News

JIC Venture Growth Investments (VGI) has acquired shares in SiccaNova Therapeutics, Co., Ltd. (SiccaNova Therapeutics), through its JIC Venture Growth Fund 2.

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SiccaNova Therapeutics is a biotech startup established based on the drug discovery research at pharmaceutical company in Japan, aiming for the social implementation of medicine for xerostomia. Their lead candidate, XF8302, has completed Phase 1 clinical trial in Japan and Europe, and they are currently preparing to initiate Phase 2 clinical trials for Sjögren’s syndrome* as the initial target in Japan. Although there are treatments for Sjögren’s syndrome, significant unmet medical needs are remaining such as severe side effects. In addition, XF8302 may have the potential to expand beyond Sjögren’s syndrome to xerostomia more broadly.

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The significance of this investment is to support clinical development at SiccaNova Therapeutics and aim to provide new therapeutic options to people suffering from xerostomia. Since maintaining oral health is considered important for maintaining overall health, it is also expected to contribute to the realization of a healthy and longevity society.

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With this investment, VGI will accelerate the social implementation of pharmaceuticals in autoimmune disease field and contribute to the activation of the venture ecosystem through support for biotech originating from Japan.

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^{*Sjögren’s syndrome, a designated intractable disease: An autoimmune disorder characterized primarily by dry mouth and dry eyes; the number of potential patients in Japan is estimated to be over 100,000, and worldwide, between 20 and 30 million.}

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_{The information contained in this notice is current at the time of publication and subject to change without notice.}