Ricoh–ERS Genomics: CRISPR technology, 202001– license non-excl in US + Japan to Ricoh Company

	Period	2024-03-13
	Region	Japan
	Partner, 1st	Ricoh Co., Ltd.
	Group	Ricoh (Group)
	Partner, 2nd	ERS Genomics Ltd.
	Product	CRISPR-Cas9 technology
	Product 2	iPSC technology (induced pluripotent stem cell technology)

ERS Genomics Ltd.. (3/13/24). "Press Release: Ricoh and ERS Genomics Enter into CRISPR/Cas9 License Agreement". Tokyo & Dublin.

CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technology contributes to the expansion of the creation of novel disease model

Ricoh Company, Ltd. today announced a non-exclusive licensing agreement in the USA and Japan with ERS Genomics Limited (“ERS Genomics”) for access to the foundational CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technology patents managed by ERS Genomics.

CRISPR/Cas9 stands as a breakthrough gene editing technology, enabling modification of targeted genome sequences with ease. The technology is an essential tool in drug discovery research and finds application across various fields.

In 2022, Ricoh completed the acquisition of Elixirgen Scientific, Inc. (Baltimore, Maryland, USA). Elixirgen Scientific possesses core technologies in rapid and efficient differentiation*1 of human iPS cells*2, and mRNA*3 design, production, and management.

We aim to predict the mechanism of action of candidate drugs for patients with varied genetic backgrounds and to improve the speed and efficiency of mRNA design by combining these core technologies with CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technology. Through manipulations such as genetic editing of cells to enhance or diminish specific functions, it becomes possible to create highly reliable disease models, including those for rare diseases. This advancement is anticipated to lead to shorter drug development timelines and increased success rates.

Ricoh has been expanding the application areas of Elixirgen Scientific’s technology by leveraging our cultivated expertise in digital and artificial intelligence technologies. This initiative aims to accelerate personalized medicine*4, drug discovery research and regenerative medicine. Ricoh continues to contribute to the acceleration of drug development research through the diverse solutions provided by Elixirgen Scientific.

Summit Pharmaceuticals International Corporation (Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan), a subsidiary of Sumitomo Corporation (Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan), is the exclusive representative of ERS Genomics in Japan.

*1 Differentiation: The process in which a cell becomes specialized in order to perform a specific function, as in case of a liver cell, a blood cell or a neuron.

*2 Induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell: iPS cells, artificially created pluripotent stem cells, have the capability to differentiate into various cell types.

*3 mRNA (messenger ribonucleic acid): mRNA is the RNA that carries the genetic information of DNA and functions as the instructions for protein synthesis.

*4 Personalized medicine: Providing optimal treatment based on the individual’s health status, genetic information, and other personal characteristics.

Eric Rhodes, CEO, ERS Genomics
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Media contact:

Dr Ben Rutter
Zyme Communications
Tel: +44(0)7920 770 935 Email: ben.rutter@zymecommunications.com

Contact Rioch Company, Ltd:

Biomedical Business Group Email: healthcare_ipsc@jp.ricoh.com

Contact ERS Genomics:

Summit Pharmaceuticals International Corporation (as the exclusive agent for ERS Genomics in Japan)

Alliance Group, Discovery & Alliance Coordination Dept Email: alliance@summitpharma.co.jp

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About ERS Genomics

ERS Genomics provides access to the foundational CRISPR/Cas9 CVC intellectual property held by Dr. Emmanuelle Charpentier, a license to which is essential for freedom to operate commercially with CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Non-exclusive licenses are available for research and sale of products and services across multiple fields including research tools, kits and reagents; discovery of novel targets for therapeutic intervention; cell lines for discovery and screening of novel drug candidates; GMP production of healthcare products; companion animal and livestock health; production of industrial materials such as enzymes, biofuels and chemicals; and synthetic biology. For additional information please visit www.ersgenomics.com.

About Ricoh

Ricoh is a leading provider of integrated digital services and print and imaging solutions designed to support digital transformation of workplaces, workspaces and optimize business performance.

Headquartered in Tokyo, Ricoh’s global operation reaches customers in approximately 200 countries and regions, supported by cultivated knowledge, technologies, and organizational capabilities nurtured over its 85-year history. In the financial year ended March 2023, Ricoh Group had worldwide sales of 2,134 billion yen (approx. 16.0 billion USD).

It is Ricoh’s mission and vision to empower individuals to find Fulfillment through Work by understanding and transforming how people work so we can unleash their potential and creativity to realize a sustainable future. For further information, please visit www.ricoh.com