Zelluna Publishes Compelling Preclinical Data for ZI-MA4-1
Zelluna Publishes Compelling Preclinical Data for ZI-MA4-1, the World's First MAGE-A4-Targeting TCR-NK Therapy for Solid Tumours
Oslo, Norway, 16 December 2025 – Zelluna, a company developing off-the-shelf cell therapies for cancer, today announced the publication of preclinical data for its lead candidate, ZI-MA4-1, in the peer-reviewed journal Immunotherapy Advances. The data support the company's plan to start clinical trials in 2026.
The paper describes ZI-MA4-1, a novel cell therapy that combines two powerful cancer-fighting mechanisms: the precision solid tumour targeting of T cell receptors (TCRs) with the potent and broad cancer killing ability of Natural Killer (NK) cells. ZI-MA4-1 targets MAGE-A4, a protein found in many solid cancers including lung, ovarian, head and neck, and sarcomas.
Key results:
Ø Kills cancer cells effectively across multiple tumour types
Ø Works even when tumours try to hide – remains active despite common escape mechanisms
Ø Enhanced immune response – triggers multiple anti-cancer mechanisms
Ø Good safety profile in preclinical studies
Since ZI-MA4-1 is manufactured in advance and stored frozen, it can be given to patients on demand (off-the-shelf), enabling multiple doses for sustaining a tumour response and broad patient access.
"This publication validates our approach," said Luise Weigand, Zelluna's Chief Scientific Officer. "It is also a testament to the dedication and innovation of our talented team. With our preclinical data completed, manufacturing process locked, and clinical material ready, we are well-positioned to start clinical trials in 2026."
Zelluna plans to submit its Clinical Trial Application (CTA) in late 2025, with first patient data expected mid-2026.
About Zelluna ASA
Zelluna is pioneering allogeneic off-the-shelf T Cell Receptor-based Natural Killer (TCR-NK) cell therapies for the treatment of solid cancers. The company’s platform combines the innate killing power of NK cells with the precision targeting of TCRs, designed to address the limitations of current cell therapies in solid tumours. The company's lead candidate, ZI-MA4-1, is the world's first MAGE-A4-targeting TCR-NK therapy expected to enter clinical trials in 2026. Zelluna is headquartered at the Oslo Cancer Cluster Innovation Park in Oslo, Norway, and is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange under the ticker ZLNA.
