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Ractigen Therapeutics Presents Positive Phase I Data for RAG-17 in SOD1-ALS at the 2026 AAN Annual Meeting, Demonstrating 81% Reduction in Neurofilament Light Chain

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— Single intrathecal dose of SCAD-siRNA therapeutic RAG-17 yields favorable safety profile and profound, durable biomarker reductions —
— Preliminary data from 180 mg cohort shows trends of clinical stabilization (ALSFRS-R) —
— Phase II trial is now actively dosing participants —

CHICAGO, April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Ractigen Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing next-generation RNA-based medicines, today announced positive preliminary data from the single ascending dose (SAD) Phase I portion of its ongoing Phase I/II clinical trial of RAG-17. RAG-17 is a novel small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapeutic in development for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients with mutations in the superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene.

The data were presented on April 19, at the 2026 American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Annual Meeting in Chicago, Illinois. The presentation was delivered by Dr. Zhi-Ying Wu, Principal Investigator of the Second Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine.

RAG-17 utilizes Ractigen’s proprietary Smart Chemistry-Aided Delivery (SCAD™) technology, which conjugates the siRNA duplex to an accessory oligonucleotide (ACO). This innovative architecture enables widespread central nervous system (CNS) distribution and exceptionally durable target engagement following a single intrathecal (IT) injection, potentially allowing for significantly extended dosing intervals compared to current therapies.

“The data presented at AAN this year represents a major milestone for Ractigen and, more importantly, for patients living with SOD1-ALS,” said Dr. Long-Cheng Li, CEO of Ractigen Therapeutics. “Achieving an 81% reduction in plasma NfL—a critical marker of neuroaxonal damage—alongside a highly favorable safety profile from a single administration is unprecedented. Furthermore, the early signals of clinical stabilization we are observing at the highest dose level strongly validate our SCAD platform. We are thrilled to have already initiated dosing in the Phase II portion of the study to further evaluate RAG-17’s transformative potential.”

“SOD1-ALS is a genetically defined disease with a clear biological target, yet patients still face a very limited treatment landscape,” commented Dr. Zhi-Ying Wu. “What we observed in this Phase I study—a substantial and durable reduction in CSF SOD1 protein after a single dose, accompanied by a profound decrease in plasma NfL and early stabilization of functional scores in the highest dose group—gives us strong reason for optimism. These data clearly suggest that RAG-17 is engaging its target in a highly meaningful way, and we look forward to generating further evidence in the ongoing Phase II study.”

Key Highlights from the AAN Presentation (NCT06556394):

The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled SAD phase evaluated 20 participants across five sequential dose cohorts (30, 90, 120, 150, and 180 mg). The participants received RAG-17 or placebo at 3:1 ratio. The study is still ongoing so the results were presented in a blinded way:

  • Favorable Safety & Tolerability: RAG-17 was well-tolerated across all ascending dose cohorts. There were no serious adverse events (SAEs) or Grade3 treatment-emergent adverse events. Only three treatment-related adverse events were reported and all were mild ≥ 3 treatment-emergent adverse events. Only three treatment-related adverse events were reported and all were mild.
  • Profound Target Engagement: A single IT dose yielded rapid and durable reductions in the disease-driving protein. In the 150 mg cohort, the maximum reduction in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) SOD1 reached 58.1% (blinded analysis) by Day 90, maintaining a clinically meaningful reduction through Day 210.
  • Deep Reductions in Neurodegeneration Biomarkers: RAG-17 induced a progressive and significant reduction in plasma neurofilament light chain (NfL). In the 180 mg cohort, plasma NfL levels dropped by 81.2% (blinded analysis) from baseline by Day 150.
  • Encouraging Clinical Stabilization: Functional assessment was conducted with ALS Functional Rating Score-Revised (ALSFRS-R) in the 180mg cohort. In this cohort, blinded preliminary data indicated an attenuation of clinical decline:
    • At Day 90, all the participants who had baseline and at least one assessment after dosing (n=3) exhibited zero functional decline (a 0-point change from baseline).
    • At Day 150, decreases remained minimal (ranging from 0 to 4 points).

Phase II Trial Update

Ractigen Therapeutics also reports that a Phase II clinical trial for RAG-17 is now underway. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multiple ascending dose (MAD) study is designed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and preliminary efficacy of repeated intrathecal injections of RAG-17 in patients with SOD1 mutations. Since the first participant was successfully dosed on January 13, 2026, enrollment for two cohorts has been successfully completed. The trial is being conducted across multiple sites, led by investigators including Dr. Yilong Wang at Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Dr. Zhi-Ying Wu at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine; Capital Medical University; Dr. Hui-Fang Shang at West China Hospital of Sichuan University; Dr. Zhang-Yu Zou at Fujian Medical University Union Hospital; and Dr. Jing-Sheng Zeng at the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University.

