Category: Pharma

Dingdang Health raises US$220 million in new financing round

China’s leading integrated online healthcare platform Dingdang Health announced today that it has raised US$220 million in its latest financing round. This round was led by TPG Capital Asia and co-led by OrbiMed and Redview Capital. Other investors included, Valliance, Travis Global Limited (which is an affiliate of Orchid Asia), Summer Capital, and Yingke PE.

Mr. Yang Wenlong, founder and chairman of Dingdang Health, said: “With this round of financing, Dingdang Health will press ahead with its online-to-offline strategy to cover services including medical care, medicine delivery and medical insurance. Riding on the new trend of online medical care and medication services amid Covid-19, we aim at providing all-encompassing online services catering to various needs including consultation, drug purchase, chronic disease management and psychological consultation through product upgrades and technological innovation.”

“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to our existing and new shareholders for their recognition. Investors such as TPG, OrbiMed and Redview Capital have extensive investment experience in the health field. Moving forward, with their support, we will remain devoted to accelerating the digitalization of medical care and medication, providing comprehensive service for customers,” Mr. Yang said.

With a deep understanding of the industry and user insights, Dingdang Health has continued to invest in product upgrades to grow the business. As a pioneer of online healthcare products and service provider, Dingdang Health’s online-to-offline model enables it to supply drugs from the pharma manufacturers and offline pharmacies to meet users’ urgent medical needs. The company has also expanded its business to more areas such as medical care, medicine delivery and medical insurance. The strategy has helped the platform remain competitive in China’s digital health and wellness market.

Lydia Cai, Managing Director at TPG Capital Asia, said: “The public demand for digitalization and healthcare has become increasingly acute under the new normal due to Covid-19. Dingdang Health’s business model perfectly combines both digitalization and healthcare. Leveraging big data and internet technologies, the company has created a pioneering self-operating model that provides online medical care and medicine delivery services. It links pharmaceutical companies, pharmacies and users in an all-encompassing ecosystem with timely and caring services. As the company evolves into an integrated healthcare provider, TPG is optimistic about its technology, model and potential, and will fully support its rapid growth to benefit more users.”

TPG is a leading global alternative asset firm founded in 1992 with more than US$91 billion of assets under management. It is one of the early international private equity investment giants that created a dedicated healthcare investment team. It has extensive investment experience in this space globally.

Iris Wang, Partner of OrbiMed, said: “Dingdang Health empowers the local healthcare system and gives new momentum to the industry’s development by employing efficient information technologies including AI, big data, 5G and Internet of Things. Its capabilities in both technological innovation and professional healthcare allow ordinary people to have medical consultation and purchase medicines without leaving their homes. We are excited to join hands with the company at an important stage of its development, and continue to create value in terms of protecting people’s health and pushing for the development of the industry.”

OrbiMed has been focusing on investments in the global biomedical field for over two decades, with assets under management exceeding US$17 billion. The team has a deep understanding of China’s grassroots healthcare market and continues to identify companies that can provide professional services in that field.

Xin Wang, Partner of Redview Capital, said, “Redview Capital is committed to collaborating with industry-leading companies with innovative capabilities. Dingdang Health has been engaged in online medical care and pharmacy field for many years. With a comprehensive blueprint of online consultation and medicine ordering platform as well as offline smart pharmaceutical retail stores, it provides one-stop healthcare services including online consultation, medication advice, home delivery and health management, showcasing strong innovation, technological capabilities and competitiveness. We will fully support the continuous development of Dingdang Health and work with it to promote people’s health.”

Redview Capital is a China-focused private equity fund that invests in industries including emerging consumer goods and services, health, new materials, clean energy, consumer services, and high-end manufacturing sectors.

About Dingdang Health
Dingdang Health Technology Group is a pioneer and leader in the field of digital healthcare service in China, leveraging the Internet solutions/ technologies to transform and reshape China’s healthcare system including pharmaceutical retail and medical consultation. As a leading digital new pharmaceutical retail company, it has established a new pharmaceutical retail model that integrates online and offline operations of “online ordering for delivery from stores”, providing users a series of products and services, including 7*24 hours, 28 minutes to deliver medicines to users in core area of cities. With the innovative “Internet + Healthcare” model, it is able to address the unmet needs in the medication and health management effectively and efficiently. Its pharmaceutical retail, online medical consultation, chronic diseases management and other businesses cooperate with each other to form a broader health ecology, transform and lead the development of China’s healthcare market. It has received several rounds of investment from well-known investment institutions such as SBCVC, CMBI, CICC Capital, Sinopharm-CICC Capital, Taikang Insurance Group, Longmen Investments and Haier Biomedical.

About TPG
TPG is a leading global alternative asset firm founded in 1992 with more than $91 billion of assets under management and offices in Beijing, Fort Worth, Hong Kong, London, Luxembourg, Melbourne, Mumbai, New York, San Francisco, Seoul, Singapore, and Washington D.C. TPG’s investment platforms are across a wide range of asset classes, including private equity, growth equity, impact investing, real estate, secondaries, and public equity. TPG aims to build dynamic products and options for its investors while also instituting discipline and operational excellence across the investment strategy and performance of its portfolio. For more information, visit www.tpg.com or @TPG on Twitter.

Avantor Acquires RIM Bio; Expands Bioproduction Footprint into China

Avantor, Inc. (NYSE: AVTR), a leading global provider of mission-critical products and services to customers in the life sciences and advanced technologies & applied materials industries, announced today that it has acquired RIM Bio, a leading China-based manufacturer of single-use bioprocess bags and assemblies for biopharmaceutical manufacturing applications.

RIM Bio’s Changzhou, China facility is Avantor’s first single-use production plant in the AMEA region, building on the company’s existing global single-use manufacturing network in the Americas and Europe and greatly increasing capacity to meet growing global demand in bioprocessing. Avantor will leverage RIM Bio’s proprietary technologies and best-in-class lead times to provide single-use customers with a differentiated offering.

Dr. Ger Brophy, Executive Vice President, Biopharma Production at Avantor, said, “Adding RIM Bio enables Avantor to better serve our customers by expanding our single-use manufacturing, distribution, and cleanroom capabilities to the AMEA region. RIM serves as an anchor for us to build our presence in this key region, as we better position Avantor to capture long-term opportunities in the growing, global Bioproduction space.”Established in 2009, RIM Bio provides a complete range of single-use 2D bags, 3D bags, tank liners, bag assemblies and multi-bag manifolds used in the manufacturing of biologics including monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), vaccines, cell and gene therapies, and recombinant proteins.

