Ventyx jump attributable to competitor data, says Oppenheimer

Oppenheimer notes that yesterday Ventyx Biosciences’ competitor, privately-held Nodthera, announced publication of preclinical data from studies of its CNS penetrant NLRP3 inhibitors in an obese mouse model that show a clear reduction in weight in pre-established obesity in this model. Ventyx is currently evaluating its CNS penetrant NLRP3 candidate, VTX3232, in a Phase 1 trial with initial data anticipated this quarter, notes the analyst, who says that “obesity hasn’t been on the radar for this candidate to date” and adds that investors will “see if this messaging changes when management announces earnings.” The firm makes no change to its Perform rating ahead of earnings from Ventyx, which is up $2.20, or 74%, to $5.19 near midday.