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TIER IV accelerates the deployment of autonomous trucks following completion of Japanese government initiative

TOKYO, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TIER IV, the pioneering force behind the world’s first open-source software for autonomous driving, is thrilled to announce the successful completion of an initiative aimed at developing autonomous trucks to address the critical shortage of drivers in the logistics industry.

In the project overseen by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), TIER IV developed an autonomous driving system for highway logistics, based on commercial trucks manufactured by Isuzu Motors and Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus. These trucks successfully completed test runs on a new priority lane for autonomous vehicles on the Shin-Tomei Expressway with support from Yamato Multi Charter and Suzuyo Cargo-Net.

TIER IV is driving efforts to establish a sustainable business model for autonomous trucking. The completion of this initiative marks a significant milestone in the development of a scalable and flexible autonomous driving system that can be deployed by a range of vehicle manufacturers and logistics operators.

TIER IV is building on its commitment to advancing autonomous driving technology through an AI-based approach, Autonomy 2.0, and further enhancing Autoware*, the open-source software for autonomous driving championed by TIER IV. These efforts are accelerating the deployment of autonomous trucks and helping to address critical logistics challenges.

*Autoware is a registered trademark of the Autoware Foundation.

About TIER IV

TIER IV stands at the forefront of deep tech innovation, pioneering Autoware*, the world’s first open-source software for autonomous driving. Harnessing Autoware, we build scalable platforms and deliver comprehensive solutions across software development, vehicle manufacturing, and service operations. As a founding member of the Autoware Foundation, we are committed to reshaping the future of intelligent vehicles with open-source software, enabling individuals and organizations to thrive in the evolving field of autonomous driving.

Media Contact
pr@tier4.jp

LG Uplus’ KidsTopia Combines AI Edutainment with Ecology and K-POP Content for a New Customer Experience

  • Virtual Tidal Flat Experience: Learn about 120 different species and environments in an engaging and enjoyable way
  • K-POP Virtual Experience Center: Featuring the girl group ‘ifeye’ and their new song “Nerdy”

SEOUL, South Korea, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — LG Uplus (www.lguplus.com) is leading the way in providing unique customer experiences by updating the experience center of its digital kids theme park, ‘KidsTopia’. This platform allows children to explore and learn about foreign languages, animals, dinosaurs, and space through interactions with AI characters in a 3D virtual space. The number of users from Southeast Asia, including Korea, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Thailand, is growing, with over 1.6 million cumulative subscribers. Southeast Asian users make up 60% of the monthly user base.

The photo shows the 'ifeye' virtual promotion center of the digital kids theme park ‘KidsTopia’.
The photo shows the ‘ifeye’ virtual promotion center of the digital kids theme park ‘KidsTopia’.

Virtual Tidal Flat Experience: Recognized for its unique ecological value and listed as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, the tidal flat has been recreated as a virtual space. Children can take pictures of about 120 different species or dig them up from the tidal flat to complete a guidebook. Detailed information about each species and quizzes are also available. This includes rare creatures like the ‘swimming crab’, ‘nerite snail’, and ‘mudskipper’, which are expected to be popular with overseas users.

K-POP Virtual Experience Center: The ‘ifeye’ virtual experience center allows users to immerse themselves in K-POP. At the entrance, KASIA, a member of the girl group ‘ifeye’, introduces the group. Inside, users can watch videos and pictorials, enjoy virtual performances of each member’s character, and follow the choreography with their own character. The ‘ifeye’ is a six-member girl group that debuted on the 8th of this month, and their debut song “NERDY” reached 10 million views in just 11 days.

KidsTopia’s virtual experiences stand out from traditional one-way content like videos by allowing users to engage with the content interactively and earn rewards through a mission-reward structure.

KidsTopia has been recognized for its service stability and suitability for children, winning the ‘Minister of Science and ICT Award’ at the ‘2024 Metaverse Alliance and Self-Regulation Achievement Sharing Conference’ in Korea and the ‘Gold Medal’ in the application category at the ‘2024 Mom’s Choice Awards’, a global certification program for child suitability.

Kim Min-gu, PM of LG Uplus’ KidsTopia TF, said, “KidsTopia’s experiential content effectively connects learning experiences to the global alpha generation, providing fun and immersive learning opportunities. We look forward to future collaborations with various companies that have experiential content and brands targeting the global alpha generation.”

