Zura Bio (ZURA) Leerink Global Healthcare Conference 2025 summary

Company overview and financial position

• Clinical-stage biotech with three bispecific monoclonal antibodies, in-licensed from major pharma companies.

• Lead asset targets IL-17 and BAFF, with trials in scleroderma and hidradenitis suppurativa planned.

• Strong cash position, funding operations through 2027 and supporting two phase II studies.

• Management team experienced in drug development, financing, and M&A.

Scleroderma (systemic sclerosis) program

• Scleroderma is a severe rheumatic disease with high mortality; IL-17 and BAFF are implicated in its progression.

• Phase II trial design incorporates lessons from past studies, focusing on validated mechanisms and robust skin assessment.

• Trial aims to control for disease variability, with careful patient selection and oversight.

• Primary endpoint is change in Modified Rodnan Skin Score at week 24; secondary endpoints include lung and global assessments.

• Enrollment progressing as planned, with data expected in early 2026.

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) program

• IL-17 validated in HS; lead molecule uses ixekizumab, noted for high potency.

• BAFF and B cell involvement in HS supported by gene expression and clinical data.

• Phase II trial will have two active arms and one placebo, testing low and high doses over 16 weeks.

• Goal is to demonstrate superiority over existing IL-17 therapies and show additive benefit from BAFF targeting.

• Upcoming external data from Novartis on BAFF receptor agent in HS may inform future strategy.