This acquisition marks another major investment in China. In December 2019, the company opened its Shanghai Innovation & Customer Support center, a dedicated bioprocessing facility focused on research, application development and process optimization solutions for biopharma companies across AMEA.

About Avantor

Avantor, a Fortune 500 company, is a leading global provider of mission-critical products and services to customers in the biopharma, healthcare, education & government, and advanced technologies & applied materials industries. Our portfolio is used in virtually every stage of the most important research, development and production activities in the industries we serve. Our global footprint enables us to serve more than 225,000 customer locations and gives us extensive access to research laboratories and scientists in more than 180 countries. We set science in motion to create a better world. For more information, please visit www.avantorsciences.com.

Forward-looking statementsThis press release contains forward-looking statements. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements discuss our current expectations and projections relating to our announced transaction with Ritter as well as our financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business. These statements may be preceded by, followed by or include the words “aim,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “forecast,” “intend,” “likely,” “outlook,” “plan,” “potential,” “project,” “projection,” “seek,” “can,” “could,” “may,” “should,” “would,” “will,” the negatives thereof and other words and terms of similar meaning.

Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions; they are not guarantees of performance. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. We have based these forward-looking statements on our current expectations and projections about future events. Although we believe that our assumptions made in connection with the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot assure you that the assumptions and expectations will prove to be correct. Factors that could contribute to these risks, uncertainties and assumptions include, but are not limited to, the factors described in “Risk Factors” in our 2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020, which is on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and available in the “Investors” section of Avantor’s website, ir.avantorsciences.com, under the heading “SEC Filings,” and in any subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other documents Avantor files with the SEC.All forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the foregoing cautionary statements. In addition, all forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. We undertake no obligations to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise other than as required under the federal securities laws.

Media Contact

Christina Koh

Director Communications – AMEA

+65 9720 0169

christina.koh@avantorsciences.com

Investor Relations Contact

Tommy Thomas

Vice President, Investor Relations

+1 781 375-8051

Tommy.Thomas@avantorsciences.com

SOURCE: Avantor and Financial News

Avance Clinical Releases Industry Survey Results at BIO Korea 2021

The leading Australian CRO for biotechs and Frost & Sullivan Asia-Pacific CRO Market Leadership Award recipient Avance Clinical shared results of a recent industry survey conducted by the company that found data quality to be the most important criteria for selecting a CRO for Phase ll studies in Australia.

Results from the survey found 63.64% of respondents selected data quality as the Key operational consideration when planning Phase II, followed by access to patients, then CRO therapeutic area expertise, cost, and access to KOLs.

Avance Clinical is attending BIO Korea 2021 virtually and is available via the Partnering platform to discuss the benefits of conducting trials in Australia. Avance Clinical has extensive experience in conducting trials in oncology, CNS, cardiovascular, infectious diseases and dermatology.

Avance Clinical CEO, Yvonne Lungershausen, said South Korea is recognized globally for its thriving biotech sector and the CRO is keen to connect with companies wanting regional alternatives for their clinical development. “As Australia’s CRO for biotechs, we are seeing an increasing number of South Korean biotechs selecting Australia to accelerate their Phase I and II trials,” she said. “The high-quality of our data for FDA and other regulatory authority approvals is a key factor in the decision-making process.”

The clinical trial environment in Australia supports rapid startup and a rebate of more than 40% on clinical costs as part of the Australian Government’s clinical trial attraction incentive program.

In addition, Avance Clinical is accredited by the Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) so it can manage gene technology trials in Australia.

This accreditation recognizes that Avance Clinical has the CRO resources and internal processes in place to effectively manage pre-clinical and clinical trials for products involving genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

Take the Quiz: Test your Knowledge about Australian Clinical Trials here.

About Avance Clinical

Avance Clinical, Australia’s CRO for biotechs, has more than 20-years of experience providing excellence in clinical research services for biotech companies from around the globe. Avance Clinical facilitates quality drug development by aligning people, skills, and expertise in the pursuit of drug development for a healthier world. The collective pool of knowledge and experience at Avance Clinical continually grows through the careful selection of experts who also demonstrate passion in their chosen field. Avance Clinical offers high-quality services in an established clinical trial ecosystem, that includes world-class investigators and sites able to access specific patient groups. Visit our website for more information.

Recent Awards:
Excellence in Business Award 2021
Frost & Sullivan Asia-Pacific CRO Market Leadership Award 2020

Other benefits of working with Avance Clinical include:
1. The Government R&D grant offers up to 43.5% rebate on clinical trial spend
2. COVID-19 clinical continuity
3. Site Initiation Visit (SIV) and Study Start achieved in 5 – 6 weeks
4. No IND required for clinical trials
5. Full GMP material is not mandated for Phase I clinical trials
6. Established clinical trial environment with world-class investigators and sites
7. Access to sites/Phase I facilities with established healthy subject databases and specific patient populations
8. Major hospitals with world-class infrastructures and dedicated Clinical Trial Units with a long track-record in FDA compliant research
9. Seasonal studies: Northern hemisphere sponsors can conduct their studies year-round by taking advantage of Australia’s counter-flu and allergy seasons

Media Contact:
media@avancecro.com

Agilex Biolabs Partners with Endpoints News on Deconvoluting Inflammation and Immunology for Clinical Trials

Agilex Biolabs, Australia’s largest and most technologically advanced specialist bioanalytical laboratory for clinical trials is partnering with Endpoints News to share the latest on deconvoluting inflammation and immunology for clinical trials, in a webinar hosted by Endpoints News Editor Arsalan Arif.

Agilex Biolabs’ Director, Immunoassay, Kurt J. Sales (B.Sc; B.Sc (MED) Hons; M.Sc, Ph.D, PGCM) said:
“Inflammation is a complex biological process involving a host of resident and recruited immune cells which are mobilized to infiltrate tissues in response to invading pathogens. These immune cells boast elevated numbers and heightened activation as they churn out inflammatory mediators, which act in unison to coordinate and modulate the immune response. Choosing the right bioanalytical platform for your immunology clinical trial is critical to data collection. But navigating the intricate inflammation process can be difficult.”

In this webinar Dr Sales will examine what these platforms look like in use, and how should you go about selecting the right one. It will also identify the most common bioanalytical platforms used during clinical trials to measure levels of inflammatory mediators in biological fluids.

Using SARS-COV-2 samples, the webinar will cover a custom 10 analyte inflammatory panel and identify how the levels observed for these mediators in Covid patients compare with an uninfected patient’s matrix.

