Zura Bio (ZURA) Stifel 2024 Immunology and Inflammation Virtual Summit summary

Company formation and strategy

• Founded in 2022 to identify and develop high-quality molecules with potential for paradigm shifts in medicine.

• Transitioned from private to public in March 2023 and raised over $200 million for asset development.

• In-licensed three assets, focusing on autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.

Tibulizumab (IL-17/BAFF dual antagonist) program

• In-licensed from Eli Lilly after phase I studies in rheumatoid arthritis and Sjögren's, showing therapeutic benefit and pharmacodynamic engagement.

• Designed as a tetravalent dual antagonist, targeting both IL-17A and BAFF, with potential for monotherapy or dual pathway inhibition.

• Lead indications are systemic sclerosis (SSc) and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), chosen for elevated IL-17 and BAFF pathways.

• Phase II SSc trial to start Q4 2024, randomized, placebo-controlled, with open-label extension; HS phase II to begin in H1 2025.

• Safety profile informed by extensive prior data on related molecules, indicating minimal but known risks.

Lonzopnekhutug (IL-7 receptor alpha antagonist) program

• Blocks both IL-7 and TSLP signaling, offering broader immunomodulation than TSLP-only antibodies.

• Demonstrated greater potency in TSLP inhibition compared to tezepelumab and similar IL-7 activity to competitors.

• Target indications include ulcerative colitis, atopic dermatitis, and alopecia areata, leveraging broader T-cell pathway disruption.

• Awaiting external clinical readouts to inform development strategy, with further indication announcements expected in coming months.