Press Release．2025.09.24
TWi Biotechnology Receives 2025 Taipei Biotech Awards
TWi Biotechnology, Inc. (TWi Biotechnology, Ticker: 6610) announced today (24th) that its investigational new drug AC-203, a topical formulation of 1% diacerein for Epidermolysis Bullosa Simplex (EBS, or “Butterfly Disease”), has received the Bronze Award in the 2025 Taipei Biotech Awards – Go-Global Award. The award recognizes companies with outstanding achievements in global expansion, cross-border collaboration, and new drug development.
AC-203 is designed to reduce inflammation, blistering, and skin damage in patients with EBS, a rare genetic disorder with no approved therapies. Previous clinical studies have demonstrated that AC-203 may reduce blister formation and improve quality of life in patients with EBS.
An international, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled, phase 2/3 study with open-label extension study, referred to as the EBShield Study, is currently ongoing across 18 countries, including the United States, Taiwan, Australia, the United Kingdom, Italy, France, and South Korea, with a target enrollment of 80 or 100 patients.
TWi Biotech has licensed AC-203 to partners in China, Japan, and South Korea, and is working closely with local EB associations around the world to strengthen trial participation and community engagement. These collaborations highlight the company’s commitment to advancing treatments for underserved rare disease populations.
The company noted that this award validates its strategy of “ Grounded in Taiwan, reaching the world. ” and underscores AC-203’s potential as a first-in-class treatment for EBS. TWi Biotech will continue to accelerate clinical development and expand global partnerships to deliver breakthrough therapies that address urgent unmet medical needs.
Further Information Contact：
TWi Biotechnology, Inc. CFO Ruth Yang Tel：+886 2 26571788 ext. 600Email：pr-ir@twibiotech.com
About TWi Biotechnology：
TWi Biotechnology, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company based in Taipei, Taiwan, specializing in developing innovative therapies through drug repurposing strategies for dermatological and rare diseases with significant unmet medical needs. Established in 2010 by renowned scientist-turned entrepreneur Dr. Chih-Ming Chen, the company presently has two core drug development programs:
AC-203: a topical formulation of 1% diacerein being developed for epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS), a rare genetic skin disorder with no approved therapeutic treatments. Early clinical trials demonstrated significant reduction of blisters among patients with severe EBS. An international, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled, phase 2/3 study with open-label extension study, referred to as the EBShield Study, is currently underway. AC-203 has received an Orphan Drug Designation in the US, EU, and Taiwan, as well as Rare Pediatric Disease and Fast Track Designations from the US FDA.
AC-1101: a propriety topical gel formulation of tofacitinib citrate, a JAK inhibitor, for inflammatory skin diseases, including granuloma annulare (GA), a rare, chronic skin disease with no approved treatments. A phase 1b clinical study on GA in the US was completed in 2024, which demonstrated good safety and tolerability, minimal systemic exposure, and potential efficacy trends. An application for an Orphan Drug Designation is awaiting US FDA’s decision.
TWi Biotechnology’s shares are traded on Taiwan's Emerging Stock Market with a market capitalization of approximately USD 110 million. Dr. Chih-Ming Chen owns approximately 60% of the company’s shares.
Legal disclaimer：
This press release, along with the concurrently disclosed related information, contains forward-looking statements. Such statements are based on judgments and projections made in consideration of existing risks and potential uncertainties, including market conditions and other factors beyond the control of TWi Biotechnology, Inc. (hereinafter referred to as the “Company”). These forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current expectations and evaluations. Except as required by applicable law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any of these statements in the future.