It will also discuss how these platforms measure specific immunological markers in clinical trial subjects by flow cytometry.

Register Here
May 25, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm EDT
https://webinars.endpts.com/deconvoluting-inflammation-and-immunology-for-clinical-trials/

Agilex Biolabs’ world-class laboratories feature state-of-the-art equipment including Gyrolab Xplore, MSD Quickplex 120, Luminex Magpix, BD FACSymphony A3 flow cytometer and soon to be released, digital droplet quantitative real-time RT-PCR.

The company offers services for both small molecules and biologics for PK, immunogenicity (PD) and biomarker bioanalysis utilising the two platforms of LC-MS/MS and Immunoassay.

Australian clinical trials have remained open for business and Agilex Biolabs is a designated essential service so clients can be assured of study continuity.

Agilex Biolabs has more than 120 staff which includes 85 dedicated laboratory staff, and supports client pharma and biotech companies from US, Europe and APAC.

Book a confidential briefing with our scientists before you start your next clinical trial. https://calendly.com/agilexbiolabs/15min

About Agilex Biolabs — https://www.agilexbiolabs.com/
Agilex Biolabs, Australia’s leading bioanalytical laboratory, has more than 24 years’ experience in performing regulated bioanalysis, including quality method development, method validation and sample analysis services. It has successfully supported hundreds of preclinical and clinical trials from around the world where customers choose Australia for the streamlined regulatory process and access to the world’s most attractive R&D rebate of more than 40% on clinical trial work conducted in Australia. Agilex Biolabs also offers toxicology services through its company TetraQ, an established GLP rodent toxicology facility in Australia.

Agilex Biolabs has the leading certifications including OECD GLP Recognition with NATA (Australian Government OECD GLP Compliance monitoring authority) and ISO 17025 Accreditation for global recognition. The company has recently expanded its main labs by more than 30% to accommodate biotech demand from APAC and the USA. Watch the new lab video walkthrough at https://www.agilexbiolabs.com/new-labs-video

Agilex Biolabs specialises in bioanalysis of small molecules and biologics for PK, immunogenicity, biomarkers and immunological pharmacodynamics assessments utilising LC-MS/MS, immunoassay (Mesoscale, Gyrolab, Luminex) and flow cytometry (BD FACSymphony A3, 20 colour cell analyser).

Agilex offers pharmacodynamics services that include immunobiology services using the latest state-of-the-art technology to support immunology, cell biology and mode of action assays, including:
– Immunophenotyping
– Receptor occupancy
– Cytokine release assays (whole blood or PBMC stimulation assays) and cytokine/biomarker profiling
– PBMC assays and cellular mechanism of action assays

Agilex Biolabs Media Contact:
Kate Newton
Media@AgilexBiolabs.com

USFDA recognized Antrodia cinnamomea mycelia (NDIN No.1170)

USFDA NDI notification of Antromax “Antrodia cinnamomea mycelia”

The history of Antrodia cinnamomea consumption by indigenous tribes in Taiwan dates back two hundred years ago, while people in the Western world know little about this ingredient.

The USFDA NDI acknowledgement without objection to Greenyn’s Antromax was the 1st notification after numerous attempts in the past 14 years. We are honored to establish a stepping-stone for the A. cinnamomea to the US health markets estimated at 10 billion US dollars.

Dr. Kao Shung-te (middle) of China Medical University Hospital and Dr. Houng Jer-yiing (left) of I-Shou University Medical School presented the study results of the randomized double-blind clinical trial and the bioavailability of Antromax in different dosages forms, respectively.
Antromax(R)– dripping pills, mycelia powder, emulsion powder (left to right).
Manufacturing site of Greenyn Biotechnology in Taichung
Health food of Antromax(R) in livercare in Taiwan (left) and Antromax(R) complex beverage (right).

USFDA acknowledged Antrodia cinnamomea as new dietary ingredients
On April 12th, Greenyn Biotechnology Corporation hosted a seminar – “The international development of Taiwan’s Antrodia cinnamomea and its clinical application,” and announced Antromax’s acknowledgement without objection by USFDA NDI. It was a great feat for Greenyn, and will certainly boost the morale of the Antrodia industry to devote more resources in the US market.

A. cinnamomea is an edible fungus grows on the endangered Cinnamomum kanehirae tree which is found only in Taiwan. This indigenous fungus is traditionally used to ameliorate liver disorders, hangovers, fatigue, and enhance immunity. “Ruby of Taiwan” was given to this miracle fungus.

“We are surprised that this time we have obtained the USFDA NDI No. 1170 notification without objection for Antromax for marketing in the United States,” pointed by Luo Hsuan, CEO of Greenyn. Over the past years, it was difficult to obtain such notification because A. cinnamomea is unknown to the western world; its’ safety data, eating and application history is very limited. “It is a significant milestone and a good timing for us to step into the global market. We do hope that Taiwan’s A. cinnamomea industry may take this opportunity to march into the global arena,” Luo Hsuan added.

According to Dr. Hsu Pang-kuei, the R&D director of Geeenyn, A. cinnamomea is rare and grows very slowly in the wild. For medicinal purposes, you need to wait three years until it is fully grown and it is impossible to increase production/cultivate indoor as the tree Cinnamomum kanehirae is protected under the plant conservation laws. Fortunately, with Greenyn’s solid-state fermentation technology, we are able to cultivate Antromax “A. cinnamomea mycelia” with active ingredients similar to the fully grown in just 3 months. This patented fermentation process will not only maintain the conservation of the tree, but will also lower the production cost, so the public may enjoy this natural healthy food at a reasonable price.

Clinical trials indicate Antrodia cinnamomea is effective as adjuvant treatment
During the seminar, Dr. Kao Shung-te, Attending Physician of China Medical University Hospital, shared the findings of Antromax in the clinical adjuvant treatment for hepatitis B. “Through medical trials, it is discovered that Antromax has an adjuvant treatment effect combined with the hepatitis B medicine. The liver function indexes are improved, and there are no adverse effect on the biochemical values in blood and urine.”

In addition, Dr. Houng Jer-yiing, Associate Dean of the I-Shou University Medical School, shared that the bioavailability of Antromax in different dosage forms have similar adjuvant effects – lowering liver function indexes, liver fat accumulation and alcohol-related liver injuries, as well as enhancing activities of antioxidant enzymes.