About RAG-17

RAG-17 is an investigational siRNA therapeutic candidate designed using Ractigen’s proprietary SCAD™ delivery platform technology to specifically target and silence the superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene mRNA. Mutations in the SOD1 gene cause a toxic gain-of-function and are a known cause of familial ALS. By reducing the production of the toxic mutant SOD1 protein, RAG-17 aims to slow or halt the progression of SOD1-ALS.

RAG-17 has obtained Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and been selected for the CARE Program of the Center for Drug Evaluation (CDE), National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), which facilitates the accelerated development of rare disease therapies.

About ALS

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and ultimately death, typically within three to five years of diagnosis. SOD1 gene mutations account for approximately 10-30% of familial ALS cases and about 1-2% of sporadic ALS cases. There remains a critical unmet medical need for effective treatments that can slow or stop disease progression.

About Ractigen Therapeutics

Ractigen Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company innovating next-generation RNA therapeutics, with a primary focus on small activating RNAs (saRNAs) developed through its clinically validated RNA activation (RNAa) technology. Leveraging proprietary delivery platforms such as SCAD™, LiCO™, and GLORY™, Ractigen is advancing a robust pipeline addressing unmet medical needs in oncology, neurological diseases, and genetic disorders. Its versatile technologies also enable the rapid development of RNA-based solutions, including siRNAs, where applicable, to target life-threatening, fast-progressing conditions such as those in the CNS. Committed to scientific excellence and patient-centered innovation, Ractigen strives to transform healthcare through the power of RNA therapeutics. For more information, visit www.ractigen.com.

Tropicana Twister Builds Homes That Could Change Lives for Generations

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Gandakan Kebaikan transforms nationwide kindness into real homes, delivering meaningful and lasting impact.


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 April 2026 – Tropicana Twister’s ‘Gandakan Kebaikan’ campaign has reached a defining milestone with the completion and handover of homes to families in need, marking a tangible outcome of a nationwide movement built on everyday acts of kindness.

Final Shot 1

Developed in partnership with EPIC Homes, the initiative contributes towards the building of up to 100 homes for underserved communities, including Orang Asli families across Malaysia. What began during Ramadan as a simple call to do good has since translated into safe, liveable spaces that provide families with protection, stability and a chance to move forward.

“Gandakan Kebaikan reflects our belief that meaningful change happens when communities come together with a shared purpose,” said Aditya Sheoran, PepsiCo Franchise Senior Director. “Through this initiative, we’re building homes and helping to create stronger foundations for families to thrive, today and for the future.”

Jennifer Lee, Head of Marketing, PepsiCo Malaysia Beverages, shared, “This is where intention becomes impact. Tropicana Twister’s Gandakan Kebaikan campaign started as individual acts of kindness, and now, the result is visible, that Malaysians are and will continue to show up for one another.”

“Families living in unsafe homes live in constant worry, especially during heavy rain. An EPIC Home gives them a place where they can feel secure. It goes beyond being just a shelter – a safe home gives peace of mind, stability, and the hope for a better future.” said Nadhira Halim, (Asst. Manager, Fundraising & Partnership, EPIC Homes).

More than just physical structures, these homes create a sense of security and dignity, while giving families a stable environment to rebuild their lives. Built with the support of volunteers and local communities, each home reflects a collective effort that goes far beyond a single campaign.

While ‘Gandakan Kebaikan’ was rooted in the spirit of Ramadan, its impact continues to extend far beyond the festive season. By focusing on long-term community needs, Tropicana Twister reinforces its commitment to creating meaningful and lasting change.

“As a brand, we believe in the power of collective goodness. This project is about turning that belief into action and bringing people together to create lasting impact,” added Jennifer. “Just like every beam and plank forms a home, each of you is a vital piece in building this journey.”

With the completion of these homes, ‘Gandakan Kebaikan’ continues to build on its mission of supporting underserved communities across Malaysia, proving that collective goodwill can create an impact that lasts beyond a moment.

For more information, visit Tropicana Twister’s Facebook page @MYTropicana and watch here on YouTube to see the impact unfold.

Hashtag: #TropicanaTwister

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About PepsiCo

PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $86 billion in net revenue in 2022, driven by a complimentary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Tropicana, Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.

Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with pep+ (PepsiCo Positive). pep+ is our strategic end-to-end transformation that puts sustainability and human capital at the centre of how we will create value and growth by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change cafor the planet and people. For more information, visit , and follow on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @PepsiCo.

