Hepion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. has dismissed Grassi & Co., CPAs, P.C., as its independent registered public accounting firm. The decision was made on September 21, 2026, by the company's audit committee, which simultaneously approved the engagement of Rosenberg Rich Baker Berman P.A. (RRBB) to audit the company's consolidated financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2026.
Grassi was informed of the dismissal on September 22, 2026, effective immediately. The company reported that Grassi’s reports on the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2025 and 2024, and the related statements of operations, comprehensive loss, changes in stockholders’ equity and cash flows for those years, did not contain an adverse opinion or a disclaimer of opinion. However, the reports included an explanatory paragraph noting substantial doubt regarding the company’s ability to continue as a going concern due to significant operating losses and negative cash flows from operations since inception.
The filing details that there were no disagreements between Hepion and Grassi regarding accounting principles, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedure during the fiscal years ended December 31, 2025 and 2024, or through September 21, 2026. The audit committee has discussed the material weaknesses in the company’s internal control over financial reporting with Grassi and has authorized Grassi to respond fully to inquiries from the new accountants, RRBB.
A copy of Grassi’s letter agreeing with the company’s disclosures, dated September 24, 2026, is attached as Exhibit 16.1 to the filing.
