#Japan #Tokyo #Mirxes #Nagawa #GASTROClear

Mirxes and Nagawa Pharmaceuticals Partner for Innovative Stomach Cancer Test

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Singapore-based biotech company Mirxes and Japan's Nagawa Pharmaceuticals have launched a pilot program aimed at early detection of stomach cancer. Utilizing their non-invasive, microRNA-based blood test known as GASTROClear™, this initiative is set to screen 10,000 individuals across Japan at no cost. Special emphasis is being placed on encouraging older adults to participate, given the high incidence of stomach cancer in this demographic.

The project gains momentum with the support of Yukio Hatoyama, former Prime Minister of Japan, who acts as a public advocate for the campaign. His involvement aims to leverage his social influence to promote health awareness in Japan, particularly in relation to stomach cancer.

Stomach cancer is a significant health concern in Japan, with over 70% of those aged 50 and above estimated to be infected with Helicobacter pylori, the primary cause of the disease. Alarmingly, more than 90% of stomach cancer cases in the country are associated with this infection. According to the Cancer Information Service, as of 2022, only 45.7% of men and 36.5% of women underwent stomach cancer screenings, highlighting the urgent need for initiatives to improve screening rates. Common barriers to screening include time constraints, discomfort from traditional testing, and economic concerns.

Mirxes' GASTROClear™ test distinguishes itself from conventional examination methods like endoscopies and barium tests by being less physically demanding and yielding results in a shorter timeframe. This makes it particularly suitable for individuals with a history of cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, those unable to undergo traditional tests due to physical limitations, or simply those seeking a more accessible option for health screening.

The primary objectives of this campaign are:

• - Raising awareness of stomach cancer and improving screening rates.
• - Providing non-invasive testing access to a broad range of the population, particularly older adults.
• - Reducing the burden on medical facilities and screening centers.

Yukio Hatoyama states, “This initiative represents a significant step in providing innovative screening technology to the people of Japan, particularly the elderly. It is crucial for extending healthy lifespans and reducing healthcare costs.”

Mirxes' CEO, Rhian Shiu, emphasizes their commitment to using RNA technology to realize a future where cancer can be detected and treated at earlier stages. He views the GASTROClear™ test as a critical milestone in this journey and expresses pride in bringing this technology to Japan. “We aspire to build a future of preventive healthcare grounded in scientific evidence, and we’re excited to do that alongside the Japanese people,” says Shiu.

Despite over half of seniors over the age of 70 being infected with H. pylori, screening participation among this age group remains dismally low. Barriers include financial concerns and the complicated procedures related to conventional testing methods. Nagawa Pharmaceuticals aims to overcome these challenges by promoting the GASTROClear™ technology, which significantly reduces the physical and psychological burdens associated with testing.

About Mirxes

Founded on microRNA technology, Mirxes is a cutting-edge biotech company from Singapore focused on global early cancer detection solutions. Its founders, alumni of the National University of Singapore, spun off from the A*STAR research agency in 2014, and began operations in the Japanese market in 2020. Today, Mirxes provides practical, personalized preventive healthcare solutions worldwide.

In May 2025, Mirxes successfully listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, raising approximately $139 million USD, establishing itself as Southeast Asia’s first biotech unicorn with a market capitalization of about $1.06 billion USD.

About GASTROClear™

GASTROClear™ is the world’s first clinically validated microRNA-based blood test for stomach cancer screening. Approved in multiple countries, it serves as a less burdensome alternative for seniors and those with pre-existing conditions.

The upcoming pilot program targets brand awareness and the collection of real-world data on GASTROClear™'s effectiveness, laying the groundwork for its broader introduction in healthcare settings throughout Japan.

About Nagawa Pharmaceuticals

Nagawa Pharmaceuticals, which obtained manufacturing and sales licenses for pharmaceutical products in 2019, has been dedicated to delivering high-quality medicines and diagnostic reagents grounded in Japanese standards. With a focus on social contributions, it aims to provide diverse diagnostic platforms in under-served medical environments, including cancer screenings and organ aging marker tests.

Going forward, Nagawa seeks to leverage its strengths in research, production, and distribution to promote innovative diagnostic technologies and pharmaceuticals in local medical institutions, upholding their vision to eliminate healthcare disparities through technology.