molmir Inc. has initiated a joint research project with Nara Medical University to develop novel targeted therapeutics and diagnostic technologies for Acquired von Willebrand Syndrome (AVWS). This collaborative initiative aims to address growing clinical needs by delivering an innovative, mechanism-based approach and creating new global medical value in a rare disease field.
Nara Medical University (Kashihara City, Nara Prefecture; President: Hiroshi Hosoi; hereafter “NMU”) has long been recognized as one of Japan’s leading research centers in the field of thrombosis and hemostasis. The university has produced internationally renowned achievements in elucidating the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of Acquired von Willebrand Syndrome (AVWS).
AVWS is a rare bleeding disorder caused by an acquired decrease or dysfunction of von Willebrand factor, a protein essential for normal blood coagulation. The condition is particularly associated with the use of extracorporeal circulatory support devices—such as cardiopulmonary bypass and mechanical circulatory assist devices—where mechanical shear stress contributes to disease onset. With the progression of population aging, the number of patients requiring such circulatory support for heart failure management and cardiac surgery continues to increase, and the clinical significance of AVWS is expected to grow further in the coming years.
AVWS is known to impose multiple disadvantages on patients, including:
・Reduced quality of life (QOL) due to bleeding
・Increased risks associated with surgery and invasive procedures
・Restricted treatment options for underlying diseases
・Greater reliance on transfusions and medical resources
・Delayed initiation of appropriate therapy due to diagnostic difficulty
These challenges underscore the urgent need for earlier and more accurate diagnostic technologies, as well as the development of new mechanism-based targeted therapeutics.
Research Structure and Academic Background
At NMU, Professor Masanori Matsumoto, a world-leading authority in AVWS research from the Department of Transfusion Medicine and Hematology, has long been at the forefront of advancing both fundamental and clinical research in this field. The research team also includes Professor Shungo Hikoso of the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, who leads pioneering clinical studies on AVWS in patients equipped with mechanical circulatory support devices. Through the integration of these advanced basic and clinical research programs, NMU has established a unique and highly specialized research framework in AVWS.
The university also plans to host an AVWS Research Symposium to share the latest scientific findings and strengthen collaboration among experts in related fields, further contributing to the advancement of academic research.
About the Joint Research Initiative
molmir Inc., a biotech start-up originating from NMU (Kashihara City, Nara Prefecture; CEO: Eiichiro Mori), has officially launched a joint research project with NMU to elucidate the mechanisms underlying AVWS and to develop new therapeutic solutions and diagnostic technologies.
This collaborative initiative seeks to generate new medical value by integrating academic excellence with innovative biotechnology to address significant unmet medical needs in a rare and underserved disease area. The project is expected to attract global attention for its potential to strengthen competitive advantage in international healthcare and life science markets.
