Suntrap Discovered ‘LeSoleil’ for COVID-19 and the Epidemic

Guangzhou, China, Feb 14, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – AI-assisted computing has greatly improved the efficiency of new drug research and development. Suntrap Life Technologies Co., Ltd has taken the lead to establish the Suntrap IDDNU(R) platform to serve as an international drug discovery network alliance.





In 2019, Suntrap Life Technologies established a drug research team, carried out comprehensive drug research and development projects, and built the Suntrap IDDNU (Suntrap International Drug Discovery Network Alliance) technology platform. Suntrap IDDNU is based upon the EK-DRD database, published by one of the researchers, Mr. Jason Zhao. (J Chem Inf Model. 2019 Sep 23;59(9):3619-3624. EK-DRD: A Comprehensive Database for Drug Repositioning Inspired by Experimental Knowledge). This database includes detailed information on the US FDA approved 1963 drugs (including those withdrawn from the market), and the activity information in the target, cell, animal, and clinical experiments. In addition, the Suntrap research team also included the structure and activity data of 400,838 natural compounds.

Through the collection of these data and the construction of a database, the Suntrap research team has developed a series of natural compounds for drug redirection. Based on AI drug discovery algorithms and mathematical models, it can quickly calculate the affinity between these compounds and the target, and predict the compound-protein interaction, the ability to discover multi-pharmacological (multi-target) compounds, and the discovery of the correspondence among the drug-target-disease interactions, provide a very efficient platform for systematic pre-screening of drugs. For a variety of diseases, the Suntrap research team has initiated a variety of biological drug research and development pipelines (ie. tumors, viral infections, tissue fibrosis, respiratory infectious diseases, aging-related chronic diseases, and others).

Given that the new coronavirus is still pandemic throughout the world, the Suntrap research team responded and launched the 'Research on Anti-Coronavirus Products' project in early 2020. Drugs claimed to be targeting the coronavirus have been clinically proven to be ineffective and have side-effects. In terms of target selection for the new drug development, the Suntrap research team aims to the development of small molecules with multi-targets, broad-spectrum, and collaborative therapeutic effectiveness, which acts not only to the original coronaviruses but also on the mutants or related strains. The Suntrap IDDNU quickly screened the antiviral activity of natural small molecular compounds from a database of drugs, herbals as well as food components, and discovered the multi-target synergistic anti-coronavirus compound "LeSoleil(R)". The Suntrap research team, together with the Guangdong Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Guangdong Provincial Institute of Public Health, completed the sensitivity study and safety evaluation of 'LeSoleil'. The experimental conclusions show that 'LeSoleil' has significant effectiveness in the in vitro inhibition of the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). Further studies confirmed the effectiveness, which laid the foundation for 'LeSoleil' to be further developed into a candidate for the anti-coronavirus drug. The Suntrap's team studies have indicated that 'LeSoleil' has the advantages of low toxicity, good tolerability, and high accessibility, The Suntrap IDDNU guarantees the rapid development of broadspectrum COVID-19 prevention and therapeutic drugs.

'LeSoleil' series of specific drugs for the treatment of new coronavirus pneumonia have completed preclinical trials

In the face of the increasing spread of the new mutant coronavirus strains that are more infectious and elusive, existing drugs and vaccines are not enough to combat and completely eliminate the mutant virus. The world has an urgent need for new coronavirus therapeutic drugs. Based on this understanding, Suntrap's research team took 'LeSoleil' as the main drug component and carried out further development of the 'LeSoleil' series. According to the characteristics of infection, different formulas were tested in drug development.

First of all, an emergency anti-coronavirus protective spray was released, which can effectively block the infection and the spread, while reducing the probability and risk of the mutation of the coronavirus. The protective spray can directly act on the nasal cavity and oral cavity, which are the initial sites where the virus infection manifested in the human body. The studies showed that the 'LeSoleil' spray effectively and stably prevent virus infection, inhibit virus replication, inactivate the virus, and prevent the virus from further infecting the human body. These observations also applied to the asymptomatic infected person who carries the virus, the spray could effectively eliminate the virus from being discharged droplets through breathing, sneezing, coughing, etc. After applying the 'LeSoleil', the exhaled air still retains the active ingredients that can effectively inhibit the virus, making the virus lose its infectivity. At present, the development of the 'LeSoleil' series of nasal and mouth spray formulations has been completed, including formulation design, formulation screening, mechanisms research, process optimization, and the quality evaluations of the QA and QC. The design, the quality control are strictly in accordance with domestic and international FDA regulations, which are complying with the general requirements of the current edition of the 'People's Republic of China Pharmacopoeia'. In addition, these nasal and mouth sprays could also effectively inhibit the inflammatory responses in the lungs, as experimented with the rat animal model of pneumonia. The experimental results show that 'LeSoleil' can prevent the inflammatory storm caused by the coronavirus infection, reduce the damage of the inflammation to the body, and have a good anti-inflammatory effect. At present, Suntrap's research team has also completed the development of 'LeSoleil' series injections, which can treat patients with severe and critical pneumonia caused by coronavirus infection.

Furthermore, pulmonary fibrosis can also be prevented. Pulmonary fibrosis is a common sequela of patients discharged from the hospital with COVID-19, which seriously affects the quality of life and prognosis of patients. Pulmonary fibrosis is also commonly happening in other lung diseases, and currently, there are no effective therapeutics to cure pulmonary fibrosis patients.

Studies have shown that the new coronavirus can directly invade the brain's nervous system, causing loss of sensory such as smell and taste, and affecting the functionality of human neurotransmitters, leading to the onset of anxiety, depression, and other mental illnesses. Suntrap's research team has fully studied the targets related to pulmonary fibrosis and constructed in vivo and in vitro testing models. In the in vitro studies, the TGF-Beta1 induced HFL-1 cells fibrosis can be effectively inhibited, and in the in vivo bleomycin-induced rat pulmonary fibrosis, 'LeSoleil' showed reliable effectiveness in stopping the pulmonary fibrosis processes. The experiment shows that 'LeSoleil' can reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis, which reduce the tendency of post-infection pulmonary fibrosis. In the 'LeSoleil' neuron protection experiment, it was found that it can effectively inhibit the apoptosis of nerve cells, protect neurons and repair the damaged nervous system.

Pulmonary diseases have become more common in recent years. Although the formula and the inhaler are more complex than other forms of administrations, the 'LeSoleil' can directly reach the lungs and be absorbed more effectively. Such routes of absorption also bypass the liver metabolism, which usually happens with oral administration. The advantages are also prominent when compared with muscle injection, as the inhaler delivery reaches the loci more quickly and directly. The Suntrap research team has developed the 'LeSoleil' series administered with inhalation devices, which can treat and prevent pulmonary fibrosis, repair the damaged sensory perception of taste and smell, and are expected to completely improve the prognosis of the new coronavirus pneumonia.

