Tempest Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: TPST) is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to developing small molecule therapeutics that integrate tumor-targeted and immune-mediated mechanisms to treat various cancers. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Brisbane, California, Tempest aims to address unmet needs in oncology by advancing innovative therapies that enhance patient outcomes.
Key Strategic Focus
Tempest's strategic focus centers on the development of novel oncology treatments that combine direct tumor targeting with immune system modulation. The company's pipeline includes:
- TPST-1120 (Amezalpat): A selective antagonist of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), currently in Phase 1/1b studies in combination with nivolumab and a randomized Phase 1b/2 study with atezolizumab (TECENTRIQ) and bevacizumab (Avastin) for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
- TPST-1495: A dual antagonist of EP2 and EP4 receptors of prostaglandin E2, progressing through Phase 1/1b monotherapy and combination studies for various cancers.
- TREX-1 Inhibitor: An orally available inhibitor designed to control activation of the cGAS/STING pathway, aiming to enhance anti-tumor immunity.
Financials and Funding
As of May 12, 2025, Tempest Therapeutics' stock (NASDAQ: TPST) is trading at $6.61 per share. The company has secured funding through public offerings and collaborations, including a partnership with F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd. for the development of TPST-1120. Specific financial details regarding total funds raised and recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed.
Pipeline Development
Tempest's pipeline is advancing through various stages:
- TPST-1120 (Amezalpat): Completed monotherapy dose escalation; ongoing Phase 1/1b combination study with nivolumab; randomized Phase 1b/2 study with atezolizumab and bevacizumab for advanced HCC.
- TPST-1495: Undergoing Phase 1/1b monotherapy and combination studies targeting multiple cancer types.
- TREX-1 Inhibitor: In preclinical development, focusing on modulating the cGAS/STING pathway to enhance immune response against tumors.
Technological Platform and Innovation
Tempest leverages proprietary technologies and scientific methodologies to develop its therapeutic candidates:
- Proprietary Technologies: Development of small molecule antagonists targeting specific receptors involved in tumor growth and immune evasion.
- Scientific Methods: Utilization of advanced assays and preclinical models to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pipeline candidates.
Leadership Team
Tempest's leadership comprises experienced professionals:
- Stephen R. Brady, J.D., LLM: Chief Executive Officer, President, and Director.
- Nicholas Maestas: Chief Financial Officer, Head of Corporate Strategy, and Secretary.
- Dr. Samuel Whiting, M.D., Ph.D.: Executive Vice President, Chief Medical Officer, and Head of Research & Development.
- Justin Trojanowski, CPA: Corporate Controller, Treasurer, and Principal Accounting Officer.
- Lindsay Young: Head of Human Resources.
Competitor Profile
Tempest operates in the competitive oncology biotechnology sector, with key competitors including:
- Zentalis Pharmaceuticals: Focuses on small molecule therapeutics for cancer treatment.
- Adaptimmune Therapeutics: Develops T-cell therapies targeting cancer.
- Silence Therapeutics: Specializes in RNA interference therapeutics for various diseases, including cancer.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
Tempest has established significant collaborations to enhance its development capabilities:
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd.: Partnership to advance TPST-1120 in combination with atezolizumab and bevacizumab for advanced HCC.
Operational Insights
Tempest's strategic considerations include:
- Market Position: Focus on developing first-in-class therapeutics to address unmet needs in oncology.
- Competitive Advantages: Integration of tumor-targeted and immune-mediated mechanisms in therapeutic development.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Tempest's roadmap includes:
- Pipeline Advancement: Progressing clinical trials for TPST-1120 and TPST-1495.
- Partnership Expansion: Seeking additional collaborations to enhance development and commercialization efforts.
- Innovation: Continuing research into novel targets and mechanisms to expand the oncology pipeline.
