Kymera Therapeutics expands pipeline with IRF5 degrader program

Kymera Therapeutics (KYMR) unveiled a new wholly-owned program within its industry-leading oral immunology pipeline. KT-579, a highly potent, selective, first-in-class development candidate, targets IRF5, an essential signaling node in genetically and clinically validated immune pathways driving inflammation in many diseases with no or suboptimal oral options. The new program serves as a valuable addition to the Company’s current portfolio, positioned to target multiple common immuno-inflammatory diseases with the potential to expand access to oral systemic advanced therapies for broader patient populations. In preclinical studies, KT-579 demonstrated an encouraging profile in human primary cells, patient derived cells, and in vivo disease models generally superior to existing standards of care: Selectivity and Potency: KT-579 was highly selective for IRF5 over all other proteins in the detectable proteome including other IRF family proteins. KT-579 also demonstrated picomolar to nanomolar potencies across all relevant human cell types evaluated, including B cells, dendritic cells, macrophages, and monocytes. In Vivo Profile: KT-579 achieved robust degradation across multiple preclinical species in vivo and in all disease-relevant tissues with low oral doses. Efficacy Models: In several preclinical efficacy models of lupus and RA, KT-579 was generally more efficacious than clinically active or marketed small molecule inhibitors and injectable biologics, phenocopying IRF5 knockout studies. In a lupus model, KT-579 demonstrated sustained and near complete reduction of proteinuria and circulating autoantibodies superior to the current standard of care.