Greenyn’s facility is built to the international standards in the Central Taiwan Science Park with capacity of up-to 12 metric tons annually, which is sufficient for the global markets. Dr. Hsu says, “At present, we will focus on the US and Europe markets, and next we might start to promote in Asia such as Korea, Southeast Asian countries and Australia.” In view of the US herbal supplements market worth USD 9.6 billion, Greenyn is honored to lead Taiwan’s biotech industry to promote A. cinnamomea in the US markets. It is foreseeable that the health benefits of A. cinnamomea to the world during covid-19 will create another pride for Taiwan.

https://youtu.be/T1f84y2vzeY

Media Contact
Greenyn Biotechnology Co. Ltd.
Phone: +886-968-199-656
Contact: Nick Chen
Email: info@greenyn.com.tw
Website: http://en.greenynbio.com/index.php

Agilex Biolabs’ Toxicology Tapped for SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Research

Agilex Biolabs, Australia’s largest and most technologically advanced specialist bioanalytical laboratory for clinical trials, said biotechs with first-in-human studies can leverage significant quality, speed and cost advantages working with their company TetraQ toxicology for pre-clinical research in Australia.

TetraQ is a NATA-accredited, GLP-recognised rodent toxicology facility.

The TetraQ toxicology team, whose recent COVID-19 vaccine work is featured in PubMed, is one of the most experienced in the region with more than 15 years of success with biotechs and university researchers. In addition, research costs can be offset by 43.5% with the attractive Australian Government clinical research incentive rebate for USA, Asia and European companies.

Agilex Biolabs works closely with Australia’s leading biotech R&D tax rebate specialist, Bentleys R&D Services, to ensure clients are aware of the R&D benefits.

Bentleys’ Managing Director Mike Burfield said the attractive 43.5% R&D rebate on clinical research spend can be applicable for the entire toxicology program.

“The rebate covers rodent toxicology services at TetraQ, while second species toxicology research conducted overseas can also be potentially eligible depending on the company, saving considerable costs in the pre-clinical stage.

Each year we have hundreds of biotech companies from around the world benefiting from this significant refund system operated by The Australian Government to attract clinical research.

However, it is vital that biotechs take advice prior to starting research, and that company documentation is prepared correctly from the start to take full advantage of these savings during the toxicology program, through to phase I and beyond.”

TetraQ toxicology, which was acquired by Agilex Biolabs earlier this year, started in 2005 based out of the University of Queensland and has since earned a strong global reputation for excellence in GLP rodent pre-clinical safety studies.

Agilex Biolabs CEO, Jason Valentine said:“Biotech clients are discovering the considerable speed and cost advantages of using an Australian-based toxicology facility like TetraQ.”The 43.5% rebate on toxicology costs is a major benefit, but clients are also keen to then leverage the easy and rapid transition to first-in-human trials available in Australia. Australia is known as the ideal early-phase destination because of the many regulatory and cost advantages – and most importantly that clinical data is accepted by the FDA and other major authorities.

TetraQ’s NATA-accredited, GLP-recognised rodent toxicology facility is highly regarded for its personalized service, rapid response, and innovative solutions for biotechs planning their first-in-human studies.”

TetraQ non-GLP toxicology study results can be used to support the design of both key efficacy studies and formal GLP toxicology studies in rodents. Formal GLP toxicity studies can in turn support first-in-human studies. GLP studies employ a test item manufactured under Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and a study design informed by non-GLP exploratory toxicity studies as well as the intended clinical use. GLP studies are subject to Quality Assurance (QA) audit, as their results are intended to facilitate the safe design of clinical studies.

The study management and data collection processes are supported by an FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant Provantis software system. Furthermore interim and final report preparation is also facilitated by this centralized data collection system to allow rapid delivery of written reports to clients.

Agilex Biolabs has more than 120 staff which includes 85 dedicated laboratory staff and supports client pharma and biotech companies from the US, Europe and APAC.

Agilex Biolabs’ world-class laboratories feature state-of-the-art equipment including Gyrolab Xplore, MSD Quickplex 120, Luminex Magpix, BD FACSymphony A3 flow cytometer and soon to be released, digital droplet quantitative real-time RT-PCR.

The company offers services for both small molecules and biologics for PK, immunogenicity (PD) and biomarker bioanalysis utilizing the two platforms of LC-MS/MS and Immunoassay.

Australian clinical trials have remained open for business and Agilex Biolabs is a designated essential service so clients can be assured of study continuity.

Book a confidential briefing with our scientists before you start your next clinical trial. 

About Agilex Biolabs

Agilex Biolabs, Australia’s leading bioanalytical and toxicology laboratory, has more than 24 years of experience in performing regulated bioanalysis, including quality method development, method validation and sample analysis services. It has successfully supported hundreds of preclinical and clinical trials from around the world where customers choose Australia for the streamlined regulatory process and access to the world’s most attractive R&D rebate of more than 40% on clinical trial work conducted in Australia.

Agilex Biolabs has the leading certifications including OECD GLP Recognition with NATA (Australian Government OECD GLP Compliance monitoring authority) and ISO 17025 Accreditation for global recognition. The company has recently acquired TetraQ biolabs and toxicology, and also expanded its main labs by more than 30% to accommodate biotech demand from APAC and the USA. Watch the new lab video walkthrough here.

Agilex Biolabs specializes in bioanalysis of small molecules and biologics for PK, immunogenicity, biomarkers and immunological pharmacodynamics assessments utilizing LC-MS/MS, immunoassay (Mesoscale, Gyrolab, Luminex) and flows cytometry (BD FACSymphony A3, 20 color cell analyzer).

Agilex offers pharmacodynamics services that include immunobiology services using the latest state-of-the-art technology to support immunology, cell biology and mode of action assays, including:

  • Immunophenotyping
  • Receptor occupancy
  • Cytokine release assays (whole blood or PBMC stimulation assays) and cytokine/biomarker profiling
  • PBMC assays and cellular mechanism of action assays

Agilex Biolabs Media Contact:
Kate Newton
Media@AgilexBiolabs.com

Scivita Medical Raises Nearly RMB0.4 Billion in Series A Funding Round and Strives to Build A World-leading Platform for Innovative Products in Endoscope and Related Fields

Scivita Medical Technology Co., Ltd. (“civita Medical) today announced that it has raised nearly RMB0.4 Billion in Series A funding round, which has become one of the highest financing projects in the field of endoscope in China in recent years. The investment was jointly led by GL Ventures and Lilly Asia Ventures, with contribution from Matrix Partners China, Medtronic, Chengwei Capital and Shanghai Innochip Investment.

