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Neopharma Technologies Appoints Exchange Listing to Manage U.S. IPO

NEW YORK, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Neopharma Technologies Ltd (NTL), a leading MedTech company specializing in digital drug and impairment testing for workplace and public safety, has appointed Exchange Listing, LLC to manage its upcoming U.S. initial public offering (IPO), with plans to list on the NASDAQ Stock Exchange.

Neopharma has developed NEOVAULT®, the world’s first integrated chain-of-custody and data management platform for point-of-care (POC) drug testing. Paired with its NEOTEST® range of regulatory-grade oral and urine screening devices, NEOVAULT® provides a secure, mobile-enabled solution that supports compliance and operational safety for enterprises, governments, and healthcare organizations.

The company is uniquely aligned with emerging global policy. In April 2025, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy formally endorsed the adoption of AI-powered digital drug testing technologies. NEOVAULT® is among the few globally certified platforms meeting this standard and is the only solution currently certified under HIPAA, SOC 2 Type 2, GDPR, and ISO 27001.

Commercial adoption is accelerating. Neopharma is in advanced agreement or active negotiation with:

  • Four of the world’s largest Drugs of Abuse (DOA) test kit manufacturers to NEOVAULT®-enable more than 150 million drug test kits
  • Multiple international distributors
  • 25 enterprise clients across Australia and New Zealand

This foundation supports a high-margin, recurring revenue model through SaaS and platform licensing.

Peter Goldstein, CEO of Exchange Listing, said:

“Neopharma’s platform, business model, and traction make it an ideal candidate for the U.S. capital markets. We’re confident in Shaun and Marcus’s leadership and committed to guiding the company through a successful Nasdaq listing aligned with its long-term growth strategy.”

Shaun Melville, Executive Director of Neopharma Technologies, added:

“Exchange Listing brings the IPO expertise and strategic insight we need as we expand globally. NEOVAULT® is solving real compliance and public safety challenges. We’re ready to scale this solution worldwide.”

About Neopharma Technologies Ltd

Neopharma Technologies delivers digital solutions for secure, real-time drug screening and compliance management. Its NEOVAULT® platform and NEOTEST® devices serve enterprise, healthcare, and government clients worldwide.

About Exchange Listing, LLC

Exchange Listing provides capital markets advisory and IPO readiness services for growth-stage companies targeting listings on the Nasdaq and NYSE.

Press Contact: enquiries@neopharmatechnologies.com

CONTACT: Shaun Melville, shaun@neopharmatechnologies.com

Beyond Music Acquires Copyright Catalog of Bekuh Boom, Hitmaker Behind BLACKPINK

  • 33-song catalog includes BLACKPINK hits: “Kill This Love,” “DDU-DU DDU- DU,” “Ice Cream”
  • Builds on recent acquisition of BTS’s “Butter,” further expanding Beyond Music’s K-pop portfolio
  • Strengthens global presence by acquiring high-potential music IP across genres and markets

SEOUL, South Korea, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Beyond Music, a leading Asia-based music IP investment and data management firm, has acquired the publishing catalog of globally renowned songwriter Bekuh Boom, best known for her work with BLACKPINK.

profile of Bekuh Boom
profile of Bekuh Boom

The acquisition includes 33 songs, among them BLACKPINK’s most iconic hits: “Kill This Love,” “DDU-DU DDU-DU,” “Ice Cream,” “BOOMBAYAH,” and “Pretty Savage.” Each of these tracks has surpassed 500 million streams on Spotify, establishing them as key pillars of BLACKPINK’s global discography.

This deal follows Beyond Music’s recent acquisition of a copyright stake in BTS’s international hit “Butter,” further cementing the company’s presence in the global K-pop IP market.

“By acquiring rights to signature tracks from both BTS and BLACKPINK—two of the most iconic acts in K- pop—we’ve reached a major milestone in executing our global strategy,” said Jinwoo Jo, CEO of Beyond Music. “It’s also an honor to invest in the work of Bekuh Boom, a world-class songwriter whose catalog continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. We look forward to supporting her future creative endeavors and building a long-term partnership.”

