Kyoto University Innovation Capital has invested 200 million yen in Surv Biopharma Inc., a startup developing innovative oncolytic virus therapies for cancer treatment.

Target Information

Surv Biopharma Inc., headquartered in Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture, is a venture firm that leverages research outcomes from Kagoshima University to develop cancer treatments using oncolytic viruses. The company specializes in the research and development of the oncolytic virus, "Surv.m-CRA-1", which uses the Survivin promoter that is selectively activated in cancer cells. This innovative approach allows the virus to replicate and proliferate within tumor cells, leading to tumor destruction and simultaneous induction of anti-tumor immunity, all while minimizing the impact on normal cells.

Surv.m-CRA-1 has demonstrated promising safety and efficacy results in early-phase clinical trials targeting primary malignant bone tumors. Based on these encouraging outcomes, a phase III clinical trial aimed at regulatory approval will commence in November 2025. Surv Biopharma is also advancing non-clinical development of subsequent pipelines, including next-generation oncolytic viruses equipped with immune genes, building on their multi-factor growth control adenovirus technology established with Surv.m-CRA-1. Their strategic platform aims to address unmet medical needs in rare and hard-to-treat cancers by inducing systemic anti-tumor immunity and targeting metastatic tumors.

Industry Overview in Japan

The biopharma industry in Japan has seen remarkable growth, driven by increasing investment in research and innovation. With the country's robust healthcare infrastructure and a strong emphasis on scientific research, Japan rem