Media Contact
LG Uplus KidsTopia TF Manager
Seung-oh Han
sohan@lguplus.co.kr

Vietnam: A Hub for Accessible World-Class British Transnational Education for Resilient Global Graduates

HANOI, Vietnam, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Vietnam is emerging as a leading destination for affordable British transnational education (TNE) in Southeast Asia, offering high-quality local programmes that develop resilient global graduates.

British University Vietnam (BUV) is recognised by the British Council as an exemplary foreign-invested university by offering degrees from renowned UK universities.
British University Vietnam (BUV) is recognised by the British Council as an exemplary foreign-invested university by offering degrees from renowned UK universities.

Vietnam hosts 28 self-licensed TNE universities and eight foreign-invested institutions over the last two decades. Among them, British University Vietnam (BUV) boasts a 100% graduate employment rate within three months, while RMIT Vietnam serves over 12,000 students and has 20,000 alumni since 2000.

Vietnam’s Leadership in UK Transnational Education

Within this landscape, the UK plays a leading role. According to the 2024 British Council report, Vietnam is now the 5th largest UK TNE market in East Asia and 3rd in Southeast Asia. It’s also a priority country in the UK’s International Education Strategy.

Vietnam’s TNE programmes follow strict partner-country standards, offering flexible, student-centred learning and industry-relevant skills that boost employability.

BUV, recognised by the British Council as an exemplary foreign-invested university, offers degrees from prestigious UK institutions such as the University of London (with academic direction from LSE), Bournemouth University, and more.

These programmes equip graduates with globally valued qualifications. BUV remains the only university in Vietnam formally accredited by QAA, following a rigorous year-long process that included site visits to its 5-star Ecopark campus.

Driving Graduate Success

As a leading UK TNE example in Vietnam, BUV equips students with practical skills, global exposure, and internationally recognised qualifications – preparing them to succeed across startups, corporates, and academia.

BUV alumni have built successful startups across diverse industries, from business, creative industries, marketing, retail, to technology and hospitality. Many have rapidly expanded their businesses with multiple branches in Vietnam and have taken their ventures to international markets.

In the corporate sector, BUV graduates hold high-level leadership roles at major companies. In Vietnam, they contribute to leading firms like VinFast, Samsung, Nestlé, etc. Internationally, they work at top corporations such as PwC, KPMG, McKinsey, Generali, etc. demonstrating their ability to lead in both local and global business environments.

Academically, BUV alumni have secured prestigious doctoral positions and graduated with master’s degrees with scholarships at world-renowned institutions, including the University of Oxford, the University of Colorado Boulder, the University of Sydney, and the University of Strathclyde, etc.

“At BUV, we offer quality British education that nurtures dreams and builds resilience,” said Professor Raymond Gordon, Vice-Chancellor and President of BUV. “Our graduates exemplify the transformative power of TNE, equipped to thrive in a dynamic global world.”

A Benchmark for Excellence

BUV’s achievements rest on academic excellence and international quality. BUV stands out for its exceptional standards as the first university in Vietnam and ASEAN accredited by the UK’s QAA, and the first in Vietnam to receive a 5-Star Excellence Rating from QS. Over 60% of faculty hold doctorates, bringing global experience that enriches student learning.

Students benefit from strong career support, global exposure through 400+ industry partners, and nearly 50 partner universities including Russell Group institutions.

Located in the eco-friendly Ecopark, just 25 minutes from central Hanoi, BUV’s 85 million USD campus is Vietnam’s first to earn EDGE Advanced certification. It features cutting-edge facilities and technology that meet top global standards.

BUV offers up to 100% scholarships for outstanding undergraduate and postgraduate international students holding foreign passports. Applications for autumn 2025 close on June 30, 2025.

International students receive airport pickup, orientation, and accommodation in Ecopark. The Global Buddy programme matches them with local peers for support, while clubs, cultural trips, career counselling, and mental health services help students thrive in a global environment.

For more information: https://www.buv.edu.vn/scholarships/global-pathfinders-scholarship/

Register for Free at HK01 AI Transformation Solution Day

Empowering Enterprises to Accelerate Digital Transformation and Co-create a Smart Future

HONG KONG, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — HK01 will host the first “AI Transformation Solution Day” on May 7 (Wednesday) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Representatives from several international technology giants will attend, featuring over 20 seminars and special lectures, more than 30 companies and organizations exhibiting, and an “AI Academy” offering expert guidance on applying ChatGPT and DeepSeek in the workplace to provide local businesses with practical AI application experiences, assisting in technology upgrade and transformation, seizing opportunities. The event will also showcase the latest AI technologies, including robots. 

