Artiva Biotherapeutics (ARTV) TD Cowen 46th Annual Health Care Conference summary

Strategic focus and indication selection

• Deep B-cell depletion is seen as a transformational mechanism for autoimmune diseases, with a focus on selecting indications that align with product strengths and offer first-mover advantage.

• Four indications are being explored: rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Sjögren's, scleroderma, and myositis, with RA chosen as the lead due to its large refractory patient population and competitive positioning.

• Decision to deprioritize lupus and lupus nephritis due to high competition and unclear first-to-market opportunities.

Clinical efficacy and safety profile

• Strong efficacy and durability observed in aggressive non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and Hodgkin's lymphoma, with potent B-cell elimination and favorable safety profile compared to T-cell therapies.

• No cytokine release syndrome (CRS) or ICANS observed in 32 autoimmunity patients; infection rates comparable to Rituximab, and no hypogammaglobulinemia or IVIG usage required.

• Community-based administration is feasible, with only one hospitalization among 32 patients and most treatments managed by community rheumatologists.

Product mechanism and scalability

• Utilizes non-genetically engineered NK cells activated by monoclonal antibodies, achieving deep B-cell depletion similar to autologous CAR T therapies.

• NK cells sourced from umbilical cord units allow for high scalability, low cost of goods (COGS), and cryopreservation for years, supporting broad community access.

• Manufacturing facility can treat up to 1,000 patients at low COGS, enabling high margins and supply chain efficiency.