Student bonds are built at SIM from orientation to graduation

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 April 2026 – As universities adapt to hybrid learning and evolving workforce expectations, student relationships are increasingly being treated not as incidental, but as a designed part of the education journey. Across higher education, there is growing recognition that peer interaction, collaboration, and shared experiences contribute to how students learn, work, and transition into employment. This shift is prompting institutions to rethink how engagement is built from the moment students enter campus through to graduation.

From Orientation to a Continuous Student Journey

Orientation programmes have traditionally focused on introducing students to campus life. Today, they are increasingly seen as the starting point of a longer engagement model. Institutions such as the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM), onboarding is complemented by a structured ecosystem of activities that extends throughout the academic lifecycle. These include Student‑led Student Club Recruitment drives,, leadership camps, and peer-led initiatives that encourage early interaction and sustained participation over time.

Building Bonds Through Shared Experiences

Rather than relying solely on informal social interaction, universities or institutions are creating structured environments where students collaborate regularly. SIM, for instance, offers more than 70 student clubs spanning arts, sports, and academic interests, alongside activities such as hackathons, overseas community projects, and student-led events. Such platforms allow students to work together on common goals, reflecting real-world team dynamics and reinforcing skills such as communication and collaboration.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

The concept of student life is also expanding beyond academic settings. Dedicated platforms such as SIM’s Student Life initiatives are designed to provide a more holistic campus experience, reinforcing the idea that learning extends beyond formal instruction. At the same time, academic support systems such as the Student Learning Centre provide structured assistance through workshops, consultations, and learning resources, supporting both individual and group learning processes.

A Diverse and Global Learning Environment

With partnerships across universities in the United Kingdom, Australia, Europe, and the United States, institutions like SIM bring together students from varied cultural and academic backgrounds. This diversity creates opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration, which is increasingly relevant in a globalised workforce.

Connecting Student Experience to Career Outcomes

The emphasis on collaboration and engagement is also closely linked to employability. SIM’s broader model integrates academic programmes with industry partnerships, internships, and career services aimed at preparing students for a rapidly changing work environment. This reflects a wider trend in higher education, where experience is being designed not only around academic achievement, but also around the development of professional networks and workplace skills.

Redefining the University Experience

As learning models continue to evolve, universities or institutions are placing greater emphasis on how student interactions are structured over time. From orientation activities to co-curricular engagement and career preparation, the journey from enrolment to graduation is increasingly being shaped as a continuous pathway for collaboration, experience-building, and network development.

Reference:

  1. Project 1095 – https://project1095.simge.edu.sg/
  2. Singapore Institute of Management – https://www.sim.edu.sg
  3. SIM Global Education Overview – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/overview

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 17,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 41% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit .

Alvarez & Marsal Expands Asia-Pacific Presence with Korea Restructuring Practice Launch

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SEOUL, South Korea, April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Leading global professional services firm Alvarez & Marsal (A&M) today launched a dedicated restructuring practice in Korea, expanding its Asia-Pacific restructuring platform and deepening its commitment to the market.

The launch builds on A&M’s decade-long presence in Korea, during which headcount has tripled to more than 100 professionals over the past three years. It brings the firm’s globally recognized restructuring capabilities to the local market. The practice integrates operational turnaround, financial restructuring, and corporate finance solutions, with a strong emphasis on early, hands-on engagement to deliver practical, result-driven solutions.

“When we founded A&M, we built the firm around a simple principle — Leadership, Action, and Results,” Bryan Marsal, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Alvarez & Marsal, said. “We step into complex situations, take responsibility, and execute. Bringing that model to Korea is an important milestone for us. Korea is a dynamic, globally connected economy undergoing structural transition. We are committed to investing behind local leadership and delivering the senior-led execution that defines our firm.”

Supporting the Evolution of Korea’s Corporate Landscape

As one of Asia’s most dynamic and globally integrated economies, Korea continues to evolve its corporate and capital market framework through strengthened governance standards, market reforms, and initiatives to promote transparency and long-term value creation.

At the same time, global interest-rate normalization and sector-specific pressures have increased balance sheet strain across parts of the economy. Higher financing costs, ongoing industrial adjustment, and evolving macroeconomic conditions, including trade dynamics and tariffs, are placing greater emphasis on capital discipline and operational resilience, particularly among small- and mid-sized enterprises.

The ongoing review of the Corporate Restructuring Promotion Act (CRPA), set to expire at the end of 2026, further underscores the opportunity for Korea to review its restructuring framework to ensure it remains responsive and aligned with evolving market conditions.

Against this backdrop, A&M’s Korea Restructuring Practice aims to support preemptive restructuring, value preservation, and execution-led transformation, in collaboration with stakeholders across the ecosystem.

