked to consider and vote upon the 2026 Plan Proposal to approve the Company’s 2026 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2026 Plan”). Our board of directors approved the 2026 Plan on July 29, 2026, subject to stockholder approval. If the Company’s stockholders approve the 2026 Plan, the 2026 Plan will immediately become effective. If the 2026 Plan is not approved by the Company’s stockholders, the 2026 Plan will not become effective. The 2026 Plan is described in more detail below.

The summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the text of the 2026 Plan, a copy of which is attached as Annex C to this Proxy Statement. The Company’s stockholders should refer to the 2026 Plan for a more complete and detailed information about the terms and conditions of the 2026 Plan.

We Manage Our Equity Award Use Carefully

We continue to believe that equity awards are a vital part of our overall compensation program. Our compensation philosophy reflects broad-based eligibility for equity awards, and we grant equity awards to substantially all of our employees. However, we recognize that equity awards dilute existing stockholders, and, therefore, we must responsibly manage the growth of our equity compensation program. We are committed to effectively monitoring our equity compensation share reserve, including our “burn rate,” in a manner intended to maximize stockholders’ value by granting the appropriate number of equity awards necessary to attract, reward, and retain employees.

Burn Rate

The following table provides detailed information regarding the activity related to the Company’s equity incentive program for fiscal years 2025, 2024 and 2023 but does not include information regarding any equity incentive programs of Orphai.


	2025			2024			2023
Total number of shares of common stock subject to stock options granted		16,734			18,372			16,436
Total number of shares of common stock subject to full value awards granted		—			—			—
Weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding		250,485			216,312			186,186
Burn Rate⁽¹⁾		6.68	%		8.49	%		8.83	%

(1)	Burn Rate is calculated as (shares of common stock subject to stock options granted + shares of common stock subject to full value awards granted) / weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding.

Overhang

The following table provides certain information regarding the Company’s equity incentive programs but does not include information on any equity incentive programs of Orphai.


	As of June 30, 2026
Total number of shares of common stock subject to outstanding stock options		1,378,309
Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding stock options		$40.78
Weighted-average remaining term of outstanding stock options		9.37	years
Total number of shares of common stock subject to outstanding full value awards⁽¹⁾		0
Total number of shares of common stock available for grant under the Quince Therapeutics, Inc. 2019 Equity Incentive Plan		78,309
Total number of shares of common stock available for grant under the Novosteo Inc. 2019 Equity Incentive Plan		2,724
Total number of shares of common stock available for grant under the Quince Therapeutics, Inc. 2022 Inducement Plan		8,333
Total number of shares of common stock outstanding		1,017,063
Per-share closing price of common stock as reported on Nasdaq		$18.19

(1)	A “full value award” is any award other than a stock option or stock appreciation with respect to which the exercise or strike price is at least 100% of the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant.

2026 Equity Incentive Plan

The 2026 Plan will be the successor to and continuation of the Quince Therapeutics, Inc. 2019 Equity Incentive Plan, the Novosteo Inc. 2019 Equity Incentive Plan, the Quince Therapeutics, Inc. 2022 Inducement Plan, the Orphai Therapeutics Inc. 2026 Stock Incentive Plan and the Orphai Therapeutics Inc. 2013 Employee, Director and Consultant Equity Incentive Plan (each as may be amended from time to time, collectively, the “Prior Plans”). Once the 2026 Plan becomes effective, no further grants will be made under the Prior Plans.

Eligibility. Any individual who is an employee of ours or any of our affiliates, or any person who provides services to us or our affiliates, including members of our board of directors, is eligible to receive awards under the 2026 Plan at the discretion of the plan administrator. As of July 29, 2026, we had 28 employees, five consultants and four non-employee directors.

Types of Awards. The 2026 Plan provides for the grant of incentive stock options (“ISOs”) to employees, including employees of any parent or subsidiary, and for the grant of nonstatutory stock options (“NSOs”), stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards, restricted stock unit awards, performance awards and other forms of stock awards to employees, directors, and consultants, including employees and consultants of our affiliates.

Authorized Shares. Subject to adjustment for specified changes in our capitalization, the maximum number of shares of our common stock that will be available for issuance under the 2026 Plan will be equal to (i) 821,872 shares of common stock, plus up to (ii) 1,377,845 shares of our common stock subject to outstanding stock awards granted under the Prior Plans (including, but not limited to, outstanding stock awards assumed by the Company in connection with the Acquisition) that, after the date the 2026 Plan becomes effective, are not issued because a stock award expires or otherwise terminates without all of the shares covered by the award having been issued; are not issued because the stock award is settled in cash; are forfeited or repurchased because of the failure to vest; or are reacquired or withheld to satisfy a tax withholding obligation or the purchase or exercise price (the shares described in clause (ii), the “Returning Shares”). In addition, the number of shares of our common stock reserved for issuance under the 2026 Plan will automatically increase on January 1 of each calendar year, from January 1, 2027 through January 1, 2036, in an amount equal to 5% of the total number of shares of all classes of our common stock outstanding plus all shares of our

common stock issuable upon the exercise of any pre-funded warrants (without regard to any beneficial ownership limitations) on December 31 of the preceding year, or a lesser number of shares determined by our board of directors. The maximum number of shares of our common stock that may be issued on the exercise of ISOs under the 2026 Plan is equal to 7,000,000 shares. As of July 30, 2026, the closing price of the Company’s common stock as reported on Nasdaq was $23.03 per share.

Shares subject to stock awards granted under the 2026 Plan that expire or terminate without being exercised in full, or that are paid out in cash rather than in shares, do not reduce the number of shares available for issuance under the 2026 Plan. Additionally, shares become available for future grant under the 2026 Plan if (i) they were issued stock awards under the 2026 Plan and we repurchase them or they are forfeited because of the failure to vest, or (ii) they are reacquired by us to pay the exercise price of a stock award or to satisfy the tax withholding obligations related to a stock award.

Plan Administration. Our board of directors, or a duly authorized committee of our board of directors, will administer the 2026 Plan. Our board of directors may delegate concurrent authority to administer the 2026 Plan to our compensation committee under the terms of our compensation committee’s charter. We sometimes refer to our board of directors, or the applicable committee with the power to administer our equity incentive plans, as the administrator. The administrator may also delegate to one or more persons or bodies the authority to (i) designate employees (other than officers) to receive specified awards, and (ii) determine the number of shares subject to such awards. Such persons or bodies may not grant a stock award to themselves and neither our board of directors nor any committee may delegate authority to any person or body (who is not a member of our board of directors or such body that is not comprised solely of members of our board of directors) the authority to determine the fair market value of our common stock for purposes of the 2026 Plan.

The administrator has the authority to determine the terms of awards, including recipients, the exercise, purchase or strike price of awards, if any, the number of shares subject to each award, the fair market value of a share of common stock, the vesting schedule applicable to the awards, together with any vesting acceleration, and the form of consideration, if any, payable upon exercise or settlement of the award and the terms of the award agreements for use under the 2026 Plan.

In addition, subject to the terms of the 2026 Plan, the administrator also has the power to modify outstanding awards under the 2026 Plan, including the authority to reprice any outstanding option or stock appreciation right, cancel and re-grant any outstanding option or stock appreciation right in exchange for new stock awards, cash or other consideration, or take any other action that is treated as a repricing under generally accepted accounting principles, with the consent of any materially adversely affected participant.

