NKGen Announces Poster Presentation at the XXVI World Congress of Neurology (WCN) Annual Meeting 2023

SANTA ANA, Calif., October 11, 2023 — NKGen Biotech Inc. (Nasdaq: NKGN) (“NKGen” or the “Company”), a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic, and CAR-NK natural killer cell therapeutics, today announced an upcoming poster presentation on an interim report of a Phase I study of SNK01 in patients with Alzheimer’s Disease, at the XXVI World Congress of Neurology (WCN) Annual Meeting to be held in Montreal, QC, Canada and online between October 15–19, 2023. 

Presentation Details:

Title: Use of Expanded Non-Genetically Modified Natural Killer Cells (SNK01) with Enhanced Cytotoxicity in Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease – Interim Report of a Phase I Trial

Authors: Clemente Humberto Zúñiga Gil, Blanca Isaura Acosta Gallo, Rufino Menchaca Díaz, César Alejandro Amescua, Lucia Hui, Hank Lee, Juan Mata, Paul Y. Chang, Katia Betito, and Paul Y. Song

Session Title: AS06 Dementia

Poster Board Number: 074

Session Time: Tuesday, October 17, 2023, 08:00 – Wednesday, October 18, 2023, 17:00 GMT-4; Poster on Board Shift 2

A copy of the poster will be added to the Scientific Publications page of the Company’s website at https://nkgenbiotech.com/ once presentations have concluded.

Full abstracts accepted and registered to the XXVI WCN Annual Meeting will be published in the online Journal of the Neurological Sciences. The 2023 edition will be available December 2023 at WCN Journal (wcn-neurology.com).

About NKGen Biotech

NKGen is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic, and CAR-NK Natural Killer (NK) cell therapeutics. NKGen is headquartered in Santa Ana, California, USA. For more information, please visit www.nkgenbiotech.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Statements contained in this press release regarding matters that are not historical facts are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate”, “believe”, “could”, “continue”, “expect”, “estimate”, “may”, “plan”, “outlook”, “future” and “project” and other similar expressions that predict or indicate future events or trends or that are not statements of historical matters. Because such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of the Company’s control, actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company’s plans and expected timing for developing SNK01, including the expected timing of completing and announcing further results from its ongoing Phase 1 clinical study; the inclusion of the Company’s abstract in the Journal of the Neurological Sciences and the availability of such publication to investors, and the Company’s expected timing for developing its product candidates and potential benefits of its product candidates. Risks that contribute to the uncertain nature of the forward-looking statements include: the Company’s ability to execute its plans and strategies; risks related to performing clinical studies; the risk that initial and interim results of a clinical study do not necessarily predict final results and that one or more of the clinical outcomes may materially change as patient enrollment continues, following more comprehensive reviews of the data, and as more patient data become available; potential delays in the commencement, enrollment and completion of clinical studies and the reporting of data therefrom; the risk that studies will not be completed as planned; the risk that the abstract will not be published as planned including delays in timing, format, or accessibility; and NKGen’s ability to raise additional funding to complete the development of its product candidates. These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully under the caption “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the Company’s filings and reports, which may be accessed for free by visiting the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at www.sec.gov and on the Company’s website under the subheading “Investors—Events and Presentations”. Investors should take such risks into account and should not rely on forward-looking statements when making investment decisions. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date on which they were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update such statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that exist after the date on which they were made, except as required by law.

Internal Contact:
Denise Chua, MBA, CLS, MT (ASCP)
Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications
949-396-6830
dchua@nkgenbiotech.com

External Contacts:
Chris Calabrese
Managing Director
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
ccalabrese@lifesciadvisors.com

Kevin Gardner
Managing Director
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
kgardner@lifesciadvisors.com

NKGen Biotech, Inc. Announces Closing of Business Combination

SANTA ANA, Calif., October 2, 2023 — NKGen Biotech, Inc. (“NKGen” or the “Company”), a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic, and CAR-NK natural killer (“NK”) cell therapies, today announced that it has closed its previously announced business combination with Graf Acquisition Corp. IV (“Graf”), pursuant to which NKGen became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Graf and Graf changed its name to NKGen Biotech, Inc. The business combination and all other proposals presented were approved at a special meeting of Graf’s stockholders held on September 25, 2023.

Beginning today, October 2, 2023, NKGen’s common stock will begin trading on The Nasdaq Global Market under the ticker symbol “NKGN” and NKGen’s warrants will begin trading on The Nasdaq Capital Market under the ticker symbol “NKGNW.”

“The dedicated team of NKGen could not be more excited and ready to become a NASDAQ-listed company,” said Paul Y. Song, M.D., CEO of NKGen. “Our mission has always been about transforming the lives of patients and their families and we have remained focused on tackling some of society’s biggest healthcare challenges. Our team has worked tirelessly to optimize our natural killer cell therapy platform with the goal to bring both autologous and allogeneic programs to the clinic for neurodegenerative diseases and cancer, respectively. We believe that being a public company will help us accelerate our clinical plans and programs and we are grateful to the entire Graf team for being tremendous partners during a very challenging capital markets environment.”

James Graf, CEO of Graf, has joined NKGen as its Interim Chief Financial Officer. James commented, “We are proud to partner with Paul and his team to bring NKGen to the public markets. NKGen is doing such important work to bring hope to those suffering from neurodegenerative and other diseases. I am excited to continue the journey with NKGen as their Interim Chief Financial Officer.”

About NKGen

NKGen is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development of innovative autologous, allogeneic, and CAR-NK natural killer cell therapies. NKGen is headquartered in Santa Ana, California, USA. For more information, please visit www.nkgenbiotech.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements made in this press release are “forward looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside of NKGen’s control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, including but not limited to, NKGen’s ability to raise additional funding for its business operations and continue the development of its product candidates, such as SNK01 and SNK02, the risks that early-stage clinical trials may not be predictive of future results, NKGen’s ability to manage the SNK02 clinical trial successfully, the scope, progress and expansion of the SNK02 clinical trial and ramification for the cost thereof, clinical, scientific and regulatory developments, the ability to maintain the listing of NKGen’s securities on Nasdaq, the price of NKGen’s securities may be volatile due to a variety of factors, including changes in the applicable competitive or regulatory landscapes and changes in the combined capital structure, the ability to recognized the anticipated benefits of the previously consummated business combination, which may be affected by, among others, competition, the ability of the combined company to grow and manage growth and the costs related to the previously consummated business combination. These forward-looking statements are based upon NKGen’s current expectations and involve assumptions that may never materialize or may prove to be incorrect. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Readers should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the other risks and uncertainties described in the “Risk Factors” section of the registration statement on Form S-4 filed by Graf, which was declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on August 14, 2023, and which includes a proxy statement/prospectus of Graf filed on August 14, 2023, as amended and supplemented, and other relevant documents filed by Graf and NKGen from time to time with the SEC. Such filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Neither Graf nor NKGen gives any assurance that any of them will achieve its expectations.

