Nkarta (NKTX) H.C. Wainwright 27th Annual Global Investment Conference summary

Platform overview and clinical programs

• Focus on developing a CD19-directed CAR-NK allogeneic cell therapy platform for B-cell malignancies and autoimmune diseases, leveraging off-the-shelf, scalable, and accessible therapies.

• LEAP program (NK-019) incorporates a chimeric antigen receptor and membrane-bound IL-15 for enhanced activity and persistence.

• Ongoing trials include Ntrust-1 (lupus nephritis, primary membranous nephropathy) and Ntrust-2 (systemic sclerosis, myositis, oncoassociated vasculitis), plus investigator-sponsored trials in systemic lupus and myasthenia gravis.

Differentiation and advantages of CAR-NK approach

• CAR-NK therapies offer a favorable safety profile, avoiding severe events like cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity seen in CAR-T.

• NK cells are short-lived, allowing for potential re-dosing and practical outpatient administration.

• Off-the-shelf nature enables immediate treatment without leukapheresis, improving patient experience and accessibility.

Translational and clinical strategy

• Translational focus includes robust B-cell depletion, cytokine/chemokine monitoring, autoantibody production, and immune reset as key markers.

• Ntrust-1 trial in lupus nephritis uses endpoints like serum creatinine, proteinuria, and GFR to assess kidney function and long-term outcomes.

• Lymphodepletion regimen shifted from cyclophosphamide-only to fludarabine plus cyclophosphamide to maximize response, with flexibility for cytopenic patients.

• Dosing regimen standardized to three doses over one week for improved pharmacokinetics and patient convenience.