Incyte drops early-stage JAK2 inhibitor to prioritize next-generation pipeline

Incyte announced it is terminating development of its early-stage oral JAK2 inhibitor, INCB160058, after a Phase 1 study in myeloproliferative neoplasms.

The company said the decision reflects the drug’s poor pharmacokinetic profile and allows resources to be redirected toward next-generation therapies.

Analysts noted the move is unfortunate but expected, and investors remain focused on late-stage candidates such as the myelofibrosis antibody INCA033989 and the KRAS G12D blocker INCB161734 for pancreatic cancer.

Incyte is also preparing for the 2028 patent expiration of its flagship product Jakafi, making the shift to newer pipeline assets a strategic priority.