In Conclusion

The weakening trend of the COVID-19 pandemics does not mean that the virus disappears completely or that the next wave of pandemics will not come. The threats of future pandemics are still looming large. The WHO warned that a virus more deadly than the current coronavirus may also be inflicting humans in the future. The Suntrap research team through modeling global pandemics data, in combination with the environmental factors and the effects of social distancing and other quarantine measures, also predicted that some influenza epidemics may also occur from March to May 2021. These epidemics are also expected to be accompanied by an explosive number of cases of pulmonary infection. The symptoms of such pulmonary infections are easily confused with that of coronavirus pneumonia, and there is also a risk of superimposed infection, which makes the coronavirus pandemics even more difficult to be prevented, treated, or managed.

The coronavirus is so small that it is invisible to the naked eye, but it is enough to distress the world. Today, with globalization prevail, no single country or nation can be standing alone unaffected. Under various situations of cultural, commercial, or political situations, the pandemic's impact has become far more complicated than ever. Faced with the COVID-19 pandemics, human beings cannot rely on a sheer stroke of luck. Large-scale testing, mandatory isolation, and restrictions on the movement of people are not the optimal long-term measure. The prevention and control of infectious diseases require a high degree of professionalism. It is essential to adapt and follow the scientific principles in solving such a problem.

Therefore, it is the best strategy that we fight the disease actively, with efficiency as well as rationality so as to keep as much the normal operation of the society, minimize the economic impact, and develop safe and effective medicines for the pandemics.

Experimental researches have proved that the 'LeSoleil' series of drugs can not only block the broad-spectrum coronavirus infection, resist further development of respiratory infection, but also kill the viruses. 'LeSoleil' can also contain and eliminate the inflammatory storm caused by the infection, and prevent pulmonary fibrosis. It is expected that 'LeSoleil' will become an effective drug against this and the coming pandemics. At present, the Suntrap research team has completed the pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic, and safety evaluation studies of the 'LeSoleil' series of products. Patents have been filed and authorized in China. Clinical trials are also under planning and are expected to be completed in a short time. The Suntrap team is striving to make 'LeSoleil' available as soon as possible.

Contact:
Suntrap Life Technologies Ltd.
Zoe Zhou
E: 2113@suntrap.com
T: +86 18825197167

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Cofttek, China’s Largest Manufacturer of PEA, Draws Attention of Investors

LUOHE CITY, China, Feb 14, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Cofttek Holding Limited, a Chinese pharmaceutical manufacturer, has recently drawn the attention of investors, following the U.S. introduction of the FDA drug ultramicronized Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) for COVID-19 patients. Cofttek is China's largest manufacturer of ultramicronized Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) raw materials. Following the U.S. news, orders at Cofttek have surged, and production capacity has been saturated.

Cofttek founder Dr. Zeng explained, "Following this FDA news, the share price of FSD Pharma (NASDAQ: HUGE), our main competitor in the USA, roared from $3 to $14 in a few days. As the largest PEA manufacturer in China, Cofttek has attracted similar attention from many investors in the industry."

About Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA): https://www.cofttek.com/product/544-31-0/

Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), an endogenous (manufactured by the body) fatty acid amide, is emerging as a new agent in the treatment of pain and inflammation. As an endogenous agent, one that is also found in foods such as eggs and milk, no serious side effects or drug-drug interactions have been identified.

PEA is a naturally occurring fatty acid. It is similar to an endocannabinoid, which is one of a suite of molecules found in cannabis targeting CB2 receptors. CB2 receptors can modulate both inflammation and pain throughout the human body. COVID-19 is characterized by an over-exuberant inflammatory response that may lead to a cytokine storm, which is not a virus killer. But Cofttek believes it can mitigate that immune response, which can be fatal.

About Cofttek

Cofttek Holding Limited, founded in 2008, is a high-tech pharmaceutical biochemical enterprise, integrating production, R&D and sales. It is located in Luohe Chemical Industry Park, in Luohe City, Henan Province, and is committed to the research and development of advanced pharmaceuticals, providing innovative products and high-quality services for the pharmaceutical industry.

Media Contact:
Dr. Zeng, Cofttek Holding Limited
E: info@cofttek.com,T: 86 1390 2465871
Website: https://www.cofttek.com

Source: Cofttek Holding Limited


Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Apollomics, Inc. Licenses a Targeted, Active Checkpoint Control Immunotherapy for Greater China and South Africa

FOSTER CITY, Calif. and HANGZHOU, ZHEJIANG, CHINA, Feb 12, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Apollomics, Inc., an innovative biopharmaceutical company committed to the discovery and development of mono- and combination- oncology therapies, today announced an exclusive license agreement for the development and commercialization of TYG100 in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, also known as Greater China, and South Africa.

TYG100 is an antigen-specific, active checkpoint control immunotherapy (ACCI) recombinant vaccine comprising the amino-terminal sequence of G17, a gastrointestinal peptide hormone, and utilizes the S-TIR(TM) technology platform. This technology induces a novel mechanism of action that is able to unmask tumors. TYG100 was developed by TYG oncology Ltd. based in the United Kingdom and received support from Cancer Research UK. TYG oncology originally co-developed TYG100 with Nuance Biotech and this license is now assigned to Apollomics for further co-development.

"TYG100 represents the new era of active checkpoint control immunotherapy by enabling a rapid and appropriate natural immune response," said Guo-Liang Yu, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Apollomics. "In addition, the technology that powers TYG100 enables targeted induction of antibodies neutralizing G17 at the site of the tumor. While this asset is early stage, we are excited about the technology and the opportunity to run preclinical studies and advance it into the clinic for the treatment of gastroenterological cancers."

Under the terms of the agreement, Apollomics will be responsible for clinical development and commercialization in Greater China and South Africa. Nuance Biotech received an upfront cash payment and will be eligible to receive from us potential development milestone payments. TYG oncology will be eligible to receive from us tiered royalties on net sales. Apollomics will be responsible for all costs related to development, regulatory approvals, and commercialization activities for TYG100 in the territories.

Jian Ni, Chief Executive Officer, Nuance Biotech added, "ACCI is the next generation immunotherapy beyond checkpoint inhibitors, and opens the door to new anti-cancer treatments. Preclinical data support stimulation of significant immune response and studies in non-human primates have been well-tolerated and demonstrated predicted ability to achieve a high level of immune stimulation."

"We appreciate the help that Nuance has provided in getting TYG100 to the next stage of development with Apollomics. We are pleased to have such a strong partner to potentially carry TYG100 into the clinic to patients," concluded Fred Jacobs, Chief Executive Officer, TYG Oncology.

