Artiva Biotherapeutics Halts AlloNK Development and Cuts 94% of Staff

Artiva Biotherapeutics Inc. has discontinued the development of AlloNK (AB-101), its allogeneic NK cell therapy candidate for autoimmune diseases, and is reducing its workforce by approximately 94%. The decision follows a review of updated clinical data and two patient deaths during a Phase 2a basket trial.

One death was attributed to fatal leukoencephalopathy likely related to fludarabine-associated neurotoxicity, while the second death was deemed unrelated to the treatment. Following the first fatality, the Food and Drug Administration requested a pause in enrollment and dosing. This regulatory action led the company to cancel its planned Phase 3 pivotal trial.

Artiva reported that long-term follow-up data failed to show the durability of clinical response necessary to justify continued development. The company has now engaged Leerink Partners as a financial advisor to evaluate strategic alternatives, which may include a potential merger, asset sale, or liquidation.