Bekuh Boom – now releasing music under her artist moniker BOOMBBY – is an American songwriter and producer who began her professional career at just 18. She made her K-pop debut in 2014 with TAEYANG’s “Eyes, Nose, Lips” and quickly became one of the genre’s most in-demand voices, penning over ten No. 1 hits across global charts. With credits for artists like BLACKPINK, WINNER, and Jeon Somi, Bekuh has played a key role in defining the sound of modern K-pop and cementing its place on the world stage.

BLACKPINK remains a dominant force in global pop music, boasting over 98 million YouTube subscribers and holding a Guinness World Record. After a hiatus of two years and ten months, the group made a highly anticipated return this July with the release of their new single “Jump”, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Global 200 chart. Kicking off the concert in Korea, BLACKPINK is currently embarking on a world tour which will span 31 shows across the countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Japan through next January.

The Bekuh Boom acquisition is part of Beyond Music’s broader strategy to selectively invest in high-performing music assets that offer long-term value. Since its founding in 2021, Beyond Music has completed over 100 large- scale music IP acquisitions, managing more than 35,000 master and publishing rights spanning hits from the 1990s to today.

Beyond Music’s value creation model focuses on:

  • Precision data analysis
  • Revenue optimization through synchronization and licensing
  • New IP creation via song remakes and interpolations
  • Data-driven social media marketing
  • Strategic global collaborations

Through these initiatives, Beyond Music continues to redefine music IP investment, positioning itself as a leader in the evolving global music rights industry.

About Bekuh Boom:

Bekuh BOOM is a singer, songwriter, and producer whose genre-spanning work has helped shape the sound of global pop. Known for her impact in K-pop and beyond, she has written for some of the world’s most prominent artists and contributed to multiple international chart-toppers. Her work has earned widespread critical and commercial recognition, including a Best Original Song award from the Game Audio Network Guild.

Now, under her pop artist moniker BOOMBBY, Bekuh is stepping into her own spotlight. With recent singles like “Icy Bishh,” “DUHMB,” and “Test Drive,” she’s launched a bold new era – fusing emotionally honest storytelling with high-impact, genre-blurring production. BOOMBBY is more than a new name – it’s the most personal and creatively expansive project of her career.

Bekuh recently signed to Range Media Partners for management, where she is represented by Cory Litwin.

TECHTRONIC INDUSTRIES DELIVERS STRONG FIRST HALF PERFORMANCE

GROWING SALES TO US$7.8 BILLION, NET PROFIT INCREASED TO US$628 MILLION

HONG KONG, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Global cordless power tool, outdoor power equipment and floorcare & cleaning company Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. (“TTI” or the “Group”) (stock code: HK: 0669, ADR symbol: TTNDY) is pleased to announce the unaudited consolidated results of the Company and its subsidiaries for the six-month period ended June 30, 2025. TTI grew sales in the first half of 2025 to US$7.8 billion, up 7.1% in reported currency and 7.5% in local currency. Its two leading brands, MILWAUKEE and RYOBI, both delivered exceptional performance during this period.

  • TTI delivered a strong first half performance, growing sales 7.5% in local currency to US$7.8 billion and net profit 14.2% to US$628 million.
  • Our Flagship MILWAUKEE business extended its dominant leadership position as the #1 professional power tool brand worldwide by delivering 11.9% sales growth in local currency.
  • RYOBI, the #1 global consumer battery-powered tool and outdoor brand, grew sales 8.7% in local currency.
  • TTI reported US$468 million in free cash flow during the first half of 2025, ending the period in a net cash position.