“Across Asia-Pacific, we are seeing increasing demand for senior-led, execution-focused restructuring solutions,” James Dubow, Managing Director and Head of A&M North Asia, said. “With the right leadership and sustained investment, we believe this practice can become a meaningful contributor to the continued development of Korea’s restructuring ecosystem and to A&M’s regional growth.”

Experienced Leadership for an Evolving Market

JJ Lim, Managing Director and Head of Korea Restructuring, and Dee Chung, Managing Director and Deputy Head of Korea Restructuring, will lead the Korea Restructuring Practice, combining deep institutional restructuring experience with cross-border execution capability.

Mr. Lim brings more than three decades of experience from Korea Development Bank, where he led complex restructurings and creditor workouts across key industries. Mr. Chung, a long-standing leader within A&M Korea, has advised on numerous multi-jurisdictional turnarounds and special situations. Their complementary backgrounds, spanning policy-bank leadership and global advisory execution, provide strong local credibility and international connectivity.

“Korea’s restructuring framework has evolved significantly over the past decades and continues to advance alongside broader corporate governance and capital market reforms,” Mr. Lim said. “The direction of travel is clear: greater transparency, stronger market discipline, and more proactive engagement. A senior-led, execution-focused platform can support that progress by helping companies and stakeholders navigate change with discipline and confidence, contributing to the resilience and long-term strength of the Korean economy.”

“Over the past decade, we have supported global clients on complex cross-border restructurings and turnaround situations,” Mr. Chung said. “Establishing a dedicated restructuring practice in Korea allows us to deepen that work and bring more of A&M’s distinctive strengths to Korean corporates and market participants. I am confident in the long-term prospects for this platform and excited about building a practice that combines global connectivity with local leadership.”

Regional Investment and Cross-Border Capability

The expansion follows A&M’s recent growth in Japan and Australia, reflecting the firm’s continued investment in Asia-Pacific. The addition of Korea deepens A&M’s senior leadership presence in the region and enhances its ability to connect local engagements with global sector expertise and capital solutions. In total, A&M’s Asia-Pacific offices comprise approximately 2,200 professionals.

About Alvarez & Marsal

Founded in 1983, Alvarez & Marsal is a leading global professional services firm. Renowned for its leadership, action and results, Alvarez & Marsal provides advisory, business performance improvement and turnaround management services, delivering practical solutions to address clients’ unique challenges. With a worldwide network of experienced operators, world-class consultants, former regulators and industry authorities, Alvarez & Marsal helps corporates, boards, private equity firms, law firms and government agencies drive transformation, mitigate risk and unlock value at every stage of growth. To learn more, visit: AlvarezandMarsal.com.

THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE ENHANCES NATIONAL RESILIENCE THROUGH SMART DEFENCE TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION

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KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On April 20, The Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, officiated the Defence Services Asia (DSA) & National Security (NATSEC) Asia 2026 Opening Ceremony at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE ENHANCES NATIONAL RESILIENCE THROUGH SMART DEFENCE TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION
THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE ENHANCES NATIONAL RESILIENCE THROUGH SMART DEFENCE TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION

Themed “Enhancing Capabilities and Resilience Through Technology”, the 19th Edition of the DSA 2026 Exhibition will run for four days from 20 to 23 April 2026. This exhibition aims to enhance defence capabilities and drive future technology to ensure national resilience through innovation, international cooperation and the development of the local defence industry ecosystem.

The main focus of this event is on the evolution of defence technology that has shifted from conventional assets to smart systems. Emphasis is placed on mastering technology that is capable of facing the security threats of the new millennium which are asymmetric and hybrid in nature.

Among the core advanced technologies featured :

a) Autonomous & Robotic Systems: Exhibition of various variations of unmanned systems (UAV, UGV, and UUV) equipped with Artificial Intelligence (AI) for long-distance monitoring and detection operations.

b) Digital & Cyber Defence: Application of new generation encryption technology and cybersecurity platforms to protect the country’s data sovereignty and critical infrastructure.

c) Sensor & Electronic Technology: High-precision radar and sensor systems that enable ATM readiness to be at an optimal level in monitoring space, maritime, and land in real-time.

In line with this global technology exposure, the government continues to strengthen the Industrial Collaboration Programme (ICP) as the main mechanism for technology transfer. Through the ICP, the involvement of international industry players is required to contribute to the development of local talent and research and development (R&D) in the high-tech sector.

Among the key segments highlighted are the CBRNe Arena, focusing on technologies related to chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive threats; the Firearms and Tactical Equipment Segment, showcasing the latest operational capabilities and equipment; and the Coalition of Defence Industry Malaysia (CDIM) Pavilion, which highlights the capabilities of the country’s defence industry. The DSA & NATSEC Asia Lab also showcases innovation initiatives by providing a platform for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups to introduce their innovations on the international stage.