Except as required by law, NKGen undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. You should read this press release completely and with the understanding that our actual future results or performance may be materially different from what we expect. In this press release, statements of, or references to, our intentions and expectations are made as of the date of this press release.

 

Internal Contact:

Denise Chua, MBA, CLS, MT (ASCP)

Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications

NKGen Biotech, Inc.

dchua@nkgenbiotech.com

 

External Contacts:

Chris Calabrese

Managing Director

LifeSci Advisors, LLC

ccalabrese@lifesciadvisors.com

 

Kevin Gardner

Managing Director

LifeSci Advisors, LLC

kgardner@lifesciadvisors.com

 

NKGen Biotech to Present at the Cantor Fitzgerald Global Healthcare Conference 2023

SANTA ANA, Calif., September 21, 2023 — NKGen Biotech, Inc. (“NKGen” or the “Company”), a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic, and CAR-NK natural killer (“NK”) cell therapies, today announced that its Executive Leadership will present at the Cantor Fitzgerald 2023 Global Healthcare Conference on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, in New York City.  Please see details below:

Cantor Fitzgerald Global Healthcare Conference

Format: Company presentation

Date: Wednesday, September 27, 2023

Time: 4:45 pm ET

Location: New York, NY

The webcast will be accessible on the Events & Presentations page in the Investors section of the Company’s website at www.nkgenbiotech.com beginning on the day of the event.

About NKGen

NKGen is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic, and CAR-NK NK cell therapies. NKGen is headquartered in Santa Ana, California, USA. For more information, please visit www.nkgenbiotech.com.

 

Internal Contact:

Denise Chua, MBA, CLS, MT (ASCP)

Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications

NKGen Biotech, Inc.

949-396-6830

dchua@nkgenbiotech.com

 

External Contacts:

Chris Calabrese

Managing Director

LifeSci Advisors, LLC

ccalabrese@lifesciadvisors.com

 

Kevin Gardner

Managing Director

LifeSci Advisors, LLC

kgardner@lifesciadvisors.com

NKGen Biotech, Inc. Announces First Patient Dosed in Phase I Clinical Trial of SNK02, Allogeneic NK Cell Therapy Product Candidate, for the Treatment of Solid Tumors

SANTA ANA, Calif., August 24, 2023 — NKGen Biotech, Inc. (“NKGen” or the “Company”), a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic, and CAR-NK natural killer (“NK”) cell therapies, today announced the first patient has been dosed in a Phase I, multi-center, open-label, dose-escalation study evaluating its cryopreserved investigational  allogeneic blood-derived NK cell therapy (“SNK02”).  In October 2022, the Food and Drug Administration allowed NKGen’s  Phase I SNK02 clinical trial to proceed per its Investigational New Drug application. NKGen previously announced a proposed business combination with Graf Acquisition Corp. IV (NYSE: GFOR.U, GFOR, GFOR.WS).

This Phase I clinical trial is evaluating the safety and tolerability of SNK02 in participants with pathologically confirmed solid tumors refractory to standard of care therapy. The study drug, SNK02, will be administered as an intravenous infusion, weekly for eight weeks. SNK02 consists of NK cells isolated from healthy donor peripheral blood mononuclear cells. NKGen’s proprietary allogeneic manufacturing process is technically capable of producing hundreds of thousands of potential doses of NK cell therapies from materials collected from a single donor. Processed SNK02 cells are expected to possess 99% purity and very high receptor expression rates. Its cryopreservation process allows the Company to maintain significant cytotoxicity, potentially making SNK02 an accessible investigational  off-the-shelf candidate for clinical trials treating malignancies with an emphasis on solid tumors.

“We are excited to have dosed our first patient in the Phase I SNK02 clinical trial in refractory cancer patients with limited treatment options,” said Paul Y. Song, M.D., CEO of NKGen. “SNK02 seeks to be one of the first cryopreserved allogeneic NK cell therapy for solid tumors that does not require lymphodepletion before administration. We believe the lack of lymphodepletion has the potential to better preserve the already fragile immune function of heavily pre-treated cancer patients with advanced disease. If successful, this therapy may lead to better overall synergy in future combination regimens with immune checkpoint inhibitors where a robust T-cell response is needed.”

For additional information on the SNK02 clinical trial, please visit www.clinicaltrials.gov using the identifier NCT05990920.

About NKGen
NKGen is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic, and CAR-NK natural killer cell therapies. NKGen is headquartered in Santa Ana, California, USA. For more information, please visit www.nkgenbiotech.com.

About Graf Acquisition Corp. IV (“Graf”)
Graf is a blank-check company incorporated as a Delaware corporation and formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements made in this press release are “forward looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The forward-looking statements made in this press release relate only to the events or information as of the date on which the statements are made. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside of NKGen’s control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, including but not limited to the risks that early-stage clinical trials may not be predictive of future results, NKGen’s ability to manage the SNK02 clinical trial successfully, the scope, progress and expansion of the SNK02 clinical trial and ramification for the cost thereof, clinical, scientific and regulatory developments, NKGen’s ability to raise additional funding to complete the development of its product candidates, such as SNK01 and SNK02, and the inability of NKGen or Graf to successfully or timely consummate the proposed business combination. These forward-looking statements are based upon NKGen’s current expectations and involve assumptions that may never materialize or may prove to be incorrect. Except as required by law, NKGen undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. You should read this press release completely and with the understanding that our actual future results or performance may be materially different from what we expect. In this press release, statements of, or references to, our intentions and expectations are made as of the date of this press release.