Financial Performance Highlights for 2025 First Half

2025

US$’

million

2024

US$’

million

Changes

Revenue

7,833

7,312

+7.1 %

Gross profit margin

40.3 %

39.9 %

+34 bps

EBIT

709

626

+13.3 %

Profit attributable to Owners of the Company

628

550

+14.2 %

Basic earnings per share (US cents)

34.37

30.12

+14.1 %

Interim dividend per share (approx. US cents)

16.09

13.90

+15.7 %

Gross margin improved 34 basis points to 40.3% in the first half of 2025. This increase reflects operational efficiencies made in its consumer brands where TTI focused on profitability, the positive mix impact from the growth of its high margin MILWAUKEE business and productivity improvements captured throughout its manufacturing and sourcing network. EBIT for the first half of 2025 was US$709 million, representing a 13.3% increase compared to the same period in 2024. EBIT margin also increased 49 basis points from the first half of 2024 to 9.1% as a percentage of sales. Net Profit increased 14.2% to US$628 million and earnings per share also improved 14.1% to US34.37 cents. Working capital improved 190 bps versus June 2024 to 16.8% as a percent of sales. The Group generated US$468 million in positive Free Cash Flow in the first half of 2025, ending the period in a net cash position.

The TTI Power Equipment segment grew sales 8.3% in local currency to US$7.4 billion. MILWAUKEE achieved double-digit sales growth in the first half of 2025, finishing up 11.9% in local currency. RYOBI delivered a tremendous first half performance, growing 8.7% in local currency. The Floorcare and Cleaning business increased operating profit 3.6% to US$9.7 million as compared to the first half of 2024, while revenue decreased 4.8% in local currency to US$408 million.

The Directors have resolved to declare an interim dividend of HK125.00 cents (approximately US16.09 cents) (2024: HK108.00 cents (approximately US13.90 cents)) per share for the six-month period ended June 30, 2025. The interim dividend will be paid to shareholders listed on the register of members of the Company on September 5, 2025. It is expected that the interim dividend will be paid on or about September 19, 2025.

Mr. Horst Pudwill, Chairman of TTI, said, “From topline sales growth, solid free cash flow, and improved EBIT and Net Profit margins, we are very pleased with our results in the first half of 2025. We are confident we will successfully navigate the current macro-economic environment, positioning us in an even stronger leadership position in the months and years ahead.”

Mr. Steven P. Richman, CEO of TTI, commented, “Our strong first half results reflect the dedication and culture of our global team. We continue to build on this foundation by recruiting, retaining, and investing in talent worldwide and are extremely proud of the depth of the talent and bench strength we have developed across all levels at TTI.”

Forward-Looking Statements

This announcement contains certain forward-looking statements or uses certain forward-looking terminologies which are based on the current expectations, estimates, projections, beliefs and assumptions of TTI about the businesses and the markets in which the Group operates and reflect TTI’s views as of the date of this announcement. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to market risk, uncertainties and factors beyond the control of TTI. Therefore, actual outcomes and returns may differ materially from the assumptions made and the statements contained in this announcement.

About TTI

Techtronic Industries Company Limited (“TTI” or the “Company”), founded in 1985 by German entrepreneur Horst Julius Pudwill, is a world leader in cordless technology. As a pioneer in Power Tools, Outdoor Power Equipment, Floorcare and Cleaning Products, TTI serves professional, industrial, Do It Yourself (DIY), and consumer markets worldwide. With more than 47,000 employees globally, the company’s relentless focus on innovation and strategic growth has established its leading position in the industries it serves.

MILWAUKEE is at the forefront of TTI’s professional tool portfolio. With global research and development headquartered in Brookfield, Wisconsin, the historic MILWAUKEE brand is renowned for driving innovation, safety, and jobsite productivity worldwide. The RYOBI brand, headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina, remains the top choice for DIYers and continues to set the standard in DIY tool innovation. TTI’s diverse brand portfolio also includes trusted brands like AEG, EMPIRE, HOMELITE, and leading floorcare names HOOVER, ORECK, VAX, and DIRT DEVIL (based in Charlotte, North Carolina).

TTI’s international recognition and renowned brand portfolio are supported by a strong ownership structure that underscores the company’s global reach and stability. The Pudwill family remains the company’s largest shareholder, with the remaining ownership held largely by institutional investors at North American and European-owned firms. TTI is publicly traded on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and is a constituent stock of the Hang Seng Index, operating globally with a strong commitment to environmental, social, and corporate governance standards. For more information, visit www.ttigroup.com.