The successful completion of the Series A funding round reflects the recognition of Scivita Medical in the field of endoscope and the expectation of its future development from the capital market and industrial strategic partners. Scivita Medical will strive to build the world’s leading platform for innovative products in endoscope and related fields.

Founded by Dr. ZHANG Yi and Dr. CHEN Dong, Scivita Medical is headquartered in Suzhou Industrial Park with R&D centers in Suzhou, China, and Tokyo, Japan, focusing on the image processing R&D and technology innovation of endoscope. Scivita Medical is a high-tech enterprise engaged in the field of optical diagnosis and treatment, multidimensional images development, high-performance materials research and precision manufacturing with minimally invasive medical treatment. Scivita Medical’s product covers both flexible endoscopy and rigid endoscopy, and has unique advantages in the research and commercialization of all cutting-edge technologies in the field of medical endoscopes. It has ultra-high-definition visualization technology (such as 4K UHD visualization), 3D visualization technology, special light visualization technology (such as fluorescence visualization), ultra-fine endoscopic visualization technology, single-use technology, etc.

According to Frost & Sullivan, it is estimated that by 2024, the overall scale of the global endoscope devices market will grow to USD26.98 billion, and the Chinese endoscope market size will reach RMB42.3 billion, becoming one of the fastest growing medical device sub-industries in the world. With the popularization of minimally invasive diagnosis and treatment technology worldwide, the endoscope industry has also entered a stage of rapid development.

The endoscope industry has higher technical barriers, involving multi-disciplinary and multi-fields, which integrates medicine, optics, materials, precision machinery, electronic engineering, software development and other disciplines, and has more technical content as compared to traditional mechanical manufacturing. At present, the endoscope equipment market presents an oligopolistic situation, with international brands occupying a large market share by relying on first-mover advantages and mature technological advantages. Scivita Medical has successfully achieved breakthroughs in key areas such as optical imaging and image processing of endoscopes, breaking down the technological monopoly of international brand products.

Scivita Medical accurately grasps the clinical needs, and combines innovative technologies in multi-disciplinary fields to develop excellent Chinese products that are recognized by clinical experts worldwide.World’s first 2D to 3D ” 3D Visualization System” developed by Scivita Medical obtained NMPA certification and CE certification in July 2018, and became the first domestic 3D Visualization System approved by the U.S. FDA launched in the United States in September 2019. The “4K UHD Camera System” independently developed by Scivita Medical obtained NMPA certification in June 2019. It was launched in China as the first domestic 4K UHD camera system and obtained CE certification in July 2019. In August 2020, the “4K UHD Camera System” became the first Chinese 4K product that was certified by the U.S. FDA.

In addition, Scivita Medical has various single-use endoscopy devices with international competitiveness, many of which have entered the clinical, registration, or sales stages in China, the United States, Europe and other countries and regions, respectively. Given that endoscope industry has entered into the era of consumables, Scivita Medical will compete with international brands in the global market with its disruptive single-use technology and leading technological advantages.

Dr. ZHANG Yi, Co-founder of Scivita Medical, said: “The company’s founding management team expresses sincere gratitude to the industry’s top investment institutions and industry strategic partners for their recognition and support. In the next few years, endoscope products will fully realize the iteration from ‘HD’ to ‘Ultra HD’, and from ‘reuse’ to ‘single-use’. Relying on the world’s leading technology and strong sustainable R&D strength, and with the support from investment institutions and the continuous attention from our peers, Scivita Medical will form a platform with a comprehensive layout of innovative products in endoscope and related fields. It is committed to using domestic high-quality innovative products to replace and compete with international brand products, and striving to build a world-leading endoscope R&D brand that are rooted in China. The original intention of Scivita Medical is to solve the clinical pain points, making diagnosis and treatment safer and more effective, and help every patient and their family. Scivita Medical will make unremitting efforts for it. “

Michael Nuoqing YI, Co-Chief Investment Officer of Hillhouse and Head of Biomedicine and Medical Devices of GL ventures, said: “With the advancement of hierarchical diagnosis and treatment, the development of minimally invasive surgery and the aging population, the clinical demand for endoscope is rising rapidly and there is a huge room for domestic substitute. Scivita Medical takes a leading position at home and abroad. Its products are independently developed, which covers electronic and optical endoscopes. It has ultra-high-definition visualization technology, 3D visualization technology, special light visualization technology, ultra-fine endoscopic visualization technology and single-use technology. Hillhouse would like to have a long-term companionship with outstanding entrepreneurs like Dr. ZHANG Yi and Dr. CHEN Dong, who are innovative and with excellent management experience. Hillhouse also aims to help Scivita Medical continue to make efforts on R&D and innovation, so as to using domestic high-quality innovative products to replace international brand products, and actively participate in international competition and to benefit more patients.”

Dr. CHEN Fei, Managing partner of Lilly Asia Ventures, said: “The technical barrier of endoscope industry is very high. We are very optimistic about the strong technical experience and innovative R&D capabilities of Scivita Medical team in terms of rigid and flexible endoscopes. The 4K UHD Camera System independently developed by Scivita Medical was the first one approved by China National Medical Products Administration and FDA, and it is highly recognized by clinical experts. Leverage on its distinctive product solutions and forward-looking industrial layout, we believe Scivita Medical can become the leader in technological innovation in the field of endoscopy in China and even in the world.

Dr. Eric YU, Partner of Matrix Partners China, said: “Endoscope has a high technical barrier, and the domestic market has long been monopolized by foreign giants. Scivita Medical has strong technical strength in the next generation of 3D, ultra HD and single-use endoscopes, which have all reached or surpassed foreign giants. We look forward to the company’s further performance and clinical promotion of the products, which will bring clinical benefits to Chinese doctors and patients.

Dr. SHI Yonghui, Managing Director of the Corporate Development and Venture Capital Department (Greater China) of Medtronic, said: “It is Medtronic’s global mission to relieve pain, restore health, and extend life for patients around the world. Medtronic China has always been committed to supporting the application of innovative medical technology in the local market. Since the establishment of the Venture Capital Fund and Innovation Accelerator after 2016, it has invested in and incubated more than 10 medical technology companies. By strategically investing in Scivita Medical, we hope that both parties could carry out multi-level strategic cooperation in the field of endoscope, and finally bring prime medical solutions to thousands of Chinese patients.”

YAN Di, Vice president of Chengwei Capital, said: “The current localization rate in the endoscopy industry is less than 10%, and the demand for domestic substitution is strong. We are very pleased to see that Scivita Medical’s endoscope products can break through the monopoly of foreign technology and solve the current handicap that local products cannot enter the high-end market. It fills the gap in the high-end endoscope market. It is a domestic brand with rigid and flexible endoscopy technology. We believe that Scivita Medical will become a leader in the field of endoscope and help further development of clinical medicine.”

