Fate Therapeutics Inc (FATE)

[CogDiss 1188X]

FATE’s engineered NK cells in trial for covid-19. NK cells fight viral infections, so this is a reasonable new long-term opportunity for FATE’s technology beyond treating cancer. Still very early phase 1 stage investigation but could contribute an unexpected kicker to the stock when results are reported in the next 12 to 18 months.

FT516 uses induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which are a kind of stem cell made from reprogrammed skin or blood cells. These newly made stem cells have the potential to become any kind of cell in the body. For FT516, iPSCs are transformed into natural killer (NK) cells, which are a type of white blood cell that are a vital part of the immune system and play a role in fighting off viral infections.

Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, FT516 was used in a clinical trial to treat patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and B-cell lymphoma, which are two different kinds of blood cancer.

Due to the natural ability of NK cells to fight off viruses, it is believed that FT516 may also help play a role in diminishing viral replication of the novel coronavirus in COVID-19 patients. In fact, Fate Therapeutics, in partnership with the University of Minnesota, has treated their first COVID-19 patient with FT516 in a new clinical trial.

“We know that NK cells play an important role in responding to SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, and that these cells often become depleted in infected patients. Our intent is to replenish NK cells in order to restore a functional immune system and directly target the virus.”

http://blog.cirm.ca.gov/2020/08/12/therapy-developed-with-cirm-award-used-in-new-clinical-trial-for-covid-19