HK01 AI Transformation Solution Day
HK01 AI Transformation Solution Day

Register now: https://tinyurl.com/37ytpubh

With the wave of digitization driving AI applications across various industries, it not only enhances efficiency and reduces costs for businesses but also improves customer experiences to maintain competitiveness. Both large and small enterprises cannot overlook the opportunities brought by AI. However, due to the rapid development of AI, enterprises often encounter various challenges in application, such as low data quality, difficulty in effective integration, lack of talent for development and maintenance, and insufficient technological capabilities, hindering digital transformation.

Recognizing this, HK01 is hosting the”AI Transformation Solution Day” (referred to as the “Solution Day”) for the first time, bringing together industry giants and elites to provide practical AI application solutions and strategies for local enterprises, aiding in achieving upgrade and transformation. The event has invited Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, as the guest of honor, with support from nearly 30 government, institutions of higher education, and business associations, including the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau and the Digital Policy Office.

Over 20 Seminars and Special Lectures with Renowned Guests Help Enterprises Seize Opportunities

The “Solution Day” will be hosted by the AI virtual host, engaging in real-time interaction with humans to kick off the event in a novel way. With over 20 keynote speeches, seminars, and special lectures, guest speakers include representatives from government, internationally renowned technology companies, and SMEs. Michael Yue, Managing Director and General Manager, Sales and Operations, Google Hong Kong, will share how AI seizes opportunities in the era of intelligence; Zeng Xudong, General Manager, Baidu AI Platform & Ecosystem for the Greater Bay Area, will discuss how AI technology accelerates industrial intelligence upgrading; Sophia Jin, Solution Architect, BytePlus, will provide AI application guidance through practical cases. Esteemed guests help enterprises understand the latest AI technology and trends

Multiple seminars will explore the latest developments in AI technology and application trends from various perspectives, delving into how AI technology can help enterprises create more business opportunities, achieve business growth, and enhance operational efficiency. The seminars will focus on the following themes:

  • Empowering Diverse Industries with Accelerated AI: Exploring Future Trends in Uncovering New Business Opportunities
  • The Practice and Challenges of Transformation for SME
  • Harnessing AI for SME: Optimizing Artificial Intelligence Strategies and Tools

Bringing together industry giants, the event shares practical strategies and forward-looking perspectives with participants, including:

  • Tony Wong, JP Commissioner for Digital Policy Digital Policy Office , Iris Feng General Manager Cisco Hong Kong, Macau, and Fan Ho, General Manager, Asia Pacific Solutions & Services Group, Lenovo, will discuss how AI helps various industries and creates future opportunities;
  • Irina Fan Director of Research Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) , and Vincent Kan Deputy General Manager SHOPLINE Hong Kong, along with other industry elites, will help SMEs enhance competitiveness through digitization and AI technology to adapt to changing market competition;
  • Peter Lee, Chief Technology Officer IBM China/ Hong Kong Limited , Dr Alan Cheung, Chief Director, Artificial Intelligence and Trust Technologies, ASTRI, will explore how different AI tools bring innovative development opportunities to enterprises, driving business breakthroughs and upgrades.

There will also be various special lectures, analyzing real-life cases on how to undergo digital transformation in a rapidly changing business environment, and utilizing AI to enhance operational efficiency, helping enterprises optimize resource allocation, improve customer experience, and explore new business opportunities. Renowned AI experts will also teach office workers various skills in generative AI applications, demonstrating how to enhance workplace competitiveness by applying ChatGPT, DeepSeek, and other advanced techniques.

A Gathering of over 30 Thematic Booths to Experience the Future of Artificial Intelligence Applications

Multiple booths will be set up on-site to showcase participants the diverse application scenarios of AI technology. These booths cover various areas, including AI-driven automated dialogue marketing, cross-border e-commerce applications, and digital transformation solutions. Participating companies will demonstrate how to utilize AI technology to enhance operational efficiency, optimize customer experience, and explore new business opportunities.

Several robots will also make an appearance at the event, including the Lenovo Six-legged Robot designed specifically for high-load industrial tasks. It will showcase its flexible and stable performance, allowing attendees to learn how AI-driven functions can be applied in smart factories for tasks such as automated inspections and work in high-risk environments.

Furthermore, the gamified emotional education application “Mindful Planet,” launched by HK01 in collaboration with Re:learn Education, will also be showcased at the event. The game, with a light and cute style, aims to engage elementary and middle school students in mindfulness practices and help them understand various emotions. The game plans to introduce the “AI Tree” feature next year, utilizing artificial intelligence to analyze students’ mood logs, provide personalized responses, and offer emotional support and encouragement. Participants at the “Solution Day” will have the opportunity to be the first to experience this new feature, personally feeling how AI technology can assist students in enhancing emotional management skills and cultivating positive values.