Important Information and Where to Find It
The proposed business combination between NKGen and Graf (the “business combination”) will be submitted to stockholders of Graf for their consideration. Graf has filed a registration statement on Form S-4 (the “Registration Statement”) with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) relating to the proposed business combination, which includes both a definitive prospectus with respect to the securities of the post-combination company to be issued in connection with the proposed business combination and a proxy statement to be distributed to Graf’s stockholders in connection with Graf’s solicitation of proxies for the vote by its stockholders in connection with the proposed business combination and other matters as described in the Registration Statement. The Registration Statement was declared effective by the SEC and Graf mailed the definitive proxy statement/prospectus to its stockholders as of the record date established for voting on the proposed business combination. Graf urges its investors, stockholders and other interested persons to read the definitive proxy statement/prospectus , as well as other documents filed by Graf with the SEC, because these documents contain important information about Graf, NKGen and the proposed business combination. Stockholders may obtain a copy of the definitive proxy statement/prospectus, as well as other documents filed with the SEC regarding the proposed business combination and other documents filed by Graf with the SEC, without charge, at the SEC’s website located at www.sec.gov or by directing a request to: Graf Acquisition Corp. IV, 1790 Hughes Landing Blvd., Suite 400, The Woodlands, TX 77380.

Participants in the Solicitation
Graf and NKGen and their respective directors and executive officers may be considered participants in the solicitation of proxies with respect to the proposed business combination under the rules of the SEC. Information about the directors and executive officers of Graf is set forth in the definitive proxy statement/prospectus. Information regarding the persons who may, under the rules of the SEC, be deemed participants in the solicitation of Graf stockholders in connection with the proposed business combination is set forth in the definitive proxy statement/prospectus. Stockholders, potential investors and other interested persons should read the definitive proxy statement/prospectus carefully before making any voting or investment decisions. These documents can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above.

No Offer or Solicitation
This press release shall not constitute a proxy statement or a solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the proposed business combination and shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities, in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an exemption therefrom.

 

Internal Contact:

Denise Chua, MBA, CLS, MT (ASCP)

Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications

NKGen Biotech, Inc.

dchua@nkgenbiotech.com

 

Sabrina McKee

Chief Financial Officer and EVP, Strategy

Graf Acquisition Corp. IV

sabrina@grafacq.com

 

External Contacts:

Chris Calabrese

Managing Director

LifeSci Advisors, LLC

ccalabrese@lifesciadvisors.com

 

Kevin Gardner

Managing Director

LifeSci Advisors, LLC

kgardner@lifesciadvisors.com

 

Graf Acquisition Corp. IV And NKGen Biotech, Inc. Announce Effectiveness Of Form S-4 For Proposed Business Combination

Special Meeting of Graf Stockholders to Approve Proposed Business Combination to be Held on August 30, 2023

Post-Combination Company’s Securities to be Listed on Nasdaq Under Ticker Symbols “NKGN” and “NKGNW”

THE WOODLANDS, Texas, and SANTA ANA, Calif., August 15, 2023 – Graf Acquisition Corp. IV (NYSE: GFOR, GFOR.U, GFOR WS) (“Graf”) and NKGen Biotech, Inc. (“NKGen”) on August 14, 2023 announced that Graf’s registration statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-271929) (as amended, the “Registration Statement”), relating to the previously announced business combination (the “Business Combination”) with NKGen has been declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Graf also commenced mailing the definitive proxy statement/prospectus on August 14, 2023, which was included in the Registration Statement, relating to the special meeting of its stockholders to be held in connection with the Business Combination (the “Special Meeting”) to stockholders of record as of the close of business on August 7, 2023 (the “Record Date”).

The Special Meeting will be held virtually at 10:00 a.m., New York City time, on August 30, 2023 at https://www.cstproxy.com/grafiv/​sm2023. Graf’s stockholders of record as of the Record Date are entitled to vote at the Special Meeting. In connection with the Special Meeting, Graf’s stockholders who wish to exercise their redemption rights must do so no later than 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on August 28, 2023 by following the procedures specified in the definitive proxy statement/prospectus for the Special Meeting.

In addition, Graf announced on August 14, 2023 that it intends to voluntarily transfer the listing of its shares of common stock and public warrants to The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) from the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) following the completion of the Business Combination. In connection with the closing of the Business Combination, Graf will change its name to “NKGen Biotech, Inc.” and NKGen will change its name to “NKGen Operating Biotech, Inc.” The common stock and public warrants of the post-combination company are expected to commence trading on Nasdaq the day after the closing of the Business Combination under the symbols “NKGN” and “NKGNW,” respectively. Graf’s units, common stock and public warrants will continue to trade on the NYSE until the transfer is complete.

The decision to list on Nasdaq was made in consideration of the Business Combination and enables the post-combination company to be listed alongside the other innovative biotechnology companies that are also listed on Nasdaq. At the closing of the Business Combination, Graf will delist its units, shares of common stock and public warrants from the NYSE. The Nasdaq listing and NYSE delisting are subject to the closing of the Business Combination and fulfillment of all Nasdaq listing requirements and NYSE delisting procedures.

About Graf Acquisition Corp. IV

Graf is a blank-check company incorporated as a Delaware corporation and formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses.

About NKGen Biotech, Inc.

NKGen is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic, and CAR-NK natural killer cell therapies. NKGen is headquartered in Santa Ana, California, USA. For more information, please visit www.nkgenbiotech.com.

Important Information and Where to Find It

The proposed Business Combination will be submitted to stockholders of Graf for their consideration. Graf has filed the Registration Statement with the SEC relating to the proposed Business Combination, which includes both a definitive prospectus with respect to the securities of the post-combination company (“New NKGen”) to be issued in connection with the proposed Business Combination and a proxy statement to be distributed to Graf’s stockholders in connection with Graf’s solicitation of proxies for the vote by its stockholders in connection with the proposed Business Combination and other matters as described in the Registration Statement. The Registration Statement was declared effective by the SEC and Graf will mail the definitive proxy statement/prospectus to its stockholders as of the record date established for voting on the proposed Business Combination. Graf urges its investors, stockholders and other interested persons to read the definitive proxy statement/prospectus, as well as other documents filed by Graf with the SEC, because these documents contain important information about Graf, NKGen and the proposed Business Combination. Stockholders may obtain a copy of the definitive proxy statement/prospectus, as well as other documents filed with the SEC regarding the proposed Business Combination and other documents filed by Graf with the SEC, without charge, at the SEC’s website located at www.sec.gov or by directing a request to: Graf Acquisition Corp. IV, 1790 Hughes Landing Blvd., Suite 400, The Woodlands, TX 77380.

