Arcturus Therapeutics (NasdaqGM:ARCT) 2026 Conference Transcript

Summary of Arcturus Therapeutics Conference Call Company Overview - Company: Arcturus Therapeutics (NasdaqGM:ARCT) - Industry: Biopharmaceuticals, specifically focusing on messenger RNA (mRNA) therapeutics - Key Products: Rare disease therapeutics in advanced pipeline, including inhaled mRNA and injectable mRNA for Urea Cycle Disorder (UCD) [1][2] Core Insights and Arguments Inhaled mRNA Therapeutics - Arcturus is a leader in inhaled mRNA, aiming to be the first successful company in this space, which has seen historical failures due to toxicity and intolerability [1] - Current focus is on ARCT-032 for Cystic Fibrosis (CF), with a significant milestone of advancing dosing from 5 mg to 15 mg daily, showing promising results in reducing mucus plugs [3][4] - A Phase 2b study is planned to start in the first half of the year, with a larger cohort of 20 subjects and an extended duration of 12 weeks, aiming for more statistically sound results [8][9] Phase 2b Study Design - The study will incorporate multiple baseline measurements and historical data to strengthen the baseline for lung function parameters [8][9] - Key endpoints include FEV (Forced Expiratory Volume) and LCI (Lung Clearance Index), with the latter being more sensitive to changes in lung function [10][21] - The FDA has indicated that any measurable improvement would be considered significant, especially for the 15%-18% of CF patients who do not respond to existing modulators [13][14] Regulatory Path and Market Opportunity - The regulatory path for ARCT-810, targeting Ornithine Transcarbamylase Deficiency (OTC), is currently uncertain, but upcoming Type C meetings with the FDA are expected to clarify this [31][32] - OTC deficiency represents a significant unmet medical need, particularly in pediatric patients, with no current approved therapies [32][40] - The company believes that normalizing glutamine levels, rather than just ammonia, could be a key biomarker for regulatory approval [38][39] Financial Position - As of September 30, the company reported a strong cash position of $237 million, providing a runway into 2028 without needing to raise funds in the past five years [42][43] - The company has reduced its workforce significantly, indicating a lean operational model focused on CF and OTC programs [43] Additional Important Points - The company is optimistic about the recruitment rate for the Phase 2b study, with over 10 sites in the U.S. and Europe [24][26] - Arcturus is positioned as a leader in the mRNA therapeutic space, with a focus on effective delivery technology that has overcome historical challenges in safety and tolerability [29][30] - The company emphasizes the importance of transient therapies for transient organs like the lung and liver, aligning with their therapeutic approach [28][29] This summary encapsulates the key points discussed during the conference call, highlighting Arcturus Therapeutics' strategic focus, regulatory challenges, and financial health.