BioSpectrum Asia November 2021

ternational
stant
cisive
formative

[email protected]/ [email protected] ASIA EDITION

www.biopectrumasia.com

4 BIO EDIT

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

Dr Milind Kokje HOPE ON THE HORIZON

Chief Editor The third wave of the pandemic is uncertain, although preventive steps in the
form of mass vaccination have already been undertaken on a war footing.
[email protected] India has administered over 1 billion vaccine doses from January to October
which is a monumental achievement indeed. Now there is a potential oral pill that
could effectively be used to treat COVID-19.

Just prior to India’s achieving the administering of 1 billion vaccines, pharma
giant Merck had sought emergency use authorisation (EUA) from the US FDA for
Molnupiravir, its antiviral oral pill to treat COVID-19. Merck has developed it in
collaboration with Ridgeback Biotherapeutics and in clinical trials, it has reduced
incidences of hospitalisation and death among high risk individuals. It cut down
hospitalisation and deaths by 50 per cent among non-hospitalised patients with mild
to moderate disease.

Once approved, Molnupiravir will be the first antiviral medication against
COVID-19 and that too a simple pill to be taken orally. It is an experimental antiviral
medicine developed to treat influenza. It affects replication of viruses as it disrupts
the enzyme, ribonucleic acid (RNA) polymerase which viruses use for replication.

The pandemic has created such havoc by the number of patients and deaths, that
there has been a lot of anxiety across the globe over the disease, its spread, treatment
and prevention. The level of anxiety can be judged by a statement by the Japanese
Prime Minister over the efforts to develop such treatments. He has described them as
‘key Trump Card’ in the prolonged, uphill battle against COVID-19.

Medication against COVID-19 is important since there have been apprehensions
over the efficacy of different vaccines even now. A research article based on the study
of 68 countries published in the European Journal of Epidemiology, in September
2021, by S V Subramaniam and Akhil Kumar claims that there appears to be ‘no
discernable relationship’ between percentage of population vaccinated and new
COVID-19 cases in seven days in the first week of August 2021. They have concluded
that the sole reliance on vaccination as a primary strategy to mitigate COVID-19
needs to be re-examined. This observation underlines the need for developing a
permanent line of treatment to fight COVID-19 since vaccines alone may not prove
totally useful. Molnupiravir trials are heading in that direction.

Merck is collaborating with Cipla, Dr. Reddy’s, Emcure, Sun and Torrent for
clinical trials of their new antiviral in India. Although it reduces the risk by 50
per cent and that too in mild to moderate cases, it may lead the path for further
development of a ‘complete’ cure for COVID-19, irrespective of the severity of the
patients’ infection. Pfizer is already developing a similar pill for COVID-19.

This development is extended to India too, as two pharma companies here have
sought permission to end late stage trials for the generic version of the Merck’s oral
pill. Both the companies have presented their interim clinical data for moderate
patients. In addition to this, Merck has also entered into licensing agreements with
over six companies for production of Molnupiravir, once it is approved. This will
make India a major production hub for these new drugs.

Reports suggest that by the end of this year Molnupiravir the medication will
surely hit the shelves and be available in the US by the end of this year. Merck plans to
produce 10 million courses of treatment by the year end and more doses are expected
to be produced in 2022. In anticipation of approval many countries are placing orders
for the drug. The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has also committed $120 million for
its generic version of the drug destined for its access to low income countries.

Yet, there are the usual apprehensions that much like vaccines, ‘wonder drugs’
like Molnupiravir won’t be available sooner, for low income countries. Hopes and
aspirations of a life without the dread of a deadly pandemic becoming a reality will
be another global challenge.

BIO MAIL 5

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

www.biospectrumasia.com S$ 5.00 “Stem cell-based therapeutics poised to
become mainstream option”- Thank you
Volume 16 | Issue 10 | October 2021 Acknowledgements for making this such a great article. I hope
Thank you for quoting Asst Prof. Yeo Tee the content would contribute towards the
Heartening Joo, Consultant, Department of Cardiology, acceleration of iPSC derived clinical trials in
upsurge in National University Heart Centre Singapore Asia.
(NUHCS) in the cover story, who explained
Cardiac that there are more people who are now - Dr Koji Tanabe, Japan/ US
Medtech survivors of heart attacks and strokes. Thank you for the coverage on Life Science
R&D The more survivors there are, the more Incubator (LSI) in Singapore. LSI strives to
likely it is that there will be recurrence. become a scientific community where startups
Life Science Incubator stirs international A/Prof. Theodoros Kofidis, Head and can grow, learn and cross-pollinate.
startup interest in Singapore – 25 Senior Consultant, Department of Cardiac,
Marvels of Gene-edited Meds Unleashed – 30 Thoracic and Vascular Surgery, NUHCS also - Niamh Madden, Singapore
Virtual Reality: A major healthcare influencer – 33 mentioned SingValve and shared that it was Much thanks for the beautiful coverage of
developed as a heart valve implant made for the interaction with Abdul Ekram, Trade
“Stem cell-based therapeutics poised to the individual patient. Prof. Kofidis added Commissioner, Australian Trade and
become mainstream option” that it is the first of its kind globally, made in Investment Commission, in BioSpectrum Asia.
-Dr Koji Tanabe, Founder & CEO, Singapore.
I Peace, Inc., USA/Japan – 37 - Ayush Kohli, India
- National University Health System,
Singapore

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6 BIO CONTENT

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

COVER STORY 18

Malaysia spearheads

BIOECONOMY

Initiatives

Malaysia is strategically positioned to make the country a much-sought-after
hub of Bioeconomy. In 2020, it completed the final phase of the National
Biotechnology Policy (NBP), and is betting on its bioeconomy sector to drive a
robust economic recovery through programmes and initiatives of Bioeconomy
Corporation. As a regional leader in this sector, being the second country in Asia
and the first country in South East Asia to announce a national bioeconomy
initiative, Malaysia has already set the ball rolling. Moreover, in line with the
National Recovery Plan, it has also framed a Bioeconomy blueprint to address
pandemic challenges and to boost various sectors that are crucial to the
economy. The country is poised to globalise bioentrepreneurship by bestowing
fiscal incentives and grants through special BioNexus Status, effectively making
it a major global player to reckon with, in the bioeconomy space.

BIO CONTENT 7

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com SPEAKING WITH

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE 34

25 “We seek to connect the
startups to Japan’s ecosystem
Is AI delivering on the hype? for significant R&D”

DIABETES Daiki Kumamoto,
Global Fund Leader and Growth Manager,
29 Real Tech Holdings, Japan

Can ‘reversal programmes’ 36
beat diabetes in India?
“There’s no ‘one size
32 fits all’ approach to
Healthcare in Asia”
Increased awareness
boosts India’s diabetes Probir Das,
diagnostic market Chairman and Managing Director,
Terumo Asia Holdings, Singapore
Thomas John,
Managing Director, 38
Agappe Diagnostics, India
“There is immense
REGULARS opportunity for data
and analytics to lift the
BioEdit.........................................................................04 burden of chronic
BioMail........................................................................05 diseases on APAC’s
Policy and Regulatory News...................................08 health systems”
Company News........................................................10
Finance News............................................................12 Farhana Nakhooda,
Start-Up News...........................................................13 Senior Vice President,
World News...............................................................15 Asia Pacific, Health Catalyst, Singapore
WHO NEWS...............................................................17
People News..............................................................44 40
R&D News..................................................................45
Academic News........................................................47 “Many in the cancer
Supplier News...........................................................48 community can be
Lets Talk Health........................................................50 hopeful about the
CAR-T therapy’s future”

Dr Francesca Lorraine Lim,
Consultant, Department of Haematology,
Singapore General Hospital (SGH), and Deputy Head,
SingHealth Duke-NUS Cell Therapy Centre, Singapore

42

OEM by QIAGEN advancing
with Asian molecular
diagnostic companies

Dr Kay Koerner,
Vice President - Head of OEM by
QIAGEN, Germany

8 REGULATORY NEWS

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

Singapore recommends booster dose
of mRNA vaccine for healthcare workers

The Expert Committee on infection over time. Locally, rates of new COVID-19 infections
COVID-19 Vaccination (EC19V) an increased risk of vaccine- in the country, although
in Singapore recommends that breakthrough infections has been protection against severe
the healthcare and frontline observed, starting from around disease remains high. Booster
workers; people and staff in six months after the completion vaccination is therefore needed
institutionalised settings; and of the first two vaccine doses. This to reduce COVID-19 infection
people aged 30 years and above is contributing to the high daily and transmission. There is now
should receive a booster dose of good international data that a
a PSAR mRNA vaccine from six booster dose of the vaccine is
months after the completion of safe, enhances protection against
the two-dose primary vaccination. COVID-19 infection and ensures
Both the Pfizer-BioNTech and the continued excellent protection
Moderna COVID-19 vaccines are against severe disease. The risk
mRNA-based. While two doses of myocarditis/pericarditis with
of the vaccine provide excellent the first two doses of the mRNA
protection against severe disease, vaccines is extremely rare but
the experts have evidence that has a higher incidence among
there is waning protection against adolescents and younger adults.

Australia opens grant China increases
opportunities of $30M
for medical research capacity building of

The Australian government is investing up to $30 clinical disciplines
million in health and medical research to help bring
ground-breaking discoveries to fruition. Through the China will enhance the building of major disciplines
Medical Research Future Fund, the government will in clinical medicine during the 14th Five-Year
open two new grant opportunities across key areas of Plan period (2021-2025) to better promote the
medical research. Firstly, a new grant opportunity will development of public hospitals, according to the
be targeted at Chronic Musculoskeletal Conditions National Health Commission (NHC). During the
in Children and Adolescents, with funding up to $20 period, at least 750 national-level programmes
million over four years from 2021-2022. The intended of building major disciplines in clinical medicine
outcome of this grant opportunity is to improve
the healthcare for children and adolescents with will be launched, while more
chronic musculoskeletal conditions by developing than 5,000 provincial-level
superior diagnostic approaches and by building programmes and 10,000 at
evidence for best treatment approaches, including the city level and below will
improved therapeutic regimes and validated models be put in place across the
of care. Secondly, a grant opportunity will open country, according to a plan
to help researchers develop and implement new on the capacity building of
approaches for improving patient care and health clinical disciplines issued by
outcomes through better use of health information. the NHC. The plan is expected
The Research Data Infrastructure grant opportunity to build high-calibre clinical
provides up to $10 million for projects that bring disciplines and strike a balance
together information held in different systems or between different regions in the capacity of clinical
platforms or that use novel methods like artificial services. To this end, efforts will be made to
intelligence to answer important health questions. improve the application and innovation of medical
technologies, adopt better models of diagnosis and
treatment as well as smart medical services, and
strengthen the talent pool, among other areas.

REGULATORY NEWS 9

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

Japan approves India launches
biggest health programme
GSK’s mAb for post-COVID-19

COVID-19 treatment COVID-19 pandemic showed the relevance of ‘One
Health’ principles in the governance of infectious
Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and diseases, especially efforts to prevent and contain
Welfare (MHLW) has given approval to zoonotic diseases throughout the world. Such diseases
Xevudy (generic name sotrovimab), a single- have devastating impacts on animals, humans, health
dose monoclonal antibody (mAb) developed systems, and economies, requiring years of social and
by the British firm GlaxoSmithKline economic recovery. Sensing this
(GSK), for the treatment of COVID-19, as urgent need, the Department
a Special Approval for Emergency (SAE) of Biotechnology (DBT),
under Article 14-3(1) of the Pharmaceutical Ministry of Science and
Affairs Law. Xevudy is a SARS-CoV-2 Technology, Government
monoclonal antibody being developed of India, supported a mega
globally by GSK and Vir Biotechnology consortium on ‘One Health’.
Inc. With regard to the domestic supply This programme envisages
of Xevudy, agreement has been reached carrying out surveillance
with the Japanese government for their of important bacterial, viral
purchase and distribution of sotrovimab. and parasitic infections of
GSK will continue to work together with the zoonotic as well as transboundary pathogens in India,
Japanese government to ensure a prompt including the North-eastern part of the country. Use
and appropriate supply. XEVUDY 500mg of existing diagnostic tests and the development of
for intravenous injection is approved for the additional methodologies when required are mandated
treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 for the surveillance and for understanding the spread
patients who do not require oxygen of emerging diseases. This consortium, consisting of 27
supplementation and who are at risk of organisations led by DBT-National Institute of Animal
progressing to severe COVID-19. Biotechnology, Hyderabad, is one of the biggest one
health programmes launched by the Government of India
in post-COVID times.

New Zealand proposes third COVID-19
vaccine dose for immunocompromised

A third dose of the COVID-19 after the second dose, according dose. The COVID-19 Technical
vaccine that has been to the COVID-19 Vaccination Advisory Group (CV-TAG)
recommended for severely and Immunisation Programme. carefully considered a number
immunocompromised individuals It has also been mentioned of studies in order to make
aged 12 and older is now available that the eligibility criteria to this recommendation for this
to be accessed. Individuals who access a third primary dose is group. The Ministry of Health
are severely immunocompromised complex and applies to only has published the eligibility
are at a higher risk of severe the group of people who are requirements that must be met to
outcomes from COVID-19 and severely immunocompromised. qualify for a third primary dose.
might not produce a sufficiently Individuals who meet the CV-TAG is constantly reviewing
strong immune response after eligibility criteria will need to the emerging research on booster
two doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 be prescribed a third dose by vaccines, and a recommendation
vaccine. A third primary dose their GP or other specialist on whether a booster should be
may be beneficial and can be and present the script when offered will be made in the coming
administered at least eight weeks accessing the third primary months.

10 COMPANY NEWS

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

Seegene unveils fully Fujitsu develops
AI-based personalised
automated molecular cancer treatment

testing system in Japan Aichi Cancer Center and Fujitsu have announced the
development of an artificial intelligent (AI) solution
South Korea-based Seegene Inc. has unveiled a able to select effective medical treatment from a
fully automated PCR (MDx) test system AIOS. It wide range of drugs based on patients’ individual
provides high throughput real-time PCR workflow, cancer types and various genomic variants. The
starting from nucleic acid extraction, then real- effectiveness of the new solution has been verified
time PCR and finally interpretation of results. in clinical trials by physicians at Aichi Cancer
AIOS is a fully automated syndromic MDx system Center. With current cancer genomic medicine in
designed in a modular concept while compiling Japan, treatment plans are considered based on
Seegene’s advanced real-time high-multiplex PCR the patients’ unique circumstances, including the
technologies. A remarkable feature of AIOS is type of cancer and the actionable genomic variants
that its MDx system is composed of independent detected in cancer cells. Combining the know-
and detachable modules as well as its proprietary how of Aichi Cancer Center in drug selection and
software architecture. Unlike other mono-body Fujitsu’s AI-based data-integration technology, the
systems, AIOS is designed with a liquid extraction new solution is able to sort and combine these data
/ handling system and PCR instrument integrated under common keywords and a single data format
with an in-house developed robotic arm module. and generate a structured data of knowledge, called
Hospitals and laboratories can either purchase Knowledge Graph, in order to find the medications
the complete set of the “AIOS” system or integrate that are likely to be highly effective for each patient.
their existing instruments on site if they already
have the Seegene Liquid Handler and Real-Time
PCR Instrument.

Philips, Teladoc Health deliver
virtual healthcare solutions in Australia & NZ

Royal Philips has signed a new seeking access to healthcare to healthcare services, create
partnership with Teladoc Health. services. Rising healthcare costs increased hospital capacity,
The partnership is the first of its kind and increased demand for hospital improve clinician experience and
in Australia and New Zealand (NZ) services are accelerating adoption improve patient health outcomes
and will deliver comprehensive of virtual health programmes that while reducing the overall cost of
virtual healthcare solutions across can make use of limited specialist care. By combining their world
healthcare facilities, enabling resources while improving quality leading virtual care capabilities, the
virtual care delivery across entire and access to care. The partnership two companies will work together to
organisations. Health networks aims to improve patient access offer hospitals and health systems
across Australia and New Zealand a scalable end-to-end virtual care
are experiencing challenges journey, allowing organisations to
with overburdened emergency leverage scarce clinical resources
departments, ICU capacity, and with remote patient monitoring
elective surgery backlogs, leading across health facilities to support
to long waiting times for people patients and clinicians.

COMPANY NEWS 11

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

BC Platforms to accelerate
adoption of precision
medicine in Southeast Asia

Switzerland-based BC Platforms BC|GENOME, to implement Indian firm
(BCP) has announced an end-to-end clinical NGS
expanded partnership with workflows for germline and Intas Pharma
Bumrungrad International somatic tumour testing, enabling
Hospital in Thailand, one of data-driven personalized care achieves
the largest private hospitals in for patients. Additionally,
Southeast Asia. The extended BCP will provide its Discovery breakthrough
partnership, first formed in and Research Platform,
February 2019, builds on BC|INSIGHT, for curating and in antifungal
clinical sample management analysing clinical and omics
functionalities and existing data in a secure format to therapy domain
automated workflows for enhance translational research
genotype-based wellness capabilities at Bumrungrad and Intas Pharmaceuticals, based in
reporting and NGS-based boost research collaborations. India, has made a progressive
neonatal screening supported by Bumrungrad will also become breakthrough in the Antifungal
BCP solutions. Bumrungrad will a BCP data partner, for which it Therapy domain with the
now utilise BCP’s Personalised will contribute valuable, diverse launch of the world’s first Super
Medicine Platform, powered by data samples for research. Bioavailable Itraconazole-
SB 100mg by the Brand
Medtronic launches Open Name of Itaspor-SB Forte/
Innovation Platform for Subawin. It has been recently
healthcare in Singapore approved by Indian Regulatory
Authorities. Conventional
Medtronic has announced the launch of an Open Innovation Platform Itraconazole mainstay drug
(OIP) in Singapore. The OIP will bring strategic collaboration in to fight fungal infection has
healthcare technologies among various stakeholders across the high result variance and low
healthcare ecosystem through capability development, partnerships patient compliance because
and business organisations networking in the areas of medical of dosing dependence upon
technology and digital health food, acidic beverage, antacids
in APAC, with Singapore as consumption etc. and overall
the epicenter. Focusing on the cost of treatment. Itaspor SB
unique healthcare needs of Forte/Subawin is expected to
the APAC, this first-of-its-kind improve patient compliance and
platform will be supported reduce the Doctor’s counselling
by the Singapore Economic time. It will reduce dosing to
Development Board (EDB). half. Furthermore, patients can
This will enable Medtronic and take it with or without a meal
the EDB to support talent and with just water or as directed
technology development which can help Medtronic leverage data, AI, by the physician. The cost of
and automation to address patient needs. As part of the OIP, Medtronic the therapy is also reduced
has also launched the Medtronic APAC Innovation Challenge (MAIC), substantially.
where business organisations in APAC will have the opportunity to
showcase innovative medical technology solutions in one of the four
domains - namely, ‘Life Transforming Technologies’, ‘Better Outcomes
for All’, ‘Experiences that Put People First’ and ‘Insight Driven Care’.

