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Successful Extension of Nucleic Acid Aptamer Pharmacokinetics in Joint Research by Ajinomoto Co., Inc. and RIBOMIC Inc.

  • AJICAP® Antibody-Drug Conjugate Manufacturing Technology Contributes to Enhanced Efficacy of Antibody Drugs

TOKYO, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ajinomoto Co., Inc. (President: Shigeo Nakamura, Headquarters: Chuo-ku, Tokyo, hereinafter referred to as “Ajinomoto”) has been conducting joint research* with RIBOMIC Inc. (President: Yoshikazu Nakamura, Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo, hereinafter referred to as “RIBOMIC”), a drug discovery startup focused on the development and production of aptamer pharmaceuticals, on the development of technology for controlling the pharmacokinetics of nucleic acid aptamers using the antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) manufacturing technology “AJICAP®” (hereinafter referred to as “AJICAP®”). As a result of this research, RIBOMIC has successfully extended the half-life of a conjugate of nucleic acid aptamers and the Fc region of immunoglobulins in the bloodstream.

As part of our efforts to demonstrate the applicability of AJICAP®, we have been advancing joint research with RIBOMIC (disclosed on December 27, 2023) aimed at realizing next-generation aptamer pharmaceuticals. In this research, RIBOMIC has focused on the retention of immunoglobulins in the bloodstream and aims to develop technology to extend the half-life in the bloodstream by fusing nucleic acid aptamers with immunoglobulins. By combining RIBOMIC’s compound creation and measurement technology for nucleic acid aptamers with our AJICAP®, we have worked on creating a conjugate in which nucleic acid aptamers are covalently bonded to the Fc region, a partial protein of immunoglobulins. Through this effort, we have examined the binding ratio and linker structure of the Fc region and nucleic acid aptamers, and the results suggest that adjusting the binding ratio to 1:1 can significantly extend the half-life of nucleic acid aptamers in the bloodstream (see inserted figure).


As demonstrated in this joint research, AJICAP® can be applied to the creation of conjugates of various bioactive molecules and antibodies. The resulting antibody-bioactive substance conjugates are expected to contribute to overcoming challenges such as improving the efficacy, stability, and safety of antibody drugs that have been apparent until now. Furthermore, the results of this joint research demonstrate the potential for AJICAP® to be applied not only to ADCs but also to various modalities. We will continue to provide unique value through antibody modification using AJICAP®.

*This does not grant RIBOMIC exclusive rights to the AJICAP® technology.

About Ajinomoto Co., Inc.
The Ajinomoto Group will contribute to the well-being of all human beings, our society and our planet with “AminoScience” based on the corporate slogan “Eat Well, Live Well”. The Ajinomoto Group has offices in 34 countries and regions, and sells products in more than 130 countries and regions. In fiscal 2023, sales were 1.4392 trillion yen (9.9 billion U.S. dollars). To learn more, visit www.ajinomoto.com.

About RIBOMIC, Inc.
As a drug discovery biotech venture, RIBOMIC, Inc. focuses on the development of aptamer pharmaceuticals, which are expected to be next-generation drugs, targeting a wide range of unmet medical needs such as pain, eye disorders, and bone diseases. They are also applying their RiboART System® to fields other than drug discovery, working on the development of new applications for aptamers outside of pharmaceuticals. For more information, please visit https://www.ribomic.com.

For further information, please contact: HERE

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Bispecific vs. Bispecific: Innovent Announces First Patient Dosed in the Phase 2 Clinical Study of Efdamrofusp Alfa (IBI302), a First-in-class Anti-VEGF and Anti-Complement Bispecific Fusion Protein for the Treatment of Diabetic Macular Edema

SAN FRANCISCO and SUZHOU, China, May 7, 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 the completion of first patient dosing in the Phase 2 clinical study of efdamrofusp alfa (R&D code: IBI302), a recombinant human vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-antibody human complement receptor 1 (CR1) fusion protein, for the treatment of diabetic macular edema (DME).

This randomized, double-masked, multi-center, active-controlled Phase 2 clinical study (NCT06908876) aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravitreal injections of efdamrofusp alfa in DME patients. A total of 150 participants will be enrolled and randomized in a 1:1:1 ratio to the IBI302 4 mg group, the IBI302 8 mg group, and the Faricimab (anti-VEGF/ANG-2 bispecific antibody) 6 mg group. The primary endpoint is the change in best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) from baseline in the study eye at week 16.

DME has become the leading cause of vision impairment among the diabetic population in China: According to statistics, China has over 140 million diabetic patients, with approximately one-third of them developing diabetic retinopathy (DR). Among patients with DR, the prevalence rate of DME ranges from 7% to 14%, indicating an estimated 4 to 5 million DME patients in China1.

DME development is primarily driven by microvascular damage mediated by VEGF upregulation and inflammatory factors2. Complement activation is also involved in the development of DME by damaging the neurovascular units through cytolysis, opsonization, and promotion of proinflammatory microenvironment, leading to retinal microvascular lesions, neurodegeneration, and macular edema3. At present, intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF agents or glucocorticoids are key treatment strategies, effectively improving visual acuity and retinal edema. However, frequent intravitreal injections (every 4 to 8 weeks) can result in poor patient compliance and increased risk of complications such as cataract and elevated intraocular pressure, making it challenging to achieve sustained visual acuity benefits with long-term treatment4,5. In recent years, bispecific antibodies represented by Faricimab have demonstrated significant efficacy and extended dosing intervals in patients with DME; Faricimab currently represents the highest global treatment standard for DME.

