News

JIC Venture Growth Investments (VGI) has acquired the shares in Toregem BioPharma, Co., Ltd. (Toregem BioPharma), through its JIC Venture Growth Fund 2 (VGF2).

Toregem BioPharma is a bio-venture company established in 2020 based on the Dr. Katsu Takahashi’s research results discovered at Kyoto University, aiming for the social implementation of the world's first tooth regeneration medicine. They are currently conductingresearch and development of an antibody drug candidate for congenital anodontia* as the initial indication. Development of a radical therapeutic approach is desired for congenital anodontia, which can only be endured with conservative therapy until adulthood. In contrast to dentures and artificial teeth such as dental implants, which are common dental treatment methods, autologous tooth regeneration using an antibody drug may be a radical treatment method. Furthermore, it is also expected to generate third teeth after permanent teeth, and it may improve oral frailty (intraoral weakness).

The significance of this investment is to support research and development at Toregem BioPharma and aim to provide new treatments to those suffering from dental defects. Since maintaining dental health is considered important for maintaining overall health, it is also expected to contribute to the realization of a healthy and longevity society.

With this investment, VGI will accelerate the social implementation of pharmaceuticals in the dental field and contribute to the activation of the venture ecosystem through support for bioventures originating from Japanese universities.

^{*Congenital anodontia: A rare disease that occurs in approximately 0.1% of the population, with congenital loss of 6 or more permanent teeth.}

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