12 FINANCE NEWS BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

Takeda invests China’s Hansoh Pharma inks
$14M to expand siRNA based deal for $1.3B
first ‘Zero Carbon
Emissions’ UK-based Silence Therapeutics and will retain responsibility
biotech unit and Hansoh Pharmaceutical for development outside the
Group in China have announced China region post Phase 1
Japanese firm Takeda a collaboration to develop studies. Hansoh will also have
Pharmaceutical building is siRNAs (small interfering RNA) the exclusive option to license
preparing to follow the Singapore for three undisclosed targets global rights to a third target
Green Mark Zero Energy leveraging Silence’s proprietary at the point of IND filing.
certification scheme first within the mRNAi GOLD platform. Under Hansoh will be responsible for
company’s global manufacturing the terms of the agreement, all development activities post
and supply network. Takeda Hansoh will have the exclusive option exercise for the third
is injecting $14 million in the option to license rights to the target. Hansoh will make a $16
expansion of manufacturing first two targets in Greater million upfront payment and
operations in Singapore. The China, Hong Kong, Macau Silence is eligible to receive
endeavour is the first ‘net zero and Taiwan following the up to $1.3 billion in additional
carbon emissions’ building in completion of Phase 1 studies. development, regulatory and
its global network and a first- Silence will retain exclusive commercial milestones. Silence
of-its-kind investment within rights for those two targets in will also receive royalties tiered
the biotechnology industry all other territories. Silence from low double-digit to mid-
in Singapore. Located next to will be responsible for all teens on Hansoh net product
Takeda’s biologics manufacturing activities up to option exercise sales.
plant in JTC’s 60-hectare
Woodlands Wafer Fab Park, Korean investors infuse
Takeda’s new zero energy building $40M in Singapore-based
is planned for occupancy by 2022. biotech firm Cerecin
The building follows standards
from the Singapore Building Cerecin Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company based in
Construction Authority’s (BCA) Singapore and the US, has raised $40 million in an oversubscribed
Green Mark (GM) certification round of financing. A Series II investment was initially made by
scheme and sets the bar for green long-term investor, Nestlé. In follow up to this round, Series IIA
energy design. The approval
processes include the design, was led by SK Securities,
piling, construction, occupation Hana Financial Investment,
and completion phases. The Partners Investment, Arche
60-hectare Woodlands Wafer Investment, and K&T
Fab Park caters to the stringent Investment. Other new
operating requirements of investors that participated in
the global semiconductor and this round included Shinhan
biomedical firms. Investment, IBK Capital, KB
Financial Group, M Capital,
and Medici Investment. Ki
Kab Kim of K&T Partners
and Jae An of Partners Investment join Cerecin’s Board as Board
Director and Board Observer. Concurrent with this transaction,
Cerecin signed an agreement with Hana Financial Investment to act
as the Lead Manager in a potential listing on the Korea Exchange
(KRX). The proceeds of this financing will fund the expansion of the
company’s current studies and support the planning and initiation
of a global Phase 3 study in Alzheimer’s disease.

START-UP NEWS 13

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

Twist Alliance Pan-Cancer Inosi Therapeutics on
Methylation Panel to enter
global cancer market verge of developing

The Twist Alliance Pan-Cancer Methylation Panel (Pan- therapeutic IRAP inhibitor
Cancer Panel), a solution for pan-cancer study including
DNA methylation library preparation and targeted Inosi Therapeutics, a university spinout
enrichment for next-generation sequencing (NGS), developing technology to treat fibrosis, has
has been launched globally. The Pan-Cancer Panel was announced a $1.5 million seed round, led by
developed over a two-year period by China-based startup IP Group and Monash University (through
AnchorDx in collaboration with Twist Bioscience, another Monash Investment Holdings). Inosi is
startup based in the US. The Pan-Cancer Panel, coupled the developing a new therapeutic approach to
DNA methylation markers that were discovered, curated treat fibrosis, a condition associated with
and validated by AnchorDx from many large-scale clinical many chronic diseases where tissue damage
studies, with the superior panel design, high-quality DNA leads to scarring and a loss of organ function.
synthesis platform and the strict quality control process Collectively, fibrosis-related diseases
developed by Twist Bioscience, ensures robust and high- contribute to up to
performance output for large-scale screening of patient half of all deaths
samples. The panel covers 47 disease entities from The in developed
Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and 31 cancer types, such countries. The
as lung, breast and colorectal cancers, each represented startup is on a path
by ~1000 informative genomic regions. to develop first-in-
class therapeutic
Insulin Regulated Aminopeptidase (IRAP)
inhibitors, that have so far demonstrated
significant protective effects against diabetes-
induced kidney disease and cardiovascular
disease. Alongside the seed round, Inosi
has also received $704,000 in funding
from the Australian Government’s Targeted
Translation Research Accelerator (TTRA)
programme delivered by MTPConnect,
which will be used to further support the
development of an IRAP inhibitor.

Hong Kong-based startup gets
recognition for novel drug delivery device

MedTech Innovator in eye. Selected from a pool of more
than 500 applicants, Opharmic
partnership with Asia Pacific was awarded the $175,000 non-
dilutive grand prize to advance
Medical Technology Association its business goals and mission to
improve future health outcomes
(APACMed) has announced of patients in the Asia Pacific
region. The startup was also
Opharmic Technology as the awarded a one-year membership
to APACMed and was the recipient
winner of its 2021 Asia Pacific of the Cambridge Consultants
Product Development Award,
Accelerator programme. Based where they will receive exclusive
technical and consultation services
in Hong Kong, Opharmic is from Cambridge Consultants.

developing a transformational

ultrasonic non-invasive ocular diabetic retinopathy. While there
are effective medications that
drug delivery device with the goal can improve these diseases, up
to 30 per cent of patients refuse
of replacing intravitreal injections. these treatments because they
require direct injection into the
More than 500 million patients

worldwide suffer from eye diseases

like macular degeneration and

14 START-UP NEWS

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

Japanese startup Bisu D&D Pharmatech
raises $3.2M to launch
‘home health lab’ secures $51M ahead

Bisu, Inc., a Japan-based startup, has announced a new of Korean IPO in 2022
round of seed funding of $3.2 million. Leading the round
was Korean biotech investor QUAD, with participation D&D Pharmatech Inc., a South Korea-based
from ASIC­ S Ventures Corporation, 15th Rock Ventures, clinical-stage biotechnology startup focused
Pacifico Investments, and SOSV, the world’s most on development and commercialisation of
active investor in hardware and health tech investing revolutionary medicines, and parent company
for the third time. The funding will enable Bisu to bring of U.S.-based Neuraly Inc., Precision Molecular,
to market Bisu Body Coach, a portable ’home health Inc., Theraly Fibrosis Inc., P4Microbiome
lab’ for lifestyle advice through easy, accurate urine and Valted Seq, has
and saliva testing. Bisu also reached an agreement announced that it
with ASICS Corporation to collaborate on health and has completed a
fitness service initiatives. Bisu Body Coach consists of $51 million Series C
a disposable test stick and a reader that syncs with a round of financing
companion smartphone app. The microfluidic ’lab-on- led by Praxis Capital
a-chip’ technology used in the test stick enables reliable, Partners, a private
precise and automated measurements of a wide range equity firm that focuses
of biomarkers in just two minutes. The app provides on growth acquisitions
feedback on key indicators and recommendations and investments in
are personalised based on the user’s goals, dietary Asia; other investors
preferences, activity, sleep and weight. included DS Asset Management, Kudos
Ventures and Korea Investment & Securities.
The new round of financing builds upon the
$137.1 million the company secured in Series
B financing in August 2019. The company is
planning an initial public offering in Korea in
2022. Proceeds will be used to advance DD01
into a Phase 2 clinical trial for obese patients
with both diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty
liver disease (NAFLD), continue support of
Phase 2 studies of NLY01 in Parkinson’s and
Alzheimer’s disease, and the evaluation of
TLY012 in patients with fibrotic disorders.

UNO Technologies further accelerates Malaysia’s healthcare ecosystem

UNO Technologies, a Medical global VCs and tech giants. nation and a regional leader in
Technology firm based in This is further bolstered by the digital economy. As part of
Singapore, has recently the Government’s national UNO Technologies’ Malaysian
announced its expansion into ‘MyDigital’ initiative which aims expansion plan, the UNO Clinic
the Malaysian market. As part of to transform the country into a Management System (UNO CMS)
its regional strategy, UNO will digitally-driven, high-income will be the first product available
team up with Malaysian startup to medical practitioners and
Aetos Pharma to jointly propel businesses. UNO CMS is an end-
the digital transformation of to-end platform digitising clinical
Malaysia’s private healthcare and operational workflows. The
sector. The Malaysian startup solution provides accurate, up-to-
and tech ecosystem is at the date and actionable data to help
cusp of a new wave of innovation physicians, clinics and individuals
with increased interest by make smarter decisions.

WORLD NEWS 15

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com COVID-19 vaccine

Gates Foundation provides $120M booster increases
for COVID-19 drug in LICs
antibody responses:
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has announced a commitment
of up to $120 million to accelerate access to the investigational NIH study
antiviral drug Molnupiravir for lower-income countries (LICs) as
part of its COVID-19 response effort. The funding will be allocated A booster dose of the Moderna
based on consultations with partners, (mRNA-1273) COVID-19 vaccine
and will support the range of activities given to rhesus macaques about
required to develop and manufacture six months after their primary
generic versions of the drug, which is being vaccine series significantly
developed by Merck & Co in collaboration increased levels of neutralising
with Ridgeback Biotherapeutics. This antibodies against all known
commitment builds on the foundation’s SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern,
ongoing efforts, including $1.9 billion in according to a new study from
funding, since the start of the pandemic US-based National Institutes
to increase access to COVID-19 vaccines, of Health (NIH) scientists and
treatments, and tests by supporting R&D, colleagues. The study, published
regulatory work, at-risk manufacturing, in Science, also showed that the
and product delivery. Molnupiravir would be the first oral outpatient increased neutralising antibody
drug authorised for use in treating COVID-19 patients with mild and responses were sustained for
moderate disease, a critical breakthrough to prevent hospitalisations at least eight weeks after the
and save lives in combination with increased vaccination coverage boost, were significantly higher
and existing treatments for severely and critically ill patients. than after the primary vaccine
series, and generated high-level
CEPI explores impact protection, meaning the ability
of small booster doses to significantly limit virus from
of COVID-19 vaccines replicating in the lungs and nose.
These data suggest that boosting
Norway-based Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, triggers a strong immune memory
or CEPI, has launched a new call for proposals to fund clinical trials response and potentially longer
evaluating the impact of reduced booster doses and third doses of lasting immunity. The researchers
COVID-19 vaccines. This approach could play an important role also determined that both the
in stretching the global COVID-19 vaccine supply and increasing mRNA-1273 vaccine developed to
access to doses in underserved regions worldwide. In particular, target the original SARS-CoV-2
the research programme is inviting applications from individual virus and a slightly modified
organisations and consortia, including COVID-19 vaccine developers, version of the vaccine targeting
to assess whether smaller doses of a single COVID-19 vaccine booster the Beta variant, were equivalent
shot, as opposed to a full booster dose, would improve, broaden, in their ability to boost antibody
and prolong the immune response following a primary series of responses and protect.
COVID-19 vaccination, while also putting less strain on already
constricted global COVID-19 vaccine supplies. CEPI will make up to
$25 million funding available as part of the call, with the intention
to fund several clinical trials looking at dose-sparing booster shots
for different COVID-19 vaccine candidates. The funding will also
support trials investigating whether a third, or additional vaccine
doses, administered to immunocompromised people or other
demographics, for whom the primary series of vaccine did not provide
enough protection from COVID-19, could also be fractional, and still
provide sufficient protection.

16 WORLD NEWS BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

Uganda to Argentina launches pilot
improve programme for HIV prevention
maternal, child
and adolescent The Argentine government in the country. It consists of a
health services has announced the launch of comprehensive approach from
the pilot programme to install the biomedical, behavioral
The Government of Uganda with centers for combined prevention and structural aspects.
support from the Government and provision of pre-exposure Likewise, it contemplates
of Korea through the Korea prophylaxis (PrEP), which aim to the implementation at the
International Cooperation expand access to highly effective singular and universal levels;
Agency (KOICA), and the World interventions to respond to the and integration to currently
Health Organisation (WHO) HIV epidemic with a special available preventive devices.
have launched a five-year project focus on key populations. The
to improve Maternal, Child and initiative has the technical and
Adolescent Health Services in financial support of the Pan
select districts in the Busoga American Health Organisation
sub-region. It is a joint project, (PAHO) and the Joint United
with the financial support of Nations Program on HIV /
$10 million dollars, ($9 million AIDS (UNAIDS), and seeks
from KOICA and $1 million from to become a key pillar in
WHO), and will be implemented response to the HIV epidemic
in the districts of Bugiri, Buyende,
Iganga, Kamuli and Mayuge. Sudan lays focus on
Known as the Health System health risk profiling
Strengthening Project to improve
maternal, child and adolescent The South Sudan Ministry of Health supported by the World
health services, the project aims Health Organisation (WHO) recently convened a five-day health
to; improve health governance risk profiling workshop to assess and analyse public health risks
and administrative capacity; for effective planning and prioritisation of health emergencies
strengthen health information and disasters risk management activities. The ever-present and
system in Busoga Region; increasing threat of emergencies with health consequences requires
improve infrastructure and that countries use evidence-based approaches to identify, analyse
medical equipment for maternal and prioritise health risks to prevent, mitigate, and control potential
child health; enhance the capacity harm. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for all
of Reproductive, Maternal, countries to invest in analysing and understanding health risks,
Newborn, Child and Adolescent strengthening whole-of-society institutional capacities to manage
Health (RMNCAH) health the health risks, and investing in risk prevention, mitigation, and
workers and quality of care; and
provide Sexual and Reproductive control interventions. South Sudan has in the
Health and Rights information recent years braced numerous emergencies
among adolescents and teachers. with health consequences including the
protracted complex humanitarian crisis with
severe food insecurity, floods, and disease
outbreaks like COVID-19, cholera, measles,
hepatitis E, yellow fever, rift valley fever,
and circulating vaccine derived poliovirus 2
(cVDPV2). Optimal preparedness and response

readiness to these emergencies thus requires
profiling and analysing of risks associated with each
of the hazards for evidence-based prioritisation and
resource allocation to prevent, mitigate, and control
the health risks for enhanced health security.

WHO NEWS 17

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com WHO issues

GSK unveils groundbreaking 7 policy
malaria vaccine for children
recommendations
The World Health Organisation (WHO) is recommending widespread
use of the RTS,S/AS01 (RTS,S) malaria vaccine- trade name on building
Mosquirix, developed by British drugmaker
GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), among children resilient health
in sub-Saharan Africa and in other regions
with moderate to high P. falciparum malaria systems
transmission. The recommendation is based
on results from an ongoing pilot programme The World Health Organisation
in Ghana, Kenya and Malawi that has (WHO) has released a position
reached more than 800,000 children since paper on building health systems
2019. GSK is working with partners to resilience towards UHC and health
develop solutions to ensure equitable and security during COVID-19 and
long-term access to the RTS,S vaccine for beyond to reinforce the urgent
the people who need it. GSK has committed need for renewed and heightened
to donate up to 10 million RTS,S doses for use in the pilots, and to national and global commitment
supply up to 15 million doses annually, following a recommendation to make countries better prepared
and funding for wider use. and health systems resilient against
all forms of public health threats for
WHO prioritises diabetes, sustained progress towards both
cancer treatments in universal health coverage (UHC)
Essential Medicines Lists and health security. WHO’s 7 policy
recommendations on building
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has published the new resilient health systems based on
edition of its Model Lists of Essential Medicines and Essential primary healthcare are- Leverage the
Medicines for Children, which include new treatments for various current response to strengthen both
cancers, insulin analogues and new oral medicines for diabetes, pandemic preparedness and health
new medicines to assist people who want to stop smoking, and new systems; Invest in essential public
antimicrobials to treat serious bacterial and fungal infections. The health functions including those
listings aim to address global health needed for all-hazards emergency
priorities, identifying the medicines that risk management; Build a strong
provide the greatest benefits, and which primary healthcare foundation;
should be available and affordable Invest in institutionalised
for all. However, high prices for both mechanisms for whole-of-
new, patented medicines and older society engagement; Create and
medicines, like insulin, continue to keep promote enabling environments
some essential medicines out of reach for for research, innovation and
many patients. The list includes Sodium- learning; Increase domestic and
Glucose Co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) global investment in health system
inhibitors empagliflozin, canagliflozin foundations and all-hazards
and dapagliflozin as second line therapy emergency risk management; and
in adults with type 2 diabetes. Four new medicines for cancer Address pre-existing inequities
treatment were added to the model lists. They are Enzalutamide, as and the disproportionate impact
an alternative to abiraterone, for prostate cancer; Everolimus, for of COVID-19 on marginalised
subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA), a type of brain tumour and vulnerable populations.
in children; Ibrutinib, a targeted medicine for chronic lymphocytic The WHO position paper comes
leukaemia; and Rasburicase, for tumour lysis syndrome, a serious at a crucial time to provide
complication of some cancer treatments. leaders and policymakers with
recommendations on positioning
health within the wider discussions
on socioeconomic recovery and
transformation.