Efdamrofusp alfa, the first-in-class bispecific fusion protein targeting VEGF and complement, can simultaneously inhibit angiogenesis and vascular leakage mediated by VEGF, and inflammatory responses mediated by complement activation. To date, multiple clinical studies of efdamrofusp alfa have been conducted in patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) and DME, among which high-dose (8 mg) efdamrofusp alfa has shown significant efficacy in improving visual acuity and retinal edema. Meanwhile, efdamrofusp alfa has demonstrated the potential for extended dosing intervals (up to 12-16 weeks), with favorable safety and tolerability.

Professor Xiaodong Sun, the leading Principal Investigator of this Study, Deputy Director of Shanghai General Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, and Director of the Ophthalmology Center, stated, ” DME is one of the most common ocular fundus diseases in China, affecting up to 4- to 5 million patients. With increasingly the aging of the population and the continuous rise in diabetes prevalence in China, DME has become one of the diseases that seriously endangers public health, imposing heavy burdens to the society and individuals. Anti-VEGF drugs are currently the first-line treatment for DME, but huge unmet medical needs remain, such as frequent injections, long-term efficacy attenuation, and suboptimal response in a subset of patients . As a global first-in-class anti-VEGF-complement bispecific drug, efdamrofusp alfa has shown favorable safety profile, substantial improvement in visual acuity and macular edema, and the potential of extended dosing interval in the completed Phase 1 clinical study in DME patients, which has brought great confidence to our investigator team. efdamrofusp alfa. We look forward to the success of this Phase 2 study, hoping to provide of a new treatment option for a large number of DME patients.”

Dr. Lei Qian, Senior Vice President of Clinical Development of Innovent, stated, “Efdamrofusp alfa is an anti-VEGF-complement bispecific fusion protein self-developed by Innovent with global proprietary rights. This clinical study will be globally the first study comparing two dual-target agents, using Faricimab, the global standard of care in DME. We look forward to the success of this study, which could provide support for a Phase 3 clinical trial and a new treatment option for patients. Innovent’s general biomedicine pipeline covers cardiovascular, endocrine and metabolic, ophthalmology, and autoimmune disease areas. We will continue to develop new therapies, providing physicians with more clinical treatment options and benefiting more patients.”

About diabetic macular edema

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a series of lesions caused by retinal microvascular damage resulting from diabetes and is the main microvascular complication of diabetes. Diabetic macular edema (DME), featuring retinal edema, thickening and exudation, is caused by capillary leakage in the macular area. It is the result of the blood-retinal barrier (BRB) destruction and mainly affects central vision. At present, DR has become the leading cause of blindness among the working-age population worldwide, while DME has become the main cause of visual impairment among the diabetic population6.

The pathological mechanisms of DR and DME are multifactorial, involving metabolic abnormalities related to hyperglycemia, oxidative stress, and inflammation. These processes lead to the upregulation of vasoactive factors such as VEGF, which subsequently disrupt the BRB and increase vascular permeability, manifesting clinically as retinal edema and exudation. When the macular area is involved, it develops into DME2. Additionally, complement system activation contributes to disease progression by damaging the neurovascular units through cytolysis, opsonization, and promotion of proinflammatory microenvironment, causing retinal microvascular lesions, neurodegeneration, macular edema, and retinal neovascularization3.

About Effamrofusp Alfa (IBI302)

Efdamrofusp alfa is a recombinant, fully human bispecific fusion protein developed by Innovent Biologics with global intellectual property rights. The N-terminal is the VEGF-binding domain, which can bind to the VEGF family to block the VEGF-mediated signaling pathway, inhibiting the survival and proliferation of vascular endothelial cells, thereby inhibiting angiogenesis, reducing vascular permeability, and reducing vascular leakage. The C-terminal is the complement binding domain, which can inhibit complement activation through the classical pathway and the bypass pathway by specifically binding to C3b and C4b, and thereby alleviate the inflammatory response mediated by complement activation. Through this dual mechanism, efdamrofusp alfa exerts its therapeutic effects by inhibiting both VEGF-mediated angiogenesis and complement activation pathways.

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: Innovent does not recommend the use of any unapproved drugs/indications. 

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, are intended to identify certain of such forward-looking statements. Innovent 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 Innovent 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 Innovent’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, Innovent’s competitive environment and political, economic, legal and social conditions.

Innovent, the Directors and the employees of Innovent 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 materialize or turn out to be incorrect.

References

1.     中华医学会眼科学分会眼底病学组, 中国医师协会眼科医师分会眼底病学组. 我国糖尿病视网膜病变临床诊疗指南(2022年). 中华眼底病杂志. 2023;39(02):99-124.

2.     Kusuhara S, Fukushima Y, Ogura S, Inoue N, Uemura A. Pathophysiology of Diabetic Retinopathy: The Old and the New. Diabetes Metab J. 2018;42(5):364-376.

3.     Jiang F, Lei C, Chen Y, Zhou N, Zhang M. The complement system and diabetic retinopathy. Surv Ophthalmol. 2024;69(4):575-584.

4.     Ehlken C, Ziemssen F, Eter N, et al. Systematic review: non-adherence and non-persistence in intravitreal treatment. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol. 2020;258(10):2077-2090.

5.     Ciulla TA, Bracha P, Pollack J, Williams DF. Real-world Outcomes of Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Therapy in Diabetic Macular Edema in the United States. Ophthalmol Retina. 2018;2(12):1179-1187.

6.     Tan GS, Cheung N, Simó R, et al. Diabetic macular oedema. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol, 2017, 5(2): 143-155.

CStone Presents Preclinical Results of CS2011 (EGFR/HER3 bispecific antibody), CS5007 (EGFR/HER3 bispecific ADC), CS5005 (SSTR2 ADC) and CS5006 (ITGB4 ADC) at 2025 AACR

SUZHOU, China, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CStone Pharmaceuticals (“CStone”, HKEX: 2616), an innovation-driven biopharmaceutical company focused on anti-cancer therapies, announced today that poster presentations of preclinical data of CS2011 (EGFR/HER3 bispecific antibody), CS5007 (EGFR/HER3 bispecific ADC), CS5005 (SSTR2 ADC) and CS5006 (ITGB4 ADC), key assets in CStone Pipeline 2.0, have been delivered at the 2025 American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting.

Key Highlights:

  • CS2011 (EGFR/HER3 bispecific antibody):

EGFR and HER3 are members of the human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) family and are validated therapeutic targets in advanced solid tumors. EGFR overexpression drives tumor progression in approximately 70% of colorectal cancers (CRC), 60% of lung cancers, and over 90% of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). Meanwhile, HER3 upregulation frequently emerges as a resistance mechanism to MAPK/PI3K inhibitors, EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), and hormone therapies. CS2011 is a bispecific antibody with high binding affinity to both EGFR and HER3. It effectively blocks downstream signaling of both targets, thereby inhibiting tumor growth on EGFR/HER3 positive tumor cells.

1.         CS2011 targets almost all HER family signaling except HER2 homodimers, addressing tumor heterogeneity effectively.

2.         CS2011 demonstrates potent binding affinity to EGFR and/or HER3 individually and enhanced dual binding affinity to EGFR and HER3 concurrently driven by avidity-based synergy.

3.         CS2011 inhibits tumor growth by binding to EGFR and/or HER3-positive tumor cells.

4.         CS2011 shows superior in vivo and in vitro anti-tumor activity versus potential major competitors.

(1)      Compared to anti-EGFR, anti-HER3 and competing bispecific antibody, CS2011 induces faster and deeper internalization in tumor cells across varying EGFR & HER3 expression levels.

(2)    CS2011 demonstrated potent inhibition of EGFR downstream signaling, comparable to anti-EGFR antibodies, and superior inhibition of HER3-mediated signaling compared to competitive bispecific antibody.

(3)      CS2011 exhibited robust anti-proliferative activity in tumor cells with diverse EGFR and HER3 expression levels.

(4)      In in vivo CDX tumor models, CS2011 demonstrated superior tumor-growth inhibition compared to anti-EGFR or anti-HER3 monoclonal antibodies alone and showed comparable efficacy to the combination treatment.

5.         CS2011 exhibited a pharmacokinetic (PK) profile comparable to those of monoclonal antibodies in rodents.

In summary, CS2011 has demonstrated potent blockage activity on EGFR and HER3 and exhibited synergistic effects on their downstream signaling. It thereby shows the potent tumor growth inhibitory effects in in vitro and in vivo experiments. The patent of CS2011 has been filed in March 2025, and its Investigational New Drug (IND) application is expected to be submitted in the near term.

  • CS5007 (EGFR/HER3 bispecific ADC):

CS5007 is a bispecific ADC targeting both EGFR and HER3, developed with CStone’s proprietary ADC platform. It is composed of EGFR/HER3 bispecific antibody backbone (CS2011), a hydrophilic β-glucuronide linker and a clinically validated topoisomerase I inhibitor, Exatecan. This integrated approach, featuring precise targeting, optimized linker stability, and proven therapeutic payload, positions CS5007 as a potential best-in-class candidate for precision oncology.

1.         CS5007 targets almost all human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) family signaling except for HER2 homodimers, covering broad tumor types and effectively addressing tumor heterogeneity.

2.         CS5007 demonstrated high-affinity binding to EGFR single-positive, HER3 single-positive, and EGFR/HER3 double-positive tumor cells.

3.         CS5007 triggered high-rate internalization on tumor cells.

4.         CS5007 demonstrated potent, antigen-dependent cytotoxicity against tumor cells in vitro across varying EGFR and HER3 expression levels and showed robust tumor-growth inhibition in CDX models.

5.         CS5007 exhibited superior in vitro stability compared to ADCs conjugated with tetrapeptide and dipeptide linkers. After 7 days of incubation in human/monkey serum, it retained approximately 70% of its drug payload, indicating a minimal release rate.

6.         CS5007 exhibited comparable pharmacokinetic (PK) profile to those ADCs composed of monoclonal antibodies in rodents.

