Real Tech Fund develops next-generation cell analysis and separation system
Invested in "ThinkCyte, Inc."

Euglena Investment Co., Ltd.

Euglena Investment Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo, Representative: Akihiko Nagata) is developing a next-generation high-speed cell analysis and separation system as a new investment destination for the R & D-specialized venture capital fund "Real Tech Fund". We are pleased to inform you that we have invested in ThinkCyte, Inc. (hereinafter referred to as "ThinkCyte, Inc.").

ThinkCyte, Inc. is a next-generation high-speed cell analysis and separation system (high-speed imaging cell sorter) that combines different fields of technology such as ^{proprietary imaging technology * 1}, cell morphology data processing using machine learning ^{* 2}, and microfluidic technology ^{* 3.} Is developing. Technology for measuring cells such as microscopes and flow cytometry ^{* 4} is a basic technology for elucidating pathological conditions such as cancer and immune diseases and diagnosing diseases, but in the past, it was necessary to balance the amount of information and speed. Was difficult. By utilizing the newly developed high-speed imaging cell sorter, we will not only innovate life science research such as discovery of unknown cells and drug discovery research, but also contribute to the development of medical care through the realization of new medical diagnosis and cell therapy. Is expected.

The Real Tech Fund will underwrite the J-KISS type convertible equity and will support the company's business development and research and development.
　The details are as follows.

* 1 Original imaging technology: A unique technology that compresses and converts cell morphology data as waveform data using cell movement, structural illumination light, and a 1-pixel element.
* 2 Cell morphology data processing using machine learning: A unique data processing technology that finds "laws" hidden in data by statistically processing waveform data and distinguishes unknown waveform data (cell morphology information).
* 3 Microfluidic technology: Technology that separates cells in real time in a minute flow path based on the results distinguished by data processing.
* 4 Flow cytometry: A highly statistically accurate cell measurement method that quantitatively measures a large number of cells (tens of thousands per second) one by one in a short period of time.

High-speed imaging cell sorter (ghost cytometry) developed by ThinkCyte, Inc.

About investment of ThinkCyte, Inc.

■ About the outline and support contents of ThinkCyte, Inc.
Date of establishment: February 2, 2016
Location: 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo University Entrepreneur Plaza 205
Representative: Kazuichiro Katsuta, Representative Director
Capital: 22.4 million yen (excluding capital reserve)
Business: Development, manufacturing and sales of high-speed imaging cell sorters
HP: http://thinkcyte.com
Support content: Promotion of cooperation with fund-funded companies, support for business development and R & D activities
Investment period: January 2018

■ About Realtech Fund (HP: http://www.realtech.fund)
Our 100% subsidiary of Euglena Investment, SMBC Nikko Securities, Ribanesu "Limited Liability Company was founded three companies Euglena in venture capital funds that SMBC Nikko Ribanesu capital" to management and operation, the investment development of the real tech venture as the main purpose is. With a total of 30 participating companies and a fund size of 9.4 billion yen (as of February 2018), it is Japan's largest fund specializing in real tech. We are investing in and nurturing real-tech ventures together with the operating companies that are our investors.

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-Contact for inquiries from the press-
Euglena Co., Ltd. Corporate Communication Division