This edition recorded the participation of 1,456 companies from 63 countries, including 37 international pavilions, as well as approximately 600 official delegations and 50,000 trade visitors from more than 114 countries within the 48,000-square-metre exhibition space. This scale of participation reflects the strategic importance of the exhibition at the global level and further demonstrates Malaysia’s position as a strategic meeting point for defence and security cooperation.

Also present were the Minister of Defence, YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin; Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar; Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat, Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Johari bin Abdul; Chairman of DSA Exhibition and Conference Sdn Bhd, Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin; Chief of Defence Force, General Datuk Haji Malek Razak bin Sulaiman; Secretary-General of the Ministry of Defence, Datuk Lokman Hakim bin Ali; Deputy Minister of Defence, YB Adly Zahari; as well as top management and senior officers of the Ministry and the Malaysian Armed Forces.

– END –

“‘MALAYSIA MADANI” “BERKHIDMAT UNTUK NEGARA”
”PERTAHANAN NEGARA, TANGGUNGJAWAB BERSAMA”

Ministry of Defence Malaysia
20 April 2026

Dawn Medical Technologies Acquires Controlling Interest in Pinnacle Health in Vietnam

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  • Strategic entry into high-growth Vietnam market
  • Combines Dawn’s product sourcing capabilities with Pinnacle Health’s established local presence and market expertise
  • Advances Dawn’s mission to expand access to high-quality, affordable medical technologies across Southeast Asia

SINGAPORE and HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Dawn Medical Technologies (“Dawn”), CBC Group’s MedTech commercialization platform, today announced the acquisition of a controlling interest in Pinnacle Health Equipment Joint Stock Company (“Pinnacle Health”), one of Vietnam’s largest and most established full-service MedTech distributors. This strategic transaction marks Dawn’s entry into the fast-growing Vietnamese market and CBC Group’s first acquisition in the MedTech space in Southeast Asia.

Backed by CBC Group, Asia’s largest healthcare-dedicated asset management firm, Dawn is building a leading MedTech commercialization platform that connects upstream sourcing capabilities with downstream commercial excellence to expand access to high-quality, affordable medical solutions across emerging markets anchored in Southeast Asia.

Founded in 2015 by Ms. Jade Le, Pinnacle Health has earned a strong reputation for deep product expertise and high quality customer service. Headquartered in Ho Chi Minh City, the company represents leading global MedTech companies, and serves hospitals and clinics nationwide. With Vietnam’s healthcare expenditure expected to grow at 8 – 9% annually, the acquisition provides Dawn with an immediate, scaled, and highly respected local platform.

Arjun Sarker, CEO of Dawn, said: “Acquiring a controlling interest in Pinnacle Health is a pivotal milestone in our regional expansion. Jade and her team have built an outstanding business with a commanding market position. We have strong confidence in Jade’s leadership and look forward to combining Dawn’s sourcing strength and operational playbook with Pinnacle’s local excellence to accelerate growth and bring more life-changing medical technologies to patients in Vietnam.”

Jade Le, CEO and Founder of Pinnacle Health, said: “I am truly excited to partner with Dawn and CBC Group as we enter a new phase of growth for Pinnacle. With their deep healthcare expertise and shared long-term vision, we are well-positioned to accelerate our expansion, strengthen our capabilities, and elevate the standards of care we bring to the market.

Most importantly, this partnership enables us to deepen our commitment to improving patient outcomes and expanding access to advanced medical solutions for the people of Vietnam.”

Fu Wei, CEO of CBC Group, said: “This acquisition through Dawn underscores our deep commitment to Southeast Asia. Vietnam is a high-growth market with substantial unmet needs. We are delighted to establish our footprint here with a platform of Pinnacle’s calibre and are excited about the opportunity to continue expanding our presence to serve underserved communities and shape the future of healthcare in the region.”

This acquisition aligns with Dawn’s strategy to lead MedTech commercialization in the region by consolidating fragmented markets and leveraging regulatory and commercial excellence across Asia to improve access to critical medical technologies.

About Dawn Medical Technologies

Dawn is a leading MedTech commercialization platform, focused on increasing access to high-quality, affordable medical technologies across emerging markets anchored in Southeast Asia. The company leverages deep regulatory expertise and a differentiated sourcing model to serve underserved markets. Dawn is a portfolio company of CBC Group.

About Pinnacle Health

Pinnacle Health is a leading full-service MedTech commercialization platform in Vietnam, providing distribution, sales, marketing, and regulatory services for a portfolio of global medical device manufacturers. With a team of ~50 professionals and a strategic nationwide footprint, Pinnacle is a trusted partner in the Vietnamese healthcare ecosystem.