All trademarks listed other than AEG and RYOBI are owned by the Group. AEG is a registered trademark of AB Electrolux (publ.) and is used under license. RYOBI is a registered trademark of Ryobi Limited and is used under license.

Ubilink, Zettabyte, and WiAdvance Collaborate to Advance AI Computing in Taiwan

TAIPEI, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — WiAdvance Technology, an innovative cloud service provider under the Wistron Group, and Zettabyte Technology Corporation, a software solutions provider specializing in Zsuite, jointly announced today that they are initiating a collaborative evaluation with Ubilink.AI, a leading AI supercomputing company. The three parties aim to establish a strategic partnership to enhance overall performance and application value in AI computing services.

Ubilink's H100 Data Hall Located in Taiwan
Ubilink’s H100 Data Hall Located in Taiwan

The Ubilink AI Center is equipped with 128 NVIDIA H100 GPU servers, delivering computing power up to 45.82 PetaFlops—offering world-class high-performance computing capabilities. The goal of this collaboration is to integrate the strengths of all three parties: Zettabyte’s expertise in AI GPU infrastructure management, WiAdvance’s extensive experience in enterprise system integration and cloud solutions, and Ubilink’s robust computing infrastructure. The three companies are actively exploring potential collaboration models to accelerate AI innovation in Taiwan and provide comprehensive support for applications such as generative AI, deep learning, model training, and inference—empowering startups, enterprises, and research institutions alike.

About Zettabyte
Zettabyte is a global leader reshaping AI compute with high-performance, energy-efficient GPU infrastructure and full-stack software (GPU Infrastructure-as-a-Service, IaaS). Its turnkey platform, Zware, powers next-generation AI data centers through GPU Cloud, Managed Services, and sovereign-ready systems—built for scale, security, and sustainability. For more information, please visit https://www.zettabyte.space/.

About Ubilink
Ubilink.AI Co., Ltd. is a joint venture between Foxlink Group and Shinfox Energy, Ubitus, established to advance Taiwan’s AI infrastructure and supercomputing capabilities. Ubilink provides next-generation compute resources to support AI innovation across industries, from research to large-scale enterprise deployment. For more information, please visit https://www.ubilink.ai/en/.

About WiAdvance
WiAdvance Technology, a subsidiary of Wistron Corporation, is an innovative cloud services company headquartered in Taiwan. Based on Cloud, Data and AI technology, WiAdvance provides cloud-based service and vertical solutions which suit various industries and operational scenarios, enabling the customers to boost the business in today’s ever-changing world. WiAdvance boasts a robust cloud technology team and extensive experience in field deployment. For more information, please visit https://www.wiadvance.com/en/.

Recon Awarded Mega $5.85 Million Contract to Provide Upgrades Service for Large Mid-Asia Gas Field

BEIJING, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Recon Technology Ltd. (“Recon” or “the Company”), a China-based provider of oilfield and low-carbon energy services, announced today that one of its domestic affiliated entities has been awarded major contracts to upgrade and retrofit related automation systems for some large Asian gas field. These contracts are valued at approximately $5.85 million, and the services provided by the entity in these contracts are expected to be completed within the next calendar year. These maintenance services are intended to ensure the capacity supply of the gas field, which has been completed and is operational.

“Despite the tough competition, we are honored to have won these contracts”, said Mr. Shenping Yin, CEO of Recon, “This is another significant contract for us, following the automation service and maintenance contract we secured outside China in 2012. It is also an important milestone in our expansion into the international market. This project demonstrates Recon’s technical capabilities and strong customer relationships in the oilfield automation market.”

About Recon Technology, Ltd (“RCON”)

Recon Technology, Ltd (NASDAQ: RCON) is the People’s Republic of China’s first NASDAQ-listed non-state-owned oil and gas field service company. Recon supplies China’s largest oil exploration companies, Sinopec and The China National Petroleum Corporation (“CNPC”), with advanced automated technologies, efficient gathering and transportation equipment and reservoir stimulation measure for increasing petroleum extraction levels, reducing impurities and lowering production costs. Through the years, RCON has taken leading positions within several segmented markets of the oil and gas filed service industry. RCON also has developed stable long-term cooperation relationship with its major clients. For additional information please visit: http://www.recon.cn/.

