The Japan Science Technology Agency (JST) has decided to invest in Arktus Therapeutics Co., Ltd. (Representative: Tomohiro Oiwa, Headquarters in Kyoto) under the Support Program of Capital Contribution to Early-Stage Companies (SUCCESS).

Arktus Therapeutics is a startup established based on the research findings of Professor Koichi Nakayama of the Center for Regenerative Medicine Research, Graduate School of Medical Science, Saga University, and Associate Professor Makoto Ikeya, Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University. The company is committed to the commercialization of regenerative medicine products for osteoarthritis of the knee and other diseases on the basis of technology for producing large-area and strong cartilage tissue having arbitrary shape using Bio-3D printer invented by Dr. Nakayama and technology for producing high-quality mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and chondrocytes from iPS cells developed by Dr. Ikeya.

Arktus Therapeutics, established in July 2023, has been advancing further research using the research findings of JST’s programs: Comprehensive Support Programs for Creation of Regional Innovation “Bio Rapid Prototyping Project” (Project Leader: Koichi Nakayama, Professor of Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, 2006–2009) and Adaptable and Seamless Technology Transfer Program through Target-Driven R&D (A-STEP) “Development of Xeno-Free Mesenchymal Stem Cell Generation Technology Derived from Human iPS Cells” (Program Investigator: Makoto Ikeya, Associate Professor of the Center for iPS Cell Research and Application, Kyoto University, 2012–2013).