PURMX Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing innovative nucleic acid medicines based on naturally occurring microRNAs for the treatment of cancer and other intractable diseases.
Founded in January 2021 as a spin-out from Hiroshima University in Japan, the company maintains its headquarters in Hiroshima with an additional office in Tokyo. It operates primarily through research, development, and clinical trials conducted in Japan while pursuing international expansion, evidenced by U.S. FDA Orphan Drug Designation for its lead asset.
The company's proprietary platform includes a functional RNA screening technology and leverages the "Aging switch" concept to replenish deficient microRNAs in cancer cells, inducing cellular aging to combat tumors. Its lead candidate, MIRX002 (miR-3140-3p), has advanced to Phase I investigator-initiated trials for malignant pleural mesothelioma, with additional studies in head and neck cancer. PURMX actively collaborates on enabling technologies such as drug delivery systems.
As a privately held, venture-backed entity with approximately 10 employees and funding from multiple Japanese investors including Hiroshima Venture Capital and Mitsubishi UFJ Capital, the company positions itself as a pioneer in unmodified natural microRNA therapeutics. It recently entered a strategic collaboration and received equity investment from Nippon Shokubai to evaluate the Fol-Dab8 DDS material in combination with its microRNA candidates for novel oligonucleotide therapeutics.
Also known as 株式会社PURMX Therapeutics, 株式会社パームエックス セラピューティックス, and PURMX.
Feasibility study to combine Fol‑Dab8 (folate‑conjugated cationic peptide) with naturally occurring microRNA for oligonucleotide therapeutics; undisclosed equity investment made.