Forward-Looking Statements

Recon includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws throughout this press release. A reader can identify forward-looking statements because they are not limited to historical fact or they use words such as “scheduled,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “would,” “expect,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “project,” “plan,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “goal,” “objective,” “committed,” “intend,” “continue,” or “will likely result,” and similar expressions that concern Recon’s strategy, plans, intentions or beliefs about future occurrences or results. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that may change at any time and may cause actual results to differ materially from those that Recon expected. Many of these statements are derived from Recon’s operating budgets and forecasts, which are based on many detailed assumptions that Recon believes are reasonable, or are based on various assumptions about certain plans, activities or events which we expect will or may occur in the future. However, it is very difficult to predict the effect of known factors, and Recon cannot anticipate all factors that could affect actual results that may be important to an investor. All forward-looking information should be evaluated in the context of these risks, uncertainties and other factors, including those factors disclosed under “Risk Factors” in Recon’s most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F and any subsequent half-year financial filings on Form 6-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements that Recon makes from time to time in its SEC filings and public communications. Recon cannot assure the reader that it will realize the results or developments Recon anticipates, or, even if substantially realized, that they will result in the consequences or affect Recon or its operations in the way Recon expects. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made. Recon undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances arising after the date on which they were made, except as otherwise required by law. As a result of these risks and uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements included herein or that may be made elsewhere from time to time by, or on behalf of, Recon.

First-of-Its-Kind Japan Preschool Exchange Lets Global Families Experience Real Japanese School Life — With a Little Help from Peppa Pig

TOKYO, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Japan Preschool Exchange (JPE), a cultural exchange program, invites global families to experience daily life at real Japanese preschools—from snowy play to rice harvesting in nature-rich communities. Families can join for 1 to 3 weeks with no Japanese knowledge required. JPE partners with over 30 trusted preschools nationwide, supporting local sustainability and offering unforgettable experiences.

Official promotional partnership key visual
Official promotional partnership key visual

Since launching in 2021, JPE has welcomed over 1,000 participants, with 95% saying they would return. The program has earned multiple government awards. Founded by CEO Masaya Yamamoto after staying with his daughter at a rural preschool in Hokkaido, JPE promotes cross-cultural learning and nature-connected childhoods.

To reach more families worldwide, JPE is launching an official promotion with PEPPA PIG, Hasbro’s beloved preschool brand. Families who register for the experience during the campaign (from 1st August, 2025 to 30th June, 2026) will receive a PEPPA PIG Welcome Digital Guide, which includes a variety of activity sheets for kids.

Embracing Peppa Pig’s ethos of inspiring kids’ confidence, the campaign invites families to jump in together and savor the precious early childhood years through real-life adventures in Japanese preschools.

JPE also welcomes school groups for educational trips, joining a global network of cultural exchange communities.

Learn more: https://preschool-exchange.com/peppapig
Official site: preschool-exchange.com
Photo download

About KitchHike

KitchHike is a Japan-based brand studio and platform empowering rural regions through place-based innovation. As population decline becomes a global reality, KitchHike sees Japan’s rural communities not as outliers, but as prototypes of the planet’s future. It leads projects driven by the mission: “Amplify local potential. Shape a sustainable planet.” https://kitchhike.jp/en

About Hasbro

Hasbro is a leading games, IP, and toy company whose mission is to create joy and community through the magic of play. Hasbro reaches over 500 million kids, families, and fans globally through physical and digital games, video games, toys, licensed consumer products, location-based entertainment, film, TV, and more.

About PEPPA PIG

PEPPA PIG is a British preschool animated television series that has aired for over 20 years, across 10 seasons in over 180 territories. The series follows Peppa, a cheeky little piggy who lives with her family – younger brother George, baby sister Evie, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig – as well as her diverse community of friends.