WANG Zhi, Partner of Shanghai Innochip Investment Management Co., Ltd., said: “We are very optimistic about the trend of ultra HD and single-use evolution of medical endoscope systems under the background of the miniaturization of CMOS image sensor chips. This trend is expected to break the monopoly situation occupied by European, American and Japanese companies, and provides Chinese companies with international vision and innovative technology capabilities, represented by Scivita Medical, with opportunities to surpass competitors within the same filed. I believe that Chinese companies will make innovative and high-quality endoscopes, which will benefit to more patients.”

Starting its Industrial Investment in Biotech Companies, China Medical System (HKG:867) has Accelerated its Flywheel of Innovation

China Medical System Holdings Limited (HKG:867) (CMS or the Company) has been active in the market this year. From the acquisition of Luqa to enter the medical aesthetic market early this year, the Company has attracted the attention of the market. Recently, it announced a series of agreements signed with Trinomab Biotech Co., Ltd. (Trinomab). CMS will make an equity investment in Trinomab, and establish a joint venture (JV) with Trinomab, contributed with cash and related products technologies by CMS and Trinomab respectively. The Joint Venture will entrust CMS with the clinical development and commercialization of all its products in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, and Trinomab with the production of all its products. This collaboration marks the beginning of the CMS’s industrial investment in cutting-edge biotech companies.

1. What has CMS seen in Trinomab?

The announcement has drawn even more attention from the market and people are curious about why Trinomab has successfully attracted CMS to make collaboration with it.

Established in 2015, Trinomab was jointly founded by the worldwide known expert Dr. Liao Huaxin and the entrepreneur Mr. Zheng Weihong. It is an innovative global biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the R&D of original natural fully human monoclonal antibodies and providing corresponding scientific services.

Trinomab has a new-generation, world-class, core patented technology platform highly regarded in the industry, the natural fully human monoclonal antibody R&D integrated technology platform HitmAb, which is dedicated to the development of original and efficient natural fully human monoclonal antibodies with independent intellectual property rights, suitable for the infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases and malignant tumors, etc.

As the fourth-generation antibody technology, “natural fully human monoclonal antibodies” refers to fully human antibodies derived from natural human B-cell clones or its gene expression. It is marked by high safety, having broad spectrum to foreign pathogens and strong affinity with pathogen targets, which can solve the problem of anti-drug antibody reaction in the clinical use of antibody drugs developed by traditional technologies.

Based on the HitmAb platform, Trinomab has developed more than 20 new native natural fully human monoclonal antibodies, including those against infectious diseases (e.g., rabies virus, tetanus toxin, cytomegalovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, varicella-zoster virus, novel coronavirus, etc.) and cancers among which, certain antibody products are in the process of rapid industrialization.

For example, the Fully Human Hla Antibody of Trinomab contributed to the Joint Venture is a natural fully human antibody against Staphylococcus Aureus (SA) infection, developed via the HitmAb platform, and is now in the preclinical stage. This product neutralizes the alpha-hemolysin (Hla) released by SA to avoid immune downregulation to B cells and to improve immune response. For severe and high-risk patients with SA colonization, compared with antibiotics which are commonly used clinically, Fully Human Hla Antibody of Trinomab has good safety and the preclinical studies have shown good Hla toxin neutralizing activity. It is expected to solve the problems of high mortality, resistance to treatment and side effects from SA infection.

With its HitmAb platform technology, Trinomab is constantly discovering new antibodies to advance the iteration of antibody drugs. In addition to keeping projects that are in line with its own strategy for self-development, Trinomab co-develops the rest with partners in the industry, which gives CMS (0867.HK) the opportunity to make this collaboration. From the announcement of CMS, we can find that other than to the product to be incorporated into the Joint Venture, the two sides will negotiate to promote the priority collaboration on other specific products, so we can expect more projects to be incorporated into the Joint Venture in the future.

In General, Trinomab owns a cutting-edge technology platform and can continue to promote the R&D and production of innovative drugs through the technology platform. While having great development potential, the strength of Trinomab’s team is also quite impressive. So why did Trinomab still gladly accept the olive branch passed by CMS?

We believe that although Trinomab has considerable advantages in technology platform and drug R&D, promoting the clinical development and commercialization of new drugs is a major challenge of the channel resources for pharmaceutical companies, and at present, Trinomab does not have the advantages in the clinical and commercialization capabilities, and the accumulation of these capabilities and resources does not happen overnight. Therefore, CMS, which has rich domestic channel resources and strong commercialization ability, chooses to join hands with Trinomab to achieve a win-win combination, which opens up a fast track of commercialization for its subsequent products, and will play an important role in promoting the overall healthy development of Trinomab.

2. Taking this collaboration as a model, CMS will initiate the industrial investment in biotech companies and accelerate the “flywheel” of innovative R&D

From the above, we can see that CMS is precisely interested in the core technology platform of Trinomab. This kind of collaboration is not without a precedent. As early as in 2018-2019, Trinomab had reached cooperation agreements with Changchun BCHT Biotechnology Co. and Wuxi Biologics, etc. It can be seen that the Trinomab’s capability of monoclonal antibody drug R&D based on its patented antibody R&D platform has been fully recognized and supported by well-known companies in the industry.

CMS has been working in the industry for many years and has been highly focused on the two core segments of the pharmaceutical industry chain – R&D and marking. CMS’ promotion capability is undeniable, with an academic network covering about 57,000 hospitals and medical institutions nationwide and a professional academic promotion team of about 3,300 staffs. And the Company has created leading market positions for its many branded drugs. It also achieved fruitful results in the past through equity investments in overseas biotech companies or strategic cooperation with leading pharmaceutical companies for collaborative R&D. In the past three years, CMS has rapidly acquired more than 20 innovative products with unique and differentiated competitive advantages, such as Diazepam Nasal Spray, Tildrakizumab, Cyclosporine Eye Drops 0.09%, etc., demonstrating its strong innovation ability.

The collaboration with Trinomab is an active exploration of CMS’ industrial investment in innovative biopharmaceutical companies. In the past, the Company has always been focusing on overseas markets, but with this collaboration, it also marks the official opening of CMS’ industrial investment in domestic cutting-edge biotech companies.

