ToolGen-Ipsel, Collaboration on Stem Cell-Based Therapeutic Development

[Asia Economy Reporter Chunhee Lee] Gene editing company ToolGen and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) company Ipsel announced on the 30th that they signed a business partnership agreement on the 29th to develop next-generation stem cell-based regenerative medicine therapies.

The two companies will jointly research and develop induced pluripotent stem cells that have been gene-edited to correct genes related to immune rejection, enabling their use as broad regenerative medicine materials. They will also collaborate to develop next-generation regenerative medicine therapies based on gene-edited iPSCs and to concretize their application methods.

iPSCs (induced Pluripotent Stem Cells) are cells produced by reprogramming adult cells into pluripotent stem cells using reprogramming factors. Theoretically, they can differentiate into any target cell type in the body. Ipsel is conducting its business through a licensing agreement with iPS Academia Japan regarding the commercial use of iPSCs.

Gene editing technology is a technique that alters genetic information within cells using gene scissors. ToolGen is conducting research and business in areas such as therapeutics, animal and plant development, and breeding based on its foundational patents for CRISPR-Cas9 gene scissors.

Jihyun Joo, CEO of Ipsel, said, “If the clinical-grade iPSC technology of Ipsel is combined with the top gene editing technology of ToolGen, it could provide new treatment alternatives for patients with various intractable diseases.” She added, “I hope this collaboration between domestic companies will serve as an opportunity to demonstrate the strength of K-bio.” Kim Young-ho, CEO of ToolGen, also said, “Cell therapies using gene-edited iPSCs are gaining global attention,” and added, “Through cooperation between Ipsel’s iPSC resources and regenerative medicine therapy R&D capabilities and ToolGen’s gene editing technology, we expect to create synergy.”