CS5007 demonstrates strong affinity for EGFR- and/or HER3-positive tumor cells and induces efficient internalization. Preclinical studies have shown excellent antitumor activity, favorable safety, and pharmacokinetic profiles. The patent of CS5007 has been filed in March 2025. Preclinical findings support further IND-enabling studies and clinical investigations in various advanced solid tumors.

  • CS5005 (SSTR2 ADC):

Somatostatin receptor 2 (SSTR2) is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that is overexpressed in various solid tumors, including neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs), and small cell lung cancer (SCLC). Due to its tumor-selective expression profile, SSTR2 has emerged as a promising target in the field of precision oncology.

CS5005 is a first-in-class, SSTR2-targeting ADC, composed of CStone’s proprietary anti-SSTR2 antibody with high affinity and selectivity, hydrophilic β-glucuronide linker, and potent topoisomerase I inhibitor, Exatecan. In preclinical studies, CS5005 demonstrated potent, antigen-dependent tumor growth inhibition that was not affected by co-administration with SSA-derived therapies. Additionally, CS5005 exhibited superior stability, monoclonal antibody-like pharmacokinetic (PK) properties, and favorable tolerability in preliminary non-human primate toxicity studies.

1.         CS5005 demonstrated high affinity to SSTR2-positive cell lines and induced high-rate internalization on tumor cells. 

2.         CS5005 exhibited cross-reactivity with SSTR2-expressing cells in non-human primates and demonstrated selective binding to SSTR2 with minimal interaction with other SSTRs.

3.         CS5005 demonstrated potent antigen-dependent cytotoxic activity against tumor cells in vitro and robust tumor-growth inhibition in CDX tumor model.

4.         The antitumor activity of CS5005 (SSTR2-DXd) is not compromised by concomitant ligand-derived treatments (e.g., octreotide, Lutathera®), thereby avoiding drug-drug interference commonly observed with current anti-SSTR2 therapies.

5.         CS5005 demonstrated superior in vitro stability due to its proprietary linker, outperforming ADCs conjugated with well-validated dipeptide and tetrapeptide linkers.

6.         Superior pharmacokinetic (PK) properties of CS5005 in rodents.

7.         Bioinformatics analysis of SCLC samples supports DLL3/SSTR2 dual targeting as a strategy to overcome tumor heterogeneity and expand the treatable patient population.

In summary, CS5005 is a first-in-class, SSTR2-targeting ADC designed to selectively eliminate SSTR2-positive tumors, including small cell lung cancer, neuroendocrine carcinoma, and neuroendocrine tumors. It is composed of CStone’s proprietary high-affinity, high-selectivity anti-SSTR2 antibody, CStone’s proprietary hydrophilic β-glucuronide linker, and potent TOP1 inhibitor payload. CS5005 has demonstrated robust antitumor activity in both in vitro and in vivo studies, supporting its progression toward IND submission and clinical development. The patent of de novo antibody backbone of CS5005 has been filed in the first half of 2024. CS5008, an SSTR2/DLL3 bispecific ADC is under development. By simultaneously targeting SSTR2 and DLL3 that frequently co-express in SCLC, NETs, NECs and others, CS5008 aims to overcome tumor heterogeneity, a challenge faced by mono-specific therapies.

  • CS5006 (ITGB4 ADC):

CS5006 is a first-in-class antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeting the novel antigen integrin β4 (ITGB4), developed using CStone’s proprietary ADC platform. Leveraging an internally developed machine learning-based bioinformatics algorithm alongside rigorous in-house experimental validation, CStone identified elevated ITGB4 expression across multiple tumor types—including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), colorectal cancer (CRC), esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC)—with minimal expression observed in normal tissues. Preclinical in vivo and in vitro studies have demonstrated CS5006’s promising therapeutic potential, highlighting its ability to effectively killing tumor cells.

1.         Bioinformatics analysis identified high ITGB4 expression in colorectal tumor tissues, supporting ITGB4 as a promising tumor-associated antigen for CRC. In the tumor microenvironment, ITGB4 was selectively overexpressed on tumor cells while remaining low expression in normal tissues.

2.         Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining confirmed limited ITGB4 expression in normal tissue but high expression in tumor tissues from patients with CRC, sq-NSCLC, HNSCC and ESCC.

3.         ITGB4 antibody demonstrated high affinity and internalization rate.

4.         CS5006 preclinical proof-of-concept models using ITGB4-vedotin and ITGB4-DXd showed potent antitumor activity in both in vitro and in vivo studies, along with favorable pharmacokinetic (PK) profiles.

(1)      ITGB4-vedotin exhibited strong antigen-dependent cytotoxicity in ITGB4-positive tumor cell lines in vitro and demonstrated potent antigen-dependent tumor inhibition in CDX models in vivo.

(2)      ITGB4-DXd also exhibited potent antigen-dependent cytotoxicity in vitro and strong tumor-inhibitory effects in vivo CDX tumor models.

(3)      Both ITGB4-vedotin and ITGB4-DXd exhibited favorable PK characteristics.

In summary, CS5006 is a first-in-class ADC targeting the novel tumor antigen ITGB4 and is currently undergoing comprehensive preclinical evaluation. Preclinical data have demonstrated strong antitumor activity across multiple animal models, particularly in solid tumors such as non-small cell lung cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. The compound also exhibited good tolerability, providing strong support for its further clinical development. The patent of CS5006 has been filed in April 2023.