JAPAN PRESCHOOL EXCHANGE PR Team
info@kitchhike.com

Bybit Unveils Revamped App to Power the Next Billion Crypto Users

DUBAI, UAE, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Bybit, the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, has announced a significant update to its mobile app. This update is part of its broader #IMakeIt rebranding initiative and introduces a refreshed design, improved functionality, and a more personalized experience for both new and experienced traders.

Refreshed Look and Improved Navigation

The updated app features a high-contrast design, simplified icons, and a streamlined layout that makes navigation faster and more intuitive. These changes bring a cleaner, more modern feel to the platform, making it easier for users to explore, trade, and manage their assets on mobile. The redesign reflects Bybit’s new brand message, “I Make It Possible,” which places user experience at the core of the platform’s evolution.

Bybit Lite: Built for Beginners

One of the standout features of the update is Bybit Lite, a simplified mode designed for users new to crypto. It includes:

  • A clean, easy-to-use interface
  • One-click trading for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other major assets
  • Step-by-step guidance throughout the process

Users can easily switch between Lite and Pro modes depending on their comfort level. Despite its simplicity, Lite users still get access to the full range of promotions. This includes a $100 welcome bonus after verification and first deposit, as well as opportunities to earn up to $5,000 through trading missions and referral programs. All rewards are applied automatically without requiring manual claims.

Pro Mode: Tools for Advanced Traders

Pro Mode is tailored for experienced users who need more advanced tools. Key features include:

  • An upgraded trading interface with quicker access to Spot, Derivatives, and TradFi markets
  • Integrated tools like copy trading, trading bots, and ChatGPT-powered strategy assistance
  • Customizable homepages for faster access to frequently used functions

This mode offers the depth and flexibility needed by serious traders while maintaining ease of use.

Smarter Earning with More Transparency

The updated My Page screen offers smoother navigation and introduces a new Usage History tool for tracking platform activity. The Bybit Earn section has also been reorganized into three distinct paths: Easy Earn for flexible, beginner-friendly options, On-Chain Earn for decentralized opportunities, Advanced Earn for high-yield strategies.

A new Earn Profile displays idle and invested assets side by side. Additional features like Batch Redeem and enhanced order tracking give users greater control and visibility.

A Platform Ready for What’s Next

Bybit’s upgraded app goes beyond cosmetic changes. It represents a long-term commitment to building a user-first, transparent, and intelligent trading platform. Whether you’re just starting with crypto or actively managing a complex portfolio, the new Bybit App is built to support every stage of your journey.

The upgraded Bybit App is now live for Android and iOS.

Bybit Unveils Revamped App to Power the Next Billion Crypto Users
Bybit Unveils Revamped App to Power the Next Billion Crypto Users

#Bybit / #TheCryptoArk

About Bybit

Bybit is the world’s second-largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, serving a global community of over 70 million users. Founded in 2018, Bybit is redefining openness in the decentralized world by creating a simpler, open and equal ecosystem for everyone. With a strong focus on Web3, Bybit partners strategically with leading blockchain protocols to provide robust infrastructure and drive on-chain innovation. Renowned for its secure custody, diverse marketplaces, intuitive user experience, and advanced blockchain tools, Bybit bridges the gap between TradFi and DeFi, empowering builders, creators, and enthusiasts to unlock the full potential of Web3. Discover the future of decentralized finance at Bybit.com.

For more details about Bybit, please visit Bybit Press 
For media inquiries, please contact: media@bybit.com
For updates, please follow: Bybit’s Communities and Social Media

Discord | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Reddit | Telegram | TikTok | X | Youtube

 

iNtRON Bio, Demonstrated Toxin-Neutralizing Effect of IMPA™ Phage Engineering Technology in Colorectal Cancer Model and Completed the US Patent Application

•  Successful validation of payloaded anti-colibactin toxin phage using IMPA technology 
•  Demonstrated Dual-target Therapeutic Strategy by bacterial eradication and toxin neutralization 
•  Filed the US patent application for the candidate substance and preclinical studies including PoC underway

BOSTON and SEOUL, South Korea, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Recently, a specific genotype of E. coli that may cause colorectal cancer has been detected in commonly eaten leafy vegetables such as lettuce, raising consumer concerns. Among these strains, pks+ E. coli is of particular concern. This bacterium produces a toxic substance in the intestine that causes DNA damage (ICLs, Interstrand Cross-Links), which leads to DSBs (Double Strand Breaks), and has been shown in numerous studies, including Nature (2023), to increase the risk of colorectal cancer over time.

