#Japan #Sendai #Tohoku University #Bionto #Iontronics

Tohoku University Startup Bionto Raises 60 Million Yen

Bionto, an innovative biotech startup emerging from Tohoku University, has successfully completed a seed funding round, securing a total of 60 million yen. The funding will primarily be utilized for advancing its pioneering technologies in healthcare and medical solutions, driven by its unique bio-iontronic technology developed by Professor Matsuhiko Nishizawa.

Addressing Escalating Healthcare Needs

The healthcare sector is under unprecedented pressure, with Japan's estimated medical expenses for 2023 exceeding 47 trillion yen. The aging population has intensified the demand for innovative healthcare solutions, particularly in home care, revealing the drastic challenges posed by a shortage of medical professionals and regional disparities. As self-care and self-medication become urgent needs, Bionto aims to introduce groundbreaking technologies that can effectively address these challenges.

Groundbreaking Technology Behind Bionto

At the heart of Bionto's innovation is the unique "iontronic technology" backed by Professor Nishizawa's extensive research, widely recognized in the scientific community. This interdisciplinary approach merges the realms of ion transport and electronics, allowing effective control and transmission of information and energy through ions present in bodily fluids, which constitute about 60% of the human body.

Revolutionizing Drug Delivery Systems

Conventional drug delivery methods face inherent limitations, such as the need for medical procedures for injections, which can snowball into significant burdens for patients. Oral medications can present challenges, including swallowing difficulties and first-pass metabolism issues. Bionto is innovating a groundbreaking drug delivery system (DDS) that enables non-invasive administration of medications through the skin.

High-Speed Penetration Needle Device
Bionto's technology employs electro-osmotic flow (EOF) to create a unidirectional flow of water within the skin, facilitating high-speed and large-volume drug administration. This method not only offers significant applications in local and systemic drug delivery but also extends to wellness and beauty industries, anticipated to revolutionize skincare and scalp care. Additionally, the device can extract interstitial fluid from beneath the skin, paving the way for sensitive detection of biological signals.

Future Developments and Utilization of Funds

The capital raised through this funding round will be allocated towards several key areas:
1. Driving Product Development: Focus on developing home healthcare devices for market introduction.
2. Strengthening Recruitment: Expanding the team with skilled engineers and product development professionals.
3. Advancing Business Development: Establishing alliances with healthcare, pharmaceutical, and medical device companies.

A Model for University and Industry Collaboration

As outlined in Japan's 5-Year Startup Development Plan, established in 2022, university-originating startups are vital to fostering innovation and addressing pressing societal issues. Bionto is recognized as a promising example of how effective collaboration between academia and industry can catalyze commercial success.

With Tohoku University being certified as a global top-level university in October 2023, its research excellence reinforces the impact Bionto can have in tackling healthcare disparities and enhancing home care solutions through cutting-edge technology.

Investor Insights

Tomofumi Fujii from PARTNERS FUND expressed excitement over the investment in Bionto, highlighting the solid entrepreneurial spirit demonstrated by Hohmi Senoo and the groundbreaking potential of the iontronic technology developed by Professor Nishizawa. With an office now established in Sendai and ongoing support for startups, PARTNERS FUND is committed to facilitating Bionto's growth trajectory.

Founder Perspectives

Hohmi Senoo, CEO and Co-Founder
Emphasizing the value of diverse experiences across industries, Senoo outlines how his journey from film to IT startup development has uniquely positioned him to lead Bionto. The insights and skills acquired through this diverse background provide a strong foundation for fostering innovation in healthcare.

Professor Matsuhiko Nishizawa, Chief Scientific Officer and Co-Founder
Aimed at bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and real-world applications, Nishizawa's vision for bio-iontronics is rooted in a reverence for biological systems. His research focuses on developing biocompatible materials and innovative ionic mechanisms, crucial for creating health-supporting devices.

Upcoming Events

Bionto will showcase its advancements at the Japan Healthcare Venture Summit 2025, taking place alongside BioJapan at Pacifico Yokohama from October 8 to 10. Attendees can expect to see samples of Bionto's developing devices.

Company Overview

Company Name: Bionto Inc.
CEO: Hohmi Senoo
Location: 468-1 Aobayama, Aramaki, Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan
Founded: March 3, 2025
Business Focus: Planning, development, manufacturing, and sales of bio-iontronic devices
Website: bionto.co.jp

With its innovative approach and sound strategic planning, Bionto is poised to make significant contributions to the healthcare landscape, particularly in the context of an aging society and the ever-growing need for improved healthcare solutions.