Poster Information:

Poster Title

Poster Number

CS2011: A novel bispecific antibody targeting EGFR and HER3 that
demonstrates promising anti-tumor activity in preclinical evaluation

2927

CS5007: A novel EGFR and HER3 dual-targeted antibody-drug
conjugate (ADC) with potent antitumor activity in preclinical studies

2954

CS5005: A novel SSTR2-targeted antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) with
robust anti-tumor activity in preclinical studies

4751

CS5006: A novel integrin β4-targeted antibody-drug conjugate (ADC)
with robust antitumor activity in preclinical studies

2953

About CStone

CStone (HKEX: 2616), established in late 2015, is an innovation-driven biopharmaceutical company focused on the research and development of anti-cancer therapies. Dedicated to addressing patients’ unmet medical needs in China and globally, the Company has made significant strides since its inception. To date, the Company has successfully launched 4 innovative drugs and secured approvals for 16 new drug applications (NDAs) covering 9 indications. The company’s pipeline is balanced by 16 promising candidates, featuring potentially first-in-class or best-in-class antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), multispecific antibodies, immunotherapies and precision medicines. CStone also prides itself on a management team with comprehensive experiences and capabilities that span the entire drug development spectrum, from preclinical and translational research to clinical development, drug manufacturing, business development, and commercialization. For more information about CStone, please visit www.cstonepharma.com

Forward-looking statements

The forward-looking statements made in this article only relate to events or information as of the date when the statements are made in this article. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or publicly revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. You should read this article completely and with the understanding that our actual future results or performance may be materially different from what we expect. All statements in this article are made on the date of publication of this article and may change due to future developments.

Disclaimer: only for communication and scientific use by medical and health professionals, it is not intended for promotional purposes.

Bellroy, the popular Australian carry brand, releases much-anticipated luggage styles

The brand renowned for solving carry problems extends their expertise to travel, with two wheeled carry-on bags that are lightweight, hard-wearing and repairable in under 10 minutes.

MELBOURNE, Australia, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Solving problems is in Bellroy’s DNA. Since their origin in 2010, the global carry brand from Australia has been looking for what’s broken in carry, and worked obsessively to engineer a better solution. They first became known for re-inventing leather wallets, reducing the layers of leather, introducing pull-tab storage and slimming it right down (for the sake of pockets everywhere). Since then, they’ve brought innovative design thinking to bags, tech accessories and more – and now to a particularly tricky category: wheeled luggage. With two carry-on styles (a hard-shell spinner and a soft-shell tipper) that aim to unite the things travelers want their luggage to be – lightweight, hard-wearing, smooth-rolling and optimized for packing.

“Packing for a plane trip and feeling ready for that experience, is such a visceral moment that everyone can relate to. So it was exciting for us to design for that moment. Bellroy getting into luggage was such a natural progression for us,” says Bellroy’s head of product design, James Jeffrey.

“We can take everything that we have learnt in Bellroy’s 15-year history, and apply it to luggage, where there are so many technical elements to dive into,” adds Bellroy’s Product Development Manager, Pip Grinter.

Introducing: the Transit Carry-On and Lite Carry-On. Embedded with Bellroy’s signature design thinking, and engineered for long-lasting utility.

The brand has worked hard to consider all of the things that can go wrong in travel – from moving through security lines, to loading your bag into overhead compartments, to rolling down the street at your destination. And ensure their solutions bring ease, organization and peace of mind. With hard-wearing materials, features that balance light weight with essential durability, and an easy repair system for the parts that can fail on luggage – including wheels, handles and TSA locks. This is key to Bellroy’s dual mission of delighting their customers, as well as minimizing their environmental impact.

The certified B Corp has become known for quality and durability, and their approach to luggage is of course no different. Through a process of rigorous testing, they provide travelers with peace of mind that these are going to last the distance.

“We saw so many examples of broken luggage,” explains Grinter. “So in testing our prototypes, we were simulating a lot of the common stresses, over and over again. Essentially simulating a 10-year lifespan so we can be sure every part is going to hold up.”

Both styles are now available at bellroy.com.

Transit Carry-On

  • A hard-shell spinner that comes in two sizes
  • 41L (designed for maximum global airline carry-on compliance)
  • 46L (designed to maximize capacity for more generous US airline limits)
  • Weighs 3.1kg and 3.2kg respectively (6.8lbs and 7lbs)
  • HINOMOTO Lisof® Silent Run wheels for an ultra-smooth, soundless ride
  • Made from a matte polycarbonate shell (80% recycled content)
  • Custom-designed telescopic handle with underside push button and three height settings
  • Removable packing cells that double as an internal divider
  • Soft woven grab handles for added comfort and grip
  • Replaceable wheels, handles and TSA lock
  • 10-year warranty
  • Available in Black, Chalk, Everglade and Bronze
  • Transit Carry-On 41L – $299 USD | Transit Carry-On Plus 46L – $329 USD