18 COVER STORY

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

Malaysia spearheads

BIOECONOMY

Initiatives

Malaysia is strategically positioned to make the country a much-sought-after
hub of Bioeconomy. In 2020, it completed the final phase of the National
Biotechnology Policy (NBP), and is betting on its bioeconomy sector to drive a
robust economic recovery through programmes and initiatives of Bioeconomy
Corporation. As a regional leader in this sector, being the second country in Asia
and the first country in South East Asia to announce a national bioeconomy
initiative, Malaysia has already set the ball rolling. Moreover, in line with the
National Recovery Plan, it has also framed a Bioeconomy blueprint to address
pandemic challenges and to boost various sectors that are crucial to the
economy. The country is poised to globalise bioentrepreneurship by bestowing
fiscal incentives and grants through special BioNexus Status, effectively making
it a major global player to reckon with, in the bioeconomy space.

COVER STORY 19

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

In the year 2005, the Malaysian Government BIONEXUS STATUS COMPANIES - 252
launched the National Biotechnology Policy (NBP)
with the theme ‘Biotechnology for wealth creation (AS OF OCTOBER 7, 2021)
and social well-being’ to advance the development of
three economic sectors like agriculture, healthcare ● Agbiotech - 142
and bioindustrial manufacturing. The initiative ● Healthcare - 68
was the first national bioeconomy initiative in the ● Industrial - 42
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and ● Approved Investments - RM6.7 Billion
second in Asia after China. There are nine ‘thrusts’ of
the National Biotechnology Policy aiming to nurture “Human capital-based programmes like
an empowering life science ecosystem in academia, Biokerjaya @ My Future Agro under the PENJANA
R&D and commerce communities for stimulating the initiative as well as BioAgrotech & BioPharmaceutical
bio-based sectors. These trusts cover core research, Employability and Entrepreneurship Specialised
product development, human capital development Training (BeST 2.0) provide employment opportunities
(BioAcademy), financial infrastructure, legal and during this challenging period. It is projected that 800
regulatory framework, and strategic progress in high value jobs will be created and 400 individuals will
association with the national support system. be trained through these programmes by the end of
2021. Our Bio-based Accelerator Programme (BBA)
Recognising the significance of biotechnology and offers guidance and nurturing activities for bio-based
its implications as a key strategic drivers to propel startups and SMEs to scale up their businesses to
the country’s social and economic development, NBP become resilient in this economic climate”, said Mohd
was executed over three phases: Phase I for Capacity Khairul Fidzal Abdul Razak describing Bioeconomy
Building (2005-2010), Phase II on Science to Business Blueprint, as part of National Recovery Plan.
(2011-2015) and Phase III to develop Global Business
(2016-2020). ‘Malaysian Bioeconomy Development “We also continue to provide business advisory
Corporation (Bioeconomy Corp)’ acts as a lead agency and support to 250 BioNexus Status companies that
responsible for the coordinated implementation of the are active in the agriculture, healthcare bio, and
NBP trusts. The initiative is supported by the scientific, industrial sectors of bioeconomy. As of the fourth
academic and business communities in the country quarter of 2020, these companies have achieved
enabling the growth of the ecosystem. $910.5 million (RM3.78 billion) worth of realised
investments and generated revenues worth $342
Bioeconomy Corp has aligned its initiatives and million (RM1.42 billion)”, he added.
efforts to leverage the forces to advance Malaysia’s
national growth strategy. With the completion of the In the fast-paced field of changing technology,
final phase of the NBP in 2020, Bioeconomy Corp is supporting discoveries, and innovations in biotechnology
expanding its goals to reach global businesses. It has are thus key to ensure research is transformed into
developed many international and local biotechnology marketable products which will drive the bioeconomy.
companies in Malaysia with the BioNexus status, Active engagements with various local and foreign
which is an accreditation given to international and investors such as private VCs, corporations, financial
Malaysian bio-based companies that qualify them for institutions and angel investors are increasing the access
fiscal incentives, grants and guarantees administered of funding and business at biotechnology companies and
by Bioeconomy Corporation. bio-entrepreneurs. With the continual support of the
government, stakeholders and investors in Malaysia’s
In June 2021, Bioeconomy Corp announced its bioeconomy agenda, Bioeconomy Corp is strengthening
commitment and support to the National Recovery forces to achieve economic, social and sustainable
Plan various initiatives and programmes complement development. Overall, Bioeconomy creates an inclusive
the plan’s Phase IV strategy of returning the country ecosystem by accelerating the growth and unlocking
to near normalcy by the end of 2021, following the value in the bio-based industry across the bioscience,
effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. healthcare, bio industrial and agriculture sectors.

Bioeconomy Corporation’s Chief Executive Pharma/Biopharma/Biotech/
Officer, Mohd Khairul Fidzal Abdul Razak said “We
have the Bioeconomy Blueprint that establishes the Medical device industry
direction of Malaysia’s bioeconomy development
moving forward while addressing challenges and Pharma-Biopharma: Malaysia offers a
identifying activities that will provide a much-needed good value proposition for Biopharmaceuticals/
boost to the country once economic sectors gradually Biogenerics (Biosimilars) companies through
open according to the National Recovery Plan”. investment opportunities. Local and foreign players

20 COVER STORY

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

MALAYSIAN BIOTECHNOLOGY Mohd Khairul Fidzal Abdul Razak,
POLICY FOCUS AREAS Chief Executive Officer, Bioeconomy Corporation

● Agriculture Biotechnology Development Malaysia - A thriving
● Healthcare Biotechnology Development bioeconomy destination in APAC
● Industrial Biotechnology Development
● R&D and Technology Acquisition Global issues like the COVID-19 pandemic and
● Human Capital Development climate change as well as rapid technology
● Financial Infrastructure Development development have opened up important
● Legislative and Regulatory Framework Development opportunities in the Malaysian bioeconomy.
● Strategic Positioning
● Government Commitment We have seen a significant boost in the
biopharmaceutical business, thanks to the growing
are engaged in research and development and world demand for diagnostics, vaccines, medical
commercialisation (R&D&C) activities around supplies, and services, as well as personal and
biopharmaceutical APIs, FDA/EMEA cGMP compliant healthcare products. Furthermore, the increasing
services, protein engineering, genome research and awareness in sustainability has also driven the
more. Commercialisation of monoclonal antibodies bio-based business in sectors such as agriculture,
and recombinant proteins are also leading. Foreign healthcare, and industrial, with companies finding
investors can hold 100 per cent of the equity in all alternative, eco-friendly solutions to everyday living,
investments in pharma manufacturing projects, as well including producing biodegradable packaging,
as investments in expansion/diversification projects by sustainable feed, as well as smart farming.
existing companies.
International players can expect these areas
Medical devices and diagnostics: The in bioeconomy to continuously thrive in Malaysia,
government’s continuous commitment to attract high especially with the presence of emerging local
technology investment is reflected through a significant startups and early stage SMEs in the biotechnology
growth of Malaysia’s medical devices industry over and bio-based industries. In this matter, Bioeconomy
the last few years. In 2020, the industry contributed Corporation is nurturing and facilitating them to scale
a total of RM6.1 billion worth of investments through up their growth, encourage technology adoption, and
51 projects approved by Malaysian Investment strengthen their business strategies through the Bio-
Development Authority (MIDA). At present, Malaysia based Accelerator Programme (BBA). We also have
comprises over 200 manufacturers producing a plenty of local talents, knowledge workers, biological
broad range of products and equipment for medical, resources, tax incentives, and strong government
surgical, dental, optical and general health purposes. support through Bioeconomy Corporation to cement
This has certainly made Malaysia an ideal investment Malaysia’s position in the global bioeconomy.
destination, particularly as an outsourcing destination
and a medical device manufacturing hub in ASEAN. Attracting investments
One of the main support services that Bioeconomy
On August 17, 2021, MIDA and HSBC Bank
Malaysia renewed Memorandum of Understanding Corporation provides is nurturing companies with the
(MoU), to attract more global investments into BioNexus Status, an award given by the Malaysian
Malaysia and to further facilitate the establishment government to qualified biotechnology and bio-based
and expansion of multinational corporations in the companies in the healthcare, agriculture, and industrial
country. The strategic public-private partnership sectors. These companies enjoy fiscal incentives,
will leverage MIDA’s marketing and trade exchange facilitation, and other guarantees from Bioeconomy
initiatives, such as trade and investment missions, Corporation to assist their growth.
while capitalising on HSBC’s global presence.
Further revitalising and reforming Malaysia’s BioNexus Status companies continue to be the
economy during and post-COVID-19 the partnership fuel that drives the growth and success of bioeconomy
maximises potential Foreign Direct Investments in Malaysia. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, 250
(FDI) opportunities into Malaysia, particularly in
the manufacturing sector, including medical devices
industries. HSBC will further channelise cross-border
trade and investment assisting MIDA’s stakeholders
to make well-informed investment decisions while

COVER STORY 21

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com “Malaysia’s National Investment
Aspirations (NIA) framework
BioNexus Status companies recorded total realised to entice higher quality
investments worth over $964 million (RM4 billion) in investments, particularly in
the second quarter of 2021, which is a nine per cent the areas of technology and
increase compared to the second quarter of 2020 ($892 innovation. Malaysia is, and
million/RM3.7 billion). Out of these, $361 million (RM1.5
billion) were recorded as foreign direct investments will continue to be, a strategic
(FDIs) in the second quarter of 2021, which is a 71 per business partner to businesses
cent increase compared to the same period in 2020 within ASEAN and beyond. We
($215 million /RM891.8 million). There was also a seven boast of a robust pool of talent
per cent increase of knowledge worker employment and a well-diversified economy
among the BioNexus Status companies in the second
quarter of 2021 (over 1,700 knowledge workers) resting on the back of strong
compared to the same quarter of 2020 (over 1,600 economic fundamentals.
knowledge workers), most notably in the agriculture
biotech (AgBiotech) sector. This shows the need for Moreover, Malaysia’s established
knowledge workers in critical sectors like AgBiotech, local supply chain that is well-
which plays an important role in addressing food integrated into the global
security and production in the face of crises such as value chain, supported by
COVID-19. a strong and matured local
engineering support industry,
Besides BioNexus Status companies, Bioeconomy are an undeniable pull factor
Corporation also facilitates high impact FDI bioeconomy for investors seeking to expand
projects in the BioIndustrial and Healthcare Bio sectors, their production capacity
including Biocon’s integrated manufacturing and R&D efficiently and with ease.”
facility for insulin in Malaysia, one of the largest in
Asia. These projects recorded a total of $1.1 billion Arham Abdul Rahman, CEO, MIDA
(RM4.7 billion) realised investments as of 2020. This
is a testament to the resilience, competitiveness, and conducting their businesses across global markets.
strength of the BioNexus Status companies and high Biotechnology: There are over 20 agencies and
impact projects in attracting FDIs and providing job
opportunities in these challenging times. research institutes under the Ministry of Science,
Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) that deal with
National Bioeconomy Blueprint 2021-2031 biotechnology. The National Institute of Biotechnology
Bioeconomy Corporation is in the midst of finalising (NIBM) leads, coordinates and implements the national
biotechnology agenda through research, development,
the National Bioeconomy Blueprint, which will serve innovation and commercialisation activities.
as a foundation for further growth and opportunities
in Malaysia’s bioeconomy from 2021 until 2030. With Contract Research Organisations/
this blueprint in place, industry players - including those Manufacturing (CRO/CMO): Biopharma
from the public and private sectors as well as local industry in Malaysia competitively capitalises
and international players – can expect new strategic generic drug and biosimilar manufacturing in
directions and action plans that include identifying a cost-effective model. Foreign pharmaceutical
emerging sectors and technologies to further grow companies are encouraged to set up facilities in
their business in Malaysia’s bioeconomy. This is aligned Malaysia to manufacture off-patented drugs. Centers
with the Malaysian government’s policies and vision can also conduct Bioavailability and Bioequivalence
to embrace new technologies, provide more diverse studies for pharmaceutical products. There are
job opportunities, and address pressing issues and 4 Bioequivalence Centres namely, School of
challenges to drive the country’s economic growth. Pharmaceutical Sciences, Info Kinetics Sdn Bhd,
Bioxis Sdn Bhd and Borneo Kinetics Sdn Bhd.
Through the blueprint, we are not just seeking to
grow bioeconomy in Malaysia - we wish to see its The Clinical Research Centre (CRC), comprising
benefits spread out and reach other parts of the globe. a network of 17 centres around the country, acts as a
We look forward to cooperating with more global one-stop-centre by providing a single point of contact
partners to explore untapped value-added bio-based and to access all Ministry of Health hospitals and clinics
biotechnology activities that can bring significant impact to conduct clinical trials in Malaysia. These clinical
to economic, social, and environmental development trial centres have linkages to more than 50 general
around the world.” and district hospitals, and more than 100 health
clinics as potential sites for clinical trials.

22 COVER STORY

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

“As the impact of the pandemic Among these Bio-XCell Malaysia Bio-XCell is a
continues to be felt across the premier biotechnology park and ecosystem dedicated
globe and as businesses look to healthcare and industrial biotechnology developed
to recover from the universal by Malaysian Bio-XCell Sdn. Bhd. Bio-XCell offers
economic slowdown, HSBC is a conducive biomanufacturing environment for the
committed to make Malaysia development of biologics, pharmaceuticals, and bio-
a preferred destination for based/green chemicals. Similarly, Technology Park
investment in Asia. With our Malaysia at Bukit Jalil, Technology Park at Enstek
international footprint, and and Penang Science Park cater to high technology
access to global key markets, and eco-conscious industries such as biotechnology
we are glad to collaborate assisting in production of vaccines and biologicals.
with MIDA on nation-building
Contribution of BioNexus Status companies
programmes to capture growth
opportunities.” BioNexus Status is a special status awarded to
qualified international and Malaysian biotechnology
Stuart Milne, CEO, HSBC Malaysia companies that undertake value-added biotechnology
and/or life sciences activities. The status bestows
Infrastructure support fiscal incentives, grants, and other guarantees
to assist company growth and accelerate their
The prime advantage to manufacturers in Malaysia contribution to grow the overall bioeconomy. In order
has been and continues to be the nation’s persistent to encourage bioentrepreneurship among locals and
drive to develop and upgrade its infrastructure. to attract foreign companies, BioNexus status was
Strategically located industrial estates and pharma- introduced offering qualifying companies 10 years’
bio parks in plug-and-play models with state-of-art tax exemption on statutory income, maintenance of
facilities are advantageous by offering interconnected 100 percent company ownership and assistance in
hubs, shared laboratory spaces which in turn the navigation of local procedures.
reduces capital expenditure and promotes logistic
conveniences. Over 200 multisectorial industrial The BioNexus Evaluation Department (BED)
estates/parks and 13 Free Industrial Zones (FIZs) is responsible for evaluating and conducting risk
are located across the country. FIZs are export assessment on applications for BioNexus Status and
processing zones which have been developed to various incentives from biotechnology companies.
cater to the needs of export-oriented industries BED has reviewed its BioNexus Status Framework
such as the pharmaceutical industry. Companies in to ensure consistency with global tax practices
FIZs are allowed duty free imports of raw materials, aligning with its BioNexus 3.0 which primarily
components, parts, machinery and equipment directly decides BioNexus Status for a company. Malaysia
required in the manufacturing process. is committed to implement and to adhere to the
international taxation standard of Organisation of
Malaysia has five economic corridors (Northern Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)
Corridor Economic Region, East Coast Economic Inclusive Framework (IF) on Base Erosion and Profit
Region, Sabah Development Corridor, Sarawak Shifting (BEPS) Action Plan to execute the BioNexus
Corridor of Renewable Energy, and Iskandar Region) framework.
out of which three offer infrastructure and logistics
support for regional and foreign bioindustry players. BioNexus companies have shown significant
impact in improving biopharmaceuticals, biomedical
ECONOMIC CORRIDORS technology, bio services, and the emerging
biosciences and healthcare industry. To date there
Northern Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP); are 250 BioNexus companies, 70 per cent locally
Corridor For biomedical players owned and 30 per cent by foreign entities. The USA,
Economic Investment: $46.2 million (RM192 million) Singapore, India, UK, Australia, China, Germany,
Region British Virgin Island, Taiwan, Japan, Italy, South
Korea, Brunei, Canada, France, Hong Kong and
East Coast Kertih Biopolymer Park; Belgium are among the countries that own some of
the BioNexus status companies in Malaysia.
Economic For bioindustrial players
Bioeconomy Corp has introduced financial
Region Investment: $963.5 million (RM4 billion) incentives for bio-based players, such as the second
Biotechnology Commercialisation Fund (BCF 2.0),
Iskandar Bio-XCell Biotechnology Park:
Region For biopharma and bioindustrial players
Investment: $385.4 million (RM1.6 billion)

COVER STORY 23

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

revisions of the BioNexus framework (BioNexus 3.0), BIOECONOMY CORP
and to facilitate market access initiatives in association GOALS AND INITIATIVES
with Government of Malaysia, stakeholders, industry
players, clients, and business associates. ● Achieve objectives of the National Biotechnology

BioNexus Tax Incentives allows companies Policy (NBP) and Bioeconomy Transformation
an exemption from import duty and sales tax on
imported raw materials/components and machinery Programme (BTP) complimenting Malaysia’s growth
and equipment. It also provides 100 per cent ● Act as the central point in providing support,
allowance of the qualifying capital expenditure
incurred within five years, allows an exemption of 70 facilitation and advisory
per cent of statutory income, receives allowance for ● Nurture and accelerate growth of Malaysian bio-
being a dedicated biotechnology industrial building,
receives double deduction on expenditure incurred based companies
for R&D, and more such provisions. ● Actively promote foreign direct investments in bio-

Malaysia Bioeconomy Corp is a major based industry
contributor to the country’s economic growth, ● Facilitate funding ecosystem for bio-based industry
benefiting the nation through breakthroughs in ● Seeking and securing foreign investments
healthcare discoveries, bio industrial innovations, ● Improve the position of bio-based industry by
bio manufacturing, agricultural productivity, and
adoption of sustainable industrial processes. implementing current global strategy
● Promote bio-based companies up the value chain
BioMedical/Healthcare
via targeted collaborative programmes
The Malaysian healthcare bio cluster ● Development of bio-entrepreneurs
is progressing with industry players from ● Creation of bio-based clusters throughout the nation
biopharmaceuticals, medical devices, as well as ● Human capital development for bio-based industry
cellular medicine, precision medicine, Cell and Gene ● Addressing regulatory hurdles
Therapy Product (CGTPs), High potency Active ● Facilitating access to market
Pharmaceutical Ingredients (HAPIs) and more. ● Act as the commercial arm for bio-based industry
Bio industry sector in the country has witnessed a
significant periodic growth with multiple strategic and enhance role of promoting local bio-based
partnerships in biopharmaceuticals and biomedical
technology sectors. products
● Position Malaysia as a global/regional Healthcare
As part of 4th Industrial Revolution (IR4.0)
Malaysia is further transforming the healthcare Bio Bio Hub using the value chain approach
Industry in key aspects such as manufacturing, supply ● Coordinate investments and communicate on
chain and healthcare delivery. The consortium of
biotechnology and healthcare innovation has brought project implementation by creating conducive
revolutionary growth to emerging bioscience sectors
like diagnostics, prevention, and treatment measures, healthcare ecosystem
wellness -pharmanutrition and more. The biomedical ● Promotes and integrates Malaysia’s bio-based
technology and diagnostics vertical currently
contributes the highest revenue compared to other resources with national and global industrial
subsectors in Malaysia’s healthcare bio cluster.
biotechnology platforms.
Malaysia is a great destination for foreign ● Engages industry players to create awareness,
companies to expand their business and
manufacturing activities as the cost of operation is interest, structure partnering, and collaboration to
competitive and the government offers a wide range
of incentives. A range of thriving multidisciplinary foster new investments.
domains like drug discovery, biosimilars, genomic ● Promotes sustainable business operations by
medicine, stem cell, regenerative medicines and
more in Malaysia are of significance to Foreign Direct providing supporting services
Investments (FDI) from global locations. ● Nurturing and growing local healthcare bio

Biocon, Asia’s largest integrated Insulin facility companies
is located at Malaysia’s premier Biotechnology Park ● Improve the economy with a positive impact on

local player’s income and welfare with socio-

economic programmes.

and Ecosystem, Bio-XCell with the investment of
more than $241 million (RM1 Billion). Being locally
manufactured, the biosimilar insulin from Biocon
has led to a significant reduction in healthcare costs
attributed to diabetes in Malaysia.

