Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Bertis Forge Strategic Alliance to Revolutionize Cancer Drug Discovery through Molecular AI and Spatial ProteomicsNASHVILLE, TN and GWACHEON, SOUTH KOREA — March 5, 2026 — Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) and Bertis, an AI-driven proteomics-based precision medicine company led by co-CEOs Dong-young Noh and Seung-man Han, today announced a joint research and co-development collaboration. This strategic alliance marks a significant milestone in oncology by advancing the convergence of artificial intelligence, spatial biology, and translational cancer research through VUMC’s Molecular AI Initiative. By integrating VUMC’s Molecular AI capabilities with Bertis’ proprietary deep proteomics and AI-enabled target discovery technologies, the partnership will build an advanced, spatially resolved dataset to identify novel therapeutic targets and predictive biomarkers.The collaboration centers on the transformative power of AI-driven spatial biology and Molecular AI. Traditional target discovery often relies on bulk tissue analysis, which loses the critical context of how cells are organized within a tumor. VUMC’s Molecular AI approach changes this paradigm by employing sophisticated computational spatial analysis to generate high-resolution spatial molecular maps. This AI-driven spatial biology allows researchers to visualize and decode the complex architecture of the tumor microenvironment, specifically identifying how tumor, immune, and stromal cells interact in biologically and therapeutically relevant regions. By mapping the precise locations and spatial relationships of these cells, the Molecular AI platform can isolate the key cell populations responsible for treatment response or resistance.These advanced spatial insights are then seamlessly integrated with Bertis’ cutting-edge proteomics capabilities. While VUMC maps the critical spatial context, Bertis will conduct deep proteomic and metabolomic profiling, applying its proprietary AI-enabled computational models to prioritize the most viable, druggable targets. The initial focus of this joint research will be on HER2-low tumors, a historically challenging clinical area, with the potential to expand into additional tumor types based on data outcomes and joint scientific discussions. By layering spatial context over proteome-level data, the teams aim to pinpoint cell-surface proteins that are uniquely positioned for emerging therapeutic modalities, including antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and cell-based therapies.This sophisticated AI-driven spatial multimodal and deep proteomics pipeline is spearheaded by Tae Hyun Hwang, PhD, the Endowed Director of AI Research, Founding Director of the Molecular AI Initiative, and Professor of Surgery at VUMC. Recognized as a leader in spatial AI and Molecular AI, Dr. Hwang also co-leads gastric cancer atlas efforts within the NCI-funded Human Tumor Atlas Network (HTAN) and is spearheading international HTAN collaborations with South Korea’s National Cancer Center. Highlighting the clinical necessity of this integrated approach, