Asahi Kasei Pharma has taken another significant step toward becoming a leading global specialty pharmaceutical company by entering an exclusive license agreement with Japan-based Chiome Bioscience for its humanized anti-CX3CR1 antibody. This collaboration exemplifies Asahi Kasei Pharma's Open Innovation platform, which addresses unmet medical needs through strategic partnerships and cutting-edge research.

The anti-CX3CR1 antibody, currently in preclinical development, inhibits the CX3CR1 receptor, which plays a key role in immune cell migration to sites of inflammation. By accelerating the development of this antibody, Asahi Kasei Pharma aims to introduce an innovative therapy that could substantially improve patient outcomes.

“The creation of an effective framework for joint development with Chiome was crucial to the success of this initiative,” said Dr. Kazunobu Konishi, Senior General Manager of the Pharmaceuticals Research Center at Asahi Kasei Pharma. “We believe this partnership will expedite the development of the anti-CX3CR1 antibody. Furthermore, we are committed to enhancing our Open Innovation activities to secure global rights for early-stage projects, strengthening our presence on the global stage.”

The license agreement aligns with Asahi Kasei Pharma's “One AK Pharma” initiative, which integrates the company’s pharmaceutical operations in Japan and the U.S., optimizes resources, and bolsters its expertise. Earlier this year, Asahi Kasei acquired Calliditas Therapeutics, a Swedish company known for developing TARPEYO™, a treatment for the rare kidney disease IgA nephropathy.

“We have globally integrated our pharmaceutical business to better achieve our medium- and long-term goals,” said Yoshikazu Aoki, President of Asahi Kasei Pharma. “This includes consolidating our business development functions in the U.S., where we aim to accelerate efforts to drive growth and innovation. Additionally, the acquisition of Calliditas strengthens our foundation, enabling us to expand our pharmaceutical activities in the U.S. and enhance our market presence. These initiatives are key to Asahi Kasei’s goal of achieving annual pharmaceutical sales of $3 billion by 2030, focusing on immunology, transplantation, and related diseases.”

Through partnerships like the license agreement with Chiome and its commitment to research-driven innovation, Asahi Kasei Pharma is well-positioned to address pressing global health challenges and deliver solutions that improve quality of life worldwide.