Nkarta (NKTX) H.C. Wainwright 26th Annual Global Investment Conference 2024 summary

Platform overview and clinical programs

• Only allogeneic, off-the-shelf, on-demand CD19-targeted CAR NK cell therapy in clinical trials for autoimmune diseases.

• Ongoing studies include Ntrust-1 for lupus nephritis and Ntrust-2, a basket study for myositis, scleroderma, and vasculitis.

• Investigator-sponsored trial (IST) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is also underway.

• CAR NK cells offer rapid B-cell depletion and reset, with Cmax at Day 0, enhancing convenience.

• No observed cytokine release syndrome (CRS) or ICANS in studies to date.

Translational insights and safety profile

• CAR NK and CAR T therapies share similar mechanisms, targeting CD19 to kill B-cells in autoimmune diseases.

• NK cells act immediately upon dosing, reducing reliance on cytokine-driven expansion and associated toxicities.

• Lower toxicity profile is expected to improve therapy accessibility and uptake, especially in autoimmune indications.

• Safety is prioritized due to the autoimmune patient population's sensitivity to high-grade CRS or ICANS.

Study design and endpoints

• Ntrust-1 (lupus nephritis) uses three CAR NK doses over two weeks post-cyclophosphamide lymphodepletion.

• Endpoints include B-cell depletion/reset, kidney function, proteinuria, drug-free remission, and complete renal response.

• Inclusion/exclusion criteria and lymphodepletion regimens differ from competitors, potentially broadening patient access.