MTS-004 Poised to Fill an Unmet Need in the Treatment of Pseudobulbar Affect (PBA)

BEIJING, China, Oct. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — METiS TechBio, a global leader in AI-driven nanodelivery and formulation innovation, today announced that its internally developed small-molecule candidate MTS-004 has successfully met the primary endpoint in its Phase III clinical trial. 

MTS-004 is China’s first drug candidate designed by AI-driven formulation technologies to complete Phase III development, and the first and only therapy for Pseudobulbar Affect (PBA) in the country to reach this milestone—representing a major step toward addressing an unmet clinical need in neurological disorders.

MTS-004 is a novel oral formulation designed for the treatment of PBA, utilizing METiS TechBio’s proprietary AiTEM platform to develop orally disintegrating tablet (ODT). Tailored for patients frequently experiencing dysphagia, MTS-004 dissolves rapidly in the mouth without the need for water, offering a pleasant taste and significantly improving medication adherence and patient experience.

Pseudobulbar Affect (PBA)—commonly known as “pathological laughing and crying”—is a neurological condition characterized by sudden, involuntary, and inappropriate episodes of laughing or crying that do not match a patient’s true emotional state. PBA frequently occurs secondary to central nervous system disorders such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), or Parkinson’s disease (PD). The condition can severely impair social functioning and quality of life, while exacerbating the burden of underlying neurological diseases.

The AiTEM platform, powered by METiS TechBio’s proprietary NanoForge AI nanodelivery system, uses advanced algorithms to design and optimize pharmaceutical formulations. By integrating quantum chemistry and molecular dynamics simulations, AiTEM predicts drug–excipient interactions and generates nanoscale formulation optimization solutions to enhance solubility, bioavailability, and pharmacokinetic performance.

In the case of MTS-004, AiTEM enabled predictive modeling that shortened the preclinical formulation optimization period from the industry average of 1–2 years to under 3 months. From program initiation to Phase III completion, MTS-004 completed a full development cycle of in months, significantly accelerating the path from discovery to clinical validation.

The Phase III trial was led by Professor Dongsheng FAN, Chair of Neurology at the Peking University Third Hospital and a leading expert in ALS and neurodegenerative disorders. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter study evaluated the efficacy and safety of MTS-004 in patients with PBA secondary to ALS, MS, stroke, TBI, or PD.

The trial enrolled 264 patients across 48 top-tier hospitals nationwide over a period of 9.5 months, including Beijing Xuanwu Hospital, Beijing Tiantan Hospital, West China Hospital Sichuan University, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Jiangsu Provincial People’s Hospital, Shandong Qianfoshan Hospital, Guangdong Second Provincial People’s Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Renji Hospital of Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and Xiangya Hospital of Central South University.

Currently, the only approved treatment worldwide for PBA is NUEDEXTA^® in the U.S. MTS-004, classified in China as a Category 2.2 improved new drug, introduces an innovative ODT formulation that effectively addresses swallowing difficulties—an unmet need among PBA patients—and provides a user-friendly alternative to capsule formulations.

Results from the Phase III study demonstrated that MTS-004 was safe, well-tolerated, and effective in reducing PBA symptoms in patients with neurological disorders. Therapeutic benefits were observable as early as week 2, with continued increases in symptom-free days and sustained improvement throughout the 12-week treatment period. MTS-004 achieved statistically significant improvements over placebo in: CNS-LS (Center for Neurologic Study–Lability Scale) total score, CGI-C (Clinical Global Impression of Change) and PGI-C (Patient Global Impression of Change), SF-36 Mental Health Index, reflecting enhanced emotional regulation and quality of life. Additionally, MTS-004 significantly improved CNS-BFS (Bulbar Function Scale) score, particularly in swallowing and drooling symptoms—critical complications in patients with motor neuron and central nervous system diseases.

MTS-004 is expected to submit a New Drug Application (NDA) to the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) in 2026 for the PBA indication. Following approval, post-marketing studies are planned to explore potential label expansion for the treatment of dysphagia.