Stock Options. ISOs and NSOs are granted under applicable award agreements adopted by the administrator. The administrator determines the exercise price for stock options, within the terms and conditions of the 2026 Plan, provided that the exercise price of a stock option generally cannot be less than 100% of the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant. Options granted under the 2026 Plan vest at the rate specified in the applicable award agreement as determined by the administrator.

Tax Limitations on ISOs. The aggregate fair market value, determined at the time of grant, of our common stock with respect to ISOs that are exercisable for the first time by an optionholder during any calendar year under all of our stock plans may not exceed $100,000. Options or portions thereof that exceed such limit will generally be treated as NSOs. No ISO may be granted to any person who, at the time of the grant, owns or is deemed to own stock possessing more than 10% of our total combined voting power or that of any of our affiliates unless (i) the option exercise price is at least 110% of the fair market value of the stock subject to the option on the date of grant; and (ii) the option is not exercisable after the expiration of five years from the date of grant.

Restricted Stock Unit Awards. Restricted stock units are granted under the applicable award agreements adopted by the administrator. Restricted stock units may be granted in consideration for any form of legal

consideration that may be acceptable to our board of directors and permissible under applicable law. A restricted stock unit may be settled by cash, delivery of stock, a combination of cash and stock as deemed appropriate by the administrator, or in any other form of consideration set forth in the applicable award agreement. Additionally, dividend equivalents may be credited in respect of shares covered by a restricted stock unit. Except as otherwise provided in the applicable award agreement, restricted stock units that have not vested will be forfeited once the participant’s continuous service ends for any reason.

Restricted Stock Awards. Restricted stock awards are granted under applicable award agreements adopted by the administrator. A restricted stock award may be awarded in consideration for cash, check, bank draft or money order, past services to us, or any other form of legal consideration (including future services) that may be acceptable to our board of directors and permissible under applicable law. The administrator determines the terms and conditions of restricted stock awards, including vesting and forfeiture terms. If a participant’s service relationship with us ends for any reason, we may receive any or all of the shares of our common stock held by the participant that have not vested as of the date the participant terminates service with us through a forfeiture condition or a repurchase right.

Stock Appreciation Rights. Stock appreciation rights are granted under applicable award agreements adopted by the administrator. The administrator determines the purchase price or strike price for a stock appreciation right, which generally cannot be less than 100% of the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant. A stock appreciation right granted under the 2026 Plan vests at the rate specified in the applicable award agreement as determined by the administrator.

Performance Awards. The 2026 Plan permits the grant of performance-based stock and cash awards. The administrator may structure awards so that the shares of our stock, cash, or other property will be issued or paid only following the achievement of certain pre-established performance goals during a designated performance period. The performance criteria that will be used to establish such performance goals may be based on any one of, or combination of, the following as determined by the administrator: earnings (including earnings per share and net earnings); earnings before interest, taxes and depreciation; earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization; total stockholder return; relative stockholder return; return on equity or average stockholder’s equity; return on assets, investment, or capital employed; share price; margin (including gross margin); income (before or after taxes); operating income; operating income after taxes; pre-tax profit; operating cash flow; sales, annual recurring revenue, or revenue targets; increases in revenue or product revenue; expenses and cost reduction goals; improvement in or attainment of working capital levels; economic value added (or an equivalent metric); market share; cash flow; cash flow per share; share price performance; debt reduction; customer satisfaction; stockholder’s equity; capital expenditures; debt levels; operating profit or net operating profit; growth of net income or operating income; billings; financing; regulatory milestones; stockholder liquidity; corporate governance and compliance; intellectual property; personnel matters; progress of internal research; progress of partnered programs; partner satisfaction; budget management; partner or collaborator achievements; internal controls, including those related to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002; investor relations, analysts and communication; implementation or completion of projects or processes; employee retention; strategic partnerships or transactions (including in-licensing and out-licensing of intellectual property); establishing relationships with respect to the marketing, distribution and sale of the Company’s products; supply chain achievements; co-development, co-marketing, profit sharing, joint venture or other similar arrangements; individual performance goals; corporate development and planning goals; and other measures of performance selected by the administrator.

The performance goals may be based on a company-wide basis, with respect to one or more business units, divisions, affiliates, or business segments, and in either absolute terms or relative to the performance of one or more comparable companies or the performance of one or more relevant indices. Unless specified otherwise (i) in the award agreement at the time the award is granted or (ii) in such other document setting forth the performance goals at the time the goals are established, we will appropriately make adjustments in the method of calculating the attainment of performance goals as follows: (1) to exclude restructuring and/or other nonrecurring

charges; (2) to exclude exchange rate effects; (3) to exclude the effects of changes to generally accepted accounting principles; (4) to exclude the effects of any statutory adjustments to corporate tax rates; (5) to exclude the effects of items that are “unusual” in nature or occur “infrequently” as determined under generally accepted accounting principles; (6) to exclude the dilutive effects of acquisitions or joint ventures; (7) to assume that any business divested by us achieved performance objectives at targeted levels during the balance of a performance period following such divestiture; (8) to exclude the effect of any change in the outstanding shares of our common stock by reason of any stock dividend or split, stock repurchase, reorganization, recapitalization, merger, consolidation, spin-off, combination or exchange of shares or other similar corporate change, or any distributions to common stockholders other than regular cash dividends; (9) to exclude the effects of stock based compensation and the award of bonuses under our bonus plans; (10) to exclude costs incurred in connection with potential acquisitions or divestitures that are required to be expensed under generally accepted accounting principles; and (11) to exclude the goodwill and intangible asset impairment charges that are required to be recorded under generally accepted accounting principles. The administrator retains the discretion to reduce or eliminate the compensation or economic benefit due upon attainment of the goals. The performance goals may differ from participant to participant and from award to award.

Other Stock Awards. The administrator may grant other awards based in whole or in part by reference to our common stock. The administrator will set the number of shares under the stock award and all other terms and conditions of such awards.

Non-Employee Director Compensation Limit. The aggregate value of all compensation granted or paid to any non-employee director with respect to any fiscal year, including stock awards granted and cash fees paid by us to such non-employee director, will not exceed $750,000 in total value, or in the event such non-employee director is first appointed or elected to our board of directors during such calendar year, $1,000,000 in total value (in each case, calculating the value of any such stock awards based on the grant date fair value of such stock awards for financial reporting purposes). Compensation will count towards this limit for the fiscal year in which it was granted or earned, and not later when distributed, in the event it is deferred.

Changes to Capital Structure. In the event there is a specified type of change in our capital structure, such as a stock split, reverse stock split, or recapitalization, appropriate adjustments will be made to (i) the class and maximum number of shares reserved for issuance under the 2026 Plan, (ii) the class and maximum number of shares by which the share reserve may increase automatically each year, (iii) the class and maximum number of shares that may be issued on the exercise of ISOs, and (iv) the class and number of shares and exercise price, strike price, or purchase price, if applicable, of all outstanding stock awards.

Corporate Transactions. The following applies to stock awards under the 2026 Plan in the event of a corporate transaction, unless otherwise provided in a participant’s stock award agreement or other written agreement with us or one of our affiliates or unless otherwise expressly provided by the administrator at the time of grant.

