Captor Therapeutics SA

Captor Therapeutics S.A. 28.11.2025 Chronic inflammation is one of the most dangerous mechanisms underlying almost all civilization diseases – from Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) to severe neurodegenerative disorders. In recent years, science has made a breakthrough in understanding the key catalyst for this process. The focus has shifted to NEK7 kinase, a protein essential for activating the NLRP3 inflammasome – the body's central molecular platform for producing pro-inflammatory cytokines. This article presents Captor Therapeutics' strategy based on Targeted Protein Degradation (TPD). Molecular Glue Degraders targeting NEK7 kinase have the potential to revolutionize the treatment of inflammatory and neuroinflammatory diseases. Given NEK7's pivotal role in inflammasome activation, its significance in chronic inflammation becomes a crucial starting point for developing new therapies. Chronic body inflammation is a complex process that plays a fundamental role in the development of numerous pathologies. Today, chronic inflammation is not merely a symptom, but a main cause and common denominator of conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), gout, type 2 diabetes, as well as neurodegenerative diseases, including Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Alzheimer's disease. Compared to other pathological mechanisms, chronic inflammation is characterized by the long-term activation of the immune system and persistent tissue changes. At the center of this state is the NLRP3 inflammasome (NLR Family Pyrin Domain Containing 3), a key component of the innate immune system. Its activation occurs in response to danger signals known as DAMPs (Danger-Associated Molecular Patterns) and PAMPs (Pathogen-Associated Molecular Patterns). The resulting inflammasome complex acts as a pro-inflammatory factory, initiating the production of potent pro-inflammatory cytokines, primarily Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and Interleukin-18 (IL-18). Activation also leads to the cleavage of the Gasdermin D protein, which triggers pyroptosis, a form of inflammatory cell death. While this process is vital for the body's defense, its chronic and uncontrolled activation leads to tissue degradation and disease progression. Chronic inflammation can lead not only to autoimmune diseases but also to the development of tumors, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis. NEK7 kinase (NIMA-related kinase 7) is a serine-threonine kinase traditionally known for its involvement in cell cycle regulation. However, recent studies have revealed its critical and unique function in NLRP3 inflammasome activation. NEK7 does not act here as a classical enzyme but serves as an indispensable scaffolding protein. It physically connects the individual components of the complex, enabling the conformational change of NLRP3 required to initiate cytokine production. This is a crucial therapeutic insight: Without the presence of NEK7, the NLRP3 inflammasome remains inactive. Crucially, the enzymatic activity of NEK7 kinase is not required for inflammasome activation; only its presence as a structural element is needed. This discovery opens up new therapeutic perspectives – instead of risky enzymatic inhibition, which may cause side effects, treatment can be precisely targeted at NEK7 as a scaffolding protein, effectively shutting down the pathological inflammatory pathway. This approach is key in treating chronic inflammation as it allows other necessary bodily functions to be preserved while minimizing potential adverse effects. Traditional drugs that inhibit the NLRP3 inflammasome, such as MCC950, while effective, carry the risk of serious side effects. Adverse effects can vary in severity depending on the drug's mechanism of action, as NLRP3 performs many pleiotropic functions independent of the inflammasome. Its complete blockade can lead to health impairments, including hepatotoxicity and increased susceptibility to infections. In contrast, the selective degradation of NEK7 kinase allows for the inhibition of inflammasome activity without completely shutting down the immune system. The selective degradation mechanism demonstrates an action that involves alleviating the symptoms of chronic inflammation while minimizing the risk of complications. Therapy based on NEK7 degradation therefore constitutes a safer and more precise strategy for treating inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. The foundation upon which Captor Therapeutics bases the development of drug candidates is high efficacy and minimal side effects. This innovative platform offers numerous benefits, making it a groundbreaking method in the treatment of inflammatory diseases, as confirmed by studies in animal models: Blood-Brain Barrier Penetration: The degrader, such as CPT-732, demonstrates the ability to penetrate the BBB, which is critically important for treating neuroinflammatory diseases like Multiple Sclerosis. Traditional drugs often fail to achieve adequate bioavailability in the central nervous system, limiting their effectiveness. This targeted therapy can thus directly address the source of inflammation in the brain and spinal cord. Safety and Selectivity: Genetic and pharmacological studies have shown that over 90% degradation of NEK7 does not negatively affect cell proliferation or viability, eliminating concerns about potential side effects associated with cell cycle disruption. This is important as it allows