Akari Therapeutics Plc (AKTX)

Akari Therapeutics is an oncology-focused biotechnology company building a pipeline of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) around a novel RNA-splicing modulator payload. The Boston-based company pivoted in 2024 through a merger with Peak Bio to focus on next-generation cancer therapeutics rather than its earlier work in autoimmune disease.

The ADC Platform

Akari’s proprietary payload, PH1, is derived from a Thailanstatin analog—a natural product that works inside cancer cells to disrupt RNA splicing. Unlike conventional ADC payloads that kill through simple toxicity, PH1 both triggers tumor cell death and activates immune recognition by generating neoantigens. The mechanism positions Akari’s therapies to work synergistically with checkpoint inhibitors and KRAS-targeted drugs, a property validated in preclinical models.

Lead Programs

AKTX-101, the lead candidate, targets TROP2, a surface antigen abundant on many solid tumors. Preclinical data shows stronger tumor-killing potency and favorable tolerability compared to existing TROP2-directed ADCs. Akari is conducting IND-enabling studies with a goal to begin first-in-human dosing by mid-2027. AKTX-102, unveiled in January 2026, targets CEACAM5, a historically difficult-to-address oncology target, and leverages the same payload technology.

At a glance

• Focus: Oncology via next-generation ADC therapeutics
• Lead asset: AKTX-101 (TROP2-targeting ADC with PH1 payload)
• Stage: IND-enabling; Phase 1 expected mid-2027
• Differentiation: RNA spliceosome-targeting payload, immune-stimulating mechanism
• IP: European patent protection for Thailanstatin analogs and ADC composition
• Recent milestone: May 2026 breakthrough data on AKTX-101 synergy with KRAS inhibition in pancreatic cancer models