Participants in the Solicitation

Graf and NKGen and their respective directors and executive officers may be considered participants in the solicitation of proxies with respect to the proposed Business Combination under the rules of the SEC. Information about the directors and executive officers of Graf is set forth in the definitive proxy statement/prospectus. Information regarding the persons who may, under the rules of the SEC, be deemed participants in the solicitation of Graf stockholders in connection with the proposed Business Combination is set forth in the definitive proxy statement/prospectus. Stockholders, potential investors and other interested persons should read the definitive proxy statement/prospectus carefully before making any voting or investment decisions. These documents can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above.

No Offer or Solicitation

This press release shall not constitute a proxy statement or a solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the proposed Business Combination and shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities, in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an exemption therefrom.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be preceded by, followed by or include the words “believes,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “projects,” “forecasts,” “outlook,” “future,” “further,” “may,” “will,” “potential,” “should,” “seeks,” “seems,” “targets,” “plans,” “scheduled,” “anticipates,” “intends” or similar expressions. These statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of the management of Graf and NKGen. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, including changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political and legal conditions, many of which are outside the control of the parties, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that may affect actual results or outcomes include, among others, the inability of the parties to successfully or timely consummate the proposed Business Combination; the failure to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the proposed Business Combination, including but not limited to the approval of the merger agreement by Graf’s stockholders, the satisfaction of the minimum cash condition, the compliance with the acquiror closing cash amount and the receipt of certain governmental and regulatory approvals; the inability to obtain any PIPE investments; the inability to raise or obtain sufficient funds to continue NKGen’s operations through the consummation of the proposed Business Combination; the inability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the proposed Business Combination; the amount of redemption requests made by Graf’s public stockholders; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement, and the ability to maintain the listing of New NKGen’s securities on a national securities exchange; and those factors discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Registration Statement and other documents of Graf filed, or to be filed, with the SEC. New risk factors emerge from time to time and it is not possible to predict all such risk factors, nor can Graf or NKGen assess the impact of all such risk factors on the businesses of Graf and NKGen prior to the proposed Business Combination, and New NKGen following the proposed Business Combination, or the extent to which any factor or combination of factors may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. You should not put undue reliance on these statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. All forward-looking statements attributable to Graf or NKGen or persons acting on their behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the foregoing cautionary statements. Graf and NKGen prior to the proposed Business Combination, and New NKGen following the proposed Business Combination, undertake no obligations to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Internal Contacts

Sabrina McKee

Chief Financial Officer and EVP, Strategy

Graf Acquisition Corp. IV

sabrina@grafacq.com

 

Denise Chua, MBA, CLS, MT (ASCP)

Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications

NKGen Biotech, Inc.

dchua@nkgenbiotech.com

NKGen Biotech and Graf Acquisition Corp. IV Announce the Nomination of Two Independent Directors for the Board of Directors of the Post-Business Combination Public Company

SANTA ANA, Calif., and THE WOODLANDS, Texas, August 9, 2023 — NKGen Biotech Inc. (“NKGen” or the “Company”), a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic and CAR-NK natural killer (“NK”) cell therapies, and Graf Acquisition Corp. IV (NYSE: GFOR, GFOR.U, GFOR WS) (“Graf”) today announced that Michael Klowden and Kathleen Scott have been nominated to serve as independent members of the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the post-business combination company (“New NKGen”).  Assuming the director nominees are elected by the stockholders of Graf at the special meeting of its stockholders to be held to approve the business combination between Graf and NKGen (the “business combination”), their appointment will be effective upon the closing of the business combination. The closing of the proposed business combination is expected to occur in the third quarter of 2023.

  • Michael Klowden – Klowden is currently serving as the executive vice chairman of the board of the Milken Institute, a non-profit, nonpartisan think tank. Prior to this position, Mr. Klowden served as the Milken Institute’s chief executive officer for 21 years, during which time the institute enhanced its reputation and its worldwide outreach, its annual global conference became one of the world’s premier business, finance, and policy gatherings, and multiple specialized centers at the institute were created, including the Asia Center, the California Center, FasterCures, the Center for Financial Markets, the Center for the Future of Aging, the Center for Public Health, and the Center for Strategic Philanthropy.Prior to joining the Milken Institute, Mr. Klowden worked as president of Jefferies Group Inc. (“Jefferies”), a global investment bank and institutional securities firm, where he was responsible for directing the firm’s transition from a trading firm to a full-service investment bank. Prior to joining Jefferies, Mr. Klowden was a senior partner at the international law firm Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP, where he served as a member of the firm’s management committee, was managing partner of the Los Angeles office, and national vice chairman of the firm’s business and finance practice. Mr. Klowden received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Chicago, where he has served as a trustee, and a J.D. from Harvard Law School.
  • Kathleen Scott – Scott has been serving as the chief financial officer of ARS Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (“ARS Pharma”) (Nasdaq: SPRY) since February 2022. Prior to joining ARS Pharma, Ms. Scott was the chief financial officer of various life science companies, including Neurana Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Recros Medica, Inc., Adigica Health, Inc., and Clarify Medical, Inc. Ms. Scott serves on the boards of directors of Dermata Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: DRMA), where she has served since August 2021, the YMCA of San Diego County and Corporate Directors Forum, and previously served as a member of the board of Conatus Pharmaceuticals Inc.Ms. Scott previously served as a partner at RA Capital Advisors LLC, a San Diego private investment bank, providing financial advisory services and completing mergers, acquisitions, divestitures and restructurings for a broad range of corporate clients. Ms. Scott started her career as an auditor in Arthur Andersen’s San Diego office, focusing on both public and private clients. Ms. Scott holds a bachelor’s degree in economics/business from the University of California, Los Angeles and is a CPA and CFA charter holder.

“We are honored and excited to nominate Michael and Kathleen to New NKGen’s Board,” said Paul Y. Song, M.D., CEO of NKGen. “We believe that Michael’s notable executive leadership experience, coupled with his extensive proficiency in finance and law, and work in establishing the Center for the Future of Aging will make him an ideal addition to New NKGen’s Board. We also believe that Kathleen’s broad expertise and experience within the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and investment banking industries will provide New NKGen with another invaluable addition who can not only serve as chairperson of our Audit Committee, but also provide much needed insight and counsel across New NKGen’s business. We expect that New NKGen will benefit greatly from the insights and guidance provided by these two director nominees.”