About TYG100

TYG100 is an active checkpoint control immunotherapy (ACCI) recombinant vaccine that targets the gastrin immunogen. In preclinical studies, TYG100 has induced neutralizing antibodies against gastrin, a major growth factor for pancreatic and other forms of gastrointestinal cancer. For additional information, please visit https://www.tyg-oncology.com.

About Apollomics, Inc.

Apollomics, Inc. is an innovative biopharmaceutical company committed to the discovery and development of mono- and combination- oncology therapies to harness the immune system and target specific molecular pathways to eradicate cancer. The company's existing pipeline consists of several development-stage assets, including novel, humanized monoclonal antibodies that restore the body's immune system to recognize and kill cancer cells, and targeted therapies against uncontrolled growth signaling pathways. For more information, please visit www.apollomicsinc.com.

Apollomics Contacts:

Investor Contact:
Wilson W. Cheung
Chief Financial Officer
(650) 209-4436
wcheung@apollomicsinc.com

U.S. Media Contact:
Remy Bernarda
Corporate Communications
(415) 203-6386
remy.bernarda@apollomicsinc.com

China Media Contact:
Porda Havas International Finance Communications Group
Kelly Fung
General Manager
(852) 3150 6763
kelly.fung@pordahavas.com

Phoenix Fung
Assistant Vice President
(852) 3150 6773
phoenix.fung@pordahavas.com

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Apollomics, Inc. and Iterion Therapeutics Announce Exclusive Collaboration and License Agreement to Develop and Commercialize Tegavivint in Greater China

FOSTER CITY, Calif. and HANGZHOU, China and HOUSTON, Texas, Feb 11, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Apollomics, Inc., an innovative biopharmaceutical company committed to the discovery and development of mono- and combination- oncology therapies, and Iterion Therapeutics, Inc., a venture-backed, clinical stage biotechnology company developing novel cancer therapeutics, today announced an exclusive collaboration and license agreement for the development and commercialization of tegavivint in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, also known as Greater China.

Tegavivint is a potent and selective inhibitor of nuclear Beta-catenin that works through binding to TBL1 (Transducin Beta-like Protein One), a downstream target in the Wnt-signaling pathway. Iterion is pursuing the development of Tegavivint for the treatment of cancers where nuclear Beta-catenin signaling is known to play a role. Tegavivint is currently the subject of a Phase 1/2a clinical trial in patients with progressive desmoid tumors.

"As a potent and selective small molecule targeting the Wnt-signaling pathway, Tegavivint is an ideal addition to our clinical development pipeline," said Guo-Liang Yu, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Apollomics. "The preclinical work has demonstrated that the differentiated mechanism of action may be applicable in several indications as both a monotherapy and a combination treatment. We look forward to working with the Iterion team to expand development in Greater China."

Under the terms of the agreement, Apollomics will be responsible for clinical development and commercialization in Greater China. Apollomics and Iterion will form a joint development committee to ensure ongoing collaboration of Tegavivint across indications and geographies. Iterion has received an initial cash payment for ongoing research and development costs in connection with the company's global development of Tegavivint. Iterion is also eligible to receive potential development and sales milestone payments, as well as tiered royalties on net sales. Apollomics will be responsible for all costs related to development and commercialization activities for Tegavivint in Greater China.

Rahul Aras, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer, Iterion Therapeutics, added, "As we explore multiple indications for Tegavivint in the U.S., including desmoid tumors, acute myeloid leukemia, non-small cell lung cancer, and pediatric cancers, we are excited to partner with Apollomics to expand its development and potential commercialization in Greater China. With Apollomics' oncology focus and growing footprint in China, they are the partner of choice to successfully advance Tegavivint for cancer patients in this region."

About Tegavivint

Tegavivint is a potent and selective inhibitor of nuclear Beta-catenin that binds to TBL1 (Transducin Beta-like Protein One), a downstream target in the Wnt-signaling pathway. Targeting TBL1 may enable specific silencing of Wnt-pathway oncogenic gene expression without affecting other necessary cellular functions that are disrupted when targeting higher up the Wnt-pathway. This avoids toxicity issues common to other drugs in this pathway.

Tegavivint has the potential for clinical utility in multiple cancer types. Tegavivint is currently the subject of a Phase 1/2a clinical trial in progressive desmoid tumors. Desmoid tumors, a rare type of sarcoma for which there is no currently approved therapy, are driven primarily by nuclear Beta-catenin signaling and, thus, present an optimal indication for demonstrating the drug's mechanism of action as the company pursues additional clinical programs. Tegavivint has also demonstrated anti-tumor activity in multiple pre-clinical models, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

About Iterion Therapeutics

Iterion Therapeutics is a venture-backed, clinical stage biotechnology company developing novel cancer therapeutics. The company's lead product, Tegavivint, is a potent and selective inhibitor of nuclear Beta-catenin, an oncology target implicated in cell proliferation, differentiation, immune evasion and stem cell renewal. Research demonstrating anti-tumor activity in multiple pre-clinical models indicate that Tegavivint has the potential for clinical utility in multiple cancer types. Tegavivint is currently the subject of a Phase 1/2a clinical trial in patients with progressive desmoid tumors. Iterion is also pursuing development in additional cancers where nuclear Beta-catenin signaling has been shown to play a role, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML), non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and pediatric cancers, including sarcomas, lymphoma and other solid tumors. This research/clinical trial was supported with a $15.9 million grant from the Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas. For more information on Iterion, please visit https://iteriontherapeutics.com.

About Apollomics, Inc.

Apollomics, Inc. is an innovative biopharmaceutical company committed to the discovery and development of mono- and combination- oncology therapies to harness the immune system and target specific molecular pathways to eradicate cancer. The company's existing pipeline consists of several development-stage assets, including novel, humanized monoclonal antibodies that restore the body's immune system to recognize and kill cancer cells, and targeted therapies against uncontrolled growth signaling pathways. For more information, please visit www.apollomicsinc.com.

Iterion Therapeutics Contact:

Tiberend Strategic Advisors, Inc.
Ingrid Mezo (Media)
646-604-5150
imezo@tiberend.com

Apollomics Contacts:

Investor Contact:
Wilson W. Cheung
Chief Financial Officer
(650) 209-4436
wcheung@apollomicsinc.com

U.S. Media Contact:
Remy Bernarda
Corporate Communications
(415) 203-6386
remy.bernarda@apollomicsinc.com

China Media Contact:
Porda Havas International
Kelly Fung
General Manager
(852) 3150 6763
kelly.fung@pordahavas.com

Phoenix Fung
Assistant Vice President
(852) 3150 6773
phoenix.fung@pordahavas.com

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Novamind Announces Strategic Investment in Bionomics to Support PTSD Clinical Trial

TORONTO, Feb 11, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Novamind Inc. (CSE:NM) ("Novamind"), a leading mental health company specialized in psychedelic medicine, is pleased to announce that it has made a strategic investment of AU$827,486 (approximately CAN$810,000, the "Strategic Investment"), in Bionomics Limited ("Bionomics") (ASX:BNO)(OTCQB:BNOEF) (Germany:AU000000BNO5), a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to developing better treatments for central nervous system disorders.

In addition, Cedar Clinical Research ("CCR"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Novamind based in Springville, Utah, will be evaluated by Bionomics as a clinical research site to conduct Bionomics' Phase IIb trial examining BNC210. BNC210 has received Fast Track Designation from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

With its investment in Bionomics, Novamind joins a group of well-known investors that specialize in psychedelics and biotech: Apeiron Investments, Biotech Value Fund, Merck & Co., Mike Novogratz, and Peter Thiel, an early investor in ATAI Life Sciences.

Novamind's Strategic Investment is included in Bionomics' latest round of financing, which was underwritten by Apeiron Investments and received commitments for AU$16,000,000 (approximately CAN$15,680,000, the "Bionomics Financing"). Novamind will purchase a total of 5,706,800 common shares in the Bionomics Financing, at AU$0.145 per share, a 20% discount to the 30-day volume weighted average price as of February 5th, 2021. Proceeds from the Bionomics Financing will support the initiation of a Phase IIb trial for BNC210, planned for mid-2021.

Bionomics intends to evaluate Cedar Clinical Research's deep expertise in facilitating Phase I to Phase IV clinical trials for leading pharmaceutical companies, and how it may potentially serve as a research site for Bionomics' Phase IIb clinical trial examining BNC210 in PTSD patients.

Cedar Clinical Research, led by Novamind's Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Reid Robison, is currently contracted for seven clinical trials with various sponsors, including leading pharmaceutical companies. Dr. Robison has led over 100 clinical trials in neuropsychiatry, researching a spectrum of psychiatric conditions, including PTSD.

"I'm happy to welcome Novamind as a strategic investor in Bionomics," said Dr. Errol De Souza, Executive Chairman of Bionomics. "Dr. Robison and the team at Cedar Clinical Research have unique experience related to clinical trials for mental health therapeutics."

Yaron Conforti, CEO and Director of Novamind, added, "We are pleased to participate in Bionomics' financing to support the development of its novel drug candidate for the treatment of PTSD. Cedar Clinical Research has unique expertise in PTSD research, and we look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the development of BNC210."

To learn more about Cedar Clinical Research, please visit cedarclinicalresearch.com.

About Bionomics

Bionomics is a global, clinical stage biopharmaceutical company leveraging its proprietary platform technologies to discover and develop a deep pipeline of best in class, novel drug candidates. Bionomics' lead drug candidate BNC210, currently in development for initiation of a second Phase II trial for the treatment of PTSD, is a novel, proprietary negative allosteric modulator of the alpha-7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. Beyond BNC210, Bionomics has a strategic partnership with Merck & Co., Inc (known as MSD outside the United States and Canada). To learn more, please visit bionomics.com.au.

About Novamind

Novamind is a leading mental health company enabling safe access to psychedelic medicine through a network of clinics, retreats, and clinical research sites. Novamind provides ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and other novel treatments through its network of Cedar Psychiatry clinics and operates Cedar Clinical Research, a contract research organization specialized in clinical trials and evidence-based research for psychedelic medicine. Both Cedar Psychiatry and Cedar Clinical Research are wholly owned subsidiaries of Novamind. For more information on how Novamind is enhancing mental wellness and guiding people through their entire healing journey, visit novamind.ca.

Contact Information
Novamind
Yaron Conforti, CEO and Director
Telephone: +1 (647) 953 9512
Bill Mitoulas, Investor Relations
Email: bill@novamind.ca

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company's expectations including the risks detailed from time to time in the Company's public disclosure. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company will update or revise publicly any of the included forward-looking statements as expressly required by applicable laws.

SOURCE: Novamind Inc.

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Apollomics, Inc. and Edison Oncology Announce Licensing Agreement for Novel Protein Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Targeting Solid Tumors

FOSTER CITY, Calif. and HANGZHOU, China and MENLO PARK, CA, Feb 10, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Apollomics, Inc., an innovative biopharmaceutical company committed to the discovery and development of mono- and combination- oncology therapies, and Edison Oncology Holding Corp., today announced that Apollomics has been granted worldwide rights, excluding China, Hong Kong and Taiwan, for the development and commercialization of EO1001. EO1001 is a protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that has demonstrated irreversible inhibition of EGFR (ErbB1), HER2 (ErbB2) and HER4 (ErbB4) as a single agent.

"We are excited to add EO1001 to our clinical development portfolio as its pan-erbB inhibition and well-tolerated preclinical safety profile makes it a potential targeted therapy for the treatment of solid tumor malignancies that overexpress EGFR and/or HER2," said, Sanjeev Redkar, PhD, Co-Founder and President of Apollomics. "In preclinical models, EO1001 is potent against mutations in both the intracellular and extracellular domain of EGFR and has demonstrated activity in tumors with the ability to penetrate the central nervous system. As we advance our clinical development pipeline, we continue to seek assets like EO1001 with clearly defined mechanisms of action and differentiating attributes that we believe can make a difference for cancer patients worldwide. Looking ahead, a Clinical Trial Notification (CTN) Application in Australia will be submitted to initiate a clinical trial in the second quarter of this year."

Under the terms of the agreement, Apollomics has the exclusive rights to develop and commercialize EO1001 globally, except in China, Hong Kong and Taiwan. Edison Oncology will receive an upfront cash payment and will be eligible to receive potential development and sales milestone payments, as well as tiered royalties on net sales. Apollomics will be responsible for all costs related to development, regulatory approvals, and commercialization activities for EO1001 in the territories.

"Our extensive and successful preclinical work with EO1001 has led us to this collaboration with Apollomics who will now advance the asset into clinical trials with their experienced development team. Over 90% of solid tumors overexpress erbB pathways, and with the data we have produced to date, we are confident that EO1001 has the potential to improve treatment outcomes for patients suffering from life-threatening cancers," concluded Jeffrey A. Bacha B. Chief Executive Officer of Edison Oncology.

About EO1001
EO1001 is a protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) that has demonstrated irreversible inhibition of EGFR (ErbB1), HER2 (ErbB2) and HER4 (ErbB4) as a single agent. EO1001 is potent against mutations in the intracellular domain of EGFR that are typically found in diseases such as Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) including T790M, L858R and d746-750, and against mutations in the extracellular domain of EGFR including the EGFR-variant III (EGFRvIII) mutation that is characteristic of glioblastoma. In preclinical trials, EO1001 has been well tolerated and demonstrated activity against treatment-resistant ErbB-driven tumors, including malignancies in the central nervous system, in vivo.

About Edison Oncology

Edison Oncology was founded in 2018 by experienced life science industry veterans to develop and commercialize new therapies targeting the fight against cancer. Edison Oncology leverages a deep understanding of cancer biology and cancer pharmacology in order to identify and advance underdeveloped drug candidates with the potential to overcome treatment resistance and improve survival outcomes and quality of life for cancer patients.

About Apollomics, Inc.

Apollomics, Inc. is an innovative biopharmaceutical company committed to the discovery and development of mono- and combination- oncology therapies to harness the immune system and target specific molecular pathways to eradicate cancer. The company's existing pipeline consists of several development-stage assets, including novel, humanized monoclonal antibodies that restore the body's immune system to recognize and kill cancer cells, and targeted therapies against uncontrolled growth signaling pathways. For more information, please visit www.apollomicsinc.com.

Edison Oncology Contacts:

Company Contact:
Jeffrey Bacha
Chief Executive Officer
(650) 690-1927
jb@eohc.com

Media and Investor Relations Contact:
Amato and Partners, LLC
Investor Relations Counsel
admin@amatoandpartners.com

Apollomics Contacts:

Investor Contact:
Wilson W. Cheung
Chief Financial Officer
(650) 209-4436
wcheung@apollomicsinc.com

U.S. Media Contact:
Remy Bernarda
Corporate Communications
(415) 203-6386
remy.bernarda@apollomicsinc.com

China Media Contact:
Porda Havas International Finance Communications Group
Kelly Fung
General Manager
(852) 3150 6763
kelly.fung@pordahavas.com

Phoenix Fung
Assistant Vice President
(852) 3150 6773
phoenix.fung@pordahavas.com


Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

[A Share Highlight] Intco Medical (300677:CH) Announced Record High Net Profit with Planned H-share Listing To Propel Expansion

HONG KONG, Feb 10, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Intco Medical (300677:CH), a leading Shenzhen listed personal protective equipment (PPE) provider, announced on 24 January a positive profit alert for the 12 months ended December 31, 2020. The company expected profit attributable to shareholders to range from RMB6,800 to RMB7,300 million during the review period, representing a year-on-year increase of 3713.45% to 3993.85%. The sharp jump in earnings was driven by surging global demand for disposable protective gloves amid the COVID-19 pandemic. This backdrop spearheaded significant increase in the prices of the company's disposable protective gloves, thereby boosting both sales revenue and gross profit margin.

The company also passed the resolution of H-share listing plan at the extraordinary general meeting of shareholders on January 6. In response to its favorable corporate development, many securities companies released research reports on the company.

Among these brokerage commentaries, Guosheng Securities pointed out that the operations and expansion of leading companies in Malaysia were constrained by the COVID-19 pandemic, but the Mainland-based market leaders have managed to become primary beneficiaries of the global capacity shift. Both volume and price of Intco Medical's glove business have risen in the wake of the pandemic, and the record high profit in turn generated abundant cash flow. As the industry leader, the company is expected to continue consolidating its dominant position in the domestic market. The planned H-share issuance is projected to further enhance capital strength. Leveraging its advantages in technologies and innovation in materials and production facilities, capital and resources, supply chain, sales network and brand, Intco Medical is well positioned to capture market opportunities to enhance its leadership in the disposable glove industry and aims to become the world's most competitive company in the PPE industry.

Indeed, the COVID-19 pandemic has raised tremendously the health protection awareness of people worldwide, and has also made governments of most countries reckon the lack of investment in public health. China Galaxy Securities noted that the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a huge deficiency gap in the supply of personal protective equipment such as disposable gloves. The hollowing out of manufacturing facilities in many developed countries has led to a shrinkage in the productivity of PPE materials. Most developing countries except China also lack the necessary industrial production infrastructure. China-based companies, as represented by Intco Medical, are expanding actively their production capacities to seize market share by virtue of their integrated industry chain advantages. Even if the pandemic subsides in the future, they are expected to capitalize on the supply relationship established during the pandemic, maintain customer connection and raise their market share of disposable gloves perpetually, thus becoming global leaders in the disposable glove industry.

Prevention and Control Measures Will Continue and Boost Global Gloves demands
Everbright Securities is of the view that measures taken to prevent and control the pandemic will continue for another two years and demand for daily personal protective equipment will remain at high level. The global disposable gloves market is expected to continue facing dramatic supply shortages as manufacturers worldwide are unlikely to cope with the explosion in COVID-19 driven global demand due to lack of labor and the time lag in the construction of production facilities.

Disposable glove processing equipment is not standardized, and each company needs to develop, design and construct by itself. It is extremely difficult for a production line to operate efficiently and stably with low energy consumption while ensuring product quality. All these require manufacturers to accumulate long-term production experience. At the same time, considering the construction costs of production lines, land, workshops, the investment threshold of a nitrile glove factory may exceed RMB300 million. Therefore, only leading manufacturers with capital and technological advantages manage to invest in large-scale nitrile glove factories. Furthermore, the construction cycle of the nitrile glove production line is quite long, and it takes at least 14 to 18 months for a project to start production from planning and site selection. Manufacturers who deploy production capacity earlier will gain the first-mover advantage.

Intco Medical – the largest disposable gloves provider in China and the second largest in the world
Intco Medical was the largest disposable gloves provider in China and the second largest in the world in terms of sales revenue in first half of 2020, according to the Frost & Sullivan Report.

The company has mapped out strategic locations proactively in a bid to expand production capacity. The company has established three production bases in Huaibei (Anhui, China), Qingzhou (Shandong, China) and Zibo (Shandong, China). In 2020, the company's newly added production capacity amounted to 17.0 billion pieces of non-latex disposable gloves, representing a growth rate of 89.5%. This was ranked the fastest ramp-up in the disposable gloves industry, according to the Frost & Sullivan Report.

As of February 2021, the production capacity of non-latex disposable gloves reached approximately 45.0 billion pieces. Based on the production capacity expansion plans, the company expects its annual production capacity for non-latex disposable gloves to reach approximately 120.0 billion pieces in the next 12 to 15 months.

The disposable gloves industry has experienced explosive growth against the backdrop of the COVID-19 outbreak since late 2019. According to the Frost & Sullivan Report, this market is expected to grow from US$8.7 billion in 2019 to US$24.9 billion in 2025 at a CAGR of 19.1%, in terms of sales revenue.

Intco Medical not only possesses innovative automated production facilities with advanced manufacturing process, but also owns a seasoned senior management team with rich experience and professional knowledge in the industry. Mr. Liu Fangyi, Chairman of Intco Medical, has been engaged in the international trade business of gloves and other products since the 1990s. He has achieved significant marketing results for major customers and understands well the development trend of the industry. Moreover, most members of the company's senior management team have a tenure of over 10 years. Led by a lean management system, the company encourages continuously innovation and efficiency.