About CBC Group

Headquartered in Singapore, CBC Group (“CBC”), Asia’s largest healthcare-dedicated asset management firm, is committed to creating value and integrating global resources. Founded in 2014, with an AUM of US$10.5 billion, CBC has a leading team of investment, industry and portfolio management professionals headquartered in Singapore with offices in Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong and New York, Seoul, London and presence in Boston, San Diego, San Francisco and Tokyo. CBC focuses on platform-building, buyout, credit and growth-focused opportunities across multiple core areas within the healthcare sector, including pharmaceutical and biotech, medical technology and healthcare services.

CBC is committed to creating lasting value by integrating global innovation and talent. Partnering with the world’s top entrepreneurs and scientists, its unique “investor-operator” approach has empowered leading healthcare companies to widen access to affordable medical care, catalyse innovation, and improve efficiency in fulfilling unmet medical needs worldwide.

For more information on CBC Group, please visit www.cbridgecap.com/

Connect with us on LinkedIn (CBC Group).

 

Case Report of Mabwell’s Nectin-4 targeting ADC (9MW2821) in Cervical Cancer Published in The New England Journal of Medicine

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SHANGHAI, April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Mabwell (688062.SH), an innovation-driven biopharmaceutical company with a fully integrated industrial chain, announced that a recent clinical case report on its self-developed novel Nectin-4 ADC (bulumtatug fuvedotin, R&D code: 9MW2821) for the treatment of cervical cancer has been published in The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM, Impact Factor: 78.5), a leading international medical journal.

The article, published by the team of Dr. Wang Shanbing, Director of the Oncology Center at the Second People’s Hospital of Yibin, reveals for the first time globally a rare case of hepatic “pseudoprogression” phenomenon observed in a patient with advanced cervical cancer following treatment with the novel Nectin-4 ADC (9MW2821). Pseudoprogression generally refers to a phenomenon where existing lesions temporarily enlarge or new lesions appear early in immunotherapy, without clinical deterioration, followed by subsequent stabilization or shrinkage—typically not representing true tumor progression.

This article reports the case of a patient with metastatic cervical squamous-cell carcinoma whose disease was refractory to platinum–taxane chemotherapy with no prior immunotherapy. After just two cycles of treatment with 9MW2821, the patient’s baseline metastatic lesions showed substantial regression, and serum squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) antigen levels dropped precipitously—from 37.0 ng/mL to 1.2 ng/mL (normal range ≤1.5). However, despite comprehensive improvement across multiple indicators, a CT scan unexpectedly revealed a “new hypoattenuating lesion ” measuring 1.8 cm × 2.5 cm in the medial segment of the left lobe of the liver. A liver biopsy showed dense infiltration of lymphocytes, plasma cells, and neutrophils, with no evidence of granulomas, spindle cell proliferation, or viable tumor cells. The biopsy results ruled out disease progression, sarcoid-like reactions, or inflammatory pseudotumor. Given the patient’s p16-positive status (implying high HPV antigenicity) and the absence of previous immunotherapy, Dr. Wang Shanbing’s team hypothesized that the antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeted occult micrometastases, inducing immune-cell death and releasing damage-associated molecular patterns that triggered this robust inflammatory influx. The patient continued treatment, and subsequent imaging showed gradual resolution of the liver lesion, with no reappearance during two years of follow-up.

ADCs are hailed as “magic bullets” for precisely targeting tumors. Previously, pseudoprogression has been predominantly observed in immunotherapies such as PD‑1/PD‑L1 inhibitors, whereas its occurrence in ADC therapy for solid tumors is considered exceedingly rare. This finding by Dr. Wang Shanbing’s team carries significant implications for the clinical management of advanced cervical cancer. The article strongly emphasizes that treatment that could prolong life should not be prematurely discontinued based solely on radiographic “false impressions,” providing a valuable reference for the clinical application of ADCs and safeguarding optimal therapeutic benefits for oncology patients.

9MW2821 is the world’s first Nectin-4 ADC candidate to enter Phase III clinical trials for cervical cancer. Currently, enrollment for the monotherapy Phase III trial has been completed. Interim analysis is expected to be conducted and pre-NDA to be submitted in H2 2026. The first-line combination study with toripalimab is in Phase II.

About Mabwell

Mabwell (688062.SH) is an innovation-driven biopharmaceutical company with capabilities spanning the entire pharmaceutical value chain. The company is committed to providing more effective and accessible therapies to meet global medical needs, with a focus on oncology and aging-related diseases. Mabwell’s mission is “Explore Life, Benefit Health” and its vision is “Innovation, from Ideas to Reality.” For more information, please visit www.mabwell.com/en. 

