MiNK Therapeutics Partners with C-Further to Advance PRAME-Targeted iNKT Cell Therapy for Pediatric Cancers

MiNK Therapeutics (Nasdaq: INKT), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cell therapies, has entered a strategic collaboration with C-Further to advance a PRAME-targeted TCR-engineered iNKT cell therapy for pediatric cancers.

The collaboration marks one of the first programs selected by C-Further since the consortium launched. The initiative brings together Cancer Research Horizons, LifeArc, and Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (GOSH Charity) to accelerate the development of new therapeutics for childhood cancers. Through the agreement, MiNK could receive up to approximately $1.1 million in non-dilutive funding to support IND-enabling development of the program, along with a meaningful double-digit share of downstream commercial revenues if the therapy ultimately reaches the market.

Targeting PRAME in Pediatric Cancers

The partnership focuses on developing a T cell receptor (TCR)–engineered iNKT cell therapy targeting PRAME, a tumor-associated antigen expressed in several malignancies. PRAME appears frequently in pediatric cancers such as sarcomas, acute myeloid leukemia (AML), and medulloblastoma, where treatment options remain limited and outcomes after relapse are often poor.

By combining PRAME-specific antigen recognition with MiNK’s iNKT cell platform, the therapy aims to deliver more precise tumor targeting while activating broader immune responses within the tumor microenvironment. iNKT cells occupy a unique role in the immune system because they bridge innate and adaptive immunity, which may enable coordinated anti-tumor activity beyond direct tumor killing.

Leveraging an Off-the-Shelf Cell Therapy Platform

Unlike many traditional cell therapies that rely on patient-specific manufacturing, MiNK’s platform uses allogeneic iNKT cells derived from healthy donors. These cells can be produced in advance, cryopreserved, and delivered as an off-the-shelf therapy without HLA matching or intensive lymphodepleting chemotherapy.

As a result, this approach could significantly reduce manufacturing timelines and improve treatment access. For children with aggressive cancers, faster therapy delivery could prove particularly important.

More broadly, the PRAME-TCR-iNKT program reflects MiNK’s strategy to deploy its platform across validated tumor antigens and high-need disease settings while maintaining a strong focus on safety and long-term survivorship.

Development Strategy and Academic Collaboration

Under the collaboration structure, MiNK will serve as the lead industry partner, providing its iNKT platform, engineering capabilities, and translational development expertise.

Meanwhile, researchers at the University of Southampton, led by Dr. Ali Roghanian and Dr. Salah Mansour, will conduct independent comparative preclinical studies. These studies will evaluate anti-tumor activity, cell persistence, and safety across multiple pediatric cancer models, including patient-derived tumor systems. Ultimately, the teams aim to nominate a single lead candidate for advancement into first-in-human clinical studies.

Importantly, the consortium-based development model emphasizes rigorous candidate selection and capital efficiency while relying on milestone-based funding.

Strategic Structure Preserves Platform Value

The collaboration remains non-exclusive, allowing MiNK to continue advancing its iNKT platform independently and to pursue additional oncology targets and partnerships. This structure aligns with the company’s broader strategy of leveraging partnerships while preserving long-term value from its proprietary technology.

Jennifer Buell, President and CEO of MiNK Therapeutics, said the selection highlights both the maturity of the company’s platform and its potential in pediatric oncology.

“Invariant natural killer T cells occupy a unique position in the immune system, coordinating anti-tumor responses that extend beyond direct tumor targeting,” Buell said. “This collaboration expands our platform into PRAME-targeted cell therapy for children facing cancers with limited treatment options.”

C-Further Expands Pediatric Oncology Innovation

C-Further program co-lead Dr. Lone Friis emphasized that the consortium aims to support programs that combine innovative platforms with strong translational science.

“After our first review round, we selected MiNK Therapeutics’ iNKT cell platform as the foundation for our first partnership,” Friis said. “We look forward to advancing a differentiated cell therapy approach for children who urgently need new treatment options.”

Dr. Ali Roghanian of the University of Southampton added that the academic team will focus on identifying the strongest and safest candidate for clinical advancement.

“Our role is to rigorously evaluate potential therapies using pediatric cancer models,” Roghanian said. “This collaboration allows us to apply our expertise in iNKT biology while working toward a clear translational goal: bringing a promising therapy to children who need better treatment options.”

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