Enterprise Matching Consultation – Driving Cross-Industry Collaboration

To promote cross-industry collaboration and resource integration, on-site enterprise matching consultation services will be provided, allowing enterprises to engage in in-depth discussions with technology suppliers and professional technical consultants. Participants can utilize the matching consultation to find suitable collaboration partners, receive tailored advice, and explore the application and future development potential of artificial intelligence technology in enterprises.

HK01 aims to foster industry interaction through the “AI Transformation Solution Day,” further solidifying Hong Kong’s position as a pivotal hub for international artificial intelligence and data industries.

HK01 AI Transformation Solution Day Details:

Date: May 7, 2025 (Wednesday)
Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Location: Meeting Rooms S221-S230, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, Hong Kong)
Register now at “01 Space”: https://tinyurl.com/37ytpubh

2025 AACR | Innovent Presents Preclinical Data of Multiple Novel Molecules including Bispecific and Tri-specific Antibodies and Bispecific ADCs

SAN FRANCISCO and SUZHOU, China, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Innovent Biologics, Inc. (“Innovent”) (HKEX: 01801), a world-class biopharmaceutical company that develops, manufactures and commercializes high-quality medicines for the treatment of oncology, cardiovascular and metabolic, autoimmune, ophthalmology and other major diseases, announces that preclinical data on multiple novel bispecific antibodies, tri-specific antibodies as well as bispecific antibody-drug-conjugates (ADCs) from its oncology pipeline will be presented at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting 2025. The AACR meeting will take place April 25-30, 2025, in Chicago, Illinois.

Dr. Kaijie He, Cancer Biology and ADC Vice President of Innovent, stated: “With continuous advancement of Innovent Academy’s integrated technology platforms, our global R&D capabilities have reached new heights, further strengthening our competitive position in the international biopharmaceutical landscape. This progress has accelerated our ability to design and develop innovative therapeutic candidates with significant global impact. We are proud to showcase a batch of preclinical research findings at this year’s AACR Annual Meeting, including multiple globally first-in-class bispecific antibodies, multi-specific antibodies, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). These scientific advancements highlight our expanding research expertise and underscore our unwavering dedication to creating life-changing treatments for patients across the globe. Moving forward, we remain deeply committed to scientific innovation—advancing target selection precision and pioneering unexplored biological mechanisms—to deliver breakthrough solutions for difficult-to-treat diseases and ensure more patients worldwide can access the benefits of cutting-edge therapeutic technologies. ” 

Research highlights as below:

Late-Breaking Research: Immunology 2
Topic: Preclinical data of IAR037, a novel CD40/PD-L1 bispecific antibody for the treatment of advanced solid tumors resistant to immune checkpoint inhibitors
Abstract Number: LB139
Presentation Form: Poster
Presentation Time: Monday April 28, 2025, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Poster Section 52

IAR037 is a novel CD40/PD-L1 bispecific antibody, which simultaneously activates CD40 and blocks PD-1/L1, demonstrating potent anti-tumor efficacy in PD-1-resistant syngeneic mouse models and synergy with PD-1/IL-2α-bias fusion protein IBI363. Preclinical studies show tumor-specific immune activation with minimal systemic effects and a favorable safety profile in cynomolgus monkeys.

IAR037 presents a novel therapeutic approach for ICI-resistant advanced solid tumors and the IND-enabling study of IAR037 is ongoing.

Late-Breaking Research: Clinical Research 1
Topic: Preclinical characterization of IBI3010, a FRα targeting biparatopic antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), for the treatment of FRα expressing tumors
Abstract Number: LB222
Presentation Form: Poster
Presentation Time: Monday April 28, 2025, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Poster Section 53

IBI3010 is a FRα targeting biparatopic ADC with novel topoisomerase I inhibitor NT1 (DAR8). The biparatopic design enhances tumor binding/internalization.

IBI3010 shows superior cytotoxicity and bystander effect versus mirvetuximab soravtansine (IMGN853) in vitro. IBI3010 demonstrated superior antitumor activity to IMGN853 in FRα-expressing CDX models, particularly in low-FRα expression models. GLP tox studies in cynomolgus monkeys established 60 mg/kg as HNSTD with full tolerability.

