Artiva Biotherapeutics (ARTV) Stifel 2026 Virtual Immunology and Inflammation Forum summary

Company overview and therapeutic approach

• Developing a phase III therapy for refractory RA using non-genetically modified NK cells for deep B-cell depletion, aiming for a differentiated safety profile and community-based treatment.

• Over 100 autoimmune patients dosed, mostly in community rheumatology practices, highlighting ease of administration and broad applicability.

• Therapy uses rituximab for targeting and activation of NK cells, leveraging standard dosing regimens.

Mechanism, safety, and treatment process

• NK cells avoid T-cell expansion-related side effects like CRS and ICANS, enabling outpatient treatment.

• Treatment involves standard preconditioning with cyclophosphamide and fludarabine, followed by rituximab and NK cell infusions over five visits.

• Cytopenia and neutropenia are transient and primarily due to preconditioning, with low infection and hospitalization rates.

Clinical data and efficacy

• Early data in refractory RA show an ACR50 of 71% in a small cohort, with a target of 50% in a population where standard of care achieves 10–20%.

• Durability of response observed for at least 12 months in initial patients, with redosing planned as part of the treatment paradigm.

• Consistent efficacy signals also seen in Sjogren's and scleroderma, supporting broad potential.