In the event of a corporate transaction, any stock awards outstanding under the 2026 Plan may be assumed, continued or substituted for by any surviving or acquiring corporation (or its parent company), and any reacquisition or repurchase rights held by us with respect to the stock award may be assigned to the successor (or its parent company). If the surviving or acquiring corporation (or its parent company) does not assume, continue or substitute for such stock awards, then with respect to any such stock awards that are held by participants whose continuous service has not terminated prior to the effective time of the transaction, or current participants, the vesting (and exercisability, if applicable) of such stock awards will be accelerated in full to a date prior to the effective time of the transaction (contingent upon the effectiveness of the transaction), and such stock awards will terminate if not exercised (if applicable) at or prior to the effective time of the transaction, and any reacquisition or repurchase rights held by us with respect to such stock awards will lapse (contingent upon the effectiveness of the transaction). With respect to performance awards with multiple vesting levels depending on performance level, unless otherwise provided by an award agreement or by the administrator, the award will

accelerate at 100% of target. If the surviving or acquiring corporation (or its parent company) does not assume, continue or substitute for such stock awards, then with respect to any such stock awards that are held by persons other than current participants, such awards will terminate if not exercised (if applicable) prior to the effective time of the transaction, except that any reacquisition or repurchase rights held by us with respect to such stock awards will not terminate and may continue to be exercised notwithstanding the transaction. The administrator is not obligated to treat all stock awards or portions of stock awards in the same manner and is not obligated to take the same actions with respect to all participants.

In the event a stock award will terminate if not exercised prior to the effective time of a transaction, the administrator may provide, in its sole discretion, that the holder of such stock award may not exercise such stock award but instead will receive a payment equal in value to the excess (if any) of (i) the value of the property the participant would have received upon the exercise of the stock award over (ii) any exercise price payable by such holder in connection with such exercise.

Under the 2026 Plan, a corporate transaction is defined to include the consummation, in a single transaction or in a series of related transactions, of any one or more of the following events: (i) a sale or disposition of all or substantially all of our assets; (ii) a sale or disposition of more than 50% of our outstanding securities; (iii) a merger, consolidation or similar transaction where we do not survive the transaction; and (iv) a merger or consolidation where we do survive the transaction but the shares of our common stock outstanding before such transaction are converted or exchanged into other property by virtue of the transaction, unless otherwise provided in an award agreement or other written agreement between us and the award holder.

Change in Control. In the event of a change in control, as defined under the 2026 Plan, awards granted under the 2026 Plan will not receive automatic acceleration of vesting and exercisability, although this treatment may be provided for in an award agreement.

Under the 2026 Plan, a change in control is defined to include: (i) the acquisition by any person or company of more than 50% of the combined voting power of our then outstanding stock; (ii) a consummated merger, consolidation or similar transaction in which our stockholders immediately before the transaction do not own, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of the combined voting power of the surviving entity (or the parent of the surviving entity); (iii) a consummated sale, lease, exclusive license or other disposition of all or substantially all of our assets other than to an entity more than 50% of the combined voting power of which is owned by our stockholders; and (iv) an unapproved change in the majority of the board of directors.

Transferability. A participant may not transfer stock awards under the 2026 Plan other than by will, the laws of descent and distribution, or as otherwise provided under the 2026 Plan.

Clawback/Recovery. All awards granted under the 2026 Plan will be subject to recoupment in accordance with any clawback policy that we are required to adopt pursuant to the listing standards of any national securities exchange or association on which our securities are listed or as is otherwise required by the U.S. Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act or other applicable law. In addition, our board of directors may impose such other clawback, recovery or recoupment provisions in a stock award agreement as our board of directors determines necessary or appropriate.

Plan Amendment or Termination. Our board of directors has the authority to amend, suspend, or terminate the 2026 Plan, provided that such action does not materially impair the existing rights of any participant without such participant’s written consent. Certain material amendments also require the approval of our stockholders. No ISOs may be granted after the tenth anniversary of the date our board of directors adopted the 2026 Plan. No stock awards may be granted under the 2026 Plan while it is suspended or after it is terminated.

U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences

The following is a summary of the principal U.S. federal income tax consequences to participants and the Company with respect to participation in the 2026 Plan. This summary is not intended to be exhaustive and does not discuss the income tax laws of any local, state or foreign jurisdiction in which a participant may reside. The information is based upon current U.S. federal income tax rules and therefore is subject to change when those rules change. Because the tax consequences to any participant may depend on his or her particular situation, each participant should consult the participant’s tax adviser regarding the federal, state, local and other tax consequences of the grant or exercise of an award or the disposition of stock acquired under the 2026 Plan. The 2026 Plan is not qualified under the provisions of Section 401(a) of the Code and is not subject to any of the provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended. The Company’s ability to realize the benefit of any tax deductions described below depends on the Company’s generation of taxable income as well as the requirement of reasonableness and the satisfaction of the Company’s tax reporting obligations.

Tax Consequences to the Participants

Nonstatutory Stock Options. Generally, there is no taxation upon the grant of an NSO. Upon exercise, a participant will recognize ordinary income equal to the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the underlying stock on the date of exercise of the stock option over the exercise price. If the participant is employed by the Company or one of its affiliates, that income will be subject to withholding taxes. The participant’s tax basis in those shares will be equal to their fair market value on the date of exercise of the stock option, and the participant’s capital gain holding period for those shares will begin on the day after they are transferred to the participant.

Incentive Stock Options. The 2026 Plan provides for the grant of stock options that are intended to qualify as “incentive stock options,” as defined in Section 422 of the Code. Under the Code, a participant generally is not subject to ordinary income tax upon the grant or exercise of an ISO. If the participant holds a share received upon exercise of an ISO for more than two years from the date the stock option was granted and more than one year from the date the stock option was exercised, which is referred to as the required holding period, the difference, if any, between the amount realized on a sale or other taxable disposition of that share and the participant’s tax basis in that share will be long-term capital gain or loss. If, however, a participant disposes of a share acquired upon exercise of an ISO before the end of the required holding period, which is referred to as a disqualifying disposition, the participant generally will recognize ordinary income in the year of the disqualifying disposition equal to the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the share on the date of exercise of the stock option over the exercise price. However, if the sales proceeds are less than the fair market value of the share on the date of exercise of the stock option, the amount of ordinary income recognized by the participant will not exceed the gain, if any, realized on the sale. If the amount realized on a disqualifying disposition exceeds the fair market value of the share on the date of exercise of the stock option, that excess will be short-term or long-term capital gain, depending on whether the holding period for the share exceeds one year. For purposes of the alternative minimum tax, the amount by which the fair market value of a share of stock acquired upon exercise of an ISO exceeds the exercise price of the stock option generally will be an adjustment included in the participant’s alternative minimum taxable income for the year in which the stock option is exercised. If, however, there is a disqualifying disposition of the share in the year in which the stock option is exercised, there will be no adjustment for alternative minimum tax purposes with respect to that share. In computing alternative minimum taxable income, the tax basis of a share acquired upon exercise of an ISO is increased by the amount of the adjustment taken into account with respect to that share for alternative minimum tax purposes in the year the stock option is exercised.