These data support the clinical development of IBI3010 to evaluate its potential as an ADC therapeutic for FRα-expressing solid tumors.

Poster Session: Experimental and Molecular Therapeutics – Biochemical Modulators of Cancer / Differentiation Therapeutic Strategies
Topic: IBI3014, a TROP2xPD-L1 bi-specific ADC integrating ADC killing with checkpoint blockade within one molecule, exhibits promising efficacy and safety in preclinical models
Abstract Number: 344
Presentation Form: Poster
Presentation Time: Sunday April 27, 2025, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Poster Section 16
Poster Board Number: 11

IBI3014 is a bispecific ADC targeting TROP2 and PD-L1. Its dual mechanism integrates TROP2-directed tumor killing with PD-L1 immune checkpoint blockade, enhancing immunogenic cell death and T cell infiltration.

In CDX models with varying TROP2/PD-L1 expression, IBI3014 demonstrated superior cytotoxicity compared to benchmark ADCs, covering broader tumor types. It maintained stability in mice and monkeys, with a well-tolerated HNSTD of 50 mg/kg in monkeys.

IBI3014’s dual mechanism of action not only enhances therapeutic efficacy but also maintains a favorable safety profile, which provides a promising approach for cancer therapy.

Poster Session: Experimental and Molecular Therapeutics – Biochemical Modulators of Cancer / Differentiation Therapeutic Strategies
Topic: Trop2 and B7H4 bi-specific ADC with improved efficacy and safety for gynecologic cancers
Abstract Number: 345
Presentation Form: Poster
Presentation Time: Sunday April 27, 2025, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Poster Section 16
Poster Board Number: 12

IBI3022, a bi-specific ADC targeting Trop2 and B7H4, aims to enhance tumor antigen expression and reduce off-tumor toxicity associated with Trop2 by incorporating a single-arm Trop2 antibody and a less toxic Topoi NT3 linker payload.

In vitro studies demonstrate that IBI3022 exhibits superior cytotoxicity in HT29 cells overexpressing Trop2 and B7H4 compared to mono-specific ADC benchmarks targeting Trop2 or B7H4. In vivo, IBI3022 demonstrates enhanced tumor suppression compared to mono-specific ADC benchmarks in various tumor models with differing levels of Trop2 and B7H4 expression.

IBI3022 represents a promising bi-specific ADC for the treatment of gynecologic cancers, offering improved efficacy and safety profiles.

Poster Session: Experimental and Molecular Therapeutics – Therapeutic Approaches to Attack the Tumor Microenvironment
Topic: IBI3026, a first-in-class anti-PD-1/IL-12 fusion protein, demonstrates the potential to be a new immuno-oncology therapy by releasing the breaks in immune response and strongly activating T and NK cells in the tumor microenvironment
Abstract Number: 3118
Presentation Form: Poster
Presentation Time: Monday April 28, 2025, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Poster Section 24
Poster Board Number: 2

IBI3026 is a bispecific immune agonist targeting PD-1 and IL-12 receptor, designed to improve safety profile by reducing IL-12 activity while enabling tumor-targeted activation through PD-1+ T cell enrichment.

IBI3026 demonstrated potent immune activation (STAT4/IFN-γ signaling) in pre-treated human PBMCs and achieved complete tumor suppression in multiple models (EMT6, CT26, A375, BxPC-3). In cynomolgus monkeys, the highest non-severely toxic dose (HNSTD) of IBI3026 is 150 mg/kg and the calculated therapeutic index is 63.

As a first-in-class candidate, IBI3026 combines PD-1 blockade with localized IL-12 activation, offering a promising strategy for tumors resistant to current immunotherapies.

Poster Session: Immunology – T Cell Engagers
Topic: A 2+1 format MUC16 targeting T cell engager induces MUC16-dependent T cell activity and superior anti-tumor efficacy
Abstract Number: 3510
Presentation Form: Poster
Presentation Time: Monday April 28, 2025, 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: Poster Section 38
Poster Board Number: 18

We developed a 2+1 format MUC16 TCE, with improved tumor cell binding affinity, enhanced tumor cell killing potency, and MUC16-dependent T cell binding and activation.

Compared to the benchmark molecule, this MUC16 TCE showed limited T cell binding and activation without MUC16, minimizing off-target activity. This 2+1 format MUC16 TCE also showed a favorable pharmacokinetics profile in mice. Functionally, systemic administration of this MUC16 TCE showed superior anti-tumor efficacy, with undetectable toxicity, in xenograft models.

