Cullinan Therapeutics, Inc. showcased initial clinical data for CLN-978, a CD19xCD3 T cell engager, during the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) Congress on June 6, 2026. The results indicate strong potential for treating systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Impressive Efficacy and Safety Profile
These initial Phase 1 data demonstrate the deep and dose-dependent B cell depletion achievable with CLN-978 and reinforce our belief that it has strong potential as a disease-modifying treatment in multiple challenging-to-treat autoimmune conditions.
Jeffrey Jones, MD, MBA, Chief Medical Officer, Cullinan Therapeutics
- Clinical benefit, including remissions, was observed in SLE and RA patients.
- Deep, dose-dependent B cell depletion was noted in both peripheral blood and tissue.
- Safety was favorable with doses of up to 30 µg.
The study evaluated 29 patients as of May 15, 2026, across various dose levels. Results showed significant reductions in disease activity for participants with both SLE and RA.
In SLE trials, 71% of patients experienced a notable reduction in disease activity, while in RA trials, 71% saw improvements, including a remission in one case.
These promising findings pave the way for future clinical applications, particularly in outpatient settings, where the convenience of subcutaneous administration could enhance patient accessibility to novel therapies.
Upcoming Immunology Day
Cullinan will host an Immunology Day on June 10, 2026, to further discuss the implications of these findings and share updated data from the ongoing multi-dose regimen of CLN-978.
The event aims to engage key opinion leaders and investors, underscoring Cullinan's commitment to advancing treatment options for autoimmune diseases.