Restricted Stock Awards. Generally, the recipient of a restricted stock award will recognize ordinary income at the time the stock is received equal to the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the stock received over any amount paid by the recipient in exchange for the stock. If, however, the stock is subject to restrictions constituting a substantial risk of forfeiture when it is received (for example, if the employee is required to work for a period of time in order to have the right to transfer or sell the stock), the recipient generally will not

recognize income until the restrictions constituting a substantial risk of forfeiture lapse, at which time the recipient will recognize ordinary income equal to the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the stock on the date it becomes vested over any amount paid by the recipient in exchange for the stock. A recipient may, however, file an election with the IRS, within 30 days following the date of grant, to recognize ordinary income, as of the date of grant, equal to the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the stock on the date the award is granted over any amount paid by the recipient for the stock. The recipient’s basis for the determination of gain or loss upon the subsequent disposition of shares acquired from a restricted stock award will be the amount paid for such shares plus any ordinary income recognized either when the stock is received or when the restrictions constituting a substantial risk of forfeiture lapse.

Restricted Stock Unit Awards. Generally, the recipient of a restricted stock unit award will generally recognize ordinary income at the time the stock is delivered equal to the excess, if any, of (i) the fair market value of the stock received over any amount paid by the recipient in exchange for the stock or (ii) the amount of cash paid to the participant. The recipient’s basis for the determination of gain or loss upon the subsequent disposition of shares acquired from a restricted stock unit award will be the amount paid for such shares plus any ordinary income recognized when the stock is delivered, and the participant’s capital gain holding period for those shares will begin on the day after they are transferred to the participant.

Stock Appreciation Rights. Generally, the recipient of a stock appreciation right will recognize ordinary income equal to the fair market value of the stock or cash received upon such exercise. For any shares received upon exercise of a stock appreciation right, the participant’s tax basis in those shares will be equal to their fair market value on the date of exercise of the stock option, and the participant’s capital gain holding period for those shares will begin on the day after they are transferred to the participant.

Tax Consequences to the Company

Subject to the requirement of reasonableness, the deduction limits under Section 162(m) of the Code and the satisfaction of a tax reporting obligation, the Company will generally be entitled to a tax deduction equal to the taxable ordinary income realized by the recipient of an award under the Plan.

Section 162(m) of the Code limits the Company’s ability to deduct compensation, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, paid during any year to a “covered employee” (within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code) in excess of $1 million.

New Plan Benefits

The awards, if any, that will be granted to eligible persons under the 2026 Plan will be made in the discretion of our Board. Therefore, we cannot currently determine the benefits or number of shares subject to awards that may be granted under the 2026 Plan in the future nor may it determine the amounts that would have been granted in the last completed fiscal year if the 2026 Plan had been in effect.

Registration with the SEC

If the 2026 Plan is approved by our stockholders and becomes effective, the Company intends to file a registration statement on Form S-8 registering the shares reserved for issuance under the 2026 Plan as soon as reasonably practicable after approval of this Proposal No. 4.

New Plan Benefits

As of July 30, 2026, awards covering a total of 160,265 shares of the Company’s common stock have been contingently granted under the 2026 Plan, subject to stockholder approval of the 2026 Plan under this

Proposal No. 4. The following table shows information regarding the grant of such awards (regardless of whether subsequently exercised or forfeited) to the persons and groups identified below.


Name and Position	Number of shares underlying RSUs⁽¹⁾
John Militello, current Head of Finance and anticipated Chief Financial Officer		80,000
All current executive officers as a group (3 persons)		0
All current directors who are not executive officers as a group (3 persons)		0
All employees, including all current officers who are not executive officers, as a group		160,265

(1)

Except as set forth in the table above, the awards, if any, that will be granted to eligible persons under the 2026 Plan will be made in the discretion of the Company’s board of directors. Therefore, the Company cannot currently determine the benefits or number of shares subject to other awards that may be granted under the 2026 Plan in the future nor may it determine the amounts that would have been granted in the last completed fiscal year if the 2026 Plan had been in effect.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS

A VOTE “FOR” PROPOSAL NO. 4.

PROPOSAL NO. 5

APPROVAL OF THE 2026 ESPP

Overview

The Company’s stockholders are also being asked to consider and vote upon the 2026 ESPP Proposal to approve the Company’s 2026 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “2026 ESPP”). Our board of directors approved the 2026 ESPP on July 30, 2026, subject to stockholder approval. If the Company’s stockholders approve the 2026 ESPP, the 2026 ESPP will immediately become effective. If the 2026 ESPP is not approved by the Company’s stockholders, it will not become effective. The 2026 ESPP is described in more detail below.

The summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the text of the 2026 ESPP, a copy of which is attached as Annex D to this Proxy Statement. The Company’s stockholders should refer to the 2026 ESPP for a more complete and detailed information about the terms and conditions of the 2026 ESPP.

2026 Employee Stock Purchase Plan

The purpose of the 2026 ESPP is to secure and retain the services of new employees, to retain the services of existing employees, and to provide incentives for such individuals to exert maximum efforts toward our success and that of our affiliates. Our 2026 ESPP will include two components. One component will be designed to allow eligible U.S. employees to purchase our common stock in a manner that may qualify for favorable tax treatment under Section 423 of the Code. The other component will permit the grant of purchase rights that do not qualify for such favorable tax treatment in order to allow deviations necessary to permit participation by eligible employees who are foreign nationals or employed outside of the U.S. while complying with applicable foreign laws.

Eligibility. Our employees and the employees of any of our designated affiliates, will be eligible to participate in the 2026 ESPP, provided they may have to satisfy one or more of the following service requirements before participating in the 2026 ESPP, as determined by the administrator: (1) customary employment with us or one of our affiliates for more than 20 hours per week and more than five months per calendar year or (2) continuous employment with us or one of our affiliates for a minimum period of time, not to exceed two years, prior to the first date of an offering. In addition, our board of directors may also exclude from participation in the 2026 ESPP or any offering, employees who are “highly compensated employees” (within the meaning of Section 423(b)(4)(D) of the Code) or a subset of such highly compensated employees. As of July 29, 2026, we had 28 employees. An employee may not be granted rights to purchase stock under the 423 Component of the 2026 ESPP (a) if such employee immediately after the grant would own stock (including stock issuable upon exercise of all such employee’s purchase rights) possessing 5% or more of the total combined voting power or value of all classes of our common stock or (b) to the extent that such rights would accrue at a rate that exceeds $25,000 worth of our common stock for each calendar year that the rights remain outstanding. Our board of directors may approve different eligibility rules for the Non-423 Component.

Share Reserve. The 2026 ESPP authorizes the issuance of shares of our common stock under purchase rights granted to our employees or to employees of any of our designated affiliates. Subject to adjustment for specified changes in our capitalization, the maximum number of shares of our common stock that may be issued under the 2026 ESPP will not exceed 1% (the “Initial Share Reserve”). Additionally, the number of shares of our common stock reserved for issuance under the 2026 ESPP will automatically increase on January 1 of each calendar year, beginning on January 1, 2027 (assuming the 2026 ESPP becomes effective in 2026) through January 1, 2036, by the lesser of (i) 1% of the total number of shares of all classes of our common stock outstanding plus all shares of our common stock issuable upon the exercise of any pre-funded warrants (without regard to any beneficial ownership limitations), on December 31 of the preceding calendar year, and (ii) a number of shares equal to two times the Initial Share Reserve; provided that before the date of any such increase, our board of directors may determine that such increase will be less than the amount set forth in clauses (i) and (ii). As of July 30, 2026, the closing price of the Company’s common stock as reported on Nasdaq was $23.03 per share.

