Innovation Unit for Gene

I-Gene is a Japanese clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on developing advanced gene therapies for oncology. The company utilizes a proprietary "Gene-Switch" technology, which employs a heat-inducible promoter derived from the heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) gene to regulate therapeutic gene expression. This approach allows for the localized activation of cytokines like Interleukin-12 (IL-12) within tumors when combined with hyperthermia, reducing systemic side effects. I-Gene's lead candidate, IG-001, is currently undergoing clinical evaluation for the treatment of advanced solid tumors, with a particular focus on pancreatic cancer. The company was founded as a spin-off from the University of Tokyo to commercialize research on inducible gene expression systems. By integrating medical devices for hyperthermia with genetic medicine, I-Gene aims to provide a highly controlled and potent immunotherapy option for hard-to-treat cancers.