Whitehawk Therapeutics (WHWK) Jefferies London Healthcare Conference 2025 summary

Portfolio and technology platform

• Advancing a portfolio of next-generation antibody drug conjugates (ADCs) targeting PTK7, MUC16, and SEZ6, with a focus on high-potential, clinically validated cancer targets.

• ADC platform features novel topo-1 inhibitor payloads, carbon-bridge cysteine repairing for enhanced stability, and proprietary linker chemistry to improve therapeutic index and reduce toxicity.

• Engineered antibodies with attenuated FC regions minimize nonspecific uptake and improve tumor specificity, supporting a wider therapeutic window.

• Preclinical data show 3–10x greater potency, 5–25x improved stability, and 2–3x higher safety margins compared to conventional topo-1 ADCs.

• Proprietary exatecan payload offers heme-sparing properties, reducing hematological toxicity and ILD risk.

Clinical development and pipeline progress

• Three lead assets: HWK-007 (PTK7), HWK-016 (MUC16), and HWK-206 (SEZ6), with HWK-007 and HWK-016 INDs expected this quarter and HWK-206 by mid-next year.

• HWK-007 targets PTK7, a marker present in ~70% of solid tumors, aiming for best-in-class efficacy and safety.

• HWK-016 targets the membrane-bound portion of MUC16, bypassing the antigen sink effect and showing superior tumor inhibition in preclinical models.

• HWK-206 employs a biparatopic approach to SEZ6, leveraging the platform’s stability and selectivity.

• Initial clinical data readouts for HWK-007 and HWK-016 expected in early 2027, with expansion opportunities into additional indications.

Financial position and execution strategy

• Ended last quarter with over $160 million in cash, providing runway into 2028 and supporting key clinical milestones.

• Recapitalized earlier in the year, gaining support from New Biotech Specialist Fund and maintaining a lean, execution-focused organization.

• Capital efficiency and operational excellence are core priorities, with a management team experienced in ADC development and M&A.