Administration. Our board of directors, or a duly authorized committee thereof, will administer our 2026 ESPP. Our board may delegate concurrent authority to administer the 2026 ESPP to our compensation committee under the terms of the compensation committee’s charter. The 2026 ESPP is implemented through a series of offerings under which eligible employees are granted purchase rights to purchase shares of our common stock on specified dates during such offerings. Under the 2026 ESPP, we may specify offerings with durations of not more than 27 months and may specify shorter purchase periods within each offering. Each offering will have one or more purchase dates on which shares of our common stock will be purchased for employees participating in the offering. An offering under the 2026 ESPP may be terminated under certain circumstances.

Payroll Deductions. Generally, all regular employees, including executive officers, employed by us or by any of our designated affiliates, will be eligible to participate in the 2026 ESPP and to contribute, normally through payroll deductions, up to a maximum percentage of their earnings (as defined in the 2026 ESPP) or up to a set dollar amount for the purchase of our common stock under the 2026 ESPP, in each case not exceeding 15% of the employee’s earnings. Unless otherwise determined by our board of directors, common stock will be purchased for the accounts of employees participating in the 2026 ESPP at a price per share that is at least the lesser of (i) 85% of the fair market value of a share of our common stock on the first date of an offering; or (ii) 85% of the fair market value of a share of our common stock on the date of purchase.

Limitations. Employees may have to satisfy one or more of the following service requirements before participating in the 2026 ESPP, as determined by our board of directors, including: (i) customary employment with us or one of our affiliates for more than 20 hours per week and more than five months per calendar year; or (ii) continuous employment with us or one of our affiliates for a minimum period of time (not to exceed two years). No employee may purchase shares under the 2026 ESPP at a rate in excess of $25,000 worth of our common stock based on the fair market value per share of our common stock at the beginning of an offering for each year such a purchase right is outstanding. Finally, no employee will be eligible for the grant of any purchase rights under the 2026 ESPP if immediately after such rights are granted, such employee has voting power over 5% or more of our outstanding capital stock measured by vote or value under Section 424(d) of the Code.

Changes to Capital Structure. In the event that there occurs a change in our capital structure through such actions as a stock split, merger, consolidation, reorganization, recapitalization, reincorporation, stock dividend, dividend in property other than cash, large nonrecurring cash dividend, liquidating dividend, combination of shares, exchange of shares, change in corporate structure, or similar transaction, the board of directors will make appropriate adjustments to: (i) the number of shares reserved under the 2026 ESPP; (ii) the maximum number of shares by which the share reserve may increase automatically each year; (iii) the number of shares and purchase price of all outstanding purchase rights; and (iv) the number of shares that are subject to purchase limits under ongoing offerings.

Corporate Transactions. In the event of certain significant corporate transactions, including the consummation, in a single transaction or in a series of related transactions, of any one or more of the following events: (i) a sale of all or substantially all of our assets; (ii) a sale or disposition of more than 50% of our outstanding securities; (iii) a merger or consolidation where we do not survive the transaction; and (iv) a merger or consolidation where we do survive the transaction but the shares of our common stock outstanding immediately before such transaction are converted or exchanged into other property by virtue of the transaction, any then-outstanding rights to purchase our stock under the 2026 ESPP may be assumed, continued or substituted for by any surviving or acquiring entity (or its parent company). If the surviving or acquiring entity (or its parent company) elects not to assume, continue, or substitute for such purchase rights, then the participants’ accumulated payroll contributions will be used to purchase shares of our common stock within ten business days before such corporate transaction, and such purchase rights will terminate immediately after such purchase.

2026 ESPP Amendment or Termination. Our board of directors has the authority to amend or terminate our 2026 ESPP, provided that except in certain circumstances such amendment or termination may not materially impair any outstanding purchase rights without the holder’s consent. We will obtain stockholder approval of any

amendment to our 2026 ESPP as required by applicable law or listing requirements. If the 2026 ESPP is terminated, the Board, in its discretion, may elect to terminate all outstanding offerings either immediately or upon completion of the purchase of shares of common stock on the next purchase date (which may be sooner than originally scheduled, if determined by the Board in its discretion), or may elect to permit offering to expire in accordance with their terms.

U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences

The following is a summary of the principal U.S. federal income tax consequences to participants and the Company with respect to participation in the 2026 ESPP. This summary is not intended to be exhaustive and does not discuss the income tax laws of any local, state or foreign jurisdiction in which a participant may reside. The information is based upon current U.S. federal income tax rules and therefore is subject to change when those rules change. Because the tax consequences to any participant may depend on his or her particular situation, each participant should consult the participant’s tax adviser regarding the federal, state, local, and other tax consequences of the grant or exercise of a purchase right or the sale or other disposition of the Company’s common stock acquired under the 2026 ESPP. The 2026 ESPP is not qualified under the provisions of Section 401(a) of the Code and is not subject to any of the provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended.

Tax Consequences to Participants

423 Component of the 2026 ESPP. Rights granted under the 423 Component of the 2026 ESPP are intended to qualify for favorable U.S. federal income tax treatment associated with rights granted under an employee stock purchase plan which qualifies under the provisions of Section 423 of the Code.

A participant will be taxed on amounts withheld for the purchase of shares of the Company’s common stock as if such amounts were actually received. Otherwise, no income will be taxable to a participant as a result of the granting or exercise of a purchase right until a sale or other disposition of the acquired shares. The taxation upon such sale or other disposition will depend upon the holding period of the acquired shares.

If the shares are sold or otherwise disposed of more than two years after the beginning of the offering period and more than one year after the shares are transferred to the participant, then the lesser of the following will be treated as ordinary income: (i) the excess of the fair market value of the shares at the time of such sale or other disposition over the purchase price; or (ii) the excess of the fair market value of the shares as of the beginning of the offering period over the purchase price (determined as of the beginning of the offering period). Any further gain or any loss will be taxed as a long-term capital gain or loss.

If the shares are sold or otherwise disposed of before the expiration of either of the holding periods described above, then the excess of the fair market value of the shares on the purchase date over the purchase price will be treated as ordinary income at the time of such sale or other disposition. The balance of any gain will be treated as capital gain. Even if the shares are later sold or otherwise disposed of for less than their fair market value on the purchase date, the same amount of ordinary income is attributed to the participant, and a capital loss is recognized equal to the difference between the sales price and the fair market value of the shares on such purchase date. Any capital gain or loss will be short-term or long-term, depending on how long the shares have been held.

Non-423 Component. A participant will be taxed on amounts withheld for the purchase of shares of the Company’s common stock as if such amounts were actually received. Under the Non-423 Component, a participant will recognize ordinary income equal to the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the underlying stock on the date of exercise of the purchase right over the purchase price. If the participant is employed by the Company or one of its affiliates, that income will be subject to withholding taxes. The participant’s tax basis in those shares will be equal to their fair market value on the date of exercise of the purchase right, and the participant’s capital gain holding period for those shares will begin on the day after they are transferred to the participant.

Tax Consequences to the Company

There are no U.S. federal income tax consequences to the Company by reason of the grant or exercise of rights under the 2026 ESPP. The Company is entitled to a deduction to the extent amounts are taxed as ordinary income to a participant for shares sold or otherwise disposed of before the expiration of the holding periods described above (subject to the requirement of reasonableness, the deduction limits under Section 162(m) of the Code and the satisfaction of tax reporting obligations). Section 162(m) of the Code limits the Company’s ability to deduct compensation, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, paid during any year to a “covered employee” (within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code) in excess of $1 million.