Amid this situation, as an innovative bacteriophage technology development company, iNtRON Bio proposes a new possibility for microbiome-based anticancer drugs in treating colorectal cancer—considered a hard-to-treat disease—by applying our phage engineering technology called IMPA™.

iNtRON Bio has been developing PHAGERIA, an immunotherapeutic targeting gut bacteria, and through the IMPA™ phage engineering technology developed in-house, iNtRON Bio has secured a new drug candidate payloaded with a substance that effectively eliminates colibactin ,a major causative agent of colorectal cancer and have filed a related US patent application.

The phage engineering technology IMPA™ (Intelligent Modular Phage Assembly) was formerly known as the “robot bacteriophage.” With the recent US patent application, it was named to clearly reflect the function as a technology for engineering modular phages (mock-up phages) that can carry therapeutic payloads.

This achievement is the result of combining transposon mutagenesis, CRISPR/Cas-based forward/reverse genetics, and AI-driven analysis capabilities to explore the possibility of delivering various functional payloads. In particular, it is highly significant that iNtRON Bio successfully loaded a payload targeting colibactin ,deeply involved in colorectal cancer, onto the surface of the phage and, for the first time globally, confirmed its effectiveness.

In other words, iNtRON Bio has demonstrated a dual-targeting therapeutic approach that not only eliminates pks+ E. coli, which is a main cause of colorectal cancer, but also neutralizes the toxin secreted by this bacterium. This includes verifying colibactin’s role in cancer development, confirming the suppressive effect of modular phage on colorectal cancer, and proving the phage’s colibactin-degrading ability—resulting in successful proof-of-concept studies and related patent acquisition.

Simply put, the core of this development is that a colibactin-degrading protein was applied as a payload on the phage’s protein shell, known as the capsid. Like a precision-guided missile with a warhead, the engineered phage specifically infects pks+ E. coli, kills the bacteria, and at the same time removes the colibactin toxin already secreted by the bacterium using the enzyme carried in the capsid—offering a dual therapeutic effect.

Recently, the field of bacteriophage engineering is gaining attention globally. IMPA™ technology is not only a unique platform technology differentiated from other companies, but also serves as strong evidence that it can function as an actual drug delivery platform beyond simple research use.

It is encouraging that iNtRON Bio’s research has overcome key limitations of conventional phage-based technologies, such as decreased payload activity and phage structural instability when therapeutic substances are loaded. By confirming that the payload retains its original function, iNtRON Bio has demonstrated that it has successfully overcome high technical hurdles.

The engineered phages are not merely for research purposes but were selected and validated through multiple tests with real-world and human applications in mind. iNtRON Bio has applied an advanced AI-driven optimization platform technology, refined it with great care, and plan to extend its application to other development fields for ongoing innovation.

This achievement is not only a remarkable advancement in phage engineering technology but will also become a driving force for discovering innovative microbiome drug candidates through integration with other phage-based platform technologies of iNtRON Bio. It will proceed smoothly with preclinical studies including proof-of-concept (PoC) testing for combination effects with existing colorectal cancer therapies. In addition, IMPA™ phage engineering technology will be applied more broadly to ADC drug development, anti-cancer agent, and vaccines, as iNtRON Bio continues to strengthen our global technological competitiveness in these fields.

Contact US
YOON, Kyung Won (Kevin) / CEO, Vice President / kwyoon@intron.co.kr
SHIN, Tae Kyu (TK) / BD Team Leader / tkshin@intron.co.kr
www.intodeworld.com 

it is iNtRON.