“Mike and Kathleen illustrate the exceptional organization building around New NKGen in connection with our business combination,” said James Graf, CEO of Graf.  “The Milken Institute’s groundbreaking work on health and aging issues has particular relevance to NKGen’s mission with Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.  Kathleen’s experience as a biotech CFO and directorship on the boards of public biotech companies brings practical public company expertise that will be critical during New NKGen’s transition to being a public company.”

“I am looking forward to being a part of such an innovative cell therapy company,” commented Michael Klowden. “NKGen’s potential to fight neurodegenerative diseases and cancers is not only inspiring, but also provides the possibility of positively impacting millions of patients worldwide.  If I am elected as a member of New NKGen’s Board, it will be a privilege to help the dedicated New NKGen team of innovators and visionaries bring value for patients and stockholders. I look forward to the opportunity to work with New NKGen’s other Board members and the leadership team to continue advancing innovative therapies for neurodegenerative diseases and cancers.”

“I am delighted at the opportunity to join the New NKGen Board during this transformational time for the company,” commented Kathleen Scott. “The cell therapy pioneered by NKGen has the potential to meaningfully impact the lives of patients living with neurodegenerative disease and cancer.  I look forward to the chance to work alongside the other distinguished members of the Board, as well as the accomplished senior management team, to help ensure the Company’s continued success and future growth.”

 About NKGen

NKGen is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic, and CAR-NK NK cell therapies. NKGen is headquartered in Santa Ana, California, USA. For more information, please visit www.nkgenbiotech.com.

About Graf Acquisition Corp. IV
Graf is a blank-check company incorporated as a Delaware corporation and formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses.

 Important Information and Where to Find It
The proposed business combination between NKGen and Graf will be submitted to stockholders of Graf for their consideration. Graf has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a registration statement on Form S-4, dated May 15, 2023, as amended on June 26, 2023, July 17, 2023 and August 4, 2023 (as may be further amended, the “Registration Statement”), relating to the proposed business combination, which includes both a preliminary prospectus with respect to New NKGen’s securities to be issued in connection with the proposed business combination and a proxy statement to be distributed to Graf’s stockholders in connection with Graf’s solicitation of proxies for the vote by its stockholders in connection with the proposed business combination and other matters as described in the Registration Statement. Graf urges its investors, stockholders and other interested persons to read the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus and, when available, any amendments thereto and the definitive proxy statement/prospectus, as well as other documents filed by Graf with the SEC, because these documents will contain important information about Graf, NKGen and the proposed business combination. After the Registration Statement is declared effective, Graf will mail the definitive proxy statement/prospectus to its stockholders as of a record date to be established for voting on the proposed business combination. Stockholders may obtain a copy of the Registration Statement, including the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus and, once available, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus, as well as other documents filed with the SEC regarding the proposed business combination and other documents filed by Graf with the SEC, without charge, at the SEC’s website located at www.sec.gov or by directing a request to: Graf Acquisition Corp. IV, 1790 Hughes Landing Blvd., Suite 400, The Woodlands, TX 77380.

Participants in the Solicitation
Graf and NKGen and their respective directors and executive officers may be considered participants in the solicitation of proxies with respect to the proposed business combination under the rules of the SEC. Information about the directors and executive officers of Graf is set forth in the Registration Statement and will be included in the definitive proxy statement/prospectus when available. Information regarding the persons who may, under the rules of the SEC, be deemed participants in the solicitation of Graf stockholders in connection with the proposed business combination is set forth in the Registration Statement and will be included in the definitive proxy statement/prospectus when available. Stockholders, potential investors and other interested persons should read the proxy statement/prospectus carefully before making any voting or investment decisions.  These documents can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above.

No Offer or Solicitation
This press release shall not constitute a proxy statement or a solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the proposed business combination and shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities, in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an exemption therefrom.

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be preceded by, followed by or include the words “believes,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “projects,” “forecasts,” “outlook,” “future,” “further,” “may,” “will,” “potential,” “should,” “seeks,” “seems,” “targets,” “plans,” “scheduled,” “anticipates,” “intends” or similar expressions. These statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of the management of Graf and NKGen. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, including changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political and legal conditions, many of which are outside the control of the parties, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that may affect actual results or outcomes include, among others, the inability of the parties to successfully or timely consummate the proposed business combination; the failure to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the proposed business combination, including but not limited to the approval of the merger agreement by Graf’s stockholders, the satisfaction of the minimum cash condition, the compliance with the acquiror closing cash amount and the receipt of certain governmental and regulatory approvals; the inability to obtain any PIPE investments; the inability to raise or obtain sufficient funds to continue NKGen’s operations through the consummation of the proposed business combination; the inability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the proposed business combination; the amount of redemption requests made by Graf’s public stockholders;  the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstance that could give rise to the termination of the merger agreement, and the ability to maintain the listing of New NKGen’s securities on a national securities exchange; and those factors discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Registration Statement and other documents of Graf filed, or to be filed, with the SEC. New risk factors emerge from time to time and it is not possible to predict all such risk factors, nor can Graf or NKGen assess the impact of all such risk factors on the businesses of Graf and NKGen prior to the proposed business combination, and New NKGen following the proposed business combination, or the extent to which any factor or combination of factors may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. You should not put undue reliance on these statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. All forward-looking statements attributable to Graf or NKGen or persons acting on their behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the foregoing cautionary statements. Graf and NKGen prior to the proposed business combination, and New NKGen following the proposed business combination, undertake no obligations to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

 

Internal Contact:

Denise Chua, MBA, CLS, MT (ASCP)

Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications

NKGen Biotech, Inc.