New Plan Benefits

Participation in the 2026 ESPP is voluntary and each eligible employee will make his or her own decision regarding whether and to what extent to participate in the 2026 ESPP. Therefore, the Company cannot currently determine the benefits or number of shares subject to purchase rights and a new plan benefits table is thus not provided. In addition, the Company cannot determine the benefits or number of shares subject to purchase rights or that would have been received by an eligible employee in the last completed fiscal year if the 2026 ESPP had been in effect.

Registration with the SEC

If the 2026 ESPP is approved by our stockholders and becomes effective, the Company intends to file a registration statement on Form S-8 registering the shares reserved for issuance under the 2026 ESPP as soon as reasonably practicable after the approval of this Proposal No. 5.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS

A VOTE “FOR” PROPOSAL NO. 5.

PROPOSAL NO. 6

APPROVAL OF ADJOURNMENT OR POSTPONEMENT OF THE SPECIAL MEETING TO A LATER DATE OR DATES, IF NECESSARY, TO SOLICIT VOTES FOR PROPOSALS NOS. 1, 2 AND/OR 3

If at the Special Meeting the number of votes represented by shares of our common stock present or represented and voting in favor of any of Proposals Nos. 1, 2 and/or 3 is insufficient to approve the applicable Proposal, our management may postpone the Special Meeting prior to its scheduled time or move to adjourn the Special Meeting in order to enable our Board to continue to solicit additional proxies in favor of any of Proposals Nos. 1, 2 and/or 3.

In this Proposal No. 6, we are asking our stockholders to authorize the holder of any proxy solicited to vote in favor of adjourning, postponing or continuing the Special Meeting and any later adjournments. If our stockholders approve the adjournment, postponement or continuation proposal, we could adjourn, postpone or continue the Special Meeting, and any adjourned session of the Special Meeting, to use the additional time to solicit additional proxies in favor of any of Proposals Nos. 1, 2 and/or 3, including the solicitation of proxies from stockholders that have previously voted against the Proposals. If stockholder approval for this Proposal No. 6 is not obtained, then the Special Meeting will not be adjourned.

We are required to use our reasonable best efforts to secure the approvals sought in Proposal Nos. 1, 2 and 3 as soon as practicable following the date of the Special Meeting if they are not approved at the Special Meeting. We will be required to hold an annual meeting or a special meeting at least every six months to solicit and take a vote on the approvals sought in Proposal Nos. 1, 2 and 3 until such approvals are obtained.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS

A VOTE “FOR” PROPOSAL NO. 6.

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

The following table sets forth the beneficial ownership of our common stock as of July 29, 2026 for:

•

each person, or group of affiliated persons, who is known by us to beneficially own more than 5% of our common stock;

•

each of our named executive officers;

•

each of our directors; and

•

all of our executive officers and directors as a group.

The number of shares beneficially owned by each entity, person, director or executive officer is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC. These rules generally attribute beneficial ownership of securities to persons who possess sole or shared voting power or investment power with respect to those securities. Under these rules, beneficial ownership includes any shares of common stock over which the person has sole or shared voting power or investment power as well as any shares that the person has the right to acquire within 60 days after July 29, 2026 through the exercise of any stock option, warrant or other rights.

The percentage of shares beneficially owned is based on 1,017,063 shares of our common stock outstanding as of July 29, 2026 (after giving effect to the Reverse Stock Split). Shares of our common stock that a person has the right to acquire within 60 days of July 29, 2026 are deemed outstanding for purposes of computing the percentage ownership of the person holding such rights, but are not deemed outstanding for purposes of computing the percentage ownership of any other person, except with respect to the percentage ownership of all directors and executive officers as a group. Due to the conversion limitations on the Series C Preferred Stock and the exercise limitations of the Warrants and Orphai Options, shares of common stock issuable upon the conversion of Series C Preferred Stock and exercise of the Warrants and Orphai Options, if approved by our stockholders, have been excluded from beneficial ownership set forth below. Except as otherwise noted below, the address for each beneficial owner listed is c/o Quince Therapeutics, Inc., 611 Gateway Boulevard, Suite 273, South San Francisco, California 94080.


Name of Beneficial Owner	Number of Shares		Options Exercisable within 60 days		Aggregate Number of Shares Beneficially Owned		Percentage of Total (%)
Greater than 5% Stockholders
Entities affiliated with Millennium Group Management LLC⁽¹⁾		28,102		—		28,102		3.0	%
Named Executive Officers and Directors
Dirk Thye, M.D.⁽²⁾		4,974		19,813		24,787		2.4	%
Charles Ryan, J.D., Ph.D.		650		3,049		3,699		*
Brendan Hannah		1,809		6,003		7,812		*
David A. Lamond⁽³⁾		21,920		947		22,867		2.2	%
Christopher J. Senner		—		1,330		1,330		*
June Bray		—		—		—		*
Brigette Roberts, M.D.		—		—		—		*
All executive officers and directors as a group (7 persons)⁽⁴⁾		29,353		28,743		58,096		5.6	%

(1)

Based on Schedule 13G, filed with the SEC on June 10, 2026, consists of 28,102 shares of common stock held by entities subject to voting control and investment discretion by Millennium Management LLC and/or other investment managers that may be controlled by Millennium Group Management LLC (the managing

member of Millennium Management LLC) and Mr. Englander (the sole voting trustee of the managing member of Millennium Group Management LLC). The address for the foregoing entities and person is 399 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10022.

(2)

Consists of (i) 25,500 shares held of record by Dirk Thye (ii) 73,988 shares held of record by Thye Trust dated 12/13/2001. Dr. Thye is the trustee of the Thye Trust dated 12/13/2001 and holds sole voting and dispositive power with respect to the shares held of record by Thye Trust dated 12/13/2001.

(3)

Consists of (i) 30,182 shares held of record by David A. Lamond, (ii) 234,754 shares held of record by Blue Devil Trust dated 12/03/2010 and (iii) 173,472 shares held by the David A. Lamond Trust dated 2006. Mr. Lamond is the trustee of the Blue Devil Trust dated 12/03/2010 and the David A. Lamond Trust dated 2006 and holds sole voting and dispositive power with respect to the shares held of record by Blue Devil Trust dated 12/03/2010 and the David A. Lamond Trust dated 2006.

(4)	Includes shares beneficially owned by all current executive officers and directors of the Company. Consists of 29,353 shares of common stock and 28,743 shares of common stock underlying options that are exercisable within 60 days of July 29, 2026.

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

All of the information contained in the sections below generally relates to our named executive officer compensation for fiscal years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024 and was included in our Definitive Proxy Statement on Schedule 14A for our 2026 annual meeting of stockholders filed with the SEC on April 27, 2026 (the “Annual Proxy Statement”). Since the date of the Annual Proxy Statement, (i) Dr. Roberts was appointed as our Chief of Corporate Affairs and a member of our Board on May 18, 2026 and (ii) we implemented the Reverse Stock Split effective on June 29, 2026. Except as set forth below or the context otherwise requires, the below share amounts and exercise prices give retroactive effect to the Reverse Stock Split.

Our named executive officers (“NEOs”) for fiscal 2025 consisted of the following individuals:

•

Dirk Thye, M.D., our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Medical Officer;

•

Charles Ryan, Ph.D., our President; and

•

Brendan Hannah, our Chief Operating Officer, Chief Business Officer, and Chief Compliance Officer;

SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE

The following table sets forth all of the compensation awarded to, earned by, or paid to each of the NEOs for their services rendered for the years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024.