Everbright Securities commented that the company has definitely been a leading high-end nitrile glove provider in China's domestic market commanding distinguished advantages of equipment integration, research and development in technology and location costs. The company is forecasted to become a global leading high-end medical-grade gloves provider in the long run.

Source: CNFOL.HK – Column


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JBM (Healthcare) Limited Debuts on The Main Board of SEHK

HONG KONG, Feb 5, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – JBM (Healthcare) Limited ("JBM Healthcare" or "Company", together with its subsidiaries, the "Group"), a Hong Kong-based company that markets and distributes branded healthcare products across Greater China, Southeast Asia and certain other countries, started trading today on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited ("SEHK") under stock code 2161.



JBM Healthcare's diversified brand portfolio comprises a total of 20 principal brands,
including 11 third-party brands and 9 own brands.



As a subsidiary of Jacobson Pharma Corporation Limited ("Jacobson Pharma"; Stock Code: 2633), JBM Healthcare is a unique field player with drug expertise and ethical heritage that prioritises product efficacy and quality to meet consumers' healthcare needs. As a leading healthcare brand operator in Hong Kong, the Group carried a total of 20 principal brands, including 11 third-party brands and 9 own brands covering both OTC proprietary medicines and OTC proprietary Chinese medicines. Upon completion of the public listing, Jacobson Pharma continues to indirectly hold over 50% equity interest in JBM Healthcare and JBM Healthcare remains as a subsidiary of Jacobson Pharma.

Further to the successful listing, the Group will aim at expanding its product offerings and deepening product penetration in China through cross-border e-commerce initiatives as a result of the rapid growth of the PRC cross-border e-commerce market, as well as the rising demand for overseas healthcare products along with an increasingly structured and formalized cross-border e-commerce channel in the PRC market. Simultaneously, the Group will also further expand its portfolio through organic growth and mergers and acquisitions to maintain its competitive position and ensure its future growth and success.

Leveraging the Group's established local business relationships and networks, JBM Healthcare targets to develop a branded healthcare product sourcing and distribution platform in Asia through the integration of its regional resources and foothold, strengthening and expanding its geographical reach in Southeast Asia. In addition, backed by its extensive market base in Hong Kong, the Group is well poised to unleash the sales and distribution potential of its Chinese medicine practitioner network.

The net proceeds from the Public Offer amounted to approximately HK$10.6 million. The Group will allocate 47.2% of the proceeds to fund portfolio development and brand management of proprietary Chinese medicines; while 43.4% will be used to pay for the obtaining of additional distribution rights from third-party brand owners, as part of the strategy to grow its third-party brand product portfolio. The remaining 9.4 % will be used to supplement working capital and for general corporate purposes.

About JBM (Healthcare) Limited (Stock Code: 2161)
JBM Healthcare is a Hong Kong-based company that markets and distributes branded healthcare products with a product footprint across Greater China, Southeast Asia and certain other countries. As a leading healthcare brand operator in Hong Kong, JBM Healthcare carries a portfolio of a wide range of branded healthcare products, comprising branded medicines, health and wellness products and proprietary Chinese medicines. For more details about JBM Healthcare, please visit: www.jbmhealthcare.com.hk

For media enquiries, please contact:
Strategic Financial Relations Limited
Vicky Lee Tel: (852) 2864 4834 Email: vicky.lee@sprg.com.hk
Stephanie Liu Tel: (852) 2864 4852 Email: stephanie.liu@sprg.com.hk
Adrianna Lau Tel: (852) 2114 4987 Email: adrianna.lau@sprg.com.hk
Fax: (852) 2527 1196


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China Medical System (0867.HK) Acquires a Dermatology Specialty Company: A Tough Player the Race

HONG KONG, Feb 5, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – On February 1, China Medical System (0867.HK) announced that its subsidiary had acquired Luqa Ventures Co., Limited ("Luqa"), a dermatology specialty company. This acquisition expanded its product portfolio to include Luqa's dermatology products and marked the first foray into the medical aesthetic industry for China Medical System.





Why medical aesthetics? What is the significance of this acquisition?

1. Consolidating the Skin Management Business and Entering the Medical Aesthetic Market: Acquiring Luqa to Explore a New Growth Engine

According to its official website, established in 2010, Luqa is an innovative enterprise with skin treatment and medical aesthetic solutions as its core business.

Its founder, Mr. Luo Benwei, is experienced in medicine and was involved in Asia's skin management and medical aesthetic industry before establishing Luqa. In 2005, as Almirall's youngest international business development manager, Mr. Luo successfully drove the company's products into markets in Africa, the Middle East, West Asia and East Asia.

China Medical System recognized Luqa's many advantages, including: its abundant overseas resources of medical aesthetic solutions, insights and experiences in introducing quality medical aesthetic solutions to new markets; its network of domestic medial aesthetic service providers; and its unique portfolio, especially the innovative products and solutions in the dermatology and medical aesthetic field.

Luqa's current product lineup covers prescription drugs, medical devices, and medical aesthetic solutions and skin care products. Regarding its prescription drugs and medical devices, Luqa currently provides the cleansing sclerosant Aethoxysklerol, which is used for the treatment of the sclerotherapy of small to large varicose veins, varicose of central veins of spider veins and reticular veins, the self-drying silicone scar therapy gels Stratamark/Strataderm, which is indicated for prevention and improvement of hypertrophic scar, the imidazole topical antifungal drug Zalain, and other blockbuster products.

In terms of medical aesthetic solutions and skin care, Luqa features high-end products from authoritative European brands. Mesoestetic, the leading medical aesthetic brand from Spain, is a major supplier of its medical aesthetic solutions, including the various skin booster series mesohyal and anti-ageing solution mesoeclat. Luqa also features products from Neauvia, a famous hyaluronic acid filler manufacturer from Switzerland. Luqa's medical skin care line offers products from Mesoestetic and two personal care brands of Ferrer, a well-known Spanish pharmaceutical company.

As most of these products have already launched in their domestic markets, they constantly create value while still having considerable market potential. With this acquisition, Luqa's financial results will be consolidated into China Medical System, which are expected to be a new growth engine for China Medical System.

Data speculations can be made based on potential market opportunities available for these products.

Aethoxysklerol, for example, is a cleansing sclerosant that can act locally on the vascular endothelium for the treatment of the sclerotherapy of small to large varicose veins, varicose of central veins of spider veins and reticular veins. As a high-incidence disease of common concern, there are approximately 100 million patients with varicose veins in the lower extremities in China according to a 2018 survey. Assuming a consultation rate of 30% and an active treatment rate of 40%, it can be concluded that there are approximately 12 million patients under treatment. Further assuming 25% of those patients can be treated with Aethoxysklerol leaves about 3 million target patients. Based on the average price of about RMB 480 for a single unit and 2 units consumed per capita, the cost per capita reaches about RMB 1000. The product's market potential is thus expected to reach RMB 3 billion.

