News

JIC Venture Growth Investments (VGI) has invested in AvenCell Therapeutics, Inc. (AvenCell) through its JIC Venture Growth Fund 2.

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AvenCell is building a transformative cell therapy company focused on developing novel therapies for difficult-to-treat cancers. Its lead programs target acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and B-cell malignancies, with additional programs targeting other hematologic malignancies, autoimmune diseases, and solid tumors. AvenCell was founded with the goal of developing truly allogeneic cell therapies that can persist as long as, or longer than, autologous therapies, together with a universal and switchable construct designed to enable control and redirection of T cells after infusion into a patient. By integrating these two technology platforms, AvenCell aims to separate cell manufacturing from the individual patient and specific cancer target, offering the potential for significantly greater scalability and manufacturing efficiency compared with current approaches.

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AvenCell is also preparing to transfer its technology to manufacturing facilities in Japan, contributing to the advancement of Japan’s cell therapy manufacturing infrastructure, and has established a branch in Japan to facilitate the future introduction of its therapies into the Japanese market, with the aim of bringing its innovative cell therapies to patients in Japan.

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The objectives of this investment are twofold: (1) to accelerate the research and development of new treatment options for patients with severe and difficult-to-treat hematologic malignancies, and (2) to help reduce the gap in access to innovative therapies between Japan and other major markets, including the United States and Europe.

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Through this investment, VGI will support AvenCell in advancing the global development of its cell therapy programs and facilitating their delivery to patients in Japan and globally, thereby contributing to the advancement of healthcare and the broader economy.

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_{The information contained in this notice is current at the time of publication and subject to change without notice.}