Name and Principal Position(s)	Year		Salary ($)		Option Awards ($)⁽¹⁾		Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation ($)⁽²⁾		All Other Compensation ($)⁽³⁾		Total ($)
Dirk Thye		2025		550,000		1,644,000		295,625		4,000		2,493,625
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Medical Officer		2024		550,000		1,965,000		213,125		4,000		2,732,125
Charles Ryan		2025		500,000		411,000		207,500		25,600		1,144,100
President		2024		500,000		189,950		177,500		25,600		893,050
Brendan Hannah		2025		453,750		616,500		188,825		4,000		1,263,075
Chief Operating Officer, Chief Business Officer and Chief Compliance Officer		2024		425,000		786,000		150,875		4,000		1,365,875

(1)

Amounts reported in this column reflect the aggregate grant date fair value for financial statement reporting purposes of stock options granted in the indicated year as determined in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. These amounts reflect our accounting expense for these stock options and do not represent the actual economic value that may be realized by each named executive officer. There can be no assurance that these amounts will ever be realized. For information on the assumptions used in valuing these awards, refer to Note 9 to the historical financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K. As required by the SEC rules, the amounts shown exclude the impact of estimated forfeitures related to service-based vesting conditions.

(2)

Amounts shown in this column represent the annual performance bonus awards earned by our NEOs under our Executive Incentive Bonus Plan. Such bonuses are tied to achievement against clinical and regulatory goals and strategic objectives, with payouts determined after the close of the year and primarily based on our level of achievement against those corporate goals and compensation committee discretion. Payouts for 2025 occurred in the first quarter of 2026. For more information, please see the summary set forth below under the heading, “Executive Incentive Bonus Plan.”

(3)	The table below shows the components of “All Other Compensation” for each of our NEOs for 2025.


Name	Retirement Plan Contributions (A)		All Other Compensation (B)		Total ($)
Dirk Thye		4,000		—		4,000
Charles Ryan		4,000		21,600		25,600
Brendan Hannah		4,000		—		4,000

(A)	Represents the Company matching contribution to the accounts of our NEOs in the Company’s 401(k) plan.

(B)	Represents compensation for health insurance premiums of $1,800 per month.

OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS

The following table provides information regarding outstanding equity awards held by each of our NEOs as of December 31, 2025.

Option Awards

Name

Grant
Date

Vesting
Commencement
Date

Number of Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Exercisable

Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options (#)
Unexercisable

Option
Exercise
Price ($)

Option
Expiration
Date

Dirk Thye, M.D.

5/19/2022

3/23/2022

517

110

3/23/2032

⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾

5/23/2022

8,867

1,031

596

5/23/2032

⁽¹⁾

2/1/2023

1/1/2023

1,500

750

188

2/1/2033

⁽³⁾

2/1/2024

1/1/2024

3,749

3,750

262

2/1/2034

⁽³⁾

1/28/2025

1/1/2025

1,499

4,500

320

1/28/2035

⁽³⁾

Charles Ryan, Ph.D.

9/1/2023

1,589

1,135

260

9/1/2033

⁽¹⁾

2/1/2024

1/1/2024

362

262

2/1/2034

⁽³⁾

1/28/2025

1/1/2025

374

1,125

320

1/28/2035

⁽³⁾

Brendan Hannah

5/19/2022

3/23/2022

193

110

3/23/2032

⁽¹⁾⁽²⁾

5/23/2022

1,584

184

596

5/23/2032

⁽¹⁾

2/1/2023

1/1/2023

717

281

188

2/1/2033

⁽³⁾

10/24/2023

10/23/2023

203

171

198.40

10/24/2033

⁽³⁾

2/1/2024

1/1/2024

1,499

1,500

262

2/1/2034

⁽³⁾

1/28/2025

1/1/2025

562

1,687

320

1/28/2035

⁽³⁾

*	Gives retroactive effect to the April 2026 Reverse Stock Split and the Reverse Stock Split.

(1)	The shares subject to the stock option vest over a four-year period, with 25% vesting on one-year-anniversary from the vesting commencement date, and the balance vesting each month over the remaining three-year period, subject to the NEO providing continued service to us through each vesting date.

(2)	These equity awards were assumed in connection with the Company’s merger with Novosteo, Inc. on May 19, 2022.

(3)

The shares subject to the stock option vest over a four-year period, with 1/48th of the shares vesting and becoming exercisable one month after the vesting commencement date, and an additional 1/48th of the shares subject to such option vest and become exercisable each month thereafter, subject to the NEO providing continued service to us through each vesting date.

NARRATIVE TO SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE AND OUTSTANDING EQUITY AWARDS TABLE

Our executive compensation program generally consists of, and is intended to strike a balance among, the following three principal components: base salary, annual performance-based bonuses, and long-term incentive

compensation. We also provide our executive officers with severance and change-in-control benefits, as well as other benefits available to all our employees, including retirement benefits under the Company’s 401(k) plan and participation in employee benefit plans.

Executive Incentive Bonus Plan

Each of our NEOs is eligible to participate in our Executive Incentive Bonus Plan (“Bonus Plan”). The purpose of the Bonus Plan is to motivate and reward eligible officers and other designated employees for their contributions toward the achievement of certain performance goals. Each NEO is eligible to receive a performance bonus based on (1) the individual’s target bonus, as a percentage of base salary, and (2) the percentage attainment of performance goals established by the compensation committee. For 2025, the targets for each Named Executive Officer, as a percentage of base salary, were as follows: 50% for Dr. Thye, 40% for Dr. Ryan, and 40% for Mr. Hannah. On January 23, 2026, the compensation committee determined that 107.5% of the corporate objectives were achieved for 2025 and therefore each of Dr. Thye, Dr. Ryan, and Mr. Hannah were entitled to be paid out bonuses at 107.5% of the corporate goal achievement.

Long-Term Incentives

On January 28, 2025, Dr. Thye, Dr. Ryan, and Mr. Hannah received options to purchase 6,000, 1,500, and 2,250 shares of common stock, respectively, with an exercise price of $320.00 per share. The options vest in equal monthly installments over a four-year period beginning on January 1, 2025, subject to the NEOs’ continuous service with the Company through each applicable vesting date.

Employment Agreements and Separation Agreements with Our NEOs

We have offer letter agreements and separation agreements with each of our NEOs. The agreements generally provide for at-will employment and set forth the executive officer’s initial base salary, annual performance bonus opportunity, initial equity grant amount and eligibility for employee benefits. The key terms of the offer letters are described below.

Dirk Thye, M.D.

In May 2022, we entered into an offer letter with Dr. Thye, our current Chief Executive Officer and Chief Medical Officer. The offer letter has no specific term and provides for at-will employment. Dr. Thye’s annual base salary was $550,000 for fiscal year 2025. Dr. Thye is also eligible to earn a discretionary annual bonus based on achievement of specified performance goals. Dr. Thye’s target bonus was 50% of his annual base salary for fiscal year 2025.

In connection with the Acquisition, the Board approved a retention bonus of $700,000 for Dr. Thye, which will be paid only if the respective officer continues to remain employed by the Company through the approval of the Company Stockholder Matters.

The Company and Dr. Thye entered into an executive change in control and severance agreement, or the Thye Severance Agreement. For a summary of the material terms of the Thye Severance Agreement, see “—Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change of Control” below.