Stratamark/Strataderm, for example, Stratamark is widely used in Europe and the United States to prevent and treat stretch marks caused by pregnancy, weight gain or loss and adolescent growth spurts, etc. with a clinically proven safety and efficacy. In two randomized clinical trials conducted in Europe and Australia which enrolled a total of 577 subjects, Stratamark is proven to be safe and effective in the prevention and treatment of stretch marks and related skin itching and discomfort. It has been shown that once daily application leads to 70.2% stretch mark prevention and 80% improved in existing stretch marks. Currently, there is no clinically proven effective alternative in China.

Looking more closely at pregnancy related stretch marks clearly demonstrates the expected market potential of Stratamark. According to Statistical Bulletin on the Development of Health Care in China in 2019, the number of births in 2019 was 14.65 million, and the corresponding pregnant women are about 14.65 million. Although epidemiological studies have shown the incidence of stretch marks is 50-90%, for the following explanation we will use the median estimate of 70%. Following, we can further assume that about 25% of pregnant women are willing to try Stratamark. The treatment starts four months after pregnancy and lasts at least 3 months, that is, each person consumes 3 units and each unit is worth RMB 1000. The market potential of Statamark is therefore expected to reach RMB 7.7 billion in China.

There are also considerable demands for Statamark for people who evidence stretch marks due to adolescent growth spurts. Relevant research shows that the prevalence of pubertal (10-19 years old) stretch marks is 72%-77% for females and 6%-86% for males. In 2019, China's population amounted to 1.4 billion, of which pubertal females accounted for 5.1% (71.32 million) and pubertal males accounted for 5.9% (82.51 million). According to the average incidence of stretch marks due to adolescent growth spurts (74.5% for females and 46% for males), the total number of teens with stretch marks is about 90 million. Since detailed statistics about the current treatment of adolescent growth spurt stretch marks in the Chinese market does not exist, we will assume that 1% of the affected population will choose the product, i.e. 900,000 people. The recommended dose is 3 units per course, and each unit is worth RMB 1000. Thus, the market potential of the product for treatment of adolescent growth spurt stretch marks is expected to reach RMB 2.7 billion.

With the conservative estimate of overall market potential exceeding RMB 10 billion, Stratamark has a very promising market outlook.

In sum, this acquisition is of great significance to China Medical System. Firstly, Luqa's dermatology portfolio will synergize with China Medical System's current dermatology line, thereby facilitating the latter's further expansion in the dermatology field. Secondly, Luqa's presence is expected to bring strong growth momentum to the financial performance of China Medical System.. Thirdly, Luqa has an excellent team, strong product portfolios and extensive partnerships, which will integrate with China Medical System.'s resources and help further broaden the market and boost the comprehensive competitiveness of both sides.

2. Entering the Hundred-billion-dollar Sized Market, What China Medical System. Has to Offer

Because today people value beauty, the medical aesthetic industry is not only rapidly growing but also has great potential. According to Frost & Sullivan, China's medical aesthetic market size was RMB 176.9 billion in 2019, with a CAGR of 22.5% from 2014 to 2019. This makes the Chinese market for medical aesthetic solutions the fastest growing in the world, and it is expected to maintain a high growth rate of more than 20% in the coming years. In fact, China is also expected to overtake the United States to become the world's largest medical aesthetic market in 2021.

We can also be optimistic about the overall market penetration rate. According to Zhao Yue, an industry analyst from Sealand Securities, compared with the United States and South Korea, China's per capita consumption and treatment penetration rate of every 1000 people in the medical aesthetic market still has space to more than quadruple. As such, the market size in China is expected to reach RMB 360 billion in the next 3 years and RMB 2 trillion in the long run.

Therefore, this acquisition is undoubtedly an attempt to capitalize on the resources of China Medical System and Luqa to seize the huge and historic market opportunity.

China Medical System' product lines include the cardio-cerebrovascular line, digestive line, ophthalmic line, dermatology line, etc. Among these, the product layout of the dermatology line has the natural advantage when considering an entrance into the medical aesthetic field. Currently, China Medical System has both marketed products and innovative candidates that are expected to market in short-, medium- and long-term, including Hirudoid (mucopolysaccharide polysulfate cream), which has already been marketed in China, and the innovative biologic Tildrakizumab, which is in domestic registrational clinical trials. The market potential of each of these products is also considerable.

Hirudoid is mainly used for the treatment of blunt traumata with or without hematomas, and superficial phlebitis that cannot be treated by compression. The product was classified in the national reimbursement drug list in January 2020. Its sales in Japan amount to RMB 3 billion. Considering that the population of China is several times larger than that of Japan, the domestic market potential is expected to exceed RMB 4 billion.

Tildrakizumab has been approved for marketing in the United States, Europe, Australia and Japan for the treatment of adult patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. In China, the substance and formulation patents for Tildrakizumab have been approved. In December 2020, China Medical System announced the completion of the first patient dosing in the registrational clinical trial in China. It is expected that the product will be officially launched in China in 2022. China Medical System defines it as a novel monoclonal antibody targeting IL-23 with the best cost-effectiveness. Its peak market potential may reach RMB 6 billion.

Therefore the Luqa acquisition further deepened China Medical System's deployment of the dermatology product line, creating unique product portfolios and strengths, which will also empower the company to form differentiated competitiveness and allow the company to develop at a blistering pace in the race.

Compared with mature markets, such as those in Europe and the United States, China's medical aesthetic industry started late, so related products and medical devices are mainly imported from abroad. Currently, among the upstream medical aesthetic drugs and medical devices, Botox, hyaluronic acid and laser equipment are the most used. Brands from the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom and South Korea lead the Botox market. In the domestic hyaluronic acid market, imported products still occupy the main market share. According to data from CHYXX, in 2018, brands from South Korea, the United States, and Sweden occupied more than 70% of the market share. In addition, the market of medical aesthetic devices is also dominated by foreign brands, including products from Germany, the United States, Israel and other countries. Therefore, it is clear that China Medical System's acquisition of Luqa marks its entrance into the medical aesthetic market and foreshadows how the company will introduce relevant leading overseas technologies and products into the Chinese market.

China Medical System, through past development, has accumulated rich resources and market development experience in the introduction of overseas pharmaceutical products. The company has a sustainable and stable business backed by strong financial support, and its product layout in dermatology could synergize with the medical aesthetic solutions. This acquisition integrates these strengths with Luqa's resources in the European medical aesthetic market, which will help China Medical System to introduce leading overseas resources and technologies into the domestic market, offer comprehensive medical aesthetic solutions for Chinese patients, and expand its competitiveness in the Chinese market through its globalized supply network.

