#Japan #Tokyo #regenerative medicine #Cell Solutions #ENCell

Strategic Partnership Between Cell Solutions Inc. and ENCell Co., Ltd.

In a significant move within the biotech industry, Cell Solutions Inc., a subsidiary of the Alfressa Group based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has entered into a strategic partnership agreement with ENCell Co., Ltd., headquartered in Seoul, South Korea. This partnership aims to bolster technological capabilities and expand business operations in the field of regenerative medicine.

Background and Objectives of the Agreement

The Alfressa Group plays a crucial role in securing a stable supply chain for pharmaceutical products, and this includes establishing a consistent supply system for regenerative medicine products. Cell Solutions is committed to developing comprehensive Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) services. This includes providing domestically sourced cell raw materials (master cells) and production processing as well as collaborating with international and domestic alliance partners.

ENCell stands out as a leading CDMO company in South Korea, specializing in cell and gene therapy. The company offers extensive CDMO services including process development, Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) production, and quality management services, spanning a broad range of clients from local biotech firms to global pharmaceutical giants. Furthermore, ENCell is actively developing its proprietary pipeline for innovative therapies targeting Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), and sarcopenia with its next-generation mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy, known as EN001.

Building on the strengths of both companies, this partnership positions Cell Solutions to enhance its service offerings in the regenerative medicine sector and leverage ENCell's established expertise and pipeline in Japan. In particular, Cell Solutions will introduce ENCell's EN001 pipeline to pharmaceutical companies in Japan, fostering opportunities for collaborations with potential partners. ENCell will provide advisory services regarding the regenerative medicine market, business strategies, and technical support concerning the production of CAR-T cells and MSCs, which will strengthen competitiveness in advanced medical fields.

Both companies will also engage in mutual customer introductions, aiming to create new business opportunities in their respective markets. Through these collaborations, Cell Solutions and ENCell intend to establish reinforced product and service frameworks in regenerative medicine, thereby expanding treatment options for patients and contributing to healthcare advancements.

Details of the Partnership

1. Introduction of Potential Partners by Cell Solutions:
Cell Solutions will introduce ENCell's EN001 pipeline to Japanese pharmaceutical companies, exploring collaborative opportunities.

2. Advisory Services Provided by ENCell:
ENCell will offer advisory services to Cell Solutions covering market analysis, business strategy, facility operations, manufacturing capabilities, and due diligence related to business development in the regenerative medicine field.

3. Technical Support Services from ENCell:
Cell Solutions can request technical advisory services from ENCell, which will actively provide the required support.

4. Mutual Customer Introductions:
Both companies will prioritize introductions of pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms seeking CDMO services to each other, maximizing market reach.

About ENCell

Since its establishment in 2018, ENCell has emerged as South Korea's leading CDMO specializing in cell and gene therapy, capturing approximately 60% of the CGT CDMO market. The company services a diverse clientele, including domestic biotech companies and global pharmaceutical firms. ENCell operates three GMP facilities, capable of one-stop production for various cell therapies involving stem cells, CAR-T, NK cells, and exosomes, as well as gene therapies utilizing lentiviruses and adeno-associated viruses (AAV). Additionally, ENCell collaborates with Samsung Medical Center to conduct clinical trials for CMT treatment.

Important Dates

• - Contract Signing Date: December 1, 2025
• - Partnership Commencement Date: December 1, 2025

Future Outlook

At present, the impact of this partnership on the current fiscal year (ending in March 2026) is expected to be minimal. However, it is anticipated to contribute to the long-term value enhancement of the company group. Any pertinent updates regarding this partnership will be communicated promptly.


Left: ENCell CEO Jong Wook Chang | Right: Cell Solutions President Kotaro Arita