This innovative TCE shows significant potential for treating MUC16-positive cancers, particularly chemotherapy-resistant ovarian cancer.

Poster Session: Experimental and Molecular Therapeutics – New and Emerging Cancer Drug Targets
Topic: IBI3019, a first-in-class EGFR/CDH17/CD16A tri-specific antibody, demonstrated potent efficacy against CRC and an excellent safety profile in preclinical studies
Abstract Number: 4249
Presentation Form: Poster
Presentation Time: Tuesday April 29, 2025, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Poster Section 17
Poster Board Number: 6

IBI3019 is a novel tri-specific antibody targeting EGFR, CDH17, and CD16A for colorectal cancer treatment. It demonstrated strong tumor-specific EGFR inhibition by targeting the overexpressed CDH17 on tumors, while significantly reducing skin toxicities commonly associated with EGFR therapies.

Additionally, IBI3019 incorporates a high-affinity CD16A nanobody that showed better antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity than those mediated by low-fucose Fc. Importantly, IBI3019 not only demonstrated superior in vitro and in vivo anti-tumor efficacy to Cetuximab and Amivantamab but was also highly tolerable in cynomolgus monkeys with HNSTD at 150 mg/kg in a pilot tox study. These promising preclinical findings warrant further clinical exploration.

Poster Session: Immunology – Modulation of Tumor Microenvironment: Modulation of Lymphocyte Influx
Topic: A PD1-IFNα fusion protein, with an attenuated IFNα fused to a clinically validated PD1 mAb, elicited PD1-dependent IFNα signaling and superior anti-tumor efficacy
Abstract Number: 4881
Presentation Form: Poster
Presentation Time: Tuesday April 29, 2025, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Poster Section 40
Poster Board Number: 9

We engineered a novel PD1-IFNα fusion protein that combines attenuated IFNα with Sintilimab, inducing potent PD1/PDL1 blockade while eliciting highly PD1-dependent IFNα signaling, selectively activating in PD1-high cells.

Preclinical studies demonstrate superior anti-tumor efficacy compared to PD1 mAb alone in multiple mouse syngeneic tumor models, with undetectable toxicity and a favorable pharmacokinetics profile.

This bi-functional molecule potentially benefits patients with ICB-refractory cancers including pancreatic, ovarian, and MSS colorectal cancers.

About Innovent

Innovent is a leading biopharmaceutical company founded in 2011 with the mission to empower patients worldwide with affordable, high-quality biopharmaceuticals. The company discovers, develops, manufactures and commercializes innovative medicines that target some of the most intractable diseases. Its pioneering therapies treat cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic, autoimmune and eye diseases. Innovent has launched 15 products in the market. It has 3 new drug applications under regulatory review, 4 assets in Phase III or pivotal clinical trials and 15 more molecules in early clinical stage. Innovent partners with over 30 global healthcare companies, including Eli Lilly, Sanofi, Incyte, Adimab, LG Chem and MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Guided by the motto, “Start with Integrity, Succeed through Action,” Innovent maintains the highest standard of industry practices and works collaboratively to advance the biopharmaceutical industry so that first-rate pharmaceutical drugs can become widely accessible. For more information, visit www.innoventbio.com, or follow Innovent on Facebook and LinkedIn.

Statement: (1)Innovent does not recommend the use of any unapproved drug (s)/indication (s).

2 Ramucirumab (Cyramza) and Selpercatinib (Retsevmo) and Pirtobrutinib (Jaypirca) were developed by Eli Lilly and Company.

Forward-looking statement

This news release may contain certain forward-looking statements that are, by their nature, subject to significant risks and uncertainties. The words “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “intend” and similar expressions, as they relate to Innovent Biologics (“Innovent”), are intended to identify certain of such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend to update these forward-looking statements regularly.

These forward-looking statements are based on the existing beliefs, assumptions, expectations, estimates, projections and understandings of the management of the Company with respect to future events at the time these statements are made. These statements are not a guarantee of future developments and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond the Company’s control and are difficult to predict. Consequently, actual results may differ materially from information contained in the forward-looking statements as a result of future changes or developments in our business, the Company’s competitive environment and political, economic, legal and social conditions.

The Company, the Directors and the employees of the Company assume (a) no obligation to correct or update the forward-looking statements contained in this site; and (b) no liability in the event that any of the forward-looking statements does not materialise or turn out to be incorrect.

