Kymera advances oral drug for autoimmune diseases

Published 09/05/2025, 12:10
Kymera advances oral drug for autoimmune diseases

WATERTOWN, Mass. - Kymera Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: KYMR), a $2 billion market cap biopharmaceutical company focused on developing oral small molecule protein degraders, announced the progression of a new drug candidate, KT-579, targeting IRF5, a key regulator of immune response. The company, which maintains a strong balance sheet with more cash than debt according to InvestingPro data, aims to begin Phase 1 clinical testing early in 2026.

IRF5 has been implicated in various autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). KT-579 is designed to degrade IRF5, potentially offering a novel oral treatment option for patients with these conditions.

Preclinical studies have shown KT-579 to be highly selective and potent, demonstrating activity that is comparable or superior to currently approved drugs in animal models of lupus and RA. The drug candidate has also shown a favorable safety profile in preclinical safety studies.

Kymera’s IND-enabling studies are currently underway, with the objective of advancing KT-579 into human trials. The company shared preclinical data and upcoming milestones for the program during a video webcast today, as part of its first quarter 2025 results release.

The development of KT-579 is part of Kymera’s broader effort to build a pipeline of oral small molecule degraders for immunological diseases. By targeting proteins like IRF5, which have been historically difficult to address with traditional small molecule inhibitors, Kymera seeks to provide more effective and convenient therapies for patients with autoimmune diseases.

This announcement is based on a press release statement from Kymera Therapeutics, Inc.

In other recent news, Kymera Therapeutics reported its financial position, revealing $851 million in cash reserves, expected to support operations until mid-2027. Truist Securities reaffirmed their Buy rating with a $53 target, expressing confidence in Kymera’s technology and management. Analysts are particularly focused on the upcoming Phase 1 data readout for KT-621, a STAT6 degrader, expected in June 2025. Additionally, H.C. Wainwright adjusted their price target for Kymera to $54, down from $60, while maintaining a Buy rating, reflecting cautious optimism about the company’s clinical trials.

Kymera Therapeutics recently appointed Noah Goodman as Chief Business Officer to enhance its business development strategy. His role will be pivotal in advancing the company’s pipeline and commercialization efforts. The company also announced a new performance stock unit plan for key employees, designed to align their interests with shareholders through milestone-based vesting. This initiative underscores Kymera’s commitment to achieving key clinical development goals. These developments highlight Kymera’s strategic focus on advancing its clinical programs and business growth.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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