Professor Dongsheng FAN, Principal Investigator, commented:

“Artificial intelligence is reshaping how new drugs are discovered and developed. The MTS-004 clinical trial was challenging to initiate but was completed with outstanding quality. Its ability to improve patients‘quality of life—especially its clear impact on swallowing function—can reduce complications and may positively influence survival. While this study focused on ALS-related PBA, MTS-004 shows potential across broader neurological populations.“

Dr. Chris Lai, Co-founder and CEO of METiS TechBio, stated:

“We extend our sincere gratitude to Professor Fan, all participating investigators and clinical staff, every patient and family, and the community supporting PBA research. AI’s mission in medicine is to empower clinicians and race against diseases, driven by a deep understanding of unmet patient needs. That mission inspired our 38-month sprint from concept to Phase III completion. MTS-004 marks METiS TechBio’s first end-to-end success from discovery to late-stage clinical validation—a foundation that will accelerate every pipeline that follows.“

About METiS TechBio

Unlocking a healthier world through AI-driven nanotechnology. METiS Technologies is a pioneering TechBio company at the intersection of artificial intelligence and nanomaterial science, focused on transforming the delivery and application of active agents across life forms.

Founded by a team of MIT-trained scientists with deep expertise in AI, quantum mechanics, nanomaterials, and advanced drug delivery, the company has developed NanoForge, the world’s first AI-drive nano-delivery platform and three proprietary platform technologies, AiLNP – AI platform for nucleic acid delivery system design; AiRNA – AI platform for mRNA sequence optimization; and AiTEM – AI platform for small molecule formulation design.

METiS’ platforms simulate, predict, and interpret nanoscale interactions to enable rational design, optimization, and validation of next-generation nanomaterials and their payloads. By advancing AI-enabled nanotechnology, METiS strives to unlock new therapeutic possibilities across a wide range of diseases, including cancer, metabolic and autoimmune disorders, and neurodegenerative conditions, and improve the health of lives. 

SUZHOU, China, Oct. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Dreame Technology’s innovative Sparkling Water Refrigerator has been honored with the prestigious Japan Good Design Award, often called the “Oscar of Eastern Design.” The award recognizes its design philosophy of “Seamless Integration of Technology and Aesthetics,” marking a significant international endorsement of its innovative design and user experience.

The Dreame Sparkling Water Refrigerator goes beyond traditional home appliance design by integrating three core functions: Instant Sparkling Water, Smart Freshness, and Home Aesthetics. This integration offers a one-stop solution for modern kitchens. The refrigerator features an instant sparkling water system, supporting three levels of carbonation to meet various beverage pairing needs. The IceDUO Auto Ice Maker offers both cube ice and crushed ice, paired with a high-capacity ice box, easily catering to high-frequency household ice usage scenarios.

In terms of preservation, the refrigerator features a Twin-Cooling system that effectively prevents odor transfer. Its HumidFlex intelligent humidity control zone accurately maintains optimal humidity levels for various foods. The user-centric spatial design includes a dedicated snacks zone for canned goods and an adjustable wine rack, achieving a perfect balance of practicality and visual order.

The exterior utilizes an anti-fingerprint MatteSilk stainless steel panel. Combined with EU high energy efficiency certification and 35dB ultra-quiet operation, it realizes aesthetic expression while also adhering to concepts of energy saving and low noise for the home.

This award highlights Dreame’s leadership in product design and technology integration, accelerating its global expansion. Moving forward, Dreame will remain dedicated to user-centric innovation, pioneering a new era of smarter, more integrated high-end home appliances.

The article is from Shuzhi Society

NEW YORK, Oct. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MCO (MyComplianceOffice) has advanced to #42 in the 2026 Chartis RiskTech100, marking its third straight year of upward movement and another appearance among the world’s top 50 risk-technology providers.

The recognition reflects MCO’s continued momentum and innovation in delivering a unified platform that helps financial institutions manage compliance more effectively and with greater transparency.

“MCO is delighted to be recognized once again among the world’s foremost risk and compliance technology providers and to have moved still higher in the rankings,” said CEO Brian Fahey. “Our consistent trajectory demonstrates our ability to innovate, scale and deliver a unified, global compliance platform for our clients. We remain firmly focused on helping firms stay ahead of evolving regulatory demands with integrated, effective solutions.”

