AbbVie and BioLabs Announce Winners of the Japan Innovation Award

On October 5th, AbbVie, based in Minato, Tokyo, and BioLabs announced the winners of the AbbVie Japan Innovation Award, aimed at supporting promising biotechnology firms or academic institutions in Japan. BioLabs fosters innovation in the life sciences sector through a global network of shared laboratories and coworking spaces.

The awards included two categories: the "Golden Ticket Program," which provides laboratory space access at BioLabs Tokyo, and the "AbbVie Special Mentoring Program," offering mentorship from AbbVie's research and development (R&D) experts. Tuning Fork Bio, Inc. was awarded the Golden Ticket, while Neoclease, Inc. received the AbbVie Special Mentoring award.

These awards recognize biotechnology companies and academic institutions working on research and development that leverage groundbreaking science or technology in AbbVie's key disease areas. AbbVie and BioLabs aim to support early-stage innovation and contribute to the growth of Japan's innovation ecosystem, bridging promising research outcomes to future healthcare solutions that bring real value to patients.

This year's call for entries invited biotechnology firms and academic institutions to participate in research that creates new therapeutic options in areas including immune disorders, cancer, mental and neurological disorders, obesity, and aesthetic medicine—all key focus areas for AbbVie. After a rigorous selection process, finalists were chosen to present their projects, leading to the announcement of the winners.

Winners of the AbbVie Japan Innovation Award

Tuning Fork Bio, Inc.
In the development of treatments for cancer and immune diseases, identifying drug targets that are genuinely relevant to patients' conditions is a significant challenge. Tuning Fork Bio, Inc. focuses on human autoantibodies, combining a protein microarray technology developed by Fukushima Medical University with AI analysis to discover new drug targets and therapeutic antibodies. Their approach, leveraging human biological insights, holds promise for creating new treatment options.

As part of the Golden Ticket Program, Tuning Fork Bio will receive:

- One year of complimentary access to the state-of-the-art BioLabs Tokyo incubator facility, including one lab bench space.
- Access to key research equipment, services, entrepreneurship support programs, BioLabs’ global network, and the scientific community.
- Mentoring support from AbbVie’s R&D specialists.

Neoclease, Inc.
While significant advancements have been made in developing curative therapies for genetic disorders, challenges remain, including targeted approaches to specific genomic areas and ensuring the safety of genome editing technologies. Neoclease, Inc. has developed a unique AI platform designed for optimizing novel gene editing techniques specific to each disease. This technology enables applications to targets that traditional methods struggle to address. It is expected to accelerate the realization of innovative gene therapies for various genetic disorders, including Parkinson's disease, and contribute to generating new treatment options that meet patients' unmet medical needs.

Through the AbbVie Special Mentoring Program, Neoclease will receive guidance from AbbVie’s R&D experts.

Statements from Leadership

Tiago Campos Rodrigues, President of AbbVie, expressed, "It is an honor to recognize these two organizations that are working on research and development with the potential to solve significant healthcare challenges in AbbVie's focus disease areas. We are proud to support innovative startups for the second consecutive year. Japan has gathered an exceptional pool of scientific talent and continues to grow its innovation ecosystem. We hope to support researchers and entrepreneurs through this award, enabling groundbreaking science and technology to translate into value for patients in the future. As part of the innovation ecosystem, AbbVie will contribute to the advancement of R&D and innovation through partnerships and sharing scientific expertise."

Johannes Fruehauf, Founder and CEO of BioLabs, stated, "We are thrilled to conduct the award in partnership with AbbVie for the second year in a row. It is an honor to grant the Golden Ticket to outstanding startups like Tuning Fork Bio, Inc. and to support their growth. We look forward to welcoming them to BioLabs Tokyo and aiding further advancements in their research and development."

AbbVie and BioLabs will continue to collaborate with researchers, entrepreneurs, and partners to support the development of promising research outcomes, contributing to the further evolution of Japan’s innovation ecosystem. By accelerating the practical application of research results, they aim to create future healthcare solutions that provide value to patients.

About the AbbVie Japan Innovation Award

The AbbVie Japan Innovation Award, held in partnership with BioLabs, recognizes innovative efforts in scientific research and healthcare.
Application Period: June 15 – August 14
Review Period: August 15 – September 24
The selection process included a comprehensive review by a committee of experts from AbbVie Ventures, Business Development, and Discovery Research, culminating in presentations from four finalists.

About BioLabs

BioLabs is a global company offering an innovation ecosystem in the life sciences sector. Through its rapidly expanding network of high-quality shared laboratories and coworking spaces, BioLabs provides access to state-of-the-art research facilities, entrepreneurial support programs, and strong connections to the industry and investors. This integrated ecosystem allows innovators—from early-stage founders to established R&D teams—to implement ideas rapidly without the constraints of traditional lab ownership. BioLabs' network is now present in key innovation hubs across the United States, Europe, and Asia, functioning as a starting point for breakthroughs that promote health and sustainability.

About AbbVie

AbbVie is committed to solving critical health challenges through the creation of innovative pharmaceuticals and solutions, addressing future medical hurdles. They focus on enhancing individual lives through their work in immunology, neuroscience, oncology, and aesthetic medicine. For further information about AbbVie, visit www.abbvie.com. You can also stay updated through their LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube channels.

In Japan, AbbVie primarily develops and provides products in the fields of immune diseases, liver diseases, mental and neurological disorders, oncology, and eye care, as well as aesthetic services from their Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. More about AbbVie in Japan can be found at www.abbvie.co.jp, with updates available on Facebook and YouTube.