So, what are the features and advantages of this investment?

a. Exploring a new model for industrial investment and building a unique competitive product innovation capability

Unlike simply building its own R&D team or purely introducing products for sale, CMS has been focusing more on the two core parts of the pharmaceutical industry chain, product competence and promotion capability in its past development. Base on this, in the past, to achieve effective integration of pharmaceutical companies and related resources, the Company’s product pipeline was often more product-based, that is, to invest in a company for a certain product. It can be seen that so far CMS has invested in the equity of 8 overseas biotech companies and has made strategic cooperation with 6 leading overseas pharmaceutical companies.

CMS has developed strong product selection capability and is able to continuously find innovative drugs with market potential in this path. However, due to the emphasis on product selection, there is no direct relationship between new products, or between the companies the Company invested in, making it difficult to achieve a unified effect. Based on this, CMS further optimized its investment layout and began to focus on cutting-edge technology platforms to explore new products. The benefits of doing so include not only expanding the number and scope of selected products and achieving effective synergy within the platforms, but also forming an organic iteration of innovative products and achieving deep control of the industrial ecology.

From the collaboration with Trinomab, through equity investment + establishment of the joint venture, CMS has made early involvement in the domestic leading technology platform and innovative resources, and advanced its current pipeline of mainly mid- and late-stage products to the early stage, so as to rapidly enrich the innovation pipeline, and realize the expansion from the “point” of investing in innovative drugs as the core to the “extension” of investing in innovative technology platforms, in order to form an industrial investment model that can be rapidly duplicated in the future. Under this model, CMS will actively explore leading technology platforms for cooperation, so as to continuously strengthen its core competitiveness in innovative R&D and introduce cutting-edge innovation results, to build a unique product innovation capability.

b. Achieving complementary advantages and giving full play to CMS’ clinical development and commercialization strengths

Behind the Company’s industrial investment in domestic cutting-edge biotech companies lies not only its own financial or product selection strength, but also the strengths in innovative R&D and product commercialization.
From the perspective of clinical promotion ability, the completion of clinical enrollment of 220 patients for the blockbuster innovative drug Tildrakizumab in just around two months fully proves that CMS has the hard strength to quickly enroll patients and promote the clinical development with the synergy of its network and expert resources.

In addition, in terms of commercialization ability, the Company has been in the industry for more than 20 years, with its accumulated extensive industry resources, CMS is able to undertake the commercialization of innovative products and achieve rapid sales growth in its efficient operation system, and ultimately achieve an efficient cash flow cycle. CMS’ commercialization ability is not purely based on its sales capability, as we can see the Company’s selling expense ratio has been maintained at about 22% for years, which is relatively low compared with the industry level, it can be illustrated that CMS is not only very compliant in sales and promotion, but also attached great importance to differentiation advantages and market demands of products rather than blinded innovation, so as to build strengths in its products and brands and achieve win-win for its own economic benefit and the society.

c. Featured with light assets and high efficiency, CMS is aimed at creating VIC model 2.0

At present, there are mainly three models of the innovative drugs R&D in China, namely, big pharma model (independent R&D), biotech model (license in/out) and VIC model (active capital investment).

The big pharma model is often applied to large pharmaceutical companies, as it requires pharmaceutical companies to have sufficient profit-making products to support their investment in R&D. The model requires companies to focus more on the creation of R&D pipeline, as well as the cultivation of research and sales teams, which is apparently an asset-heavy business model.

The biotech model is an R&D model based on drug licensing and development. Under this model, pharmaceutical companies have the key R&D technologies, so they can generate revenue through “License out” clinical stage products, and diversify their R&D pipeline through “License in”.

The VIC model is a combination of “VC (venture capital) + IP (intellectual property) + CRO (R&D outsourcing)”, which is also known as the active new drug investment model. Under this model, the party that owns the IP receives venture capital, sets up a project-based company, and collaborates with a CRO in R&D. Similar to this model, CMS’ industrial investment in innovative biotech companies is featured by being relatively asset-light, low-cost and highly efficient, which can save investment and achieve high cost-effectiveness. For example, with this model, CMS does not need to build its own labs, factories, etc. It acts more as an industry integrator and predator to explore innovative products and technology platforms, and uses its own advantages to integrate resources and continuously realize the incubation and commercialization of innovative products.

The difference between CMS’ industrial investment model and VIC model is that the leading party of VIC model is the capital, whose understanding of the industry and contribution to product innovation is very limited. In contrast, CMS’ industrial investment is a more advanced version of the VIC model, in which the leading party is CMS. With accumulated resources in the industry for a long time and deeper understanding of products, CMS is more capable of promoting the R&D and commercialization of innovative drugs, and is able to create a systematic, replicable and long-term competitive industrial investment model of innovative drugs. CMS will also build a highly competitive barrier for itself in the industry, and with the maturing of the platform ecology, its business will be expanded and the business potential will be unleashed continuously.

3. Conclusion

Based upon the current situation of China Medical System (0867.HK), its existing business has maintained a solid development momentum, with its FY20 annual report showing that the turnover up by 14.4% year-on-year to RMB 6.946 billion, net profit up by 30.7% to RMB 2.556 billion; bank balance, cash and realizable acceptance bills totaled RMB 3.114 billion as of December 31, 2020. The excellent performance shows that the Company has the necessary strength to support its industrial investment in innovative drugs and actively explore innovative platforms and projects in the industry.

At the same time, this model is being continuously optimized in order to make it replicable. With the emergence of the platform ecology of the Company, top advantageous resources in the industry will be absorbed, and the platform will eventually become an important birthplace of innovative products. And the value generated from continuous commercialization will in turn feed the entire ecology, and the flywheel of the Company’s growth will also be fully accelerated.

From another perspective, CMS is not the “star” chased by capital, but more like a “producer” in the pharmaceutical innovation industry, who constantly incubates quality projects to meet the market demand and realize the continuous leap of its own value through the integration and optimization of industry resources.
Gelonghui Statement: The views in this article are from the original author and do not represent the views and position of Gelongghui. As a special reminder, investment decisions need to be based on independent thinking, the content of this article is for reference only, not as actual operational advice. Trade at your own risk.

Gelonghui Statement: The views in this article are from the original author and do not represent the views and position of Gelongghui. As a special reminder, investment decisions need to be based on independent thinking, the content of this article is for reference only, not as actual operational advice. Trade at your own risk.

From Gelonghui
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Avance Clinical Invited to Present “Decentralized Trials – No Going Back” for Oracle Health Sciences Connect

The leading Australian CRO for biotechs and Frost & Sullivan Asia-Pacific CRO Market Leadership Award winner Avance Clinical has been invited to present on the future of decentralized clinical trials at the Oracle Health Sciences Connect conference.

