Lisata Therapeutics Expands Immuno-Oncology Pipeline with TuHURA's Kineta Acquisition
- TuHURA Biosciences acquires Kineta, enhancing its immuno-oncology pipeline with TBS-2025, targeting NPM1 mutated acute myeloid leukemia.
- TBS-2025 addresses resistance to existing therapies, complementing TuHURA's asset IFx-2.0 for Merkel cell carcinoma.
- The acquisition supports a cost-effective Phase 2 study and integrates TBS-2025 with existing antibody-drug conjugate technology.
TuHURA Biosciences Enhances Immuno-Oncology Pipeline with Kineta Acquisition
TuHURA Biosciences, Inc. strengthens its position in the immuno-oncology landscape with the recent acquisition of Kineta, Inc., a strategic move that introduces TBS-2025, a novel VISTA-inhibiting monoclonal antibody. This drug candidate, which is ready for Phase 2 trials, targets patients suffering from NPM1 mutated acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The decision to acquire Kineta not only broadens TuHURA's therapeutic offerings but also aligns with its mission to combat cancer resistance mechanisms through innovative treatments. Dr. James Bianco, President and CEO of TuHURA, emphasizes that TBS-2025 specifically addresses acquired resistance to existing cancer immunotherapies, complementing their current asset, IFx-2.0, which focuses on primary resistance in Merkel cell carcinoma.
The mechanism of TBS-2025 is particularly notable; it targets VISTA, a protein predominantly expressed on myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and quiescent T cells, both of which play critical roles in immune evasion in AML. Research has shown that mutations in NPM1 and DNM3TA lead to increased expression of VISTA on leukemic cells, contributing to poorer treatment outcomes and elevated relapse rates. By harnessing this unique mechanism, TuHURA aims to enhance the effectiveness of existing therapies and improve patient prognoses. The company plans to evaluate TBS-2025 in combination with menin inhibitors, the current standard of care for NPM1 mutated relapsed or refractory AML, thereby integrating the new candidate into a potentially impactful treatment regimen.
In addition to enhancing its immuno-oncology pipeline, the acquisition of Kineta activates the fourth tranche of a previously announced $12.5 million aggregate PIPE financing, signaling investor confidence in TuHURA’s strategic direction. The company’s approach to conducting a cost-effective Phase 2 study for TBS-2025 highlights its commitment to delivering innovative therapies while managing financial resources effectively. This acquisition not only supports TuHURA’s therapeutic goals but also opens avenues for synergies with its existing antibody-drug conjugate technology, offering multiple options for therapeutic administration of TBS-2025. The landscape of immuno-oncology continues to evolve, and TuHURA's advancements promise to contribute significantly to the fight against AML and other malignancies.
In related developments, the biopharmaceutical sector remains dynamic, with companies like Artelo Biosciences, Inc. experiencing notable trading activity. This heightened interest underscores the importance of monitoring market trends and investor behavior, particularly as advancements in drug therapies can lead to significant fluctuations in stock performance. The focus on immuno-oncology and innovative treatments remains a critical aspect of the industry, with companies striving to meet the challenges posed by cancer resistance and patient outcomes.
