MEDiC Life Sciences, a biotech startup based in Silicon Valley, has announced a new research collaboration with Hanmi Pharmaceutical, a prominent biopharmaceutical company in Korea. The partnership aims to identify cancer biomarkers for one of Hanmi’s clinical programs using MEDiC’s MCAT™ platform. This next-generation functional genomics technology can analyze millions of gene-drug interactions to uncover genetic mutations that exhibit synthetic lethality when paired with a specific cancer drug. The platform’s ability to detect SLS™ biomarkers—sets of genetic mutations that maximize patient response to a given therapy—can significantly broaden the potential patient base for cancer treatments.
Kyuho Han, Ph.D., co-founder and CEO of MEDiC, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled that Hanmi Pharmaceutical has chosen to partner with MEDiC to advance its oncology initiatives. We look forward to identifying synthetic lethal biomarkers that will help bring effective new therapies to cancer patients.”
As part of the collaboration, MEDiC has received an upfront payment for its research efforts, along with a strategic investment from Hanmi to strengthen the partnership.
In Young Choi, Head of Hanmi’s R&D Center, highlighted the significance of the collaboration, noting that Hanmi is making progress in cancer research, including immuno-oncology and targeted therapies. He commented, “This partnership with MEDiC, which has cutting-edge biomarker technology, will enhance the value of our new cancer treatments by increasing the likelihood of success in clinical trials.” He also emphasized the strategic investment’s role in fostering synergy between the two companies, thereby boosting the value of their respective assets.
MEDiC’s proprietary functional genomics platform utilizes patient-derived, tumor-like 3D cancer models to pinpoint gene targets and biomarkers for cancer therapies more accurately than traditional 2D cultures. This innovative approach positions MEDiC as a pioneer in using 3D tumor models for functional genomics, enabling the discovery of new cancer targets and biomarkers for solid tumors. The company’s technology has already garnered interest from partners like Bristol Myers Squibb, Hanmi, and other undisclosed companies seeking novel targets for drug development.