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, the potential safety, efficacy, regulatory review or approval and commercial success of our product candidates and those relating to the Company’s product development, clinical studies, clinical and regulatory milestones and timelines, market opportunity, competitive position, possible or assumed future results of operations, business strategies, potential growth opportunities and other statements that are predictive in nature. “Forward-looking statements” are statements that are not historical facts and involve a number of risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual results to be materially different from any future results expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking expressions, including, but not limited to, “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “estimate,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “would,” and similar expressions and the negatives of those terms.

Forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current expectations and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the Company’s control, including, but not limited to: environment; politic; economy; society; legislation; our dependence on our product candidates, most of which are still in preclinical or various stages of clinical development; our reliance on third-party vendors, such as contract research organizations and contract manufacturing organizations; the uncertainties inherent in clinical testing; our ability to complete required clinical trials for our product candidates and obtain approval from regulatory authorities for our product candidates; our ability to protect our intellectual property; the loss of any executive officers or key personnel. In case one or more of these risks or uncertainties deteriorate, or any assumptions are incorrect, the actual results may be seriously inconsistent with the stated results.

The Company cautions all the persons not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements, which speaks only as of the date of this press release. The Company disclaims any obligation, except as specifically required by law and the rules of the applicable Stock authority to publicly update or revise any such statements to reflect any change in expectations or in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statements may be based, or that may affect the likelihood that actual results will differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. All forward-looking descriptions, figures and assumptions in this press release are applicable to this statement.

 

Innovent to Present New Clinical Data of IBI363（PD-1/IL-2α-biased bispecific fusion protein） at the 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting

By
Advertorial Desk
-

SAN FRANCISCO and SUZHOU, China, April 22, 2026 /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 clinical data for its first-in-class IBI363 (PD-1/IL-2α-biased bispecific fusion protein) * as well as TYVYT® (sintilimab injection)** will be presented at the 2026 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting from May 29 to June 2, 2026, in Chicago, Illinois, U.S.

Dr. Hui Zhou, Chief R&D Officer (Oncology) of Innovent, stated: “We are excited to announce that at the 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting, we will present new PoC data of IBI363 in NSCLC, across both IO-resistant and first-line settings. With robust PoC data for IO-resistant NSCLC now in hand, we are moving IBI363 into MRCT pivotal development, an important step toward tackling a major global unmet medical need. At the same time, we are encouraged by the promising dose optimization data in first-line NSCLC, and we look forward to continued maturation of PoC full data to inform our next steps. Innovent will continue to push the boundaries of cancer care, as we are dedicated to delivering physicians and patients more innovative, effective, and life-saving treatment options.”

Abstracts of IBI363(PD-1/IL-2α-biased bispecific fusion protein)

1.  Presentation Title: IBI363 (TAK-928) plus chemotherapy as first line (1L) treatment for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Abstract Number: 8586
Session Type: Poster
Session Title: Lung Cancer/Non-Small Cell Metastatic
Session Date & Time: May 31, 2026 9:00 AM-12:00 PM CDT
Presenter: Dr. Haiyan Tu, Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital

2.  Presentation Title: First-in-class PD-1/IL-2α-bias bispecific antibody IBI363 (TAK-928) in patients (pts) with advanced immunotherapy-resistant non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): updated results from a phase I study.
Abstract Number: 2618
Session Type: Poster
Session Title: Developmental Therapeutics/Immunotherapy
Session Date & Time: May 30, 2026 1:30 PM-4:30 PM CDT
Presenter: Dr. Jianya Zhou, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine

3.  Presentation Title: Randomized phase 3 study (MarsLight-11) evaluating IBI363 (TAK-928) versus docetaxel in patients (pts) with squamous non-small cell lung cancer (sqNSCLC) after prior chemotherapy (chemo) and immunotherapy (IO).
Abstract Number: TPS8673
Session Type: Poster
Session Title: Lung Cancer/Non-Small Cell Metastatic
Session Date & Time: May 31, 2026 9:00 AM-12:00 PM CDT
Presenter: Dr. Roy S. Herbst, Yale School of Medicine

Abstracts of TYVYT®(sintilimab)

1.  Presentation Title: Adjuvant sintilimab plus bevacizumab following curative resection of spontaneously ruptured hepatocellular carcinoma: A prospective exploratory phase II study (CLEAR-2)
Abstract Number: TPS4254
Session Type: Poster
Session Title: Gastrointestinal Cancer—Gastroesophageal, Pancreatic, and Hepatobiliary
Session Date & Time: May 30, 2026, 9:00 AM-12:00 PM CDT
Presenter: Dr. Yongjun Chen, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine

2.  Presentation Title: Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy with or without PD-1 blockade in pMMR/MSS low rectal cancer patients (CHOICE II): A multi-center, open-label, randomized controlled trial.
Abstract Number: 3640
Session Type: Poster
Session Title: Gastrointestinal Cancer—Colorectal and Anal
Session Date & Time: May 30, 2026, 9:00 AM-12:00 PM CDT
Presenter: Dr. Wei Zhang, Changhai Hospital

3.  Presentation Title: Effectiveness and Safety of IBI310 Combined With Sintilimab Versus Sorafenib in the First-line Treatment of Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma (aHCC): A Randomized, Open-label, Controlled, Multicenter Phase III Clinical Study 
Abstract Number: 4148
Session Type: Poster
Session Title: Gastrointestinal Cancer—Gastroesophageal, Pancreatic, and Hepatobiliary
Session Date & Time: May 30, 2026, 9:00 AM-12:00 PM CDT
Presenter: Dr. Jia Fan, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University

4.  Presentation Title: CONCEPT (combination of cetuximab plus fruquintinib treatment ± immunotherapy): A multicenter, randomized, open-label phase II trial in first-line pMMR RAS/BRAF wild-type unresectable metastatic colorectal cancer.
Abstract Number: TPS3680
Session Type: Poster
Session Title: Gastrointestinal Cancer—Colorectal and Anal
Session Date & Time: May 30, 2026, 9:00 AM-12:00 PM CDT
Presenter: Dr. Yue Liu, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine.

5.  Presentation Title: Long-term survival and biomarker analysis of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy with or without PD-1 antibody sintilimab in pMMR locally advanced rectal cancer: A randomized clinical trial. 
Abstract Number: 3610
Session Type: Poster
Session Title: Gastrointestinal Cancer—Colorectal and Anal
Session Date & Time: May 30, 2026 9:00 AM-12:00 PM CDT
Presenter: Dr. Xiao Weiwei, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center

6.  Presentation Title: Larynx preservation via chemotherapy-free neoadjuvant sintilimab-cetuximab-SBRT and response-adapted treatment in locally advanced laryngeal cancer: A phase II, single-arm clinical trial (The NeoVOICE study).
Abstract Number: 6095
Session Type: Poster
Session Title: Head and Neck Cancer
Session Date & Time: May 30, 2026 1:30 PM-4:30 PM CDT
Presenter: Dr. Song Ming, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center

7.  Presentation Title: Pathological complete response and ctDNA analyses in SCIENCE: Results from a randomized, phase III trial of neoadjuvant chemotherapy plus sintilimab and chemoradiotherapy plus sintilimab versus chemoradiotherapy in resectable locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.
Abstract Number: LBA4082
Session Type: Poster
Session Title: Gastrointestinal Cancer-Gastroesophageal, Pancreatic, and Hepatobiliary
Session Date & Time: May 30, 2026 9:00 AM-12:00 PM CDT
Presenter: Dr. Xuefeng Leng, Sichuan Cancer Hospital

8.  Presentation Title: Sintilimab (PD-1 antibody) Plus Gemcitabine and Docetaxel (GT) as First-line or Later-line Therapy in Patients with Advanced Epithelioid Sarcoma: A Prospective, Multicenter, Single-arm, Phase II Clinical Study.
Abstract Number: 11574
Session Type: Poster
Session Title: Sarcoma
Session Date & Time: June 1, 2026 1:30 PM-4:30 PM CDT
Presenter: Dr. Xiaowei Zhang, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center

9.  Presentation Title: Sintilimab plus Anlotinib and Chemotherapy as First-line Treatment for Advanced Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: A Prospective, Phase II Clinical Trial.
Abstract Number: 8050
Session Type: Poster
Session Title: Lung Cancer—Non-Small Cell Local-Regional/Small Cell/Other Thoracic Cancers
Session Date & Time: May 31, 2026 9:00 AM-12:00 PM CDT
Presenter: Dr. Jianchun Duan, Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences

*Innovent entered into a license and collaboration agreement with Takeda for co-development and co-commercialization of IBI363 (Takeda R&D code: TAK-928). Please refer to the announcement for more information.

**Abstracts of TYVYT ®(sintilimab) are from investigator-initiated clinical trials (IIT), except for abstract #4148.

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 18 products in the market. It has 5 assets in Phase III or pivotal clinical trials and 14 more molecules in early clinical stage. Innovent partners with over 30 global healthcare companies, including Eli Lilly, Roche, Takeda, Sanofi, Incyte, 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.

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