Lite Carry-On

  • An agile and compressible soft-shell tipper
  • 38L
  • Weighs just 2.1kg (4.6lbs)
  • Quiet-roll TPU wheels with rollerblade-inspired bearings for ultimate impact resistance on uneven surfaces
  • Made from Bellroy’s Lite Dura Nylon – a lightweight but hard-wearing ripstop
  • Custom-designed telescopic handle with underside push button and three height settings
  • Exterior front pocket, plus rummage-free access to your laptop from the main zip
  • Internal mesh packing cells for organization and visibility
  • Replaceable wheels and telescopic handle
  • 10-year warranty
  • Available in Ash, Black and Clay
  • $269 USD

Affiliate links available via Rakuten
Image assets available via our Press Hub

About Bellroy

Bellroy is the design-obsessed Australian carry brand changing the way we move through the world. Since 2010, Bellroy has solved some of the most common problems, such as fat wallets and flimsy bags, through meticulous production, ensuring timeless and enduring products that adapt to every need. Through Certified B-Corp status, purpose-driven business practices and sustainable material development, Bellroy continues to show the world what “better” looks like. Every person’s journey is unique; Bellroy believes that brands shouldn’t define who you are but support you in pursuing the life you crave.

Bellroy constantly pursues better ways to source its leathers, develop material innovations, reduce their impact on the environment and make products that last. Using agile thinking and customer-informed design practices, Bellroy works to innovate and push boundaries year after year.

Bellroy, the popular Australian carry brand, releases much-anticipated luggage styles

The brand renowned for solving carry problems extends their expertise to travel, with two wheeled carry-on bags that are lightweight, hard-wearing and repairable in under 10 minutes.

MELBOURNE, Australia, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Solving problems is in Bellroy’s DNA. Since their origin in 2010, the global carry brand from Australia has been looking for what’s broken in carry, and worked obsessively to engineer a better solution. They first became known for re-inventing leather wallets, reducing the layers of leather, introducing pull-tab storage and slimming it right down (for the sake of pockets everywhere). Since then, they’ve brought innovative design thinking to bags, tech accessories and more – and now to a particularly tricky category: wheeled luggage. With two carry-on styles (a hard-shell spinner and a soft-shell tipper) that aim to unite the things travelers want their luggage to be – lightweight, hard-wearing, smooth-rolling and optimized for packing.


Luggage that knows how to travel. Bellroy’s wheeled luggage is designed for smooth travel, and engineered to be lightweight, hard-wearing, organized and repairable. For seasoned travelers who want luggage that knows how to travel, too.

“Packing for a plane trip and feeling ready for that experience, is such a visceral moment that everyone can relate to. So it was exciting for us to design for that moment. Bellroy getting into luggage was such a natural progression for us,” says Bellroy’s head of product design, James Jeffrey.

“We can take everything that we have learnt in Bellroy’s 15-year history, and apply it to luggage, where there are so many technical elements to dive into,” adds Bellroy’s Product Development Manager, Pip Grinter.

Introducing: the Transit Carry-On and Lite Carry-On. Embedded with Bellroy’s signature design thinking, and engineered for long-lasting utility.

The brand has worked hard to consider all of the things that can go wrong in travel – from moving through security lines, to loading your bag into overhead compartments, to rolling down the street at your destination. And ensure their solutions bring ease, organization and peace of mind. With hard-wearing materials, features that balance light weight with essential durability, and an easy repair system for the parts that can fail on luggage – including wheels, handles and TSA locks. This is key to Bellroy’s dual mission of delighting their customers, as well as minimizing their environmental impact.

The certified B Corp has become known for quality and durability, and their approach to luggage is of course no different. Through a process of rigorous testing, they provide travelers with peace of mind that these are going to last the distance.

“We saw so many examples of broken luggage,” explains Grinter. “So in testing our prototypes, we were simulating a lot of the common stresses, over and over again. Essentially simulating a 10-year lifespan so we can be sure every part is going to hold up.”

Both styles are now available at bellroy.com.

Transit Carry-On

  • A hard-shell spinner that comes in two sizes
  • 41L (designed for maximum global airline carry-on compliance)
  • 46L (designed to maximize capacity for more generous US airline limits)
  • Weighs 3.1kg and 3.2kg respectively (6.8lbs and 7lbs)
  • HINOMOTO Lisof® Silent Run wheels for an ultra-smooth, soundless ride
  • Made from a matte polycarbonate shell (80% recycled content)
  • Custom-designed telescopic handle with underside push button and three height settings
  • Removable packing cells that double as an internal divider
  • Soft woven grab handles for added comfort and grip
  • Replaceable wheels, handles and TSA lock
  • 10-year warranty
  • Available in Black, Chalk, Everglade and Bronze
  • Transit Carry-On 41L – $299 USD | Transit Carry-On Plus 46L – $329 USD

Lite Carry-On

  • An agile and compressible soft-shell tipper
  • 38L
  • Weighs just 2.1kg (4.6lbs)
  • Quiet-roll TPU wheels with rollerblade-inspired bearings for ultimate impact resistance on uneven surfaces
  • Made from Bellroy’s Lite Dura Nylon – a lightweight but hard-wearing ripstop
  • Custom-designed telescopic handle with underside push button and three height settings
  • Exterior front pocket, plus rummage-free access to your laptop from the main zip
  • Internal mesh packing cells for organization and visibility
  • Replaceable wheels and telescopic handle
  • 10-year warranty
  • Available in Ash, Black and Clay
  • $269 USD

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About Bellroy

Bellroy is the design-obsessed Australian carry brand changing the way we move through the world. Since 2010, Bellroy has solved some of the most common problems, such as fat wallets and flimsy bags, through meticulous production, ensuring timeless and enduring products that adapt to every need. Through Certified B-Corp status, purpose-driven business practices and sustainable material development, Bellroy continues to show the world what “better” looks like. Every person’s journey is unique; Bellroy believes that brands shouldn’t define who you are but support you in pursuing the life you crave.