Bioeconomy Corporation also works with
many stakeholders including MIDA and Northern
Corridor Investment Authority to secure projects by

24 COVER STORY

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

DYNAMIC INVESTMENT DESTINATION REALISED INVESTMENT BY INDUSTRY

Bioeconomy Corp creates a platform for the Industry Cumulative Investment
private sector to channel and maximise commercial Sector (up until Q2, 2021)
opportunities in bio-based industries. It supports new
and established companies in the private sector by Industrial $340 million (RM1,412 million)
facilitating networking opportunities, collaboration biotechnology
with government stakeholders, commercialisation of (BioIndustrial) $218 million (RM904.6 million)
research and development (R&D), and showcasing $422 million (RM1,753.1 million)
new bio-based projects and technologies which raises Healthcare Bio
Malaysia’s profile as an investment destination. This
will also accelerate the development of local bio-based AgBiotech
businesses while creating new jobs and business
opportunities. TOTAL $981 million (RM4,069.7 million)

Bioeconomy Corp programmes create a conducive REVENUES BY INDUSTRY
ecosystem for the growth of globally competitive
bio-based players in Malaysia. Inclusion of bio-based Industry Cumulative Revenue
companies into the BioNexus Status family attracts Sector (up until Q2, 2021)
more investments, creates revenue and jobs. By the
second quarter of 2021, Bioeconomy Corp awarded the Industrial $187 million (RM774.9 million)
BioNexus Status to 250 companies which contributed biotechnology
to Malaysia’s economy by $981 million (RM4 billion) (BioIndustrial)
in cumulative realised investments and $297 million
(RM1.2 billion) in revenue. Healthcare Bio $38 million (RM158.2 million)
AgBiotech $76 million (RM298.8 million)
Bioeconomy Corp strives to drive Domestic Direct TOTAL $297 million (RM1,231.9 million)
Investments (DDI) and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
for the growth in the bio-based sector by identifying DDI/ R&D EXPENSES BY INDUSTRY
FDIs, collaborating external and internal stakeholders,
including economic corridors and other agencies. Industry Cumulative Expenses
Focus is also on funding high growth areas like, Sector (up until Q2, 2021)
biopharmaceuticals, biocompatible medical devices,
industrial bioeconomy upstream inputs, biochemicals Industrial $2 million (RM8.3 million)
from renewable resources, biomaterials from renewable biotechnology
resources, high-value bioingredients, high-value food (BioIndustrial)
ingredients and high-value horticulture inputs and more.
Healthcare Bio $9.4 million (RM39 million)

AgBiotech $8.3 million (RM34.8 million)

TOTAL $19.7 million (RM82.1 million)

industry players to produce complex medical devices areas of industrial biotechnology, namely, Bulk/
like Intraocular lens facility, pacemakers, blood Fine & Specialty Chemicals; Biofuel; Biomaterials;
management products, kidney dialysis products are Bioingredients; Bioremediation; and Biocatalyst to
some among many. support growing needs of sustainable solutions in
industrial biotechnology.
BioIndustry
The Bio-Industrial division is focusing on
Bioeconomy Corp is also escalating and improving initiatives to nurture, accelerate and support the
efforts in achieving sustainable development as part development of industrial biotechnology by leveraging
of the 2030 agenda for sustainable development. Malaysia’s natural bio-based resources for the
Malaysia anticipates immense potential in Industrial development and commercialisation of value-added
biotechnology solutions to meet the growing demand innovative products and services. To pursue green
for food, feed, fuel, and materials with greener growth for sustainability and resilience, the country
solutions to prevent pollution, conserve resources, is adopting industrial biotechnology as a strategic
and reduce cost, offering a low-carbon future. In solution to provide renewable energy, reduce carbon
line with NBP and BTP, Industrial biotechnology emission, and provide environmental protection.
(BioIndustrial) division of Bioeconomy Corp
continuously promotes and supports six key focus Hithaishi C Bhaskar
[email protected]

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Is AI delivering

ON THE HYPE?

AI was flagged as the most disruptive technology in the pharmaceutical sector. AI has been
deployed across the pharma value chain, from drug discovery and repurposing, clinical trial design
and enrolment, manufacturing and supply chain, to sales and marketing. But is it all hype or has it
yielded any beneficial results yet? Let’s find out.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a buzzword in the as rising drug development costs, lengthy R&D
pharma industry with big firms announcing timelines, dwindling pipelines, and the need for
new projects in the field practically every day. more complex manufacturing and distribution
In fact, on October 19, 2021, four pharma majors - requirements for biologics and cell and gene
UK’s AstraZeneca, US’ Merck, US’ Pfizer and Israel’s therapies.
Teva – and US’ Amazon Web Services Inc. (AWS) and
Israel Biotech Fund (IBF), two leaders in the hi-tech “AI has been used widely and successfully to
and biotech investment sphere, respectively have improve clinical trial recruitment, enhance and
come together to develop groundbreaking AI to be personalise marketing campaigns, and support
applied to new therapies. automation and digitalisation in manufacturing.
However, compared to R&D, these use cases are not
Drug discovery is an expensive and time widely reported on. Over the past 12 months or so, no
consuming process. This technology is seen as doubt driven in part by the impact of COVID-19 on
a solution to many of pharma’s pressures, such digital transformation across pharma, the use of AI in

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“Over the past 12 months or R&D has received significant attention” said Kathryn
so, no doubt driven in part by Whitney, Director of Thematic Analysis, GlobalData,
UK.
the impact of COVID-19 on
digital transformation across A higher proportion of respondents (23 per cent)
reported that their company currently uses AI in R&D
pharma, the use of AI in compared to other parts of the pharma supply, such
R&D has received significant as sales and marketing (18 per cent), manufacturing
(15 per cent), and supply chain (13 per cent), as per
attention”. GlobalData Smart Pharma 2021 survey.
- Kathryn Whitney,
“I believe AI is likely being used more in
Director of Thematic Analysis, GlobalData, UK marketing and sales due to the fact that the
success of a prediction can be demonstrated more
“Successfully utilising AI in frequently. One may predict that marketing a
R&D will lead to a much higher therapeutic to a specific demographic would result
in an increase in sales. You could subsequently
impact to the overall pharma begin testing this hypothesis the next day by
industry as the failure rate increasing spend on a particular marketing
of matching therapeutics vertical that allowed you to reach and measure the
to patients is one of the behaviour of this consumer graphic”, said Bradlay
Pryde, Cofounder & Chief Operating Officer (COO)
largest success factors for any of OneThree Biotech, USA.
biopharma company”.
- Bradlay Pryde, Launched in 2018 in NewYork, OneThree Biotech
Co-Founder & Chief Operating Officer (COO), focuses on the biological side of R&D to predict drug
OneThree Biotech, USA targets, disease-relevant biomarkers, and which
patients will benefit. In partnership, the startup has
“AI is making more and more seen several predictions be validated in up to phase 2
of an impact across every human trials.

aspect of R&D, from AI-enabled Echoing similar sentiments Daniel Cohen,
mRNA vaccines at Moderna Cofounder and CEO of Valence Discovery, Canada,
to therapeutic antibodies at said, “AI is playing an important role in marketing
AbCellera to next generation and sales across nearly every industry, not just
small molecules here at pharma. A key reason for this is that many of these
Valence. AI is impacting not commercial applications are ‘easier’ to solve than
only every modality but also those that are R&D related, largely due to the
every aspect of the discovery intrinsic complexities of chemistry and biology.”

process, from target ID through Founded in 2018, Valence has pioneered the
to candidate selection”. application of few-shot learning in drug design,
- Daniel Cohen, allowing the company to unlock prediction tasks
for which only small amounts of training data are
Cofounder and CEO of Valence Discovery, Canada available. The firm is addressing two key challenges
in AI-driven drug discovery: working with limited
“AI tools have been around data and designing compounds that can actually be
for a long time now and have synthesised in the lab.
repeatedly delivered success,
In R&D, fully validating an AI prediction
for example, computational would take much longer and cost a lot more. You
chemistry and modelling were may predict that a specific therapeutic would be
used by Prof. Robert Glenn and efficacious and safe against a specific patient sub-
a group working at Wellcome group. Subsequently, it would cost millions of dollars
Pharmaceuticals to develop the and take many years to test these patients due to
drug Zomig, now an approved FDA regulations. That being said, there are steps that
can be taken before the clinic and FDA approval that
treatment for migraines”. could provide an early indication of whether or not
- Dr Sam Cooper, the prediction is accurate.

Cofounder and CEO of Phenomic AI, Canada “Still, the cost and time it takes to validate an AI

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prediction in R&D will likely slow the widespread UNDER CLINICAL TRIAL
adoption of its use in this field. However, successfully AI-DISCOVERED DRUGS
utilising AI in R&D will lead to a much higher impact
to the overall pharma industry as the failure rate of The pandemic has hastened the adoption of
matching therapeutics to patients is one of the largest AI in drug discovery and repurposing and could be
success factors for any biopharma company”, added a tipping point for the widespread adoption of the
Bradlay. technology across the pharmaceutical industry:
● In January 2020, it was announced that
The AI hype bubble
a drug created by Japans’ Sumitomo
Startups that apply AI in drug development have Dainippon and UK’s Exscientia, (DSP-1181
raised a staggering $2.1 billion in the first half of for obsessive compulsive disorder) entered
2021, with 2021 set to be a ‘landmark year’ for AI in Phase I development. Another drug from this
pharmaceutics, according to research from Emersion partnership, DSP-0038 for Alzheimer’s disease
Insights. Every one of the major pharmaceutical psychosis, entered clinical trials in May 2021.
companies has announced a partnership with at least ● In February 2020, UK’s BenevolentAI identified
one such firm. US’ Eli Lilly’s Olumiant (baricitinib) as having the
potential to treat COVID-19. Olumiant is already
The number of strategic partnerships between approved and marketed for the treatment of
pharma companies and AI vendors in drug discovery rheumatoid arthritis. It took BenevolentAI just
had increased from just two in 2015 to over 30 in three days to identify six promising approved
2020 according to GlobalData Deals Database. drugs for the treatment of COVID-19 . In April
A recent example includes a $1.2 billion deal 2020, Eli Lilly announced that Olumiant would
between US’ Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) and UK’s enter Phase 3 trials for COVID-19, and it received
Exscientia in May 2021, which aims to accelerate Emergency Use Authorisation (EUA) by the
the discovery of small molecule drug candidates US FDA (The United States Food and Drug
in multiple therapeutic areas, including oncology Administration) in November, 2020.
and immunology. More pharma companies are also ● In July 2020, US’ AI Therapeutics launched a
investing in AI vendors. For example, both BMS Phase 2 clinical trial of LAM-002A (apilimod
and Danish firm Novo Nordisk participated in two dimesylate) to treat newly diagnosed COVID-19
funding rounds for Exscientia in April and May patients, a repurposed drug discovered through
2021, which raised $265 million combined for the AI technology.
company. In addition, more pharma companies ● In September, 2021, UK’s Exscientia in
are building their own in-house AI capabilities. In partnership with German’s Evotec started Phase
2017, UK’s GSK was one of the first major pharma 1 clinical trials with the world’s first AI-designed
companies to create an in-house AI group for drug molecule for immuno-oncology.
discovery, and in 2020 announced that it was ● In October 2021, UK’s Healx has secured FDA
establishing a nearly $14 million AI hub in London. approval for a Phase 2a clinical trial of an AI-
UK’s AstraZeneca also intends to open AI and drug discovered compound HLX-0201, that could
research centers in China and make a $1 billion help manage the symptoms of the genetic
capital infusion into Chinese biotech innovations. disorder Fragile X syndrome.

Despite all the capital and interest, only a few AI-
discovered drugs are actually in the human-testing
pipeline, however, and none has begun phase 3
human trials. For all the hype in the industry, it is far
from certain that early results will translate to better
drugs.

“Nearly every new technology starts out with big
promises and slowly grows into those promises over
time. There was likely a degree of overeagerness in
the early days, but this attention was important in
creating the initial interest that allowed the industry
to mature. Today we are working to make AI-driven
drug design a reality for all types of organisations,
from biotech to pharma to CROs”, asserted Daniel.

“AI tools have been around for a long time now

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“Adopting an evidence- approval and initiation of clinical trials or even in
vitro test results.
based, proof-point led
Evolution of AI
approach to communicating
There has been an onslaught of data becoming
progress is much more available across the entire industry. Taking R&D for
example, since the human genome was sequenced in
sustainable than overhyping 2003 (and before), we’ve seen a boom of useful data
become available.
potential. It’s all about
The explosion of data in pharma requires
demonstrating the tangible sophisticated AI to organise it and draw conclusions
from it. The increase of data availability in pharma
benefits of integrating AI R&D has seen many players in the space come to
light to make predictions on how best to match
and how these approaches therapeutics to patients.

can, ultimately, help improve “AI is making more and more of an impact
across every aspect of R&D, from AI-enabled mRNA
patient outcomes”. vaccines at Moderna to therapeutic antibodies at
AbCellera to next generation small molecules here at
- Bryn Williams-Jones, Valence. AI is impacting not only every modality but
also every aspect of the discovery process, from target
VP, Drug Discovery, BenevolentAI, UK ID through to candidate selection”, said Daniel.

and have repeatedly delivered success, for example, “AI in drug discovery has been around for some
computational chemistry and modelling were time now, but only in recent years has it really
used by Prof. Robert Glenn and a group working started to gain momentum. There has been a huge
at Wellcome Pharmaceuticals to develop the drug shift of mindset from scepticism to opportunity;
Zomig, now an approved treatment for migraines”, the industry now widely acknowledges AI as a
stated Dr Sam Cooper, Cofounder and CEO, valuable tool in advancing scientific discovery.
Phenomic AI, Canada. Challenges remain, but when it comes to advancing
AI innovation in the pharma sector, it’s all about
Founded in 2017, Phenomic deploys deep- trust. Adopting an evidence-based, proof-point led
learning tools to automate analysis of single-cell RNA approach to communicating progress is much more
data as a key, new data source for target identification sustainable than overhyping potential. It’s all about
and patient stratification. demonstrating the tangible benefits of integrating
AI and how these approaches can, ultimately, help
He further added, “The recent wave of hype really improve patient outcomes. And there’s no shortage of
sits on top of a massive expansion in the amount examples of where AI is making an impact” said Bryn
of biological data being generated. Overall, newer Williams-Jones, Vice President, Drug Discovery,
computational tools combined with the ability to BenevolentAI, UK.
generate large amounts of biological data are already
improving the way we discover drugs. The impact is BenevolentAI is leveraging AI in fundamentally
seen across the pipeline and this is culminating with new ways to develop its own in-house drug pipelines.
an increase in new drug approvals, evidenced in a The firm has a growing pipeline of over 20 internal
recent analysis by BCG and published as an article disease programmes; from early discovery towards
titled ‘Breaking Eroom’s Law’. Going forward, more clinical phases.
data and an ever better understanding of patient
populations will only serve to improve our ability to This is an exciting time for the global pharma
get better medicines to patients faster.” industry. As AI matures, we will have the health
ecosystem where medicine is personalised, predictive,
We’re now starting to see the real impact that AI preventative and participatory, leading to new, more
can have in drug discovery, and these technologies efficient and effective models of care.
are beginning to live up to the initial expectations.
“I expect in the near future there will be very
“I believe AI in R&D is likely a combination little in drug discovery and development that is not
of both hype and living up to the hype. There are leveraging AI and machine learning tools”, signed off
hundreds of companies in the field using a variety Bradlay.
of different AI techniques applied to many different
problems,” added Bradlay. Ayesha Siddiqui

The best determination of whether or not AI is
living up to the hype is based on the predictions being
validated. This is difficult due to the length of time
from prediction to the ultimate marker of success
(drug approval), but we can look at different success
milestones on the way to a marketed drug, such as
IND (An Investigational New Drug Application (IND)

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Can ‘reversal programmes’
beat diabetes in India?