“Regulators and boards alike expect proof of effective oversight,” Fahey added. “We’re empowering compliance teams with technology that gives them both confidence and control — for today’s rules and tomorrow’s challenges.”

MCO’s ranking in the RiskTech100 underscores its growing global footprint and commitment to helping clients meet complex compliance demands.

“MyComplianceOffice’s inclusion in the RiskTech100 reflects its continued advances in third-party risk and compliance technology,” said Phil Mackenzie, Senior Research Principal at Chartis. “The firm has demonstrated a consistent ability to address evolving regulatory and operational requirements with integrated, data-led solutions, and its broad focus on holistic risk across the enterprise aligns well with an industry that is increasingly seeking a unified customer view.”

The Chartis RiskTech100^® is a comprehensive independent study of the world’s major players in risk and compliance technology. Rankings are based on functionality, core technology, strategy, customer satisfaction, market presence and innovation, and focus on solutions, industry segments and success factors.

MCO was also recently recognized by Chartis as a category leader in the 2025 Communications Monitoring and Enterprise GRC Solutions Quadrant reports and was included on the Chartis Financial Crime and Compliance50 ranking.

Read the full RiskTech100^® 2026 report here.

About MCO  

MCO (MyComplianceOffice) provides integrated compliance management software that enables global financial services firms to operate efficiently, ethically, and compliantly. With 30 products on a single system, the powerful MyComplianceOffice platform lets compliance professionals demonstrate that they are proactively managing compliance obligations and the regulated activities of employees, the company and third parties.   

1500+ client companies across 125+ countries use MyComplianceOffice to reduce the risk of misconduct and effectively oversee compliance obligations.

DUBAI, UAE, Oct. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Binance Academy, the open-access blockchain and crypto learning hub of Binance, today launched a special online course geared toward regulatory and compliance professionals curious about the world of crypto as part of Binance’s ongoing partnership with the Global Fintech Institute.

As digital assets continue to reshape the financial services industry at an unprecedented pace, equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to lead this transformation has become more important than ever.

About the Course

Titled Introduction to Regulatory Risks and Frameworks, the curriculum consists of virtual modules led by guest instructors Dr. Ernie Teo, Director of Applied Computing in Finance at Nanyang Technological University, and Nizam Ismail, CEO of Ethikom Consultancy, a former regulator and Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) officer.

The course concludes with an expert panel discussion on navigating the evolving regulations that features Richard Teng, Binance CEO; Dr. Ernie Teo; Elsa Madrolle, General Manager, Europe for VerifyVASP, and Grace Chong, Head of Financial Services Regulation at Drew & Napier LLC.

The course is accessible via Binance Academy, available to the public at no cost, and is recommended for aspiring regulatory professionals of all levels of experience seeking insight into regulatory dynamics shaping the crypto industry.

The syllabus incorporates the topics fundamental to the crypto industry such as money laundering risks and investor protection principles. The course also features real-world cases like the FTX collapse, describes today’s global regulatory landscape, and introduces key compliance risk areas. It also touches on RegTech and SupTech, covering their definitions, industry adoption, and role in enhancing regulatory oversight.

Module topics include, but are not limited to:

• Global Regulatory Status by Country
• State of Crypto Asset Regulation
• Evolving Attitude Towards Crypto Regulations
• Case Study: Binance’s AML Efforts
• Case Study: Binance’s Corporate Cross-Border Regulatory Insights

Access Introduction to Regulatory Risks and Frameworks on Binance Academy.

Strengthening Binance’s Partnership with GFI

First announced at the GFTN Forum in Japan in March 2025, Binance’s strategic partnership with GFI aims to equip professionals with the skills needed to thrive in an era defined by constantly evolving financial regulations.

To inaugurate the strategic alliance, Binance sponsored over 500 scholarships for GFI’s 16-hour online program Foundation in Crypto Regulation and Compliance, supporting the needs of professionals in regulatory bodies, financial institutions, and compliance roles with particular interest in the crypto industry.

Binance’s support has allowed GFI to expand its educational programs, conduct critical research, and foster industry-wide collaboration, bridging the knowledge gap between traditional finance and digital innovation. The partnership is instrumental in equipping professionals with the expertise to navigate regulatory challenges, harness new opportunities, and drive responsible adoption of cutting-edge financial technologies.

