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DummyOn, a startup based on skin drug absorption technology, announced on the 1st that it has secured seed investment from AI Angel Club, CNT Tech, and People Investment. The investment amount remains undisclosed.
DummyOn is developing a drug platform called 'NADS' that enables peptide-based bio-materials to self-form into nanoparticles and penetrate the skin without additional excipients or physical stimulation. This technology overcomes the limitations of existing methods where 90% of active ingredients are blocked by the skin barrier, delivering them non-invasively to the dermal layer.
Based on this platform, DummyOn is developing new functional cosmetic materials and prototypes featuring 'acetyl hexapeptide-8,' known as 'topical Botox.' The company applies NADS technology to nano-encapsulate acetyl hexapeptide-8, which previously faced challenges in penetrating the stratum corneum due to its large particle size. DummyOn stated that internal validation showed it can improve skin elasticity and hydration even at concentrations as low as one-hundredth of the standard level.
Additionally, the company has secured research results demonstrating improved expression of hair growth and regeneration factors using pantothenic acid and biotin, both known for alleviating hair loss.
DummyOn targets the veterinary drug market as its primary focus. It plans to develop treatments for atopic dermatitis and pain relief for arthritis in pets, addressing issues such as neurological side effects from oral or injectable medications and pet refusal to take medicine. The strategy leverages lower regulatory barriers and reduced development costs in the veterinary sector to achieve rapid commercialization and clinical validation (PoC) compared to human drug development.
Choi Sung-ho, chairman of AI Angel Club who led this investment, stated, "By simultaneously developing topical veterinary drugs and derma-cosmetic ingredient businesses, we expect to generate revenue quickly." He added, "We highly evaluated the team's capability to expand into innovative human drugs and their stable business model."
Kim Hye-ju, CEO of DummyOn, said, "Our strategy minimizes drug development risks through advanced delivery technology while elevating cosmetic efficacy to a new level." She further announced, "Based on revenue and clinical data secured from derma-cosmetic ingredients like topical Botox and pet ointments, we will enter the global human drug market."
[MoneyToday startup media platform Unicorn Factory]
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