Our modern way of life is at odds with the optimal functioning and upkeep of the ‘human machine’.
Unreasonable demands on the body and mind, coupled with erratic food habits has only added to
the overall deterioration of the body-mind equilibrium, leaving us with numerous ‘lifestyle’ disorders,
which could have been avoided with a hard reset of our erring way of life as it stands. Unfortunately,
there hasn’t been much of an improvement in that department and consequently we are faced with
a burgeoning diabetes-affected population. Healthcare providers are in the fray to launch various
diabetes reversal programmes, to tackle this calamitous national (and international) healthcare
challenge. We shall try and find out just how effective and viable these programmes are.

India has turned into the diabetic capital of massage, and spa therapies.
the world with an alarming number of Type 2 Mumbai-based startup Fitterfly Healthtech has
diabetic patients. As per estimates there are more
than 77 million diabetics in the country and by 2045, joined hands with Roche Diabetes, Lal Path Labs,
the number is going to grow to 134 million globally. USV Pharma and leading doctors
Known to damage kidneys, eyes and hearts, and to launch an initiative. Says Dr
amputation, diabetes occurs when there is a lack of Arbinder Singal, Co-founder
insulin being produced by the pancreas. and CEO, Fitterfly, Mumbai,
India “There is no cure for Type 2
Doctors have been recommending several diabetes, but the silver lining is that
measures for diabetic patients. And a special mention diabetes reversal is possible, which
can be made about diabetes reversal programmes means one can reign control over the soaring blood
which healthcare providers and medical professionals sugar levels and keep them in check or within the
have been insisting on. Though the reversal normal range (less than 140 mg/dL). This will save
programme doesn’t guarantee a diabetic free world,
however, certain measures may lead to a decrease one from the clutches of diabetes and also cut
in diabetes. down on the cost of medicines and tests that
need to be done routinely to keep a tab
Latest treatment options on blood sugars. The new-age diabetes
care and management has taken a
A growing economy and rapid urbanisation paradigm shift - advancements
has led many to adapt to a certain mode of in medical technologies have
lifestyle that is leading to obesity and other helped make diabetes treatment
ailments which is ultimately leading to diabetes. more personalised and patient-
It may be noted that senior citizens in urban centric, making diabetes reversal a
settings are most prone to the disease. possibility.”
For patients with Type 2 diabetes
There are various treatment options in South India, Dr. Mohan’s Diabetes
to reverse diabetes like losing Specialities Centre in Chennai follows
weight through diet or exercise the ABCDE philosophy. A stands for Age
or both, usage of continuous
glucose monitoring and A1c. Those at younger ages and have less elevated
sensors, weight reduction A1c, say an A1c of 7 -10 per cent are the ones who are
medical procedures
like bariatric likely to achieve
surgery, usage reversal. B stands
of supplements, for body weight
practicing yoga or body mass
and meditation, index (BMI).
undergoing The higher the
body weight,

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the greater are the chances of going into remission, Prof. Shashank Joshi, Chief
because there is more weight for them to lose. It Scientist at Twin Health and
is estimated that around 15 kg weight loss may be Consultant Endocrinologist
needed to achieve and maintain remission. C stands at Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai
for C-peptide. This is a test to measure the amount of and President of Indian
insulin produced in the body. The better the C-peptide Academy of Diabetes said, “As a
levels, the greater the chances for remission. D stands scientist, I am impressed by the ongoing randomised
for duration of diabetes. Those with shorter duration controlled trial (RCT) results and the cutting-edge
of diabetes are most likely to revert to normal. E Whole Body Digital Twin technology. Now, it has
stands for enthusiasm. Unless the person is highly been scientifically proven that Type 2 diabetes can
enthusiastic and motivated, reversal of diabetes is be reversed by healing the root cause of chronic
either difficult, or if achieved, will not be sustainable. metabolic diseases including Type 2 diabetes with
highly personalised data-driven recommendations to
In the northern India, Gurgaon-based digital doctors and patients.”
therapeutics company, Breathe Well-being
addressing diabetic people and assisting them And the number goes on. A lot of players have
to manage/reverse their conditions, reduce their ventured in this field to provide relief to diabetic
dependence on medication and lead healthier lives. patients.
It has a personalised digital therapeutics programme
called Breathe Well-being Diabetes Management Succour from tech
Program (BDMP), which has recently received
recognition from the American Diabetes Association Artificial intelligence and technological
(ADA). BDMP provides education, lifestyle advisory breakthroughs in healthcare have played an essential
and health-related content as part of a curriculum role in assisting diabetic patients. The scientific
customised according to a patient’s health profile and approach to disease management is beneficial to both
preferences. patients and healthcare practitioners. Mobile phones
have been an integral part of the healthcare system
Speaking on the programme and everyday there are new technological innovations
Aditya Kaicker, Co-founder & in the domain. In diabetes reversal programmes, the
Chief Program Officer, Breathe most commonly used are mobile phones and using
Well-being, Gurgaon, India a coach or a diabetes educator. A diabetes educator
said “Digital therapeutics is a scalable through an app keeps in touch with a diabetic patient
and sustainable solution to the growing and constantly motivates them to achieve weight loss
problem of Type 2 diabetes in India. At-home and to stick to their lifestyle modification. An app helps
intensive programmes with high touch-point enables to manage steps that one takes per day, the calories in
real-time monitoring and guidance for the patients, one’s diet with a proper feedback mechanism.
which is not traditionally available in hospitals and
clinics.” Monitoring has become one of the most
significant instruments for assisting in the reversal
Metromedi, based in Hyderabad, has partnered process, and tools such as self-monitoring blood
with BMS Fit Club to expand its footprint in the glucose with a glucometer and gadgets like as
remote care of lifestyle-related chronic illnesses such continuous glucose monitoring systems make it
as diabetes and hypertension. simple for patients. GOQii has released healthcare
apps that include a tracker for monitoring activity,
With the goal of empowering people to reverse sleep, and other vital signs.
and avoid chronic metabolic disorders like diabetes,
Twin Health, founded in Silicon Valley, California, Sugar.fit, a healthtech firm sponsored by Cure.fit,
and Chennai, India, has invented the Whole Body Endiya Partners, and Tanglin Venture Partners, aims
Digital Twin service. Hundreds of India’s finest to control and reverse diabetes through a data-driven
diabetologists, endocrinologists, and physicians digital health experience centred on the user. The
use the Twin service to provide accurate treatment company has launched its services in Hyderabad,
to people with Type 2 diabetes, which is defined making it the fourth market to foray in India.
as maintaining normal blood glucose levels
while discontinuing all diabetic drugs, including Fitterfly from Mumbai has been offering an
insulin. Twin Health also partnered on technology advanced digital therapeutic programme - Diabefly,
development and health research validation with IIT which uses advanced data tracking from continuous
Madras. glucose monitoring devices and matches it with foods
and exercise creating a personalised glycemic response
Talking about the Twin technology assessment. Based on this assessment, personalised

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plans for diet, stress and fitness are provided to the need to become an important part
patient. Diabefly Reverse DTx programmes have of our system”, said Ajoy Prabhu,
achieved transformational outcomes with results Co-Founder & CTO, Circee
presented at American and European international Health, Mumbai, India.
conference. Fitterfly raised a $3.1 million pre-series A
funding round in March 2021. Bouncing back

Personalised medicine Structured diabetes reversal programme with
coaching and optimisation of therapy is the right way
The diabetes reversal programme can be another to attempt reversal. It requires intense motivation and
area of personalised medicine. Several digital hard work and having a coach or a programme on this
therapies are resulting in better outcomes and are journey helps. Also, it decreases chances of untoward
taking the shape of personalised medicine. side effects like sudden lowering of blood sugars and
other complications. Not everyone is suitable for
“Diabetes already is an area of personalised reversing their diabetes and achieving a medication-
medicine. What India lacks, is the use of personalised free state. However, there are criteria available that
lifestyle intervention. Most healthcare units that predict the chances of reversing your diabetes.
cater to diabetics have personalised medicine but
generic diets and generic exercise guidelines. Since “Diabetes reversal is the new modality of treating
diabetes is a metabolic disorder, it needs to be diabetes, it may completely or partially control it. We
addressed in a holistic manner which begins with need to understand it requires meticulous efforts by
a highly personalised diet, exercise, both physician and patient. Also, the dietary methods
stress management, and medicine. have encouraging results but still need more research
Handling diabetes will become to attain good long-term outcomes which are missing
another area of personalised holistic in present approaches”, said Dr
management,” said Dilip C Byra Geeta A Makhija, Consultant
Founder, MetroMedi.com, Physician and Diabetologist,
Hyderabad, India. Jaslok Hospital & Research
Centre, Mumbai, India.
Echoing similar thoughts Dr
Akshat Chadha, Consultant, The solution for diabetes reversal
GOQii, Mumbai, India said, lies in the patient’s understanding
“Any expert who wants to make a about the foods which may increase or decrease the
difference to a patient’s life must look level of diabetes. One should also consider how much
at personalising the advice customised of what food is working for the individual’s body.
to that patient.”
“We don’t use the word ‘completely cured’
Sharing his thoughts, Dr because if a person regains the weight the diabetes is
V Mohan, Chairman and almost definitely likely to come back. Sometimes the
Consultant Diabetologist, Dr glucose values can be even much worse than when
Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities they started attempting the remission process. Some
Centre, India mentioned, “Yes, of my patients however have achieved remission for
indeed, because not everybody with over five years and are doing well. But in the majority
diabetes can attempt to go into a remission stage. For of the studies, we do not have data on remission
example, those with Type 1 diabetes and many other beyond two years. In my experience, most people,
forms of diabetes, long-term remission is currently after six months or one year, have what I call as ‘re-
not possible. It is mostly in Type 2 diabetes that reversal of diabetes’, that is, they develop diabetes
diabetes remission can be attempted. Therefore, this again and need to take medications again to control
is an area of personalised medicine.” their diabetes. Long term sustainability is a huge
problem with reversal treatments,” Dr Mohan added.
“We expect and we hope that it becomes an area of
personalised medicine and that more and more people A balanced and moderate lifestyle change with
actively work towards reversing their diabetes instead proper sleep and stress management along with
of just relying on medicine. We are not saying that multiple dietary options to increase compliance with
medicines are not helpful. In fact, they have played diet hold the key to success. On how these reversal
a very important role in dealing with the ailment. programmes can be a gamechanger in aiding diabetes
However, our endeavour should be to continuously treatment, only time can say.
improve and aim for better results as we move
forward. Therefore, these disease reversal initiatives Sanjiv Das
[email protected]

32 DIABETES

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Increased awareness boosts
India’s diabetes diagnostic market

« successfully markets Glucose Hexokinase reagent,
‘AGGLH’ with higher linearity & excellent
Thomas John, correlation with reference methods.
Managing Director,
Agappe Diagnostics, HbA1C business In India
India
The market for HbA1c testing has been expanding
India is called the ‘diabetes capital’ of the steadily and with better awareness of the
world and the burden is increasing day by day, healthcare regarding it increasing rapidly, the
especially in urban areas. As per reports, 26.1 market is set to boom for a few years too due to its
per cent urban residents aged 60 years or more convenience & three months average estimation.
are diabetic and 9.3 per cent senior citizens living
in India’s rural areas are also diabetic. Among HbA1c levels surge in most Indian cities over
Indians over 45 years of age, 11.5 per cent were the last 3-4 years. As per a release, at present,
diagnosed with high blood sugar levels. more than 77 million people are living with
diabetes in India and the country’s annual spend is
India Diabetes Market size is expected to grow approximately Rs 64,500 crore on diabetes related
at an average CAGR of 6.5 per cent during 2016- healthcare which is further expected to increase if
2023. Global market for Diabetes Diagnostics diabetes is not controlled. Majority of the patients
estimated at $26.5 billion in 2020, it’s projected to going for this test are confirmed diabetics. But
reach $42.4 billion by 2026, growing at a CAGR with increasing awareness among people, this
of 8.1 per cent. Test Strip is projected to record ratio is likely to change, and many more people are
a 8.3 per cent CAGR to reach $11.3 billion by expected to go for the test independently, rather
2026. Same rate will be applicable for India too. than the clinician’s advice.
Increasing frequency and convenience in testing
give a good boost to the diabetes diagnostic HbA1c testing market size is expected to
segment. reach $1,992.44 million by 2025 at 12.24 per cent
CAGR, owing to the rise in adoption of micro-
The Diabetes Market has been segmented as optical detection method. Agappe stands at a very
Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational diabetes. prominent position in the Indian HbA1C market,
Based on the test, market is segmented into with ‘AGA1C’ on the Nephelometry platform,
Random blood sugar test, Fasting blood sugar called Mispa i2 & Mispa i3. Agappe HbA1C has
test, Oral glucose tolerance test, Initial glucose NGSP Certification & this product shows highest
challenge test and others. If we take it on the basis correlation with HPLC method, the golf standard.
of devices, it is segmented into Blood Glucose
Monitoring Devices, HbA1c Testing Devices, Healthcare awareness
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Systems
etc. Preventive healthcare also known as prophylaxis
is the pivotal measure we take for preventing any
Need of the hour is for easier, economic, disease. Preventive healthcare includes the use
and efficient management of this epidemic, of any medical service or precautions that fight
improving easiness and accuracy of machines, against the potential health crisis and it’s getting
and development of non-invasive technology momentum.
for simplification of testing. Agappe Diagnostics
Due to increased general awareness on
underlying reasons for non-communicable
diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases,
through internet and frequent educational articles
in various health magazines and weekly newspaper
magazines, the public are aware of the reasons
and diagnostic tools. Hence, most of the members
from educated societies do opt for voluntary tests
off and on, before going to any physician, thereby

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influencing the diagnostic market in a big way. CGM technology enables you to monitor your
glucose levels 24 hours a day through a sensor
Diabetic assisted markets that sends the readings to an insulin pump.
like Renal Function Tests This intelligent system predicts when you are
approaching a low glucose level 30 minutes in
Diabetic nephropathy is one kidney disorder advance and automatically stops insulin delivery
consequent to diabetes. Cardiovascular and and again automatically resumes insulin delivery
renal complications share common risk factors when your glucose levels recover normal. In short,
such as blood pressure, blood lipids, linked with CGM provides a more complete picture of your
glycaemic control. The impact of diabetes on renal blood glucose levels by giving you early warnings
impairment changes with increasing age. of lows and highs that HbA1C or fingerstick testing
alone cannot deliver. In fact, use of CGM has been
As per Kidney/Renal Function Test (RFT) shown to lower HbA1c levels considerably.
Market forecast, the growth of this segment is
at a CAGR of 6.1 per cent during (2017-2022), The awareness of CGM levels has increased
driven by the rising prevalence of kidney disease, widely in India, and the market for monitoring
growing prevalence of diabetes and hypertension, devices is expected to see high growth in the
increasing geriatric population, and the rise country with a CAGR of 9 per cent during the
in alcohol consumption. Diabetes is the most forecast period.
important one among these comorbidities
which lead to kidney disorders. RFT tools Indigenisation of technology
include dipsticks, reagents, disposables; urine
tests include: Urine Protein, Microalbumin, COVID-19 has put the diagnostic industry at centre
Creatinine Clearance), Blood Tests include Serum stage with unparalleled demand for diagnostic
Creatinine, BUN etc. Higher incidence of diabetes tests, along with other critical medical supplies.
will multiply the kidney function tests in India Strained global relations, disrupted supply
especially in south India, directly proportional to chains have created a trust deficit. All efforts
the diabetes population. were made to rapidly ramp up manufacturing
capacity and capabilities in India, medical devices
POC & Other Glucose Monitoring Devices leaders are also looking outside their normal
sector boundaries to explore creative solutions to
Glucose monitoring devices market in India was further supplement capacity, such as partnerships
estimated around $209 million in FY-2020 and with companies outside the sector, open-source
its growth is expected to be at a CAGR of 10 per equipment design, to support public-health needs.
cent by FY 2026. India glucose monitoring devices After a temporary dip, the healthcare industry has
market can be fragmented into self-monitoring reemerged with the diagnostic industry getting
glucose devices and continuous glucose monitoring maximum advantage. The pandemic has put the
devices, where the self-monitoring glucose devices In vitro diagnostics (IVDs) sector at central stage
segment overwhelmed the market until FY 2020 due to higher requirement of diagnostic tools in all
and the segment is expected to continue its leading sectors including diabetes.
position over the next five years as well. This can
be attributed to ease of use and cost advantage. India imports about 80 per cent of the medical
devices. Due to supply chain bottlenecks during
The India glucose monitoring devices market pandemic, indigenous production has been given
is created by the growing amount of diabetes a big boost by favourable government policies.
in the country, mainly Type 2 diabetes. Always The Prime Minister of India also underlines that
faster and safer diagnosis techniques for diabetes this crisis presents an opportunity to the Indian
are anticipated to expand the market in coming economy. The current pandemic is global, but the
years. Increased awareness among the population solutions to the challenge should be local.
regarding the treatment of diabetes will boost the
market growth. Forecasts by global data indicate that the
medical devices market in India contributed about
Continuous Glucose 13 per cent of the Asia Pacific market in 2019 and
Monitoring (CGM) Devices would grow at a CAGR of 7.5 per cent through
2025. Future expansions will be with wearable
Insulin pumps and CGM can help diabetic patients glucose testing machines; implantable continuous
stay active and flexible and maintain confidence glucose monitors or cloud-enabled continuous
and better lifestyles. Insulin Pumps and CGM glucose monitoring devices, among others.
provide flexibility and better control.

