Exclusive global license strengthens preclinical drug pipeline

Asahi Kasei Pharma has expanded its drug discovery capabilities through an exclusive global license agreement with Alchemedicine, a specialist in small molecule drug discovery. The agreement gives Asahi Kasei Pharma worldwide rights to novel preclinical lead compounds identified through Alchemedicine’s HiSAP™ platform, with potential applications across multiple autoimmune diseases.

This partnership builds on the companies’ ongoing collaboration, following the recent advancement of AK1960 into Phase I studies, and marks the second license agreement between the two organisations, reflecting deepened trust and alignment in drug development strategy.

Kazunobu Konishi, PhD, Senior General Manager, Pharmaceuticals Research Center, Asahi Kasei Pharma, said:

"Combining Alchemedicine’s cutting-edge drug discovery technology with our development expertise positions us to advance high-potential therapeutic candidates that address significant unmet medical needs. This agreement reinforces our commitment to open innovation and strategic growth."

Yoshikazu Aoki, President of Asahi Kasei Pharma, added:

"Expanding our research capabilities through selective partnerships is a key priority as we pursue the Asahi Kasei Group’s goal of $3 billion in pharmaceutical sales by 2030. Collaborations like this one drive innovation, strengthen our pipeline, and create long-term value for patients and stakeholders alike."

Asahi Kasei Pharma continues to prioritise pharmaceuticals as a core growth area, leveraging global partnerships and innovative platforms to advance therapeutic candidates from preclinical stages to commercial success.

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