In addition, the acquisition will also help to further broaden the downstream market and maximize both companies' advantages. On the one hand, China Medical System has been cultivating the domestic pharmaceutical market for more than 20 years and has accumulated rich experience and resources in both traditional channels (such as hospitals, medical institutions, pharmacies) and e-commerce channels. According to the company's 2020 interim report, China Medical System' promotional network covered 57,000 hospitals and medical institutions nationwide, including all provincial cities and most prefecture-level cities in China. On the other hand, as a leading brand in the domestic dermatology and medical aesthetic market, Luqa has established in-depth ties with hospitals, medical aesthetic institutions and retailers in various regions, and has a nationwide distribution network. The integration will not only help to further place products into new markets, but also expand the cooperation with existing channels in multiple product categories, which will enhance the company's added value and unleash stronger growth momentum. At the same time, the cooperation will also help to unleash the strengths of both company's resources and the effectiveness of their teams, further enhancing their market influence through brand synergy. Ultimately this cooperation will form a positive cycle that will continue to consolidate their core competitive advantages.

This complementary combination will be a force to be reckoned with in China's rapidly-growing medical aesthetic market.

3. How does China Medical System's Internal Competitiveness Benefit from the Acquisition?

With this acquisition, the huge synergy between the two parties, with regards to skin management and medical aesthetic solutions, will help China Medical System's business development and business models to stand out among the many market players. We believe China Medical System will build a high-end, differentiated medical aesthetic brand and product cluster with a promising future.

Due to the industry's high profitability and growth, medical aesthetic companies tend to be valued higher. Bloomage Biotech has a dynamic PE of 146 times and a total market value of RMB 89.3 billion, while Imeik has a dynamic PE of over 300 times and a total market value of RMB 95.3 billion.

In comparison, the current dynamic PE of China Medical System is only about 12 times, with a total market value of HK$27.5 billion (RMB 22.9 billion). With the incorporation of quality assets and the boost brought by future performance and the transformation of business structure, the revaluation and valuation improvement of China Medical System is expected to begin. Earlier, a Botox made in Korea and approved for the Chinese market caused the share price of its exclusive agent, Sihuan Pharm, to skyrocket by 160% in four trading days. China Medical System thus has every reason to have even greater expectations.

The medical aesthetic industry is a segment worthy of long-term attention, which is prone to produce big winners. After the acquisition of Luqa, China Medical System has formed a stronger sustainable development capacity and core competitive strengths, and is expected to take the lead in China's medical aesthetic industry. With huge long-term growth potential, its development and value creation is accelerating.

Gelonghui Statement: The views in this article reflect those of the original author and do not represent the views and position of Gelonghui. As a special reminder, investment decisions need to be based on independent thinking. The content of this article should be used for reference only and not as actual operational advice. Trade at your own risk.



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Olympus Supports Dissemination of Endoscopic Procedures for Colorectal Cancer in Russia

TOKYO, Feb 4, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Olympus Corporation (Director, Representative Executive Officer, President and CEO: Yasuo Takeuchi) announced today that it has been selected(1) by Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) to implement the Japan-Russia Medical Cooperation Promotion Project in the field of endoscopy for the fiscal year ending March, 2021. Under the project, Olympus will promulgate gastrointestinal endoscopic/laparoscopic techniques in support of a five-year oncology plan launched by the Russian government in 2019.(2)

As part of the project, Olympus will facilitate online training programs for gastrointestinal endoscopic/laparoscopic techniques taught by Japanese oncology specialists for Russian endoscopists and oncologists. The bilateral project is being carried out in cooperation with Russia's two premier cancer centers, the N. N. Blokhin Cancer Research Center and the P. Hertsen Moscow Oncology Research Institute branch of the Russian National Medical Research Radiological Centre (NMRRC) as well as Asian Medical Education and Training Support (AMETS).(3) As part of the project's initiatives, Olympus commits to disseminate Japan's world-leading technologies for early diagnosis and treatment in Russia, contributing to the improvement of oncology treatment and research in the region.

Objectives of the MHLW's Japan-Russia Medical Cooperation Promotion Project in the Field of Endoscopy (April 2020 – March 2021):

1. To help advance the Russian government's oncology plan by implementing cancer educational activities for facilities and doctors specializing in that branch of medicine. These activities will take place primarily at Russia's two premier cancer centers, the N. N. Blokhin Cancer Research Center and the P. Hertsen Moscow Oncology Research Institute within the NMRRC.

2. To provide opportunities for training and knowledge sharing on the latest medical technologies by Japanese physicians, contributing to the improvement of gastrointestinal cancer measures, from diagnosis to treatment, particularly for colorectal cancer.

Program activities were unveiled at the Japan-Russia Symposium on Colorectal Cancer Management and at the Signing Ceremony of the Memorandum of Cooperation among AMETS and the two Russian cancer centers, which were held on January 19. The signing ceremony was attended by Japanese and Russian government officials, including Mr. Sergey Muraviev, Director-General, International Cooperation and Public Relations Bureau, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Dr. Teiji Takei, MHLW Assistant Minister for Global Health and Welfare, and Mr. Takeshi Matsunaga, Embassy of Japan in Russia. In addition, 1167 healthcare professionals from all over Russia attended the symposium virtually.

Supported by the MHLW since 2017, Olympus has provided its endoscopic systems for the Endoscopic Training Center at Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, in addition to supporting training activities with Japanese physicians serving as instructors. The Japan-Russia Medical Cooperation Promotion Project is one of such initiatives by Olympus that MHLW has supported. Moving forward, Olympus will continue to assist with the training of Russian endoscopists, aiming to spread the application of endoscopic diagnosis, treatment and surgery.

(1) Selection was made in June, 2020
(2) Preventive program centered around cancers in the Russian government's national "Healthcare project" that aims to reform its healthcare system. The program, which is promoted by the directors from the two major cancer centers mentioned above, targets an early cancer detection rate of 63% or greater, 5-year survival rate of 60% or greater, and a mortality rate of 17.3% or less. Colorectal cancer is currently the second most prevalent type of cancer in Russia.
(3) A general incorporated institution whose mission is to help spread access to Japan's world-class endoscopy and other medical technologies throughout Asia by providing human resource training support and medical-related education, and by contributing to the development of academic research. (Chairman: Seigo Kitano, President of Oita University)

For questions or additional information, please contact:
Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA)
Matthias Gengenbach
+49 4023773 5867
matthias.gengenbach@olympus-europa.com

Japan and Asia Pacific
Yuka Horimoto
+81-90-2490-1071
yuka.horimoto@olympus.com

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