949-396-6830

dchua@nkgenbiotech.com

 

Sabrina McKee

Chief Financial Officer and EVP, Strategy

Graf Acquisition Corp. IV

sabrina@grafacq.com

 

External Contacts:

Chris Calabrese

Managing Director

LifeSci Advisors, LLC

ccalabrese@lifesciadvisors.com

 

Kevin Gardner

Managing Director

LifeSci Advisors, LLC

kgardner@lifesciadvisors.com

 

NKGen Biotech Presents Interim Phase I Trial Data at 2023 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference

SANTA ANA, Calif., July 17, 2023 — NKGen Biotech, Inc. (NKGen), a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic and CAR-NK natural killer (NK) cell therapies, today announced the presentation of a poster with interim Phase I trial data on the use of its investigational NK cell therapy, SNK01, to treat patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) at the 2023 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (AAIC) in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

The poster, entitled “Use of Expanded Non-Genetically Modified Natural Killer Cells (SNK01) with Enhanced Cytotoxicity in Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease — Interim Report of a Phase I Trial”, described the Phase I trial during which NKGen intravenously administered SNK01 to 10 subjects with mild, moderate, or advanced AD (as confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography scans) using a 3 + 3 dose escalation design. Baseline assessment of mild vs. moderate/severe AD used baseline Clinical Dementia Rating-Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB) scores. Subjects received one of three doses of SNK01 (1 x 109 cells, 2 x 109 cells, or 4 x 109 cells). The cells were given intravenously every three weeks for four total treatments.

Cognitive assessments CDR-SB, Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive subscale (ADAS-Cog), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) analyses (by electrochemiluminescent multiplexed immunoassays) were performed at baseline (Week 1), one week after the final dose (Week 11) and 12 weeks after the final dose (Week 22). The primary endpoint evaluated was safety. Secondary endpoints included changes in cognitive assessments and CSF biomarker levels.

“We are very pleased with the interim results from our Phase I trial,” said Dr. Paul Y. Song, M.D., CEO of NKGen. “Our enhanced and activated autologous SNK01 NK cell therapy appears to cross the blood brain barrier via a simple intravenous administration to help reduce proteins and neuroinflammation in a dose-dependent manner without any related serious adverse effects observed. Despite the fact that this was a dose-escalation trial in which most of the subjects received relatively low doses of SNK01, we were pleased to see changes not only in CSF biomarkers, but in cognitive function as well. We are encouraged by these interim results given the high unmet need to improve cognition and reduce neuroinflammation in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. We believe that the interim results support the continuing development of SNK01 for Alzheimer’s disease. While it is too early to assess either the safety or efficacy of these treatments given the small number of subjects, the interim data align well with our plans for a larger trial evaluating a higher dose and longer treatment duration.”

Highlights from the Poster Presentation:

As of data cutoff on June 30, 2023, the 10 subjects enrolled in the study had a median age of 79 years (range 56–85), a median MMSE score of 14 (range 2–23), a median CDR-SB score of 9 (range 4–18), and a median ADAS-Cog of 27.5 (range 18–65).

Based on the interim data, no related serious adverse events were observed, and a dose- limiting toxicity was not reached.

 

At Week 11 (one week post final dose; n=10), 70% of subjects had stable or improved CDR-SB, 60% had stable or improved ADAS-Cog, and 50% had stable or improved MMSE scores. One subject treated at the highest dose level (4 x 109 cells) had a significant improvement in MMSE (from 14 to 22), ADAS-Cog (from 32 to 24), and CDR-SB (from 10 to 5.5). Stable or improved CSF biomarker levels were observed, identified as Aβ42 (50% improved), Aβ42/40 (60% stable or improved; 30% improved), pTau181 (90% stable or improved; 70% improved), GFAP (60% improved), NfL (50% stable or improved; 30% improved), and YKL-40 (60% stable or improved; 50% improved). Three months after subjects discontinued treatment with SNK01, a rebound phenomenon was observed in some biomarkers.

At Week 22 (three months after the final dose), of eight subjects available for evaluation, 67% had stable CDR-SB and 83% had stable or improved ADAS-Cog and MMSE.

A SNK01 dose-response was observed, as indicated by cognitive improvement and protein and inflammation markers (CDR-SB, MMSE, pTau181, GFAP and YKL-40).

 

About NKGen

NKGen is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic, and CAR-NK NK cell therapies. NKGen is   headquartered   in   Santa   Ana,   California,   USA.   For   more   information,   please     visit www.nkgenbiotech.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements made in this press release are “forward looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The forward-looking statements made in this press release relate only to the events or information as of the date on which the statements are made. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside of NKGen’s control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, including but not limited to the risks that early-stage clinical trials may not be predictive of future results, NKGen’s ability to manage clinical trials successfully and NKGen’s ability to raise additional funding to complete the development of its product candidates, such as SNK01 and SNK02. These forward-looking statements are based upon NKGen’s current expectations and involve assumptions that may never materialize or may prove to be incorrect. Except as required by law, NKGen undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. You should read this press release completely and with the understanding that our actual future results or performance may be materially different from what we expect. In this press release, statements of, or references to, our intentions and expectations are made as of the date of this press release.

Important Information and Where to Find It

On April 14, 2023 NKGen entered into a definitive agreement for a business combination transaction with Graf Acquisition Corp. IV (“Graf”). The proposed business combination between NKGen and Graf will be submitted to stockholders of Graf for their consideration. Graf has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a registration statement on Form S-4, dated May 15, 2023, as amended on June 26, 2023 (as may be further amended, the “Registration Statement”), relating to the proposed business combination, which includes both a preliminary prospectus with respect to the combined company’s securities to be issued in connection with the proposed business combination and a proxy statement to be distributed to Graf’s stockholders in connection with Graf’s solicitation of proxies for the vote by its stockholders in connection with the proposed business combination and other matters as described in the Registration Statement. Graf urges its investors, stockholders and other interested persons to read the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus and, when available, any amendments thereto and the definitive proxy statement/prospectus, as well as other documents filed by Graf with the SEC, because these documents will contain important information about Graf, NKGen and the proposed business combination. After the Registration Statement is declared effective, Graf will mail the definitive proxy statement/prospectus to its stockholders as of a record date to be established for voting on the proposed business combination. Stockholders may obtain a copy of the Registration Statement, including the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus and, once available, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus, as well as other documents filed with the SEC regarding the proposed business combination and other documents filed by Graf with the SEC, without charge, at the SEC’s website located at www.sec.gov or by directing a request to: Graf Acquisition Corp. IV, 1790 Hughes Landing Blvd., Suite 400, The Woodlands, TX 77380.

Participants in the Solicitation

Graf and NKGen and their respective directors and executive officers may be considered participants in the solicitation of proxies with respect to the proposed business combination under the rules of the SEC. Information about the directors and executive officers of Graf is set forth in the Registration Statement and will be included in the definitive proxy statement/prospectus when available. Information regarding the persons who may, under the rules of the SEC, be deemed participants in the solicitation of Graf stockholders in connection with the proposed business combination is set forth in the Registration Statement and will be included in the definitive proxy statement/prospectus when available. Stockholders, potential investors and other interested persons should read the proxy statement/prospectus carefully before making any voting or investment decisions. These documents can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above.

