Nektar Therapeutics announced a research collaboration with the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and Dr. Stephen L. Hauser, Director of the UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences, to investigate NKTR‑0165, a first‑in‑class tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (TNFR2) agonist antibody, in multiple sclerosis (MS) models.
Under the agreement, UCSF will conduct and fund all preclinical studies, while Nektar supplies NKTR‑0165 and retains all program rights. The partnership is designed to generate early‑stage data on the antibody’s neuroprotective and anti‑inflammatory effects, leveraging its activity on regulatory T cells and endothelial cells that are implicated in MS pathogenesis.
The collaboration expands Nektar’s pipeline beyond its oncology focus and its lead asset, rezpegaldesleukin (REZPEG). It also provides a cost‑effective route to early‑stage data without requiring Nektar to invest heavily in MS research infrastructure. The partnership is expected to accelerate the development of NKTR‑0165, which was licensed from Biolojic Design in April 2024 after successful preclinical studies and is now in IND‑enabling studies with a first‑in‑human trial planned for the first half of 2025.
Nektar’s recent $460 million public offering, closed on February 13, 2026, strengthens its financial position and supports continued investment in pipeline programs, including NKTR‑0165. Positive data for REZPEG in atopic dermatitis further bolsters investor confidence and provides a financial cushion for pursuing additional therapeutic areas.
Dr. Hauser’s involvement adds significant credibility to the collaboration. He is a leading neuroimmunologist with a track record of developing B‑cell therapies for MS, and his expertise will guide the preclinical evaluation of TNFR2 agonism in MS models.
The partnership is expected to generate early efficacy signals that could justify further investment in the TNFR2 antibody line. Investors will monitor the collaboration for data that demonstrate neuroprotective benefits and anti‑inflammatory activity, which could open a new revenue stream if NKTR‑0165 progresses to clinical trials.
The collaboration also positions Nektar to compete in the competitive MS market, where the global market size is estimated at several billion dollars and where there is a strong demand for novel disease‑modifying therapies.
Nektar’s strategy of leveraging academic expertise to accelerate development of its TNFR2 platform aligns with its broader goal of diversifying its pipeline and reducing reliance on oncology programs.
The partnership underscores Nektar’s commitment to exploring innovative therapeutic modalities in high‑need neurological disorders, potentially enhancing its long‑term growth prospects.
The content on EveryTicker is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. We are not financial advisors. Consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Any actions you take based on information from this site are solely at your own risk.