Announcement Regarding the Conclusion of a Joint Research Agreement for the Development of Transdermal Antibody-Inducing Peptide Formulations

FunPep Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Ibaraki, Osaka; Representative Director and President: Toshimi Miyoshi) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a joint research agreement with artience Co., Ltd. and Toyochem Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as "Toyochem") concerning the development of transdermal antibody-inducing peptide formulations.

Antibody-inducing peptides are peptide therapeutic vaccines designed to induce the production of antibodies against target proteins within the patient's body to achieve therapeutic effects. FunPep is strengthening its research and development pipeline by utilizing its proprietary drug discovery platform technology for antibody-inducing peptides, featuring the functional peptide "AJP001," to create candidate compounds against various target proteins.

Meanwhile, Toyochem plays a central role in the polymer and coating-related business of the artience group. The company focuses on the medical and healthcare sector, working on the development of transdermal formulations, adhesives, and biocompatible polymers. In the area of transdermal formulations, Toyochem operates a CDMO business, conducting contract research and manufacturing for numerous pharmaceutical companies. By integrating formulation design, polymer development, and coating technologies, they aim to realize "safe and skin-friendly transdermal formulations."

In this joint research, the objective is to develop transdermal formulations for antibody-inducing peptides as a next-generation formulation technology that is less invasive, more convenient, and safer than injectable forms. FunPep will conduct efficacy and safety evaluations in animal studies, while Toyochem will handle the technical evaluation of the transdermal peptide formulation.