No Offer or Solicitation

This press release shall not constitute a proxy statement or a solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the proposed business combination and shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities, in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an exemption therefrom.

Internal Contact:

Denise Chua, MBA, CLS, MT (ASCP)
Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications 949-396-6830
dchua@nkgenbiotech.com

 

External Contacts:

Chris Calabrese
Managing Director LifeSci Advisors, LLC
ccalabrese@lifesciadvisors.com

 

Kevin Gardner
Managing Director LifeSci Advisors, LLC
kgardner@lifesciadvisors.com

NKGen Announces Poster Presentation at the 2023 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference

SANTA ANA, Calif., July 10, 2023 — NKGen Biotech Inc. (“NKGen”), a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic and CAR-NK natural killer (“NK”) cell therapies, today announced that it will have a poster presentation at the upcoming Alzheimer’s Association International Conference (“AAIC”) to be held in Amsterdam, Netherlands and online from July 16–20, 2023.

NKGen will present interim Phase I trial data on SNK01 (autologous non-genetically modified NK cells) to treat patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Presentation details are as follows:

Poster Title: Use of Expanded Non-Genetically Modified Natural Killer Cells (SNK01) with Enhanced Cytotoxicity in Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease – Interim Report of a Phase I Trial

Presenting Author: Paul Y. Song, M.D.

Session Type: Poster
Session Title: Drug Development: Human
Session Time: Sunday, July 16, 2023; 8:45 AM – 4:15 PM CEST
Poster Board Number: #72909
Location: Exhibit Hall

Information about the AAIC can be found at: https://aaic.alz.org/.

About NKGen
NKGen is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic, and CAR-NK NK cell therapies. NKGen is headquartered in Santa Ana, California, USA. For more information, please visit www.nkgenbiotech.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements made in this press release are “forward looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The forward-looking statements made in this press release relate only to the events or information as of the date on which the statements are made. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside of NKGen’s control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon NKGen’s current expectations and involve assumptions that may never materialize or may prove to be incorrect. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of various risks and uncertainties. Except as required by law, NKGen undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the data on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

Internal Contact:
Denise Chua, MBA, CLS, MT (ASCP)
Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications
949-396-6830
dchua@nkgenbiotech.com

External Contacts:
Chris Calabrese
Managing Director
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
ccalabrese@lifesciadvisors.com

Kevin Gardner
Managing Director
LifeSci Advisors, LLC
kgardner@lifesciadvisors.com

NKGen Biotech Inc. and Graf Acquisition Corp. IV to Co-Host Investor Event

SANTA ANA, California, and THE WOODLANDS, Texas, July 6, 2023 — NKGen Biotech Inc. (“NKGen”), a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic and CAR-NK natural killer (“NK”) cell therapies, and Graf Acquisition Corp. IV (NYSE: GFOR, GFOR.U, GFOR WS) (“Graf”) will co-host an investor event at the Lotte New York Palace Hotel on July 20, 2023 at 10:00 AM ET.

 

Presentation topics include NKGen’s differentiated intellectual property and approach to NK cell therapy for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, NKGen’s Phase 1 clinical trial data of SNK01 to treat patients with Alzheimer’s disease, preclinical compassionate use case studies, and the proposed business combination transaction between NKGen and Graf.

 

A live question and answer session will follow the formal presentation. Register to attend in-person or virtually through the link here.

 

About NKGen Biotech Inc.

NKGen is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic, and CAR-NK NK cell therapies. NKGen is headquartered in Santa Ana, California, USA. For more information, please visit www.nkgenbiotech.com.

 

About Graf Acquisition Corp. IV

Graf is a blank-check company incorporated as a Delaware corporation and formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, capital stock exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses.

 

Important Information and Where to Find It

The proposed business combination between NKGen and Graf will be submitted to stockholders of Graf for their consideration. Graf has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) a registration statement on Form S-4, dated May 15, 2023, as amended on June 26, 2023 (as may be further amended, the “Registration Statement”), relating to the proposed business combination, which includes both a preliminary prospectus with respect to the combined company’s securities to be issued in connection with the proposed business combination and a proxy statement to be distributed to Graf’s stockholders in connection with Graf’s solicitation of proxies for the vote by its stockholders in connection with the proposed business combination and other matters as described in the Registration Statement. Graf urges its investors, stockholders and other interested persons to read the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus and, when available, any amendments thereto and the definitive proxy statement/prospectus, as well as other documents filed by Graf with the SEC, because these documents will contain important information about Graf, NKGen and the proposed business combination. After the Registration Statement is declared effective, Graf will mail the definitive proxy statement/prospectus to its stockholders as of a record date to be established for voting on the proposed business combination. Stockholders may obtain a copy of the Registration Statement, including the preliminary proxy statement/prospectus and, once available, the definitive proxy statement/prospectus, as well as other documents filed with the SEC regarding the proposed business combination and other documents filed by Graf with the SEC, without charge, at the SEC’s website located at www.sec.gov or by directing a request to: Graf Acquisition Corp. IV, 1790 Hughes Landing Blvd., Suite 400, The Woodlands, TX 77380.

 

Participants in the Solicitation

Graf and NKGen and their respective directors and executive officers may be considered participants in the solicitation of proxies with respect to the proposed business combination under the rules of the SEC. Information about the directors and executive officers of Graf is set forth in the Registration Statement and will be included in the definitive proxy statement/prospectus when available. Information regarding the persons who may, under the rules of the SEC, be deemed participants in the solicitation of Graf stockholders in connection with the proposed business combination is set forth in the Registration Statement and will be included in the definitive proxy statement/prospectus when available. Stockholders, potential investors and other interested persons should read the proxy statement/prospectus carefully before making any voting or investment decisions.  These documents can be obtained free of charge from the sources indicated above.

 

No Offer or Solicitation

This press release shall not constitute a proxy statement or a solicitation of a proxy, consent or authorization with respect to any securities or in respect of the proposed business combination and shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities, in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction. No offer of securities shall be made except by means of a prospectus meeting the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an exemption therefrom.

  

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes forward-looking statements regarding, among other things, the plans, strategies and prospects, both business and financial, of Graf and NKGen. These statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of the management of Graf and NKGen. Although Graf and NKGen believe that their respective plans, intentions, and expectations reflected in or suggested by these forward-looking statements are reasonable, neither Graf nor NKGen can assure you that either will achieve or realize these plans, intentions or expectations. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Generally, statements that are not historical facts, including statements concerning possible or assumed future actions, business strategies, events or results of operations, are forward-looking statements. These statements may be preceded by, followed by or include the words “believes,” “estimates,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “projects,” “forecasts,” “outlook,” “future,” “further,” “may,” “will,” “potential,” “should,” “seeks,” “seems,” “targets,” “plans,” “scheduled,” “anticipates,” “intends” or similar expressions. The forward-looking statements are based on projections prepared by, and are the responsibility of, Graf’s or NKGen’s management. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, including changes in domestic and foreign business, market, financial, political and legal conditions, many of which are outside the control of the parties, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that may affect actual results or outcomes include, among others, the inability of the parties to successfully or timely consummate the proposed business combination; the failure to satisfy the conditions to the consummation of the proposed business combination, including the approval of the merger agreement by Graf’s stockholders, the satisfaction of the minimum cash condition and the receipt of certain governmental and regulatory approvals; the inability to obtain any PIPE investments; the effect of the announcement or pendency of the proposed business combination on NKGen’s business relationships, operating results, and business generally; the risk that the proposed business combination disrupts the current plans and operations of NKGen; NKGen’s lack of products approved for sale and ability to achieve profitability; the risk that preclinical studies and early-stage clinical trials may not be predictive of future results; NKGen’s ability to raise additional funding to complete the development and any commercialization of its product candidates; NKGen’s dependence on its lead product candidates, SNK01 and SNK02; the complexity of the manufacturing process for NK cell therapies; the risk that regulatory approvals for NKGen’s product development are not obtained, are delayed or are subject to unanticipated conditions that could adversely affect the post-business combination entity (“New NKGen”) or the expected benefits of the proposed business combination; NKGen’s ability to manage future growth; NKGen’s ability to manage clinical trials or studies, including any compassionate use programs and product pipeline; the dependence on the success of NKGen’s SNK NK cell technology platform; New NKGen’s ability to meet the listing standards of the New York Stock Exchange, NYSE American or, Nasdaq Stock Market; the amount of redemption requests made by Graf’s public stockholders; the complexity of numerous regulatory and legal requirements that NKGen needs to comply with to operate its business; the failure to obtain, adequately protect, maintain or enforce NKGen’s intellectual property rights; the ability of Graf or New NKGen to issue equity or equity-linked securities in connection with the proposed business combination or in the future; the concentrated ownership of New NKGen common stock among NKGen’s existing executive officers, directors and principal stockholders; and those factors discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Registration Statement and other documents of Graf filed, or to be filed, with the SEC. New risk factors emerge from time to time and it is not possible to predict all such risk factors, nor can Graf or NKGen assess the impact of all such risk factors on the businesses of Graf and NKGen prior to the proposed business combination, and the combined company following the proposed business combination, or the extent to which any factor or combination of factors may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. You should not put undue reliance on these statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. All forward-looking statements attributable to Graf or NKGen or persons acting on their behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the foregoing cautionary statements. Graf and NKGen prior to the proposed business combination, and the combined company following the proposed business combination, undertake no obligations to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

 

Internal Contacts:

Denise Chua, MBA, CLS, MT (ASCP)

Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications

949-396-6830

dchua@nkgenbiotech.com

 

Sabrina McKee

Chief Financial Officer and EVP, Strategy

Graf Acquisition Corp. IV

sabrina@grafacq.com

 

External Contacts:

Chris Calabrese

Managing Director

LifeSci Advisors, LLC

ccalabrese@lifesciadvisors.com

 

Kevin Gardner

Managing Director

LifeSci Advisors, LLC

kgardner@lifesciadvisors.com

 

 

NKGen Biotech to Present at the 2nd International Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia Conference 2023

SANTA ANA, Calif., June 13, 2023 — NKGen Biotech Inc. (“NKGen”), a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic and CAR-NK Natural Killer (“NK”) cell therapeutics, today announced that they have been invited to give an oral presentation at the 2nd International Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia Conference 2023 to be held virtually and in-person in Rome, Italy, from June 16–17, 2023.

 

Oral Presentation Details:

Date: June 16th, 2023

Time: 12:40-13:00 CEST (UTC +2)

Location: Mercure Roma West Viale Eroi di Cefalonia, 301, 00128 Roma RM, Italy

 

The presentation entitled, “Use of highly enhanced autologous natural killer cells for advanced Alzheimer’s disease”, will be presented by Paul Y. Song, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of NKGen.  Dr. Song will focus the presentation on how chronic protein deposition elicits a neuroinflammatory cascade and damage, the potential role of NK cells in reducing proteins as well as neuroinflammation, and discussion of several case studies with preliminary biomarker data.

 

About NKGen Biotech

NKGen is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of innovative autologous, allogeneic, and CAR-NK NK cell therapeutics. NKGen is headquartered in Santa Ana, California, USA. For more information, please visit www.nkgenbiotech.com.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements made in this release are “forward looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. When used in this release, the words “estimates,” “projected,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “forecasts,” “plans,” “intends,” “believes,” “seeks,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “future,” “propose” and variations of these words or similar expressions (or the negative versions of such words or expressions) are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results, and involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are outside our control, that could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon our current expectations and involve assumptions that may never materialize or may prove to be incorrect. Actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as result of various risks and uncertainties, which include, without limitation, risks and uncertainties associated with our business and operations in general, our limited operating history, our lack of products approved for sale and ability to achieve profitability, the risks that preclinical studies and early-stage clinical trials may not be predictive of future results, our ability to manage clinical trials successfully, our ability to raise additional funding to complete the development and any commercialization of our product candidates, our dependence on our lead product candidates, SNK01 and SNK02, and the complexity of the manufacturing process for natural killer cell therapies. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they were made. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after any data on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

 

Internal Contact:

Denise Chua, MBA, CLS, MT (ASCP)

Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications

949-396-6830

dchua@nkgenbiotech.com

 

External Contacts:

Chris Calabrese

Managing Director

LifeSci Advisors, LLC

ccalabrese@lifesciadvisors.com

 

Kevin Gardner

Managing Director

LifeSci Advisors, LLC

kgardner@lifesciadvisors.com