Nona Biosciences’ Partner Pfizer Presents Preclinical Data on TOP1i-Based ADC Targeting MSLN at AACR Annual Meeting 2025

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Nona Biosciences, a global biotechnology company providing integrated solutions from “Idea to IND” (I to ITM), today announced that its partner, Pfizer, has presented preclinical data on PF-08052666 (HBM9033; SGN-MesoC2), a first-in-class topoisomerase 1 inhibitor (TOP1i)-based antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeting mesothelin (MSLN), at the AACR Annual Meeting 2025. This ADC was originally developed using Nona Biosciences’ proprietary Harbour Mice® and integrated ADC platforms. Pfizer acquired its global clinical development and commercialization rights on December 14, 2023.

Poster Presentation at AACR Annual Meeting 2025
Title: PF-08052666 (HBM9033), a first-in-class topoisomerase 1 inhibitor-based ADC targeting MSLN, demonstrates potent antitumor activity in preclinical models of ovarian, lung, and colorectal cancers
Abstract Number: 324
Poster Board Number: 16
Session Title: Antireceptors and Other Biological Therapeutic Agents
Session Date: April 27, 2025

PF-08052666 was designed to address the limitations of earlier anti-MSLN ADCs through a novel antibody, differentiated linker-payload, and a higher drug-to-antibody ratio (DAR). It consists of a human IgG1 monoclonal antibody conjugated to a potent camptothecin-based TOP1i payload with a protease-cleavable linker, achieving an average DAR of 8.

Key Preclinical Findings Presented at AACR Annual Meeting 2025

  • In vitro, PF-08052666 demonstrated direct cytotoxicity through delivery of payload to MSLN-positive cells, bystander killing activity on co-cultured MSLN-negative cells, and maintained cytotoxicity even in the presence of physiologically relevant concentrations of soluble MSLN.
  • In vivo, PF-08052666 outperformed a DM4-based anti-MSLN benchmark ADC in both cell-line and patient-derived xenograft models across multiple tumor types, including ovarian, lung, and colorectal cancers.
  • PF-08052666 also outperformed the DM4-based anti-MSLN benchmark ADC in heterogeneous xenograft models consisting of ad-mixed MSLN-positive and MSLN-negative cells, demonstrating the increased bystander activity of the novel linker-payload of MesoC2.

These promising preclinical results support the ongoing first-in-human phase 1 clinical trial of PF-08052666 in patients with advanced solid tumors (NCT06466187), which is currently enrolling participants.

“The preclinical data on PF-08052666 presented by Pfizer at AACR 2025 reflects the strength of our technology platforms and our dedication to advancing transformative therapies,” said Jingsong Wang, MD, PhD, Chairman of Nona Biosciences. “By leveraging our industry-leading technology platforms, we continue to drive innovation that enables the development of next-generation biotherapeutics. We look forward to further collaboration with Pfizer to accelerate breakthroughs that address critical medical needs.”

About PF-08052666 (HBM9033)

PF-08052666 is an ADC drug that targets human MSLN, a tumor-associated antigen (TAA) upregulated in various solid tumors. The fully human monoclonal antibody (mAb) in PF-08052666 is derived from the Harbour Mice® platform and possesses well-tuned properties, exhibiting reduced binding to soluble MSLN while maintaining strong binding and internalization to membrane-bound MSLN. The unique design of the mAb was created to enhance potency in various preclinical tumor models with differing MSLN expression levels, positioning PF-08052666 as a potential globally best-in-class therapeutic option.

About Nona Biosciences

Nona Biosciences is a global biotechnology company committed to cutting edge technology innovation and providing integrated solutions from “Idea to IND” (I to ITM), ranging from target validation and antibody discovery through preclinical research. The integrated antibody and antibody-related discovery services with multiple modalities range from antigen preparation, animal immunization, single B cell screening, to antibody lead generation and engineering, developability assessment and pharmacological evaluation, leveraging advantages of Harbour Mice® platforms and the experienced therapeutic antibody discovery team.

Harbour Mice® generates fully human monoclonal antibodies in classical two light and two heavy chain (H2L2) format, and heavy chain only (HCAb) format. Integrating Harbour Mice® and a single B cell cloning platform, Nona Biosciences is focused on driving global inventions of transformative next-generation drugs. For more information, please visit: www.nonabio.com.

Everest Medicines Announces the “B” Marker Removal from Company’s Stock Code, Effective May 2, 2025

SHANGHAI, April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Everest Medicines (HKEX 1952.HK, “Everest”, or the “Company”), a biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, clinical development, manufacturing, and commercialization of innovative therapeutics, today announced that the “B” marker will cease to be affixed to the Company’s stock short name, effective May 2, 2025. The removal of “B” marker was granted by The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Stock Exchange”) on April 22, 2025.