Title: Decentralized Trials – No Going Back
Link: https://www.oracle.com/in/industries/life-sciences/health-sciences-connect/sessions/
Time: 23 April, 2021 – 3.05 pm (Australia/Adelaide ACST).

Avance Clinical CEO Yvonne Lungershausen, shared the company’s insights on the future of Decentralized Clinical Trials (DCTs) and the technology and patient factors that will determine success. Avance Clinical uses the full range of eClincial technologies to support clients wanting DCTs or a site-based approach while still leveraging advance technology including ePro, eSource and eConsent.

“DCTs are fast becoming the new norm and this is an incredible opportunity for the drug development sector as well as the diverse and remote patient populations that will now have access to clinical trials,” said Lungershausen.

“The pandemic has been the catalyst in speeding up the adoption of decentralised clinical trial methods, as people stopped participating in trials and visiting clinics. Trials have stalled putting lives and significant investments at risk.”

Yvonne Lungershausen said there are considerable benefits to DCT’s including:

– Reduce the scheduling and travel burden on patients – providing care from the comfort of the patient’s home.
– Connecting patients to trials on a global scale – patients that were otherwise inaccessible under more traditional trial protocols are now available.

And she said challenges include:

– Missed human-to-human contact and continuity of patient care
– Investigational product distribution to more remote destinations
– Oversight of compliance and study procedures in the patient’s home

The presentation also covers advances in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, cloud computing and blood self-collection devices which are all revolutionising the decentralized clinical trial process.

– Wearable devices are demonstrating enormous potential whether worn as a wrist strap or an adhesive patch on the body. AI-embedded capabilities allow these devices to measure a patient’s heart rate or metabolism remotely. Linked to the cloud through secure networks, clinicians can receive and analyse the data real-time.
– Video calling and electronic reminders, can improve patient compliance in trials – prompting participants to take their medication at the right time or to record in their electronic diary development.
– Technologies are developing to allow patient-centric sampling (self-collection of specimens) with devices that require the use of a lancet and finger prick whereas others do not, making clinical trials even more convenient.

Take the Quiz – Test your Knowledge about Australian Clinical Trials here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Australian-Clinical-Trials

About Avance Clinical

Australia’s Avance Clinical has more than 20-years of experience and is now one of Australia’s leading Contract Research Organizations. Avance Clinical facilitates quality drug development by aligning people, skills, and expertise in the pursuit of drug development for a healthier world.

Avance Clinical is committed to providing high-quality clinical research services with its highly experienced team. The collective pool of knowledge and experience at Avance Clinical continually grows through the careful selection of experts who also demonstrate passion in their chosen field. Avance Clinical offers high-quality services in an established clinical trial ecosystem, that includes world-class Investigators and Sites able to access specialized patient groups. Learn more at http://www.avancecro.com.

Other benefits include:
1. The Government R&D grant means up to 43.5% rebate on clinical trial spend
2. Telehealth pivot during COVID-19 pandemic – speed and continuity
3. Site Initiation Visit (SIV) and Study Start achieved in 5-6 weeks
4. No IND required for clinical trials
5. Full GMP material is not mandated for Phase I clinical trials
6. Established clinical trial environment with world-class Investigators and sites
7. Established healthy subject databases and specialized patient populations
8. Five independent Phase 1 facilities across Australia including hospital-based units for critical care
9. Major hospitals with world-class infrastructures and dedicated Clinical Trial Units with a long track-record in FDA compliant research
10. Seasonal studies: Northern hemisphere Sponsors can conduct their studies year-round by taking advantage of Australia’s counter-flu and allergy seasons

Media Contact:
media@avancecro.com

Sanofi Renews Partnership with Cielo to Strengthen its Talent Acquisition Strategy in Asia

Cielo, the world’s leading Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) provider, has renewed its partnership with Sanofi, a global biopharmaceutical company, to help them hire the best talent in Asia.

Cielo has been working with Sanofi in Asia since 2018 to provide cutting-edge talent sourcing and recruiting strategies in the region, helping Sanofi transform its approach to talent acquisition. The partnership covers key Asian markets of Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam and Cambodia. Cielo is also Sanofi’s RPO partner in the US and Latin America – a testament to our strategic approach and global offering.

“Life sciences leaders such as Sanofi are rapidly transforming their talent acquisition strategies. We are excited to renew our strategic partnership with Sanofi and continue to help them deliver on their commitment to offering innovative healthcare solutions to patients by providing in-demand talent in Asia,” said Seb O’Connell, President of EMEA and APAC, Cielo. “We believe that the right talent is a key enabler for any organization to unlock its true potential and achieve its business goals, and we are proud to support Sanofi.”

Speaking about the partnership, Andrea Paola Poggio, Head of Talent for Sanofi Asia said, “At Sanofi, our employees are key to our success, and we are always looking for talent who are willing to join us to drive our ambition in empowering lives of our patients. As one of the leading providers of RPO for life sciences and being agile and flexible to deliver at a fast speed, Cielo has enabled Sanofi to benefit from scalable talent acquisition solutions, and reduced time-to-hire; key elements to build a diverse & talented workforce with targeted capabilities for a rapidly changing context.”

“At Cielo, our teams are driven by an overarching purpose of providing superior experiences and outcomes to our clients and this relentless drive to challenge ourselves to do better fosters a strong sense of trust and mutual respect with our clients. Sanofi’s renewed partnership is a validation of this trust and a testament to our Life Sciences domain expertise, commitment and value that we bring to customers,” stated Kumar Bhaya, Vice President, Client Solutions APAC, Cielo Talent.

About Cielo

Cielo is the world’s leading strategic Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) partner and industry innovator delivering RPO, Total Talent Acquisition, Consulting and Executive Search services in 100+ countries. They design comprehensive, people-centric solutions and leverage Cielo TalentCloud – an award-winning technology suite featuring CRM, AI, automation and analytics capabilities – to help clients find, attract and hire the specific talent to move their businesses forward. To learn more, visit cielotalent.com.

About Sanofi

Sanofi is dedicated to supporting people through their health challenges. They are a global biopharmaceutical company focused on human health. They prevent illness with vaccines, provide innovative treatments to fight pain and ease suffering. They stand by the few who suffer from rare diseases and the millions with long-term chronic conditions. With more than 100,000 people in 100 countries, Sanofi is transforming scientific innovation into healthcare solutions around the globe. To learn more, visit www.sanofi.com