Bellroy constantly pursues better ways to source its leathers, develop material innovations, reduce their impact on the environment and make products that last. Using agile thinking and customer-informed design practices, Bellroy works to innovate and push boundaries year after year.

Nomad eSIM Drives Global Connectivity and Makes Travel Seamless

SANTA CLARA, Calif., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Nomad eSIM, a business line of LotusFlare, continues to see strong growth by delivering high-speed global connectivity to international travelers. Since its launch in 2021, Nomad eSIM has rapidly become the go-to solution for travelers seeking reliable, affordable internet access in 200+ destinations worldwide.

Customers use Nomad to save up to 70% compared to traditional roaming charges, avoid bill shock, and activate eSIMs in seconds. The product has earned a 4.8-star rating on the Apple App Store and widespread word-of-mouth referrals. 

Building on this consumer momentum, Nomad proudly launched its Nomad Enterprise eSIM portal in 2024. This portal provides businesses with a centralized solution to efficiently manage, assign, and monitor connectivity for their employees. Adoption has been positive, with businesses from financial services and manufacturing, to travel and pharma all leveraging Nomad to optimize their employee travel and reduce employee roaming costs.

Equally transformative is Nomad’s eSIMfx service, which enables brands like OTAs, airlines, and fintech to integrate eSIMs into their offerings. Partners can offer seamless global connectivity with minimal development effort through robust APIs, SDKs, or no-code microsites. This unlocks new revenue streams, drives customer loyalty with travel benefits, and positions partner brands as all-in-one travel solutions. By partnering with eSIMfx, businesses can boost revenue and tap into the growing demand for global connectivity.

“Global eSIM connectivity is no longer a nice-to-have; it’s a necessity to modern businesses,” says Shern Ng, Head of Product at Nomad. “Nomad eSIM is at the forefront of this transformation, empowering companies and travelers to connect seamlessly wherever their journey takes them. Simultaneously, we enable businesses to offer true connectivity as part of their service.”

With more exciting features for consumers and businesses launching in 2025, Nomad eSIM remains committed to innovation and expansion. It is poised to continue its success in leading the global connectivity space across both consumer and enterprise markets.

About Nomad:
Nomad, a business unit of LotusFlare Inc., simplifies global travel by providing affordable, high-speed, mobile data services in over 200 destinations worldwide. With flexible data plans at local rates, Nomad eliminates expensive roaming charges. Travellers can browse data plans for their upcoming trip, install and activate eSIM in seconds, and connect to a 5G network upon arrival.

Contact
Magdalena Arnautovic
Integrated Marketing and Communications Manager Email Address: magdalena.marjanovic@lotusflare.com

Blinq Raises $25M Series A to Reimagine the Start of Every Professional Relationship

With over 2.5 million users across 500,000 companies in 189 countries, Blinq is scaling the platform that powers first impressions – and everything after. The new funding will support global expansion, particularly across North America and Europe, and accelerate Blinq’s roadmap to become the connective tissue modern relationships have been missing.

MELBOURNE, Australia, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Blinq, the digital business card platform helping professionals connect instantly and stay top of mind, today announced a $25 million Series A funding round led by Touring Capital, with participation from existing investors Blackbird Ventures and Square Peg Capital, and new investor HubSpot Ventures. The funding will accelerate Blinq’s global growth and power the next generation of tools for professionals kickstarting meaningful relationships.

Jarrod Webb, CEO Blinq
Jarrod Webb, CEO Blinq

Blinq started as a digital business card. Today, it leads the way in how over 2.5 million professionals share who they are, save valuable connections, and follow through – whether they’re meeting a new potential client, investor, or collaborator. Blinq is on track to surpass 50 million card shares in 2025. This viral growth makes Blinq one of the fastest-growing platforms servicing the first moment of connection between two people and the market leading digital business card solution globally.

Blinq captures the moment most platforms ignore: when two people meet for the first time. Instead of focusing on managing relationships after they’ve formed, Blinq zeroes in on the first few seconds – when attention is highest, intent is clear, and trust is still being formed.

“Blinq is positioning itself at the very top of the professional relationship funnel,” said Priya Saiprasad, co-founder and general partner at Touring Capital. “It’s building the system of record for in-person networking and doing it with a product that’s delightfully simple, beautifully designed, and already proven to scale.”

Blinq users create personalized digital business cards and share them instantly via QR code, email signature, NFC tap, short link, or video call background. Users can create multiple cards tailored to different contexts – work, side hustle and personal use – so they always show up the right way, in the right moment. Each interaction leads to a sleek profile – no app from the other person required – where contacts can connect, capture details automatically (like where and when you met), and sync into CRMs like HubSpot or Salesforce.