for long-term therapy without impairing the body's functioning. Crucially, these compounds exhibit excellent selectivity against teratogenic targets, such as SALL4. High Efficacy and Dosing Convenience: Compounds developed by Captor Therapeutics are characterized by high activity in the picomolar and low nanomolar range and excellent oral bioavailability, exceeding 95%. Pharmacodynamic studies one of our degraders confirmed that a single dose can effectively degrade NEK7 for 24 hours, enabling convenient once-daily dosing. This, in turn, enhances patient comfort and improves adherence to therapeutic recommendations. Confirmed Efficacy in Animal Models: In experimental models of inflammatory diseases, such as Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis (EAE) and Collagen-Induced Arthritis (CIA), the degrader CPT-513 demonstrated a therapeutic advantage over currently used NLRP3 inhibitors. These results confirm the potential of TPD technology in clinical practice and pave the way for further clinical trials. Targeting the NEK7/NLRP3 pathway allows for simultaneously addressing both systemic diseases and central nervous system disorders. This significantly increases the market potential for NEK7 degradation-based therapies, which will be available in multiple markets. According to 2024 estimates, the market for drugs related to chronic inflammatory conditions where NEK7 therapy can be applied is worth billions of dollars. According to 2024 estimates, the largest target markets include: Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): A chronic autoimmune disease where the NLRP3 inflammasome is highly activated in synovial cells. NEK7 degradation has the potential to directly halt this destructive inflammatory process. The market, estimated at approximately USD 63.22 billion, is driven by innovations in biologics and targeted therapies, projected to reach USD 75.53 billion by 2034. Multiple Sclerosis (MS): A progressive CNS disease where neuroinflammatory processes are key. The active NEK7-NLRP3 interaction has been shown to drive pro-inflammatory cytokine production, leading to myelin damage and neurodegeneration. The global market is valued at approximately USD 21.26 billion, with a forecast to reach USD 45.90 billion by 2034 due to advancements in targeted therapies and oral medications. Psoriasis: A systemic inflammatory disease in which the activity of the NLRP3 complex – requiring the NEK7 protein for assembly – mediates systemic inflammation linked to skin lesions and co-morbidities. The global psoriasis treatment market, currently valued at a robust USD 31.61 billion, is in a dynamic expansion phase and is expected to reach an impressive USD 68.24 billion by 2034 thanks to progress in biological therapies. Furthermore, NEK7 degraders hold potential for treating rare diseases such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Huntington's disease, markets valued at hundreds of millions of dollars. Thanks to its unique technology, high safety, and effective action, the Captor Therapeutics platform has the opportunity to revolutionize the treatment of chronic inflammation while offering attractive investment opportunities. NEK7 kinase is a groundbreaking therapeutic target in the treatment of chronic inflammation and inflammatory diseases. By employing Targeted Protein Degradation technology, Captor Therapeutics offers innovative therapeutic methods that combine high therapeutic efficacy with an excellent safety profile. The unique mechanism of eliminating the NLRP3 inflammasome's scaffolding protein, the ability to penetrate the Blood-Brain Barrier, and confirmed efficacy in animal models place this technology at the forefront of the new generation of anti-inflammatory therapies. For patients, this means a real hope for effective and safe treatment, and for the technology – significant market potential and a chance to solidify its position in the area of future medicine. The introduction of targeted therapy based on NEK7 kinase protein degradation is a vital step toward modern, precise, and safe treatment for inflammatory diseases.

The Management Board of Captor Therapeutics S.A. announces the conclusion of a cooperation agreement with the renowned MD Anderson Cancer Center (MDACC) at The University of Texas. The purpose of the agreement is to support the execution of an Investigator-Initiated Trial (IIT), which will be conducted by MD Anderson. The trial concerns Captor’s lead drug candidate – an MCL-1 protein degrader, intended for the treatment of hematological malignancies. The clinical trial builds upon groundbreaking preclinical research conducted at MD Anderson by a team led by Professors Michael Andreeff and Bing Carter, in close collaboration with Captor. These studies demonstrated that the clinical candidate, CT-03p, effectively reduces MCL-1 protein levels, induces the death of leukemic cells, and exhibits a synergistic effect with the BCL-2 inhibitor in treatment-resistant cells. Dr. Abhishek Maiti, Assistant Professor in the Department of Leukemia at MD Anderson, will serve as the Principal Investigator for the project. Updated preclinical data, which forms the basis for initiating the IIT, will be presented in December 2025 at the American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting (ASH 2025). Collaboration with MD Anderson, a global leader in oncology, constitutes a key step in the clinical development of CT-03p and affirms the global recognition of Captor Therapeutics' innovative technology.

