Also additionally secures up to JPY 4.8 Billion non-dilutive funding in public subsidy under AMED grant program
— Strengthens total available funding to approximately JPY 5.9 Billion for advancing LAT1 inhibitor APL1101 into the clinic —
Osaka, Japan – Atransen Pharma Ltd. (CEO: Tomoyuki Asano) today announced the successful closing of its JPY 1.13 billion Series A financing, with participation from JAFCO Group Co., Ltd. and Osaka University Venture Capital Co., Ltd., and with the following non-dilutive funding. This brings the company’s total equity and non-dilutive funding raised to JPY 1.40 billion.
In parallel, Atransen has secured additional non-dilutive funding ceiling of up to JPY 4.8 billion under the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED)’s “Strengthening Program for Pharmaceutical Startup Ecosystem”, specifically for the development of its lead compound, APL1101, a first-in-class LAT1 inhibitor.
Use of Funds and Development Plans
Atransen will accelerate the development of APL1101 with the following priorities:
- GLP toxicology studies, formulation development, and GMP manufacturing
- Preparation for a Phase I clinical trial in Japan and US, targeted for 2H 2026
- Strategic hiring and team expansion
- Global business development and partnership activities
CEO Comment
Tomoyuki Asano, Chairman and CEO of Atransen Pharma Ltd.
“APL1101 targets a fundamental metabolic vulnerability in cancer. With this new financing and government support, we are well-positioned to enter clinical development and advance toward our mission of delivering novel treatment options to patients in need.”
Investor Comments
JAFCO Group Co., Ltd. – Taira Kobayashi, Principal, Venture Capitalist
“The amino acid transporter LAT1, which is expressed specifically in cancer cells, is strongly involved in cell proliferation signaling pathways. Professor Kanai’s research and the latest reports indicate that a small molecular compound; APL1101 designed for optimal anti-LAT1 activity, has significant potential as an anticancer agent to save many patients suffering from cancer. JAFCO is committed to providing full support to the management team for the global-standard clinical development strategy.”
Osaka University Venture Capital Co., Ltd. – Hayami Shimizu, CEO
“From academic seed to clinical candidate, APL-1101 represents a strong example of Osaka University’s translational potential. We’re proud to continue supporting this effort.”
About Atransen Pharma Ltd.
Atransen Pharma Ltd. is a Japan-based biotech company developing small-molecule therapies targeting LAT1, a cancer-specific amino acid transporter. By blocking tumor nutrient uptake, the company aims to disrupt cancer metabolism selectively. Atransen’s proprietary discovery platform integrates structural biology, pharmacology, and chemical biology to design highly selective compounds with clinical potential.
Website: https://www.atransen.com
Media Contact
Atransen Pharma Ltd. – Communications
E-mail: admin@atransen.com