34 SPEAKING WITH

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

“We seek to connect the startups to
Japan’s ecosystem for significant R&D”

« Facilitating collaborations between researchers and
society to advance science and technology, Leave
Daiki Kumamoto, a Nest also manages a global deep-tech specialised
seed acceleration programme named ‘Tech Planter’,
Global Fund Leader and including 6 countries in ASEAN, with more than 600
applications annually and also supports startups with
Growth Manager, their R&D, prototyping and manufacturing.

Real Tech Holdings, How do you map investment opportunities in
APAC as per RealTech expertise?
Japan
Real Tech Fund started funding R&D-based
Venture capitals play a major role in providing technology in 2015 with the expertise of Euglena
financial support to startup companies and the platform of Leave a Nest. Our investment
through strategic investments/mentoring to areas vary from Life science, aerospace, robotics,
enhance growth potential. Asia Pacific government agriculture, medical devices, marine technology,
agencies have also formed large funds to create new electronics, energy and new material. We have more
industries, with the increasing number of accelerators than 50 well-known corporate collaborations under
in the region. Japan is among the biggest investors limited partnership (LP) with a total $200 million
in R&D and innovation globally, with a booming (22.8 billion JPY) investment.
venture capital industry. One such Tokyo based
Venture capital firm, Real Tech Holdings, boosts With the initial investment of $82 million (9.4
collaboration and investments in deep tech startups billion JPY) into Japanese seed/early stage startups,
in Southeast Asia. Leading investments in the deep- we decided to expand our activities into the ASEAN
tech sectors for healthcare, medical, food, AI and region. Southeast Asia, with a total population being
more, Real Tech is accelerating growth at global and over 650 million, battles persisting unsolved issues
APAC startup firms and also supporting entry into such as plastic pollution, loss of biodiversity, waste
the Japanese market. Daiki Kumamoto, Global Fund in agriculture, poor medical environment and more.
Leader and Growth Manager at Real Tech Holdings, These concerns need immediate attention with
shares insights into Japan’s Venture Capital appropriate investment policies and support.
scenario and role of Real Tech in strengthening and
bridging startup ecosystems in Japan and Southeast The IT startup market has emerged over
Asia. Edited excerpts; the past 10 years, yet there are no deep-tech
startups in the Southeast Asia region that are
How do you describe Real Tech’s fostering valued more than $100 million. This could be
venture capital model and investment primarily due to; Lack of investors with deep-tech
principles for the Asia Pacific startup arena? investment knowledge and Lack of prototyping /
manufacturing capability to support the growth
Real Tech Holding is a joint venture between Euglena of deep-tech startups despite the unique research
Co. Ltd. and Leave a Nest Co., Ltd., which are themes that are emerging in universities and
Japan’s leading deep-tech and knowledge platform research institutes across Southeast Asia.
companies. Real Tech Holding manages Real Tech
Fund as Japan’s leading deep-tech focused venture Can you elaborate the role of Real Tech
capital funding firm. Euglena, is Japan’s top deep- ‘Global fund support system in creating a
tech unicorn, with a market cap nearing to $1 billion. platform to penetrate the Japanese market
Euglena is focused on biofuel, health supplements and and to collaborate with regional companies?
healthy food products. Leave a Nest manages Japan’s
largest academia-based knowledge platform that The Real Tech Global Fund initiated with $30 million
supports education, research and entrepreneurship. (2.9 billion JPY) investment into deep-tech startups
mainly in South East Asia, to interlink Japan and
the SEA ecosystem. We seek to connect the startups
to Japan’s ecosystem for significant R&D / business
collaboration with corporates, factory groups and

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researchers. Real Tech facilitates various domain and has been recently focusing on the deep-tech
experts to provide hands-on support to startup sectors by partnering with various strategic partners
portfolios to accelerate their business potential in the with experience. Real Tech is the first Japan-based
booming deep-tech sector. VC to partner with MTDC as a LP investor for co-
investments and co-acceleration in Malaysia.
As for incubation, our group company runs an
incubation space called Center of Garage (CoG) in How do you summarise Real Tech’s visions
Tokyo, which stands as a unique incubation place
where deeptech startups, Japanese ‘Super Factories’, in strengthening competitiveness at Japan’s
and big corporations come together. Real Tech
assists in accelerating innovations at global deep- Deep-tech market to accelerate domestic and
tech startups space. Interactions among various
stakeholders allows participants to experience the Re- overseas business expansion?
Renaissance of Japanese ‘Monozukuri’. This activity
solves manufacturing challenges across the globe by Investing into deep-tech must be sustainable. As of
providing innovative solutions. Many of our current today, we have invested in 54 startups in Japan and
global portfolios are also seeking to use CoG as their 5 startups in ASEAN in which more than 30 per cent
main office for entering into the Japanese market. are to be categorised in the bio-tech, med-tech and
healthcare sector. We see a huge potential in the region
How does Real Tech strengthen deep-tech but have been able to invest mainly in Singapore.

healthcare sector investments in Southeast Recent VC assistance from Real Tech involves
various biotechnology and food science ventures
Asia? across South-East Asia. One among them is, Singapore
and Thailand based Austrianova, (a proprietary
Real Tech has formed strong partnerships with technology platform encapsulating living mammalian
governmental institutes in various countries. In 2021, and bacterial cells) with which we have partnered
we were appointed as one of the 13 co-investment through our ‘Enter to Japan Market Programme’.
partners in the Deep-Tech field for Singapore’s Leave a Nest Singapore, organises jointly with
government backed VC arm SEEDs capital (Southeast Enterprise Singapore (ES). Through our investment,
Asia’s most active venture capital investors). As an we accelerate collaboration with Japanese business
enabler of Singapore’s deep-tech ecosystem, SEEDS companies to support the expansion of applications
Capital partners with institutional co-investors and social implementation of Austrianova’s
from around the world to support Singapore-based encapsulation technology mostly to our LPs.
innovative startups that possess break-through
intellectual content and global market potential. Similarly, NDR Medical Technology Pte Ltd, a
In the latest appointment of co-investors, SEEDS Singapore-based medical device company is also
Capital has broadened, diversified and refreshed assisted by Real Tech to penetrate the Japanese
its current pool of partners in the three deep tech market. This strategic partnership will accelerate
sectors, (i) Manufacturing, Trade & Connectivity; (ii) collaboration with corporates, factories and research
Human Health & Potential; and (iii) Urban Solutions institutes in Japan. Real Tech has extended financial
& Sustainability. Real Tech is the first Japan-based support to other technology portfolios like QD Laser
VC to be appointed in the Deep Tech field. With this, (deep-tech vision care), Amelieff (bioinformatics
we are seeking to make our first co-investment to analysis systems for medical / biotechnology
bridge Singapore and Japanese startup ecosystems. research, clinical testing and drug discovery), Shiok
Meats (cell-based seafood) and more to add on.
Alongside with Singapore, we have also formed a
partnership with the Malaysian government through We have also built a strategic alliance with
Malaysian Technology Development Corporation Japan’s leading law firm with significant deep-tech
Sdn. Bhd. (MTDC), who joined as a new limited expertise to offer the best deep-tech specialised legal
investment partner into the Global Fund. MTDC support in Japan which aligns IP strategy with the
is an affiliate of the Malaysian Ministry of Science, business and finance plan. Real Tech’s legal advisor
Technology and Innovation. Its mission is to support and partners in Southeast Asia covers the whole
commercial implementation of technology in region and provides a framework for filing/obtaining
Malaysia through funding and investment, incubation IP globally to our portfolio. Further, Real Tech looks
and mentorship, entrepreneurship building and forward to partnering and to extend collaborations
relevant advisory services. Currently, MTDC has in the global arena beyond Asia Pacific to find great
actively invested in more than 700 companies, bio-tech, med-tech and healthcare teams to change
mainly startups through different specialised funds the world together.

Hithaishi C Bhaskar
[email protected]

36 SPEAKING WITH

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

“There’s no ‘one size fits all’
approach to Healthcare in Asia”

« What are the major plans in store for the APAC

Probir Das, market, specifically for the Indian market?

Chairman and Today, almost 45 per cent of Terumo’s portfolio in
Asia is distributive general hospital supplies, with the
Managing Director, rest of our business in the cardiovascular space and
blood management domains. We intend to balance,
Terumo Asia Holdings, shift and increase our focus on high touch and highly
differentiated products within our cardiovascular, cell
Singapore technology and medical care businesses.

Terumo Corporation, a global leader in medical We will continue to be clear that there is no ‘one
technology, celebrates its centenary in Asia size fits all’ approach to Asia. Healthcare in Australia,
this year. With its headquarters in Shibuya Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines,
City, Tokyo, the company had a humble beginning Malaysia, Myanmar and Singapore are all delivered
as a thermometer manufacturer in 1921. It was the differently. We must be aligned with the country’s
first company in 1963 to create disposable syringes medical policy priorities, and what the local market
in Japan, and has been providing medical solutions needs. Our core values of respect, integrity, care,
for the healthcare community and quality products quality and creativity will help us find an approach
to patients. As a subsidiary of Terumo Corporation, that fits each individual market well.
Terumo Asia Holdings, established in 2012, oversees
14 Asia entities across 9 countries. To learn more In Asia Pacific, we are looking forward to
about the company’s achievements and future plans, scaling our customer partnerships in medical
BioSpectrum Asia spoke to Probir Das, Chairman therapy education, improving our data-based
and Managing Director, Terumo Asia Holdings decision capabilities, and strengthening our brand
(Singapore-based HQ). Edited excerpts; significantly, as we become one of the best places
to work. In India specifically, we shall continue to
Recently the company celebrated its 100th reinforce our good reputation. A medical technology
anniversary. How has been the journey so far? business is based on trust. Patients must trust their
doctors, and doctors have to trust Terumo to provide
It has been a deeply satisfying journey being a part them the best tools to do their job well. If that chain
of a company that is committed to contributing to of trust is broken, credibility is destroyed.
society through healthcare.
About seven years ago, we inculcated a startup
To celebrate our milestone, we had 9 different culture, provided top talent with goals of doing things
activations over 7 months, which culminated in the differently and to be focused on efficiency that must
achievement of a Guinness World Records Title. be better than industry standards. To do so, we used
our assets well, and did things in a manner that was
This included a first of its kind Guinness World highly productive. Outcomes have been exceptionally
Records Title attempt, with over 500 associates prideworthy. Now, we are one of the most efficient
across Asia participating for ‘the largest online video companies in the MedTech space in India that grew
chain of people passing and using a thermometer’, almost 25 per cent year-on-year for seven years
which we achieved. This proves that our founding straight.
device from a 100 years ago, is still such an important
device to monitor human health. We encouraged We plan to scale up the services of our Terumo
our Associates to give back to communities that they India Skills Lab (eTISL) so that more patients can
are based in, by doing ‘100 hours of CSR’ and giving access Terumo’s unique technologies, add inorganic,
back through ways they are passionate about; as adjacent top line initiatives and profit growth to
well as ‘Plant A Tree’, which helped beautify outdoor our portfolio, and utilise India’s unique Knowledge
environments, and enhance green spaces. Process Outsourcing (KPO) advantages to deliver
greater company-wide efficiencies.

We shall do these while we continue to strengthen
the ‘Great Place to Work’ status we already have in
India.

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What will be the company’s initiative in the From an Asia Pacific regional
digital healthcare marketing sector and perspective, it is difficult to point at
medical education? a single uniform challenge. Indeed,
there were quite a number. There was
As countries shift to an endemic strategy, we are no established structure, approach
looking to expand our impact through automation or system for dealing with a global
and digital integration with hospital information pandemic of this scale. Health
systems. We believe this will help enhance the regulators began to create clinical
delivery of healthcare. protocols, secure supplies, and restrict
movement on access to hospitals and
Such a focus will see us scale up our regional public health clinics. We had to support
functional capabilities, enabling data centric and strengthen them. However, there
decisions, and cross leveraging our different entities. was no playbook. Right from the start,
This will be seen through the driving of priorities we had to scale up within a very short
such as proactively contributing to infection period, shorten our supply cycles in
prevention and treatment, aggressively launching order to meet the critical needs and
several digital marketing and medical education demands of our customers quickly.
initiatives. A few examples of our ongoing digital
healthcare and medical education initiatives are no established structure, approach or system
our Cardiovascular Go-Virtual integrated customer for dealing with a global pandemic of this scale.
training and communication portal as well as our Health regulators began to create clinical protocols,
Intervention Systems social media promotion and secure supplies, and restrict movement on access
lead generation initiative. Our eTISL has already to hospitals and public health clinics. We had to
trained about 10,000 healthcare practitioners. support and strengthen them. However, there was
no playbook. Right from the start, we had to scale up
We are also looking forward to partnerships with within a very short period, shorten our supply cycles
local entrepreneurs and Asian startups differentiated in order to meet the critical needs and demands
in the areas of digital intermediary, cell technology of our customers quickly. These customers often
and clinical research. were hospitals and primary healthcare sites that
were dealing with increasing numbers of COVID-19
How has been the company’s performance infected patients and required large quantities of
in the APAC region during FY20-21, amidst equipment, and materials, often very different from
the pandemic and how much could India what they had procured earlier.
contribute towards it?
Terumo also worked with several government
Terumo Corporation revised our full-year financial health systems to help them scale up capabilities
guidance upwards for the year ending March 2022 in high-quality injection, infusion, plasma therapy,
(FY2021). Given our listed company status, we and other treatment areas such as emergency bypass
cannot share specifics that are not already broken for critical life support. We did so by expanding
down in our annual financial reports. production very rapidly, which was difficult, given the
global nature of our supply chain.
What I can share is that in Asia Pacific,
organisationally, we have seen a better ability in Although we are not a ventilator or diagnostics
ourselves to pivot quickly across business lines and company, we looked for areas that we had strength
respond better than before in the face of shifting and capability in, and pivoted to bring in COVID-19
demand. From a financial performance point of centric therapies to support our customers and their
view, both in Asia Pacific and in India, we have patients. Depending on the nature of the national
delivered double digit growth, and performed at pre— pandemic healthcare programmes, we had to
pandemic levels in the first half of fiscal year ‘21. This customise our support for each country. For example,
demonstrates the trust our customers have in us, our in India, we supported the establishment of patient
agility, and the impact that every Terumo Asia Pacific handling protocols in hospitals.
and India Associate is making through their hard
work, in these uncertain times. Sanjiv Das
[email protected]
What were the major challenges posed by the
pandemic?

From an Asia Pacific regional perspective, it is
difficult to point at a single uniform challenge.
Indeed, there were quite a number. There was

38 SPEAKING WITH

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“There is immense opportunity for data
and analytics to lift the burden of chronic
diseases on APAC’s health systems”

« are incurred by 20 per cent of the population
– usually made up of cohorts suffering from
Farhana Nakhooda, complex chronic conditions. The increasing
Senior Vice President, incidence of chronic diseases places a strain on
Asia Pacific, health systems in the region, particularly for
Health Catalyst, developing countries that are already grappling
Singapore with inadequate financial and human resources,
poor service delivery, and weak information
The Asia Pacific faces a growing prevalence systems. A well-thought-out population health
of chronic diseases, or non-communicable management strategy can help to alleviate
diseases (NCDs), prompted by the rise in some of these burdens by actively identifying,
ageing populations. In fact, 55 per cent all deaths enrolling, managing, and monitoring individuals
in Southeast Asia are due to NCDs, which pose a that are likely to fall into this 20 per cent of the
significant burden on health systems in the region. population. This also involves looking at high-risk
patients who are trending towards, and are likely
A data-driven approach to managing the health to end up with, a chronic disease and putting them
of patient populations with NCDs can significantly on preventative programs. Finally, the rest of the
alleviate this burden. Biospectrum Asia spoke to population who are healthy today need to ensure
Farhana Nakhooda, Senior Vice President, Asia they are going for regular health screenings to
Pacific at Health Catalyst, Singapore who shared minimise any chances of ending up in the high-risk
additional insight on the importance of population group. This holistic approach to population health
health management in the Asia Pacific, challenges management ensures that the health of the entire
faced by health systems in managing population population is looked after, while programmes are
health and the opportunity for data and analytics tailored based on individual healthcare needs.
to enhance population health management,
improving patient outcomes, and reducing Consider a group of patients with diabetes from
healthcare expenses. Edited excerpts; diverse socio-economic backgrounds – providing
a one-size-fits-all care management approach may
Why should health systems in Asia focus not effectively improve health outcomes of this
on population health management? group, as individuals may require different levels
of attention and care. For example, accessibility to
Chronic diseases are one of the biggest healthcare healthy food, stable employment, proper housing,
concerns in the world, claiming an estimated and family support are just a few key social factors
40 million lives every year, 8.5 million of whom that can impact whether patients will get better
reside in Asia. In Asia Pacific, cardiovascular or worse. Being able to expertly manage these
diseases, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory nuances are critical in both improving health
conditions are among the most common chronic outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.
diseases. This is primarily being driven by ageing
populations and poor lifestyle choices such as Population health management accounts
the lack of physical activity and consumption of for factors that make up the complete picture
tobacco and alcohol. of individual and group health, including
demographics, lifestyle, and social background,
Healthcare spending typically follows the among others. This leads to a more tailored
80/20 rule, where 80 per cent of healthcare costs delivery of care, which improves patient outcomes
and allows for a more efficient allocation of
healthcare resources.