Captor Therapeutics S.A. 13.11.2025 The Hidden Epidemic of Autoimmune Diseases Imagine a life where every day is a struggle against your own body. Bright red patches sharply separate from healthy skin. Swollen, stiff joints that limit movement. Painful, pus-filled lumps under the armpits that cause discomfort and isolation. Constant abdominal pain significantly restricts the quality of life. For millions worldwide, this is the reality of living with autoimmune diseases. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the body’s own skin cells. In Poland alone, about one million people are affected, and for many, the disease extends to the joints, leading to psoriatic arthritis. Immune system factors play a central role in the development of psoriasis. It can appear at any age, affecting children, adults, and seniors alike. Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), also known as acne inversa, affects up to 1% of the population, making it one of the most stigmatizing skin diseases. On top of that, hundreds of thousands of people suffer from Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease. These conditions can lead to complications like fistulas, intestinal strictures, and chronic anemia. IBD is more commonly diagnosed in younger adults. These diseases are not only a source of suffering, they also represent a massive market. For example, sales of just one antibody drug, Cosentyx, reach six billion dollars annually. A Silent Companion: When One Diagnosis Isn’t Enough Autoimmune diseases rarely occur in isolation. For many patients, the diagnosis of psoriasis is just the beginning of a long list of health challenges. Rheumatoid arthritis often follows - the condition causing chronic pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints, eventually impairing mobility. Joint inflammation can be one of the most disruptive symptoms, affecting daily life and sapping joy. But it doesn’t stop there. Other autoimmune diseases often coexist with psoriasis. Hashimoto’s disease can lead to hypothyroidism, multiple sclerosis attacks the nervous system causing sensory disturbances, muscle weakness, or coordination problems, and type 1 diabetes - though mostly associated with children - can appear in adults alongside other autoimmune conditions. Invisible to others, these symptoms also affect mental health. People with autoimmune diseases are twice as likely to experience depression and anxiety, and stress can worsen their symptoms. Having multiple autoimmune diseases presents not only more symptoms but also a major challenge for doctors - each condition can influence the course and treatment of the others. Patients need to be vigilant for new symptoms and closely monitor their health because a dysregulated immune system can behave unpredictably. Individualized treatment and close collaboration with specialists are crucial. Current Treatments: Effective for the Immune System, Burdensome for Patients The common enemy in these diseases is the body’s own overactive immune system, acting like an army attacking its own territory. Two key “orders to attack” play a central role: interleukin 17A (IL-17A) and 17F (IL-17F). So far, there have been two main treatment approaches: Currently, most autoimmune diseases have no cure. Treatments focus on managing symptoms but have significant limitations. Safe, effective oral drugs that directly address the root cause are nearly nonexistent. Without breakthroughs, these conditions can lead to serious complications and reduced quality of life. A Revolution in a Pill: Smart Treatment Targeting PKC-θ What if we could pack the power and precision of an antibody into a single, convenient tablet? And what if that tablet could be smarter than current drugs? That is exactly what we are developing. Our goal is to develop an oral PKC-θ protein degrader - a completely new approach in the field. Degraders are modern drugs that remove disease-causing proteins. By eliminating PKC-θ, this degrader directly affects T-lymphocytes, the immune cells responsible for the excessive response that drives psoriasis and skin lesions. Penetrating the command center: Instead of intercepting orders like IL-17, the degrader enters the immune cells themselves. Dismantling the factory: Inside the cell, it identifies PKC-θ protein and marks it for destruction, effectively removing the source of the immune “orders.” Dual Advantage: By dismantling the PKC-θ “factory,” production of both IL-17A and IL-17F is stopped, creating a more complete and potent effect than current antibodies. Unlike blocking drugs, this method removes the target protein entirely, representing a modern, highly precise therapy for autoimmune diseases. The Holy Grail: Gut Safety in Autoimmune Disease The greatest benefit of this technology is intestinal safety. The degrader: Calms the “bad” immune cells that produce IL-17 and attack the digestive tract. Supports the “good” regulatory T cells (Tregs), which maintain order in the immune system. Traditional steroid or immunosuppressive drugs can damage the digestive tract and internal organs, especially with long-term use. This new therapy reduces those risks, offering a safer profile. For the first time, there is potential to create a drug that is not only effective for psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and Hidradenitis Suppurativa but also safe for the digestive system and potentially curative in IBD, opening access to targeted therapy for millions of patients previously without options. The Role of Oral Degraders in Autoimmune Disease Treatment Autoimmune disease therapies are among the fastest-growing segments of the global pharmaceutical market. Currently, over 5-8% of the world’s population suffers from at least one autoimmune disease, and diagnoses are rising. The global immunological drug market exceeded $110 billion in 2025, with biologics representing a significant portion. Despite their effectiveness, biologics are costly to produce, distribute, and maintain, limiting patient access. This drives the need for cheaper, oral, yet equally effective alternatives. The oral PKC-θ degrader meets these needs, combining the precision of targeted therapy with the convenience and scalability of oral treatment. The potential market includes over 200 million people worldwide. Its ease of use and broad safety profile - especially in gut conditions - could make it the first next-generation oral targeted therapy in this category and reshape the immunology market. The future of autoimmune disease treatment is not just a single tablet a day - it is the combination of power, precision, and safety that can redefine what it means to live with a chronic illness.