In the updated Phase 1/2 study of CD19 t-haNK cell therapy, ImmunityBio (IBRX) presented data showing that 8 of 10 evaluable patients with relapsed or refractory Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia achieved a complete response. All responses were maintained at the six-month assessment without any administration of chemotherapy or lymphodepleting agents. Median time to response was 28 days, and median duration of response had not been reached at a data cutoff of January 15, 2026, indicating sustained remissions in this patient population.

Across the trial cohort, IBRX reported no incidents of grade 3 or higher cytokine release syndrome or neurotoxicity events linked to t-haNK infusions. The most common adverse events were grade 1–2 fever (60% of patients) and transient hypotension (30%), both resolving within 48 hours. These safety findings mark a significant improvement over traditional CAR-T approaches, which often require intensive monitoring and preconditioning regimens.

Following the data release, institutional investors increased their exposure to IBRX, with reported block trades totaling more than $25 million on January 20. The company has initiated a 20-patient expansion cohort scheduled to report initial efficacy and safety outcomes by mid-2026. Analysts cite the study’s chemo-free regimen and rapid, deep responses as key drivers for potential partnership discussions and regulatory fast-track considerations.