How do you define effective population

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health management and the struggles health strategies is critical.

associated? How can data and analytics address these

The biggest challenge is delivering and improving challenges and create a more sustainable
care for people with chronic conditions, while
remaining vigilant against infectious diseases. approach to managing population health?
Many healthcare providers today are already under
immense pressure fighting against infectious There is immense opportunity for data and analytics
diseases, such as COVID-19, which has severely to lift the burden of chronic diseases on Asia
disrupted the treatment of chronic diseases. Pacific’s health systems and also keep the rest of
the population from becoming chronically ill. With
A significant amount of healthcare resources is access to accurate and real-time data, healthcare
required for the effective management of chronic providers will be better equipped to plan, allocate
diseases, including detection, screening, treatment, resources, and implement appropriate intervention
and providing access to palliative care. Many health strategies for patient populations.
systems lack the resources to keep up with these
requirements – in Asia Pacific, for instance, there Data and analytics can provide greater
aren’t enough doctors to keep up with this demand, transparency into the population health journey
with many teaching patients to self-manage by understanding what goes on beyond the four
conditions and minimise hospital visits. walls of a hospital. For example, in the case of
diabetes, social determinants such as economic
Another major challenge is cost and stability, education, social and community
affordability. Managing chronic diseases is costly context, all impact the effectiveness of the self-
for both healthcare providers and patients. management of diabetes. Having access to this
Take the case of diabetes – the cost of care for a data can empower healthcare providers to identify
single patient amounts to a staggering average of barriers to diabetes care, and subsequently
$16,752 per year. This has the potential to impact design a programme that suits the patients’
livelihoods. A study in Southeast Asia revealed social background. This approach helped a
that 48 per cent of cancer patients experienced healthcare provider in the US to reduce patient
financial catastrophe, due to the out-of-pocket follow-up visits by 19 per cent, as patients feel
expenses required for treatment. In countries more confident and well-equipped to manage
where access to healthcare funding is limited, their diabetes. Leveraging data and analytics,
long-term treatment can even push people over the the hospital was able to understand individual
poverty line. barriers, such as lack of knowledge, poor
transportation, or affordability of medication, and
In addition, one of the most important aspects worked to make diabetes care more accessible to
around effective preventative and proactive each patient. The same approach can be applied to
healthcare is an understanding of behavioural most types of chronic conditions.
science. Most people who are overweight know
that they need to lose weight and that their weight Data can provide a more complete view across
can lead to diabetes and other chronic conditions. the patient care continuum within and outside
Similarly, most people who are smokers know that of the health system, offering greater insight into
smoking will decrease life expectancy. However, the environments in which patients live, work,
many continue to smoke and eat unhealthily. This and play. This helps providers to prevent people
can be attributed to a number of reasons, including from becoming chronically ill, personalise care,
stressful lifestyles, depression, loneliness, among and help patients succeed in managing their own
others, which all impact one’s mental state. The chronic conditions. This is exceptionally important
ability to understand and influence people to as health systems in the Asia Pacific region start
change their behaviour is a science and art in itself. looking at transitioning to value-based care, where
success hinges on improved patient outcomes
Lastly, the lack of timely access to accurate, rather than just the volume of patients cared for.
near real-time data makes it challenging to
actively identify at-risk cohorts and manage As the Asia Pacific region continues to grapple
populations. Care teams often make decisions with its ageing populations and high incidences
based on outdated data and have limited ways to of chronic diseases, this data-driven approach
measure the effectiveness of their programmes. can create a more sustainable path to managing
Laying the foundation for care teams so they can population health.
have access to the right data at the appropriate
time to measure success of their population Hithaishi C Bhaskar
[email protected]

40 SPEAKING WITH

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“Many in the cancer community can be
hopeful about the CAR-T therapy’s future”

« developments in cell and gene therapies and a
deeper molecular understanding of DLBCL have
Dr Francesca Lorraine Lim, rapidly shifted the landscape of treatment.

Consultant, Department Initial treatment of DLBCL typically consists
of chemotherapy plus a monoclonal antibody,
of Haematology, rituximab (R-CHOP), and is often curative. Roughly
one-third of patients relapse after receiving this
Singapore General first-line treatment. The most common treatment
for such patients is Salvage chemotherapy regimen
Hospital (SGH), and (SCR) with or without hematopoietic stem cell
transplantation (HSCT). Studies have shown that
Deputy Head, SingHealth around 50 per cent of these patients risk relapse
within three years and only a limited proportion
Duke-NUS Cell Therapy of these second line relapsed / refractory (r/r)
DLBCL patients are eligible for further treatment
Centre, Singapore with allogeneic HSCT (allo-HSCT) - a treatment
associated with a high rate of non-relapse mortality.
The FDA, in February 2021, approved a For DLBCL patients relapsing after HSCT, median
‘chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)- T cell overall survival (OS) is as low as 4.4 months.
therapy’ for treatment of relapsed or
refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Unsatisfied outcomes for r/r patients have
It became the third CAR-T cell therapy approved prompted efforts to discover new treatment
for the indication. Ongoing studies seek to move approaches for DLBCL. We are seeing more
CAR-T cells to earlier lines of therapy. It also individualised treatment for DLBCL according to
characterises the efficacy and safety of CAR-T cell novel genetic and molecular classifications.
approaches in additional lymphoma histologies
including relapsed/refractory follicular lymphoma In particular, cell and gene therapies have
and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Areas of active ushered in a new approach to the treatment of
research address CAR-T in combination with DLBCL and other life-threatening diseases. These
other lymphoma-directed therapies. Biopharma therapies aim to treat, prevent, or potentially cure
companies are approaching CAR-T products for diseases by targeting the root cause of the disease at
lymphomas by bridging therapies across cancer a genetic level, instead of just managing symptoms.
treatment. This reduces or even eliminates the need for
continuous, often life-long treatments.
On September 15, World Lymphoma Awareness
Day (WLAD) was observed to create awareness of Chimeric antigen receptor T cells (CAR-T) is
lymphoma, an increasingly common form of cancer. a cell and gene therapy which has received FDA
Dr Francesca Lorraine Lim, Consultant with the approval for the treatment of r/r DLBCL patients.
Department of Haematology, Singapore General
Hospital (SGH), and Deputy Head of the SingHealth How does CAR-T Therapy work and why
Duke-NUS Cell Therapy Centre has more to share
on how CAR-T therapy is viewed as the ultimate does it represent a new paradigm in the
cancer treatment around the world.
Edited excerpts; treatment of DLBCL?

How have treatment options for DLBCL CAR-T Therapy is a significant advancement in
evolved over the years? immune-based strategies and an embodiment of
personalised medicine. More importantly, this
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is the treatment option offers new hope to patients who
most common subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. otherwise have had very limited options. CAR-T
It is an aggressive and complex disease which Therapy has also shown promising remission and
has different cell origins, gene-expressions and survival rates in both clinical trials and real-world
morphology. Historically, people with DLBCL practice.
haven’t had many options when standard
therapies didn’t work for them. However, recent It uses a patient’s own immune system to fight
certain types of cancers. This kind of therapy

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BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

is a one-time treatment manufactured for each LYMPHOMA & CAR-T CELL THERAPY
individual patient. The therapy first requires
drawing blood from the patient via apheresis and Lymphoma is a type of cancer arising from
separating out the T-cells. The T-cells are then immune cells and may cause various organ
cryopreserved and transported to a manufacturing damage leading to complicated pathological
facility. impact. According to a Frost & Sullivan report, there
were approximately 92,800 new incidences of non-
Next, using a disarmed virus, the patient’s Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in China in 2020 with a
T-cells are genetically engineered to produce total patient population of 514,200 and is expected
receptors on their surface called chimeric antigen to reach 632,300 in 2025.
receptors (CARs). These special receptors allow
the T-cells to recognise and attach to a specific CAR-T cell therapy has significantly improved
protein or antigen found on cancerous B-cells and outcomes for patients with relapsed/refractory
other B-cells expressing a specific antigen. The CAR large B-cell lymphoma, mantle cell lymphoma,
T-cells then undergo expansion in the laboratory. and follicular lymphoma. Multiple FDA-approved
The resulting therapy is transported from the CAR-T products are now commercially available.
manufacturing facility back to the treatment centre Many CAR-T cell therapies have entered clinical
and administered to the patient via infusion in one development, marking a significant milestone. Yet
single session. The infused CAR T-cells recognise there are unmet clinical needs to be addressed in
and kill cancer cells that harbour the antigen on clinical treatment of malignancies. CAR-T therapy
their surfaces, and act as a living drug by further represents a significant step forward in treating
multiplying in the patient’s body to destroy the cancers and as an embodiment of personalised
future appearance of cancerous B-cells. medicine.

To date, CAR-T treatment can only be activity. Fortunately, there is ongoing new research
administered by designated qualified medical that looks into strategies to prevent tumour escape
institutions with specific medical facilities and to CAR-T cell therapy. Scientists are finding new
clinical care expertise. In March 2021, HSA ways to target molecules of CAR constructs even
approved the first CAR-T Therapy in Singapore, more broadly to malignant solid tumours.
making Singapore the first country in Southeast
Asia to offer the therapy commercially. Singapore CAR-T has been one of the most significant
General Hospital is currently the only hospital in the recent advances in immunotherapies targeted at
region to offer CAR-T therapy outside clinical trials. cancer. As research around CAR T-cell therapy
continues, many in the cancer community can be
What does CAR-T Therapy mean to the hopeful about the therapy’s future and what it could
mean for people with cancer.
future of cancer treatment? Can the therapy
Hithaishi C Bhaskar
be extended to other forms of cancer? [email protected]

Cancer cells are known to hide from the normal
immune system, but through CAR-T cell therapy,
scientists are able to make T-cells better equipped
to find and kill some cancer cells. CAR-T cell
therapies have demonstrated remarkable efficacy
for the treatment of haematological malignancies.
The types of cancer that are currently treated
using CAR T-cell therapy are diffuse large B-cell
lymphoma (DLBCL), follicular lymphoma, mantle
cell lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and B-cell acute
lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) in paediatric and
young adult patients up to age 25.

However, in patients with solid tumours,
objective responses to CAR-T cell therapy remain
sporadic and transient. CAR-T cells may be less
effective against solid tumours because the cells
and molecules surrounding tumours are often
immunosuppressive, activating an immune
checkpoint that causes the CAR-T cells to lose their

42 SPEAKING WITH

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

OEM by QIAGEN advancing with
Asian molecular diagnostic companies

« and launched our WeChat official account in the
Chinese language to bring our OEM offerings
Dr Kay Koerner, closer to prospects. For the past two years, new
customers engaged our team for OEM collaboration
Vice President - opportunities from markets we seldom or never
collaborated with. In the years to come, I believe
Head of OEM by securing our supply chain with a network of
strategic partners and closing the gap in our virtual
QIAGEN, Germany engagement with emerging markets is something we
will recognise more in the OEM industry. Fortunately,
In light of the volatility of the last two years and those are precisely the business strategies of OEM by
the stress that many molecular diagnostics and QIAGEN.
assay manufacturers faced with their supply
chain management, BioSpectrum interacted with What are the major plans/launches/
Dr Kay Koerner, Vice President - Head of OEM by investments in store for 2022?
QIAGEN, Germany to understand how he views
the life sciences market in Asia. Edited excerpts; COVID-19 will still have an impact on the molecular
diagnostics and life sciences market in 2022.
How has the pandemic affected the OEM But companies also start to plan for the time
business? after COVID-19. We are planning and launching
innovations for our OEM partners, for example, the
COVID-19 was an unprecedented challenge for the life new StableScript reverse transcriptase with improved
science industry. The demand for all kinds of assay thermostability and inhibitor tolerance. Also, we are
components and raw materials multiplied everywhere one of the very few companies globally that can offer a
in the world at the same time. Even airfreight complete package for digital PCR as an OEM solution,
capacities or dry ice became scarce resources at a including the instrument, software, plasticware and
certain point. Evidently, the situation was an intense reagents. To ensure our message resonates with the
stress test for many supply chains in our industry. As OEM partners of key markets in Asia, we will soon
a result, the most significant change in our business launch our OEM websites in Chinese, Japanese, and
was the increased speed with which supply networks Korean. This shows our commitment to localising our
evolved into true strategic partnerships. We supply technological know-how, making them relevant to our
many bulk enzymes (for example, polymerases, customers’ needs and priorities. The pandemic has
reverse transcriptases), oligonucleotides, buffers to a shown the need for molecular testing in all parts of
multitude of diagnostic assays for our OEM partners. the world, so we also plan to expand our geographic
During the pandemic, we intensified communication footprint further to regions where we still see the
and collaboration with these partners to know their potential for new OEM partners.
demands on time (or ahead of time when possible)
and ensure we give the same transparency to our raw Are you exploring new markets/regions as a
materials suppliers. This close cooperation definitely part of the APAC growth plan?
helped to navigate the volatility of 2020 and 2021. We
also increased the number of touch bases with local Yes. While QIAGEN already has a direct
manufacturers globally through enhanced business representation in many Asian countries, we still
presence online. Compared to 2019, our business need to improve our OEM services in some Asian
has grown in terms of online visibility on various regions. OEM is somewhat complex, so a profound
virtual platforms for 2020 and 2021, in the absence of understanding of the local health markets, language,
international trade shows. culture and regulatory requirements are essential to
serve our local OEM partners with what they need.
We have rebranded our LinkedIn channel After the OEM by QIAGEN grew in China over the last
years, we want to continue that growth momentum
and intensify our activities in Japan, South Korea,
India, Australia and South-East Asia. We can

SPEAKING WITH 43

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contribute to regional value creation wherever we ● OEM by QIAGEN (a manufacturing solution
see a solid local life science and molecular diagnostic for your PCR assay) understands that Asia
industry. will soon be a powerhouse of molecular
diagnostic (MDx) kit production, with
What new/unique trends do you foresee within emerging markets such as China, Japan,
the life sciences space in the coming years? South Korea and India changing the game
for more efficient and cost-saving solutions.
The last decades have brought insights into molecular
biology that were unimaginable before. NGS, qPCR, ● OEM by QIAGEN is keen to expand the
dPCR and many other techniques have allowed us capabilities of Asian kit manufacturers by
to analyse the building bricks of life in unbelievable offering high-quality reagents, enzymes and
detail. However, many of these insights have created kit ingredients in bulk to complement their
many new questions – that’s how it is in science. locally manufactured kits that, if otherwise,
Genetics, as we know it, is no longer to decipher would take more prolonged research and
our genomic DNA but also to understand the development investment to produce.
extended universe of RNA, proteomics, lipidomics,
transcriptomics and metabolomics. So, I believe ● OEM by QIAGEN is an outlet for QIAGEN’s
the journey will continue, looking at even more molecular biology technology for customers
minor details in single-cell analyses, RNA analysis, who want to rebrand, customise or custom-
or spatial multi-omics. I am also convinced that the develop products. Such custom-developed
field of microbiome (microorganisms in a particular products may include commercial enzymes
environment) and epigenetics (how our environment in bulk, high-purity oligonucleotides, master
affects our gene expression) research will continue to mixes, nucleic acid purification kits, spin
generate many health-relevant insights in the future. columns, PCR instruments and many more.
OEM by QIAGEN offers access to the thousands of
patented molecular insight solutions trusted by top life ● All eyes are on Asia and sequencing
science researchers and cited by the latest publications possibilities. Sequencing technology will
globally. Partnering with OEM by QIAGEN ensures continue to revolutionise how infectious
our partner’s business stays up to date with the newest diseases (SARS-CoV-2 and TB), cancers,
trend within the life sciences space. and epigenetics are being investigated in
Asia regionally and globally. QIAGEN has
How is the molecular diagnostics market been in the OEM market for many years,
evolving in APAC post-pandemic? serving some substantial Next Generation
Sequencing (NGS) companies in North
Firstly, the COVID-19 pandemic has shown that America, Europe and East Asia. We are
molecular diagnostics is probably the fastest tool to keen to support emerging Asian companies
develop against new, emerging infectious agents, venturing in MDx kit commercialisation.
much quicker than vaccines or effective treatment.
Thus, I assume that most countries will continue to used in COVID-19 molecular diagnostic tests. This
increase and improve their molecular diagnostics shows the growing recognition by the authorities
capabilities, for example, reverse-transcription regarding the effectiveness and efficiency of a
polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to respond complete molecular diagnostic solution. Meanwhile,
quickly to any new viruses in the future. healthcare in developing markets such as India,
Southeast Asia and Central Asia would greatly benefit
Secondly, we have learned that we need a complete from having more accessible POCT solutions in
molecular diagnostic infrastructure, not just qPCR or limited-resource settings.
NGS, but both. Both centralised high-throughput labs
and decentralised point-of-care testing (POCT) play Thirdly, high-throughput labs and broader
an essential role in improving healthcare accessibility. adoption of POCT pose a high need for efficient
NGS could potentially accelerate turnaround for large- data integration and big data analytics. Apart from
scale diagnostics, suitable for extensive community hardware infrastructure, future diagnostic-test
testing and epidemiology studies. Authorities in the manufacturers need to develop software that is easy-
United States and China gave clearance for selected to-use and powerful enough to turn big data into
NGS-based COVID-19 diagnostics for emergency use. meaningful healthcare insights.
Recently, the US Department of Defence has awarded
a US$600,000 contract to QIAGEN to expand the Dr Manbeena Chawla
manufacturing capacity of enzymes and reagent kits [email protected]

44 PEOPLE NEWS BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

Samir Mehta Singapore appoints Dr Benjamin
takes charge Ong Kian Chung as Chairman of HSA
as IPA
President The Minister for Health in in public healthcare. He held
Singapore has appointed Dr key leadership and professional
Indian Pharmaceutical Benjamin Ong Kian Chung as positions in the healthcare
Alliance (IPA) has appointed the Chairman of the Board of sector, and was Director of
Samir Mehta, Chairman of the Health Sciences Authority Medical Services (DMS) at
Torrent Group as President (HSA) from October 1, 2021 to the Ministry of Health (MOH)
of the IPA for 2021-2023. September 30, 2024. Dr Chung from 2014 to 2020, where he
Under his leadership, is the Senior Vice President
Torrent Pharma took (Health Education and played a pivotal role in
several strategic initiatives, Resources) at the National developing Singapore’s
including forays into new University of Singapore, healthcare system.
therapies and geographies, and Senior Consultant at Dr Chung also serves
large investments in the Division of Neurology on various private
product development of the National University and public sector
infrastructure and Hospital. As Deputy Boards, including
capabilities, building state- Chairman of the HSA as Chairman of the
of-the-art manufacturing Board since Expert Committee
facilities and acquisitions. October on COVID-19
His emphasis on professional 1, 2020, Vaccination,
organisational design, precise he brings Senior
execution and operational with him Advisor to
efficiencies has built a strong extensive the current
and globally competitive clinical DMS and a
generic business platform expertise member of
in Torrent Pharma. A fine and the Public
blend of business acumen experience Service
and cautious entrepreneurial Commission.
optimism, Mehta has
positively influenced aspects Insilico Medicine names
of the Group culture with his Nirav Jhaveri as CFO
contemporary outlook and
innovative ideas. Insilico Medicine, an end-to- joining Insilico, he served
end artificial intelligence (AI)- as CFO of Journey Medical
powered drug discovery company Corporation, a commercial-stage
based in the US and China, has biopharmaceutical company,
announced the appointment where he was responsible
of Nirav Jhaveri as Chief for business development,
Financial Officer (CFO) to
oversee capital markets, corporate strategy and
investor relations, capital raising. Prior to
financial operations, Journey Medical, Jhaveri
and corporate was Vice President,
development. Jhaveri Business Development,
brings two decades at Fortress Biotech.
of capital markets, Earlier in his career,
business development he held roles in equity
and biopharma research at Citigroup and
experience. investment banking
Before at Bank of
America.

