Galecto (GLTO) Leerink Global Healthcare Conference 2026 summary

Corporate updates and strategic focus

• Company rebranded from Galecto to Damora, reflecting a strategic shift to focus on mutant CALR-directed therapies for myeloproliferative neoplasms, targeting essential thrombocythemia (ET) and myelofibrosis (MF), with a U.S. market opportunity estimated at $5 billion.

• Leadership team recently joined, leveraging prior experience in bringing medicines to market and aiming to replicate that success at Damora.

• Over $500 million raised through private and public offerings, ensuring strong capitalization for clinical advancement.

• Board is actively searching for a new CEO, with high interest from industry professionals.

Pipeline and clinical development plans

• Lead asset DMR-001, a mutant CALR antibody, is set to enter clinical trials later this year, with IND/CTA filing targeted for mid-year and a second asset, DMR-002, planned for IND/CTA by year-end.

• Two clinical proof-of-concept datasets are expected to begin readout by mid-next year, with dose escalation starting later this year.

• DMR-001 is designed for broad activity across both Type 1 and Type 2 CALR mutations, addressing an unmet need not fully covered by current competitors.

• Preclinical data show DMR-001 is significantly more potent than reference antibodies, with improved efficacy especially in Type 2 mutations.

Competitive landscape and differentiation

• Incyte's CALR antibody has shown proof of concept, particularly in ET and Type 1 MF, but has limitations in Type 2 efficacy and requires high dosing due to short half-life and viscosity issues.

• Damora's antibody incorporates YTE modification for longer half-life, enabling lower volume, less frequent dosing, and potential for auto-injector delivery.

• The company aims for a best-in-class profile with improved convenience, potency, and breadth of activity, potentially allowing for monotherapy in front-line settings and targeting JAK-ineligible patients.