Charles Ryan, Ph.D.

In September 2023, we entered into an offer letter with Dr. Ryan, our current President. The offer letter has no specific term and provides for at-will employment. Dr. Ryan’s annual base salary was $500,000 for fiscal year 2025. Dr. Ryan is also eligible to earn a discretionary annual bonus based on achievement of specified performance goals. Dr. Ryan’s target bonus was 40% of his annual base salary for fiscal year 2025. In addition,

Dr. Ryan is eligible for a monthly cash stipend of $1,800 to assist in covering the cost of his health insurance premium or other medical expenses.

In connection with the commencement of his employment with the Company, the Company granted Dr. Ryan an option to purchase 2,725 shares of the Company’s common stock (the “Ryan Option”) pursuant to the 2019 Plan, with an exercise price equal to the fair market value of the Company’s common stock on the grant date. 25% of the shares subject to the Ryan Option will vest one year after the date of the grant and the remaining shares will vest in equal monthly installments over the following three years thereafter, subject to Dr. Ryan’s continuous service with the Company through each applicable vesting date.

The Company and Dr. Ryan entered into an executive change in control and severance agreement or the Ryan Severance Agreement. The Ryan Severance Agreement provides for severance benefits upon a qualifying termination of employment, including modified severance benefits on a qualifying termination of employment in connection with a change in control. For a summary of the material terms of the Ryan Severance Agreement, see “—Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change of Control” below.

Brendan Hannah

In May 2022, we entered into an offer letter with Mr. Hannah, our current Chief Operating Officer and Chief Business Officer. The offer letter has no specific term and provides for at-will employment. Mr. Hannah’s annual base salary was $455,000 for fiscal year 2025. Mr. Hannah is also eligible to earn a discretionary annual bonus based on achievement of specified performance goals. Mr. Hannah’s target bonus was 40% of his annual base salary for fiscal year 2025.

In connection with the Acquisition, the Board approved a retention bonus of $500,000 for Mr. Hannah, which will be paid only if the respective officer continues to remain employed by the Company through the approval of the Company Stockholder Matters.

The Company and Mr. Hannah entered into an executive change in control and severance agreement, or the Hannah Severance Agreement. For a summary of the material terms of the Hannah Severance Agreement, see “—Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change of Control” below.

Welfare and Health Benefits

Our named executive officers are eligible to participate in all of our benefit plans, such as the 401(k) plan (see description under “401(k) Plan” below), medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, long-term disability and group life insurance, in each case generally on the same basis as other employees. We do not currently have qualified or nonqualified defined benefit plans or nonqualified deferred compensation plans, nor do we offer pension or other retirement benefits other than our 401(k) plan. Our board of directors may elect to adopt such plans in the future if it determines that doing so is in our best interests.

Perquisites and Other Benefits

We generally do not offer perquisites or personal benefits to our NEOs, although we may from time to time provide reasonable relocation, signing bonuses, retention bonuses, or other benefits to our NEOs as our compensation committee determines appropriate.

401(k) Plan

We maintain a tax-qualified retirement plan that provides eligible U.S. employees, including our named executive officers, with an opportunity to save for retirement on a tax-advantaged basis. Eligible employees may make voluntary contributions from their eligible pay, up to certain applicable annual limits set by the Internal

Revenue Code of 1986, as amended or the Code. The 401(k) plan is intended to be qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code with the 401(k) plan’s related trust intended to be tax exempt under Section 501(a) of the Code.

Historically, we have not made matching contributions into the 401(k) plan on behalf of participants. However, in 2021, we began matching 100% of employee contributions, up to an annual maximum of $4,000 per calendar year for each employee. All such employee contributions and Company matching contributions are immediately and fully vested.

Clawbacks

As a public company, if we are required to restate our financial results due to our material noncompliance with any financial reporting requirements under the federal securities laws as a result of misconduct, the CEO and Chief Financial Officer may be legally required to reimburse our Company for any bonus or other incentive-based or equity-based compensation they receive in accordance with the provisions of section 304 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as amended. Additionally, we have implemented a Dodd-Frank Act-compliant clawback policy, as required by SEC rules.

POTENTIAL PAYMENTS UPON TERMINATION OR CHANGE IN CONTROL

We have entered into Severance Agreements or Executive Change in Control and Severance Agreements, or CiC Agreements, with Dr. Thye, Dr. Ryan, and Mr. Hannah, which provide for certain payments and benefits in connection with certain terminations of employment with the Company, including terminations that occur in connection with a change in control (as defined in the CiC Agreements), subject to the named executive officer’s execution and non-revocation of a general release of claims in a form prescribed by the Company.

The compensation committee believes that the severance protection benefits we offer are necessary to provide stability among our executive officers, serve to focus our executive officers on our business operations, and avoid distractions in connection with a potential change in control transaction or period of uncertainty.

Under the CiC Agreements, if within the period beginning 3 months prior to, and ending 18 months following, a change in control of the Company, or the CiC Period, the Company terminates a named executive officer’s employment without “cause” or a named executive officer resigns for “good reason” (each as defined in the CiC Agreements), the named executive officer will be eligible to receive the following: (i) 18 months of base salary to be paid within thirty (30) days following the Release Deadline (as defined in the CiC Agreements); (ii) an amount equal to 150% of the named executive officer’s target annual bonus opportunity for the year in which the termination occurs, pro-rated to the effective date of termination, to be paid in a single lump-sum within thirty (30) days following the Release Deadline; (iii) full vesting acceleration of any then-outstanding unvested equity awards that are subject to time-based vesting and vesting at 100% of target levels of any then-outstanding unvested equity awards that are subject to performance-based vesting, as of the later of the named executive officer’s termination of employment of the change in control; and (iv) a cash payment equal to 18 months of COBRA premiums to be paid in a single lump-sum within thirty (30) days following the Release Deadline.

In addition, the CiC Agreements provide that if the Company terminates a named executive officer’s employment without cause or a named executive officer resigns for “good reason” outside of the CiC Period, the named executive officer will be eligible to receive the following: (i) 12 months of base salary; (ii) an amount equal to 100% of the named executive officer’s target annual bonus opportunity for the year in which the termination occurs, pro-rated to the effective date of termination, to be paid in a single lump-sum within thirty (30) days following termination of employment; (iii) vesting acceleration of 50% of any then-outstanding unvested equity awards that are subject to time-based vesting and vesting at 50% of target levels of any then-outstanding unvested equity awards that are subject to performance-based vesting as of the named executive officer’s termination of employment; and (iv) a cash payment equal to 12 months of COBRA premiums to be

paid in a single lump-sum within thirty (30) days following the Release Deadline. The base salary severance will be paid to named executive officer at named executive officer’s Base Salary Rate (as defined in the CiC Agreements) in accordance with the Company’s normal payroll practices on the Company’s regularly scheduled payroll dates commencing with the first regularly scheduled payroll date that occurs at least 8 days following termination of employment, with the first payment being equal to the number of business days between named executive officer’s last day of employment and the date of the first payment multiplied by named executive officer’s daily Base Salary Rate.

Pursuant to the CiC Agreements, in the event of a change in control, if our successor does not agree to assume, substitute or otherwise continue any then outstanding stock options, the vesting of the unvested stock options shall accelerate in full (or, with respect to performance-based options, at 100% of target level), effective immediately prior to and contingent upon a change of control, unless our named executiv