UCSF, Nektar team to test potential of antibody therapy for MS
NKTR-0165 aims to protect nerve cells, promote repair
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A scientist works in a lab.
- UCSF and Nektar are studying NKTR-0165 for multiple sclerosis.
- The antibody activates TNFR2 to protect nerve cells and promote repair.
- It aims to reduce inflammation and boost regulatory T-cell activity.
The University of California San Francisco (UCSF) is teaming up with Nektar Therapeutics to study the potential of NKTR-0165, an experimental antibody that activates the tumor necrosis factor receptor type 2 (TNFR2), to treat multiple sclerosis (MS).
UCSF neurologist Stephen L. Hauser, MD, and his postdoctoral researcher Chaitrali Saha, PhD, will lead the project. The team will evaluate whether activating TNFR2 can protect nerve cells and promote cell repair in laboratory models of MS.
“We are privileged to partner with Dr. Hauser on this important research initiative to explore the role of TNFR2 agonism in several models of MS,” Jonathan Zalevsky, PhD, Nektar’s chief research and development officer, said in a company press release.
TNFR2 is a protein found on certain immune cells, including regulatory T-cells (Tregs), which normally help keep the immune system in check, preventing excessive inflammation and attacks against the body’s own tissues. In MS, these cells are found at lower levels and also function abnormally. TNFR2 is also produced by some nerve cells and cells lining blood vessels.
NKTR-0165 is a TNFR2 agonist, designed to promote its activation and signaling. Researchers believe activating this receptor may boost Treg activity, dampen harmful inflammation, and potentially support nerve cell protection and repair.
Promoting cell repair
The UCSF team will study whether TNFR2 activation can limit nerve damage, protect nerve cells, and promote repair when neurons are exposed to B-cells taken from people with MS.
UCSF will conduct and fund the research, while Nektar will supply NKTR-0165 and retain full rights to its development programs.
“We know that TNFR2 is expressed on specific immune and [central nervous system] cells,” Hauser said. “With this important research initiative, we hope to evaluate the potential neuroprotective effect associated with the agonism of this receptor for treating both MS and other neurological conditions.”
NKTR-0165, originally developed under a 2021 collaboration between Nektar and Biolojic Design, is being developed to treat MS and other autoimmune diseases, including the skin condition vitiligo and the inflammatory bowel disease ulcerative colitis. The first clinical study is expected to start this year, according to the company.
Nektar is also developing TNFR2-based bispecific antibodies, lab-made proteins designed to simultaneously bind two distinct targets. The company’s lead candidate, NKTR-0166, is designed to target and activate TNFR2 while blocking another protein involved in rheumatology diseases.
