Kymera Therapeutics Presents New Preclinical Data for KT-579, a First-in-Class, Oral IRF5 Degrader, at the American College of Rheumatology Annual Meeting

Core Insights - Kymera Therapeutics announced promising preclinical data for KT-579, an oral degrader of IRF5, showing its potential to modify diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) [2][3] - The company plans to initiate Phase 1 testing for KT-579 in early 2026 [4] Preclinical Data - KT-579 demonstrated broad activity in preclinical models, with effects comparable or superior to existing therapies for lupus and RA [1][3] - The data presented at the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Convergence Annual Meeting highlighted KT-579's ability to reduce autoimmune symptoms and disease progression [3][4] Mechanism of Action - KT-579 selectively targets and degrades IRF5, a key regulator of immune responses, thereby suppressing multiple pro-inflammatory pathways [2][3] - In lupus mouse models, KT-579 significantly impacted Type I IFN signaling and pathogenic B cell subsets, leading to reductions in blood interferon-stimulated genes and serum autoantibodies [3][4] Efficacy in Disease Models - In RA rodent models, KT-579 achieved a dose-dependent reduction in joint swelling and inhibited pro-inflammatory cytokines [3][4] - In vitro studies confirmed KT-579's ability to block Th1-skewing cytokines, preventing pathogenic T cell differentiation [3] Future Developments - The company is focused on advancing KT-579 through clinical trials, aiming to provide a new oral treatment option for patients with complex rheumatic and autoimmune diseases [4][6]