R&D NEWS 45

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

Australia targets HK scientists
develop fully automatic
key protein to microscope-free AST system

fight inflammatory A research team led by scientists at Hong Kong Baptist
University (HKBU) has developed a novel cell sensor
diseases with a barcode-like micro-channel structure that enables
rapid and low-cost screening of drug-resistant bacteria.
For the first time, researchers have identified The invention could potentially be used on a large-scale
key molecules within the immune system that in resource-limited situations such as frequent safety
may help fight the inflammation that drives screenings of water, food and public facilities, as well as
chronic diseases including cancers, sepsis and urgent surveys of massive samples during an infectious
brain disease. The University of Queensland disease outbreak, particularly in developing countries.
(UQ) in Australia collaborated with the Indian Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) is used to
Institute of Technology, Kanpur on the study. determine which antibiotics can effectively inhibit
A key protein, known as C5aR2, is a potential the growth of a certain type of bacteria. However,
therapeutic target for treating chronic disease, conventional AST methods are too slow. A rapid and
due to its ability to moderate many immune cost-effective strategy is therefore needed to screen
and inflammatory processes. The researchers bacterial samples onsite, with advanced laboratory
found key and specific cell signals present testing arranged only for those suspected of containing
when the C5aR2 was activated, which may drug-resistant bacteria. The new sensor is designed
act to boost the immune system’s response as a fully automatic, microscope-free AST system. It
in inflammation. They are now working to comprises two main parts: a cell culture zone and a
progress these research findings into disease barcode cell sensor. The barcode cell sensor has a low
models and potentially enable scientists to production cost, and it is estimated to be below one US
design novel drug molecules targeting C5aR2 dollar per piece.
to treat inflammatory disorders.

Japan develops ML-based screening tool for cervical myelopathy

A research team from Tokyo subjective symptoms and are development of screening tools
Medical and Dental University difficult for non-specialists to is required to realise the early
and Keio University in Japan diagnose properly, the symptoms diagnosis and treatment of CM.
combined a finger motion can be aggravated before In this study, the team focused on
analysis technique using a non- patients are diagnosed with CM changes in finger motion caused
contact sensor and machine by a specialist. Therefore, the by CM. The tool (Leap Motion)
learning (ML) to develop a developed by the team allows
simple screening tool for Cervical non-specialists to screen people
Myelopathy (CM). CM results for the possibility of having CM.
from compression of the spinal The screening test results can
cord in the neck and causes be used to encourage those with
difficulty moving the fingers and suspected CM to seek specialist’s
unsteady gait. As patients with attention for early diagnosis and
early-stage CM have minimal early treatment initiation.

46 R&D NEWS BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

Scientists Singapore revolutionises
to develop therapeutics for cancer
magnesium- & infectious diseases
based
bioresorbable Scientists from Duke-NUS 010DS-Zn has demonstrated
implants Medical School have partnered potential for treating multiple
with Singapore biotechnology cancer types and complications
A research team from Russia- company Xylonix to optimise arising from COVID-19 infection
based Tomsk State University liposome drug formulations and by removing abnormally
and their colleagues from South develop companion diagnostics accumulating macrophages.
Korea are developing composite for Xylonix’s novel cancer This partnership offers great
materials for new-generation immunity drug, called 010DS- potential to improve treatment
bioresorbable implants. The Zn. The research team aims to outcomes for cancer patients.
scientists will synthesise new enhance uptake of 010DS-Zn by But it also opens the door to
magnesium-based materials with tumours using a nanoscale drug revolutionise therapeutics for
biocompatible inert coatings. delivery system, where specially- other areas including infectious
The joint research project of designed liposomes carry both diseases where we currently
Tomsk State University and the drug and radioisotopes to rely on a whole-body approach
Boramae Medical Center, Seoul permit real-time detection in to treatment. If successful, this
National University Hospital, living systems. A first-in-class project will enhance health and
won a grant competition for tumoricidal compound with improve the lives of patients in
bilateral projects from the immune-initiating activities, Singapore and around the world.
Russian Ministry of Science
and Higher Education and Taiwan makes world’s first
Ministry of Science of South ultrasonic vortex thrombolytic device
Korea. In the two-year project,
the scientists will develop new As COVID-19 vaccination has raised the issue of thrombosis,
magnesium-based composite researchers at the Department of Biomedical Engineering and
materials with biocompatible Environmental Sciences, National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan
inert coatings. These materials have developed the world’s first ultrasonic vortex thrombolytic device
will be used in bioresorbable to treat thrombosis quickly and safely. Thrombosis occurs when
implants that dissolve inside the blood clots block veins or arteries. The device is developed to solve
human body and are replaced two common thromboses called pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep
by biological tissue. The South
Korean partner’s infrastructure vein thrombosis (DVT), which
and competencies will facilitate have a global prevalence of 10
a high level of investigation million new cases annually.
in biocompatibility and DVT is the main cause of PE,
biodegradation of new materials and PE can cause heart failure
and coatings. and has a mortality rate up
to 65 per cent. The current
treatment options include
drug delivery catheter and
thrombectomy devices, but
they are not effective enough
or may bring up hemorrhage risks. This was the reason motivating
him to research for a more effective and safer solution. Working
with industrial partners, the research team has developed a 0.2-mm
ultrasonic device, which can generate tornado-like ultrasonic vortex
and create a strong turbulence around the thrombus, therefore
increasing penetration of thrombolytic drugs and resulting in very
effective thrombolysis.

ACADEMICS NEWS 47

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com PolyU to

Taiwan introduces new establish three
med degree programme
research centres
Taiwan’s National Tsing Hua University’s plan to establish a post-
baccalaureate medical degree was recently approved at an inter- at Hong Kong
ministerial meeting at the Ministry of Education. The recruitment and
application process for the course will begin at the end of 2021. The Science Park
first-year students who are financially supported by the Taiwanese
state will enroll in September In support of the Hong Kong
2022. This new course represents government’s new initiative,
a quantum leap for the training InnoHK Clusters, which aims to
of doctors in Taiwan. In addition, develop Hong Kong as a hub for
the Temporary Office of this global research collaboration,
degree has raised NT$2 billion The Hong Kong Polytechnic
in funding for medical education. University (PolyU) has joined
A plan to build a state-of- forces with world-leading
the-art teaching hospital and institutions to develop research
medical complex in the Taoyuan centres under two newly
Aerotropolis near Taoyuan International Airport is currently under established research clusters
review by the Department of Health and Social Welfare. The post- – AIR@InnoHK (focusing on
baccalaureate course in medicine is a four-year course that is open to artificial intelligence and robotics
graduates from all disciplines. It will be located in the future College of technologies) and Health@
Life Sciences and Medicine (previously College of Life Science). InnoHK (focusing on healthcare
related technologies), in a
India, Croatia collaborate bid to bring together leading
for academic research in researchers from around the
traditional medicine systems world to conduct impactful
collaborative research in Hong
Paving the way for academic collaboration in India’s traditional Kong. PolyU is to establish three
medicine systems, especially in the field of Ayurveda, between the world-class research centres
two countries, the Ministry of Ayush has entered into an agreement at the Hong Kong Science
with Croatia. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed Park under the government-
between All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) and Croatia’s funded InnoHK initiative.
Kvarner Health Tourism Cluster. AIIA is an autonomous body These three centres, which have
under the Ministry of Ayush. The MoU with Croatia is a significant commenced operation, are i)
step towards bolstering India’s ties with other countries and the Laboratory for Artificial
promoting academic research, clinical and educational activities, Intelligence in Design (AiDLab),
medical education, training, and competency building. The two ii) the Centre for Advances in
sides will undertake academic activities in the field of Ayurveda in Reliability and Safety (CAiRS),
collaboration with the identified institutions. and iii) the Centre for Eye
and Vision Research (CEVR).
PolyU has also become the first
local collaborating institution
of the ‘Centre for Artificial
Intelligence and Robotics, Hong
Kong Institute of Science &
Innovation, Chinese Academy
of Sciences’. Established by the
Institute of Automation of the
Chinese Academy of Sciences
(CAS), the Centre has been
admitted to AIR@InnoHK under
InnoHK Clusters.

48 SUPPLIER NEWS

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

Auckland BioSciences Waters, University of Delaware
announce bioprocessing
increases R&D innovation partnership

capabilities with Waters Corporation and the University of Delaware,
US have announced a five-year research partnership to
CellSera acquisition develop new analytical solutions for bioprocessing and
biomanufacturing. Key to this partnership is Immerse
New Zealand life sciences company Auckland Delaware, an Innovation and Research Lab, set to open
BioSciences (ABS) has acquired CellSera in early 2022 located at the University of Delaware
Australia, a New South Wales-based company Science, Technology and Advanced Research (STAR)
specialising in the production of animal sera. campus. At Immerse Delaware, Waters will partner with
ABS has acquired 100 percent of the shares in students and faculty to identify and address the most
significant challenges facing the biopharmaceutical
Australian Biotech industry. Waters is partnering with University of
Laboratories, Delaware because of its leadership in chemical and
trading as CellSera. biological manufacturing research as well its active
The acquisition support and close proximity to the National Institute
significantly for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals
increases Auckland (NIIMBL), a collaborative effort amongst industry,
BioSciences’ R&D academia, and regulators. The Immerse Delaware Lab
and production will feature a purpose-built research test bed, with a
capabilities and focus on leveraging LC-MS and adjacent technologies to
positions the support bioprocess engineers’ empirical data in the areas
company as a of process and informatics. Initial projects at Immerse
global leader in high-quality animal sera. Delaware will seek to gain a deeper understanding of
Acquiring CellSera will allow ABS to expand novel schemes to quantify and ultimately minimise
its product range and achieve greater scale to process-related impurities from uncontrolled
meet market needs. CellSera will continue to glycosylation, which negatively impacts drug efficacy.
trade under its own name and ABS expects These will be paired with informatic solutions to predict
to achieve consolidated revenues of NZ$40 the evolution of biotherapeutic products.
million in FY2022. ABS manufactures and
exports premium New Zealand-made animal-
derived serum and plasma.

Mindray launches new Automated
Digital Cell Morphology Analyser

Mindray, China-based medical analysis. Most laboratories need on the market, but providing
solution provider, has launched to re-examine more than 30 clear and accurate cell images
the new MC-80 Automated per cent of their blood samples, comparable to the microscope
Digital Cell Morphology Analyser, but find traditional microscopic remains a fundamental challenge.
a revolutionary cell morphology review labour-intensive and time- Mindray’s new MC-80 is taking
system that provides more clarity, consuming. Automated digital cell digital morphology analysis
more intelligence and more morphology analysers are now to the next level, delivering
productivity for morphological available clearer images which are able
analysis. Combining MC-80, to capture abnormalities in
Mindray’s hematology solution
will revolutionise the more detail. With
high-end hematology advanced algorithms,
segment. Morphological the analyser enables
review of blood cells better identification of
is a crucial procedure different cells with high
following hematology throughput, resulting in
greater productivity.

SUPPLIER NEWS 49

BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

West Pharma launches NovaGuard SA Pro Safety System in India

West Pharmaceutical Services during handling. Furthermore, lines at customer facilities.
has launched NovaGuard SA the device design facilitates easy Earlier this year, West
Pro Safety System, a single- assembly of a glass pre-filled announced its partnership
use accessory for prefilled syringe with minimal change with domestic Indian pharma
ISO standard 0.5mL staked parts and changeover time needed company Venus Remedies
needle syringes, in India. to existing assembly equipment Ltd., whose brand Cloti-Xa
With the introduction of the utilizes West’s NovaGuard
0.5mL version, West’s award- SA Pro 1mL safety system,
winning NovaGuard SA Pro which is designed for use with
safety system is now available prefilled ISO standard 1mL
for ISO 0.5mL standard and 1mL long staked-needle syringes. With
long glass staked needle syringes. its current launch of the 0.5mL
The NovaGuard SA Pro safety version for the Indian market,
system can be deployed using a West is aiming to bring more
single-handed technique and is value to local customers and the
designed to prevent pre-activation healthcare industry.

Olympus brings new PerkinElmer,
cloud solution to streamline
life science research Honeycomb unveil

Olympus has started offering the Olympus Life Science novel single-cell
Solution Cloud (OLSC) in Japan to streamline life science
research at universities and laboratories. The OLSC provides analysis solution
researchers with a central hub to store and access data
including images, notes and chat records simplifying the US-based suppliers PerkinElmer and
process to determine a project’s status or find relevant Honeycomb Biotechnologies have
materials for work. Research data acquired from the announced the commercial launch of the
FLUOVIEW FV3000 confocal microscope and Olympus first of its kind HIVE scRNAseq Solution
Provi CM20 incubation monitoring system is automatically for single-cell isolation and analysis.
uploaded to the OLSC for consistent data collection. Users The HIVE solution leverages a portable,
can immediately view the uploaded images and related data handheld device for the capture, storage
about sample conditions and imaging setup. The OLSC and RNA-Seq library preparation of a
centralises the conversation about research in one convenient diverse range of cell types, including
location. The Note tool includes a chat function to record fragile and labile cells such as
discussions such as confirmation and feedback on projects. granulocytes, nephrons, hepatocytes and
Users can check the notes to learn the status of projects and neurons. The HIVE solution requires no
determine next steps in the research process. specialised instrumentation to use and
expands opportunities for laboratories
pursuing basic, translational, clinical
and preclinical research. Biological
resolution at the level of individual cells
is powering the next phase of precision
health. By integrating sample capture
and preservation into a single-
use device, the HIVE solution
makes it possible to collect
samples from multiple sites and
maintain sample integrity
during storage, shipping and
processing from a central
testing lab.

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BIOSPECTRUM | NOVEMBER 2021 | www.biospectrumasia.com

Taking Diabetes Head on
Diabetes is one of the top 10 killers and
disablers in the world. It affects a nation Like Singapore, China has developed The
financially, economically, and socially, Diabetes Prevention and Control Action, one of
since it leads to greater healthcare utilisation costs, the four chronic and noncommunicable diseases
mortality, morbidity, and loss of productivity, in prevention and control actions, food and beverage
addition to affecting individuals and their families. in the Healthy China Initiative (2019–2030), a
roadmap to a healthy China and an innovative public
According to World Health Organisation about policy system project.
422 million people worldwide have diabetes, and
1.5 million deaths are directly attributed to diabetes The Diabetes Prevention and Control Action,
each year. The figure is anticipated to rise to over which together with other actions of the Healthy
640 million by 2040, afflicting one in every 10 adults. China Initiative, promotes the prevention and
Over 400,000 Singaporeans are infected with the control of diabetes and contributes to achieving
disease. Singaporeans have a one-in-three chance of the goal of a healthier China. Other actions include
having diabetes in their lifetime, and the number of health knowledge action, healthy diet action,
diabetics is only expected to rise. national fitness action, tobacco control action, health
promotion action for students, health promotion
In response to this, on April 13, 2016, the action for the elderly.
Singapore Ministry of Health (MOH) had declared
War on Diabetes (WoD) to rally a whole-of-nation According to the China CDC report 2020, the
effort to reduce diabetes burden in the population. current state of diabetes control in China may be
Now, with completion of five years, a study has due to the capability of government departments,
revealed just how impactful this policy has been. The society, and individuals to implement comprehensive
findings showed that the WoD policy generated a prevention and control measures for diabetes and
sense of unity and purpose across most policy actors. other health promotion not being fully formed
and that existing strategies have not been well
Policy actors were cognisant of the thrusts implemented.
of the policy and have begun to make shifts to
align their interests with the government policy. In a similar vein, India has been implementing
Addressing those with diabetes directly is essential the National Programme for the Prevention and
to understanding their needs. Being clear on who Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases,
the intended targets are and articulating how the and Stroke (NPCDCS) since 2010, with a focus on
policy seeks to support the identified groups will be raising awareness, early detection, treatment, and
imperative. Issues of fake news, unclear messaging follow-up. Population Based Screening has begun
and lack of regulation of uncertified health for people above 30 years of age for diabetes and
providers were other identified problem areas. High other NCDs. The suspected patients are referred
innovation, production and marketing costs were to the health centre and followed up if diagnosed
major concerns among enterprises. with diabetes. This intervention is expected to
yield early diagnosis of diabetes and prevent future
India and China, two major players on the complications. Better management of diabetes
global diabetes map, should launch national-level may be ensured, once HbA1c is made available and
efforts similar to Singapore’s WoD to raise public accessible across the country.
awareness.
There is a globally agreed target to halt the
The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) rise in diabetes and obesity by 2025. Apart from
reported that 463 million people have diabetes in the raising public awareness about the need to combat
world and 88 million people in the South East Asia diabetes, a holistic approach with a proactive role of
Region; by 2045 this will rise to 153 million. The IDF various stakeholders such as end-users, pharma and
reported that China has 114.4 million diabetics in healthcare industry, the food and beverage sector,
2017 and predicted that it would reach 119.8 million farmers, and others is required to rid the globe of
by 2045. The estimated number of cases of diabetes diabetes.
in India in the age group of 20-70 years was 73
million in 2017 and predicted to reach 134 million by Narayan Kulkarni
2045. Editor

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