Everest Medicines was listed on the Stock Exchange in October 2020. Over the past three years, Everest has established and continuously deepened its “Dual-Engine” strategy. Evolving from an initial license-in model, the Company has developed a balanced approach that integrates in-house discovery with global partnerships and in-licensing, with a focus on high-value areas and the development of first-in-class or best-in-class assets. With global rights to EVER001, the Company will actively explore partnership opportunities to leverage international expertise and optimize commercial value, while further enhancing its global visibility and market presence. Everest will utilize its efficient commercial platform to solidify its leadership in key therapeutic areas, advance innovation on its mRNA platform, and strive to become a leading biopharma in the Asia-Pacific region by 2030.

About Everest Medicines

Everest Medicines is a biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing, manufacturing and commercializing transformative pharmaceutical products and vaccines that address critical unmet medical needs for patients in Asian markets. The management team of Everest Medicines has deep expertise and an extensive track record from both leading global pharmaceutical companies and local Chinese pharmaceutical companies in high-quality discovery, clinical development, regulatory affairs, CMC, business development and operations. Everest Medicines has built a portfolio of potentially global first-in-class or best-in-class molecules in the company’s core therapeutic areas of renal diseases, infectious diseases and autoimmune disorders. For more information, please visit its website at www.everestmedicines.com.

Forward-Looking Statements:

This news release may make statements that constitute forward-looking statements, including descriptions regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company or its officers with respect to the business operations and financial condition of the Company, which can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, or other factors, some of which are beyond the control of the Company and are unforeseeable. Therefore, the actual results may differ from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors and assumptions, such as future changes and developments in our business, competitive environment, political, economic, legal and social conditions. The Company or any of its affiliates, directors, officers, advisors or representatives has no obligation and does not undertake to revise forward-looking statements to reflect new information, future events or circumstances after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

 

Hikvision releases 2024 full-year and 2025 first-quarter financial results

HANGZHOU, China, April 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hikvision has announced its full-year financial results for 2024 and first-quarter results for 2025. In 2024, the company reported total revenue of RMB 92.496 billion, marking a 3.53% year‑over‑year (YoY) growth. In the first quarter of 2025, the company reported revenue of RMB 18.532 billion, up 4.01% YoY. Net profit attributable to shareholders reached RMB 2.039 billion, reflecting a 6.41% YoY increase.

Hikvision releases 2024 full-year and 2025 first-quarter financial results
Hikvision releases 2024 full-year and 2025 first-quarter financial results

Over the past two decades, Hikvision has established itself as a global security leader, developing a robust AIoT ecosystem encompassing over 30,000 products. Today, the company remains committed to steady and solid progress, navigating uncertainties with a positive and prudent approach. It maintained its leading position in the domestic security market while seeking growth from overseas markets and innovative businesses. With profitability as a central focus, the company is driving organizational transformation and refining management practices to support long-term, sustainable growth. Notably, Hikvision is at the forefront of leveraging breakthroughs in large-scale AI model technologies to accelerate scenario-based digitalization across diverse industries.

Throughout the past year, the company strengthened its overseas presence, with main business revenue from international markets rising to RMB 25.989 billion, accounting for 28.10% of total revenue and reflecting an 8.39% YoY growth. Hikvision’s overseas revenue spans over 180 countries and regions, with developing markets contributing more than 70% of that total. The steady increase of overseas business revenue has emerged as an important driver of the company’s overall profit growth. Meanwhile, Hikvision’s innovation businesses continued to grow rapidly, with revenue reaching RMB 22.484 billion.

In 2024, Hikvision continued to prioritize research and development, investing RMB 11.864 billion in R&D, accounting for 12.83% of its total revenue. Over the years, the company has built a multi-level R&D system with the headquarters’ R&D capabilities at the core, radiating to key regions both domestically and internationally.

In its latest developments, Hikvision is actively advancing AIoT technologies, with its Guanlan Large-Scale AI Models integrating vision, language, and multimodal capabilities, among others. These innovations have significantly enhanced both perception and cognition abilities of Hikvision’s products and solutions. For instance, in perimeter protection, the large vision model can achieve a 90% reduction in false alarms.

Looking ahead, Hikvision is committed to a strategy of high-quality growth, with a stronger focus on driving innovation, enhancing efficiency and ensuring long-term sustainability.

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