- Business
- Invion Limited (ASX:IVX) is a clinical-stage Australian life sciences company that researches and develops Photosoft technology, a next-generation photodynamic therapy (PDT) platform utilizing photosensitizing compounds, oxygen, and light to generate reactive oxygen species for selective destruction of cancer cells and stimulation of anti-cancer immune responses; the lead candidate INV043, an enhanced chlorin-based photosensitizer, targets non-melanoma skin cancers via topical application, solid tumors such as ovarian, prostate, lung, glioblastoma multiforme, triple-negative breast cancer, pancreatic, and ano-genital cancers via intravenous administration, and infectious diseases including periodontal conditions, wound healing, atherosclerosis, antibiotic-resistant bacteria like MRSA, fungi such as Candida albicans, and viruses like Zika, Dengue, and SARS-CoV-2; Photosoft demonstrates theragnostic potential for both treatment and imaging, synergizes with immune checkpoint inhibitors to enhance tumor control, and offers a minimally invasive alternative to surgery with reduced side effects. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Melbourne, Australia, Invion operates primarily in oncology and infectious disease segments, serving global markets through exclusive perpetual licenses for cancer indications in Australia, New Zealand, and Asia Pacific (excluding China but including Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea), plus rights for atherosclerosis and infectious diseases extending to North America including the United States and Canada. Recent developments include a September 2023 expansion of Photosoft cancer rights to South Korea, supported by A$0.9 million contribution to prior costs and shared sub-licensing economics with licensor RMW Cho Group; a July 2023 grant of an Australian patent extending IP protection for INV043 to 2041; ongoing preclinical collaborations with Hudson Institute of Medical Research and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre yielding proof-of-concept data for tumor regression and ICI combinations; funded partnerships with South Korean firms Hanlim Pharm for glioblastoma and oesophageal cancer, and Dr. I&B for HPV-related indications; a October 2025 funded collaboration agreement with Protect Animal Health; advancement toward Phase I adaptive platform trials for non-melanoma skin and ano-genital cancers in 2024-2025, with additional Phase I studies planned for intravenous solid tumors and oral microbial diseases; and quarterly activities confirming progress as of September 2025.