“For 700 years, business cards have been paper, passive, and easily lost,” said Rick Baker, Partner at Blackbird Ventures. “It wasn’t until the pandemic normalized QR codes that this shift became possible. Blinq has seized the moment to bring this centuries-old ritual into the cloud, and in doing so, they’re transforming how professionals initiate relationships.”

This B2C virality has fueled serious B2B momentum: over 7,500 businesses now use Blinq to manage employee cards at scale, control how their brand shows up, onboard teams faster, and capture contact leads automatically. Blinq cards are already being used by employees at more than 90% of Fortune 500 companies.

“This round marks a pivotal step in Blinq’s journey to become the relationship layer for modern professionals,” said Jarrod Webb, CEO and Founder at Blinq. “We’re not just helping people connect – we’re helping them act on every relationship that starts. Blinq is becoming the infrastructure for how modern relationships begin and grow.”

Where CRMs and social platforms focus on existing contacts, Blinq is building the first system of record for real-world, first-time professional interactions – optimized for speed, context, and follow-through. In a world where your identity is fragmented across various platforms – and new connections are too easy to forget – Blinq gives you one place to show up well in that first interaction. It’s a dynamic identity layer that keeps contact details current and helps you manage every version of yourself in every first moment.

As the platform becomes increasingly embedded in business workflows, investors see an opportunity to expand how professionals initiate and manage relationships.

“We are excited about how Blinq transforms fleeting encounters into lasting and valuable professional relationships,” said Adam Coccari, Managing Director at HubSpot Ventures. “By capturing the context around a new connection and seamlessly integrating with existing tools like HubSpot, Blinq is building a relationship intelligence layer for millions of individuals and organizations around the world.”

About Blinq

Blinq helps professionals connect in a way that’s fast, memorable, and built for follow-through. Founded in Australia, Blinq is now the world’s top-rated and most popular digital business card platform, with over 2.5 million users across 500,000 companies and offices in Sydney, Melbourne, San Francisco and New York. From individuals to global teams, Blinq makes it effortless to start – and scale – better professional relationships. Learn more at https://blinq.me.

Blinq product photo
Blinq product photo

Formosa Pharmaceuticals Announces Licensing Agreement with Apotex Inc., for Commercialization of Clobetasol Propionate Ophthalmic Suspension for Post-Ocular Surgery Inflammation and Pain for Mexico

TAIPEI, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Taiwan-based Formosa Pharmaceuticals (“Formosa“, 6838.TW) announced today that the company has entered into an exclusive licensing agreement with Apotex Inc. (“Apotex”), for exclusive rights in Mexico for the commercialization of clobetasol propionate ophthalmic suspension, 0.05% (APP13007), a patented innovative medicine for the treatment of inflammation and pain following ocular surgery. Clobetasol propionate ophthalmic suspension, 0.05% (APP13007) was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2024. APP13007’s active ingredient is the superpotent corticosteroid, clobetasol propionate, and is derived from Formosa Pharma’s proprietary APNT® nanoparticle formulation platform.  The novel formulation enables a convenient and straightforward dosing regimen, while providing rapid and sustained relief of inflammation and pain, which in Phase 3 trials proved statistically and clinically superior to its matching placebo (p<0.001).

“Having started our journey together in 2024, Formosa Pharma is pleased to expand the partnership with Apotex to include Mexico.” said Erick Co, President and CEO of Formosa Pharmaceuticals. “Our experience with Apotex’s Canadian team underscored their commitment to branded and differentiated ophthalmology products, giving us full confidence that APP13007 will reach ophthalmologists and patients in Mexico as swiftly as possible.”

“At Apotex, we are committed to delivering access to medicines and health products, and unlocking new possibilities for patients through partnerships. We are pleased to bring access to APP13007 (clobetasol propionate ophthalmic suspension, 0.05%) to the Mexican market upon regulatory approval. Our agreement with Formosa Pharmaceuticals further demonstrates Apotex’s leading position as partner of choice in the Americas for pharmaceutical licensing and product acquisitions as we continue to execute our Journey of Heath growth strategy,” said Alok Kanti, President, Apotex International.

About Formosa Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Formosa Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (6838.TWO) is a clinical stage biotechnology company with primary focus in the areas of ophthalmology and oncology.  The company’s proprietary nanoparticle formulation technology (APNT®), through which APP13007 was developed, improves the dissolution and bioavailability of APIs for topical, oral, and inhaler administration.  Resulting formulations have high uniformity, purity, and stability, thereby allowing the utilization of poorly soluble or extremely potent drug agents which otherwise may face insurmountable challenges in delivery and penetration to target tissues.  For more details about Formosa Pharma and APNT®, visit www.formosapharma.com.

About Apotex Inc.

Apotex is a Canadian-based global health company. We improve everyday access to affordable, innovative medicines and health products for millions of people worldwide, with a broad portfolio of generic, biosimilar, and innovative pharmaceutical and consumer health products. Headquartered in Toronto, with regional offices globally, including in the United States, Mexico and India, we are the largest Canadian-based pharmaceutical company and a health partner of choice for the Americas for pharmaceutical licensing and product acquisitions. Learn more about us at www.apotex.com.