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Ajinomoto and RIBOMIC's Successful Collaboration on Aptamer Pharmacokinetics

In a significant move within the biopharmaceutical sector, Ajinomoto Co., Inc. and RIBOMIC Inc. have announced successful advancements in their joint research aimed at enhancing the pharmacokinetics of nucleic acid aptamers. This collaborative effort concentrates on leveraging the antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) manufacturing technology, known as AJICAP®, to extend the half-life of these promising pharmaceuticals in the bloodstream.

Ajinomoto, led by President Shigeo Nakamura, has been at the forefront of innovative solutions within the life sciences and food sectors. RIBOMIC, under the leadership of President Yoshikazu Nakamura, is a biotech startup focused on drug discovery, particularly in developing aptamer-based therapeutics. The convergence of their expertise is paving the way for revolutionary advancements in how these medications are designed and function.

The primary goal of the partnership is to enhance the retention of immunoglobulins in the blood. By fusing nucleic acid aptamers with the Fc region of immunoglobulins, the research team has been able to significantly prolong the presence of these compounds in the bloodstream. RIBOMIC has played a critical role by applying its advanced measurement technologies for nucleic acid aptamers in combination with Ajinomoto's proprietary AJICAP® technology.

The joint research, which was previously announced on December 27, 2023, indicates a successful development of a conjugate that aligns the properties of nucleic acid aptamers with immunoglobulin proteins. Initial findings show that adjusting the binding ratio of the conjugate to 11 can markedly enhance the half-life of the nucleic acid aptamers, thus amplifying therapeutic effectiveness.

This groundbreaking technology not only showcases the potential of AJICAP® in conjugating diverse bioactive molecules and antibodies but also illustrates its versatility in addressing long-standing challenges in drug efficacy, stability, and safety. The researchers believe that these findings could revolutionize current standards in antibody drug development, extending beyond ADCs to various other treatment modalities.

The implications of this research extend well beyond immediate pharmaceutical applications. Both Ajinomoto and RIBOMIC aim to forge a new front in medicine by committing to the ongoing exploration of aptamer drugs, which have the potential to address unmet medical needs across several disciplines. These may include therapies for chronic pain, eye disorders, and bone diseases, addressing a wide array of conditions that remain without effective treatments.

The collaborative effort marks a significant step forward in the journey toward next-generation drug development. Hailed as a breakthrough in both pharmaceutical innovation and research methodology, the partnership between Ajinomoto and RIBOMIC exemplifies how joint ventures can lead to pioneering advancements that stand to benefit patients and healthcare practitioners alike.

As the pharmaceutical landscape continues to evolve, the success of this joint research will be closely watched, with potential ramifications for future drug design and therapeutic strategies. By harnessing AJICAP® within the realm of nucleic acid aptamers, Ajinomoto and RIBOMIC are set to change the course of pharmacotherapy and therapy effectiveness.

About Ajinomoto Co., Inc.

Ajinomoto is dedicated to contributing to society through its commitment to AminoScience, a principle that emphasizes holistic well-being. Operating across 34 countries and regions, the company plays a crucial role in global nutrition and health care. For FY2023, Ajinomoto reported sales of approximately 1.4392 trillion yen (around 9.9 billion U.S. dollars), underscoring its extensive reach in the market. More information can be found at Ajinomoto.

About RIBOMIC, Inc.

As a pioneering biotech venture, RIBOMIC focuses on the development of aptamer pharmaceuticals, which hold promise for addressing a wide range of medical challenges. Their innovative approaches, such as the RiboART System®, extend into areas beyond drugs, exploring new avenues for aptamer applications. Discover more at RIBOMIC.