Artiva lays of 94% of workforce after safety and durability tank autoimmune cell therapy

Artiva Biotherapeutics is discontinuing development of its allogeneic NK cell therapy, AlloNK, following two patient deaths and insufficient durability of clinical responses, while cutting approximately 94% of its workforce.

AlloNK was being evaluated in combination with rituximab in rheumatoid arthritis and other B-cell-driven autoimmune diseases. A phase 2a trial participant died from leukoencephalopathy, likely linked to fludarabine-associated neurotoxicity following lymphodepletion. A second participant in the trial died suddenly approximately two months after initiating study treatment. The investigator assessed this event as unrelated to AlloNK or any other component of the study treatment regimen, and the cause of death hasn’t been determined.

In terms of efficacy, updated clinical response data from patients receiving AlloNK in combination with rituximab continued to demonstrate deep B cell depletion and clinical activity consistent with the Artiva’s previously reported findings. However, longer-term follow-up did not reflect the level of durability of clinical response.

In connection with the discontinuation of AlloNK development and to preserve capital, San Diego-based Artiva is reducing its workforce by approximately 94%. The company is evaluating strategic alternatives including a merger, business combination, sale/licensing of assets, or dissolution and liquidation.