Kinnate Biopharma
Kinnate Biopharma develops small molecule drug candidates targeting validated oncogenic drivers, focusing on overcoming limitations of existing cancer therapies. The company was acquired by XOMA on April 3, 2024.
Company Overview
Kinnate Biopharma focuses on developing small molecule drug candidates aimed at targeting validated oncogenic drivers. The company leverages expertise in structure-based drug discovery and translational research. Their mission is to expand on the promise of targeted therapies to inspire hope in individuals battling cancer. Kinnate Biopharma aims to overcome limitations of current cancer treatments, such as non-responsiveness and resistance.
Lead Drug Candidates
Kinnate Biopharma's lead drug candidates include exarafenib and KIN-3248. Exarafenib targets cancers with BRAF and NRAS-driven alterations, and is being investigated for BRAF Class II and III alterations as well as NRAS mutation-positive melanoma. KIN-3248 is designed for cancers with FGFR2 and FGFR3 alterations, offering a potential treatment option for patients with these genetic profiles.
Early-Stage Programs
Kinnate Biopharma has two early-stage drug programs: a potentially brain-penetrant MEK inhibitor and a highly selective c-MET inhibitor. The brain-penetrant MEK inhibitor could play a crucial role in treating cancers that affect the brain, while the c-MET inhibitor KIN-8741 aims to cover broad mutational profiles, including acquired resistance mutations, particularly in solid tumors driven by exon 14-altered and/or amplified c-MET.
Discovery Engine and Research Focus
Kinnate Biopharma's Discovery Engine emphasizes unmet needs among validated oncogenic drivers, prioritizing high selectivity, optimized pharmaceutical properties, broad genetic alteration coverage, and the ability to overcome resistance. Through this engine, the company identifies drug candidates capable of addressing oncogenic drivers for which no approved targeted therapies exist, furthering their commitment to battling cancer.
Clinical Trials and Patient Support
Kinnate Biopharma is actively conducting clinical trials for its lead candidates. The exarafenib (KIN-2787) trial involves adults with BRAF-mutation positive cancers and NRAS-mutation positive melanoma. Meanwhile, the KIN-3248 trial includes adults with advanced solid tumors harboring FGFR2 and/or FGFR3 gene mutations. The company also offers travel expense support for study participants and one caregiver at select sites, ensuring accessibility to participation.