HOOKIPA Pharma (HOOK) H.C. Wainwright 26th Annual Global Investment Conference 2024 summary

Pipeline overview and technology

• Focus on arenavirus-based therapies that stimulate strong T-cell responses against tumors and viruses.

• Lead program eservivec (HB-200) targets HPV-16-positive head and neck cancer, with robust phase 2 data and FDA support for regulatory strategy.

• Pipeline includes HB-400 (Hepatitis B) and HB-500 (HIV) in partnership with Gilead, and HB-700 for KRAS-mutated tumors, though HB-700 is not currently funded.

• Arenavirus platform offers high T-cell activation, strong tolerability, and does not require adjuvant boosters.

Clinical and market progress

• Eservivec plus pembrolizumab shows over 52% response rate in frontline head and neck cancer, compared to 20-24% for pembrolizumab alone.

• Randomized study underway to compare pembrolizumab alone versus in combination with eservivec.

• If approved, the combination could become standard of care for head and neck cancer, with potential market entry in 2027.

• Market opportunity for eservivec estimated at 1,500-2,000 patients in the US, potentially growing to 4,000 annually, with similar potential in Europe and Asia Pacific.

Strategic direction and financials

• Leadership transition aims to shift focus from science to operational excellence and commercial development.

• All financial resources currently prioritized for eservivec; HB-700 development contingent on partnerships.

• Gilead partnership fully funds HB-400 and provides milestone and royalty payments for HB-500.

• Major upcoming catalyst is the initiation of the pivotal AVALON-1 study and potential fast-track regulatory progress.

• Cash position at end of Q2 was $77 million, providing approximately 12 months of runway, with ongoing cost prioritization and partnership exploration.