Through its ongoing collaborative efforts, Binance continues to develop accessible, forward-looking learning programs designed to empower current and future professionals with the most up-to-date industry insights.

As the industry continues to evolve rapidly, timely education plays a pivotal role in shaping its direction. By empowering individuals and organizations through knowledge, Binance and GFI hope to bring about a more inclusive, efficient, and resilient fintech ecosystem. Through such educational initiatives, we aim to drive the growth of the next generation of fintech leaders.

About Binance

Binance is a leading global blockchain ecosystem behind the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume and registered users. Trusted by more than 289 million people in 100+ countries, Binance offers a portfolio of products and services spanning trading, finance, education, research, social good, payments, institutional services, and Web3 innovations. Binance is committed to building an inclusive crypto ecosystem to increase the freedom of money and financial access for people worldwide. For more information, visit: www.binance.com.

INDIANAPOLIS, Oct. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — IMG (International Medical Group) is excited to announce the winners of its ninth annual Leave Your Mark Grant. This year, more than 4,000 organizations and individuals submitted entries, making it the largest applicant pool in the history of the grant. The two winning organizations are Holistic Ministry of Children of the Horn of Africa (HMCHA) and Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation Indonesia, each receiving $3,500. The three winning individuals are Megan Parham, Joe Charles, and Martin France, each receiving $1,000.

HMCHA is a faith-based organization that helps children in Ethiopia rise out of poverty through education and mentoring. Through its child sponsorship program, HMCHA’s mission is to help students in the Oromia region graduate, support their own families, and contribute to society.

“We are honored and deeply grateful to be a recipient of IMG’s Leave Your Mark Grant,” said Carol Pfleiderer, HMCHA’s Sponsor Coordinator. “This generous support enables us to expand our reach by training more teachers and equipping schools in Oromia with essential resources like solar lights, books, and bookcases. It’s a meaningful investment in the future of children who are striving to rise out of poverty.”

Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation Indonesia is a non-profit organization committed to bridging access to education and basic needs for families living in some of Indonesia’s most remote islands and coastal areas. By providing school boats and clean water solutions, the organization helps children reach school safely and supports communities in building healthier, more sustainable futures.

“We are so excited to have been chosen for the Leave Your Mark Grant,” said Meralda Adam, Chairperson at Yellow Boat of Hope Foundation Indonesia. “These funds will allow us to provide a school boat in a remote coastal village, ensuring children no longer risk their lives paddling unsafe sampans to reach school. We will also be able to install 20 water filters in area households and provide essential educational materials to children, such as books and uniforms.”

The three individual Leave Your Mark winners support a wide range of mission and social good organizations working around the world. This year’s winners will use their grant funds to support initiatives including church planting and well-digging in Kenya, bridge construction for students in Panama, and volunteer-led building projects across the developing world that promote education, public health, and women’s empowerment.

“For the ninth year, we’re honored to recognize individuals and organizations who are making a lasting impact through mission and social good work,” said Justin Poehler, IMG Chief Commercial Officer. “This year’s Leave Your Mark Grant recipients exemplify the spirit of service by working to bring clean water, safe transportation, education, and infrastructure to communities in need around the world.”

IMG has insured mission and social good organizations since the early 1990s, providing key benefits and assistance services for thousands of customers who serve or volunteer internationally. The Leave Your Mark program was launched in 2017 to give back to organizations with charitable missions.

About IMG^® (International Medical Group^®)
IMG^® (International Medical Group^®), a SiriusPoint company, is an award-winning global insurance benefits and assistance services company that has served millions of members worldwide since its founding in 1990. The preeminent provider of travel and health safety solutions, IMG offers a wide range of insurance programs, including international private medical insurance, travel medical insurance, and travel insurance, as well as enterprise services, including insurance administrative services and 24/7 emergency medical, security, and travel assistance. IMG’s world-class services, combined with an extensive product portfolio, provide Global Peace of Mind^® for travelers, students, missionaries, marine crews, and other individuals or groups traveling, working, or living away from home. For more information, please visit www.imglobal.com.

Media Contact: Carly Kessler, IMG Communications Manager, carly.kessler@imglobal.com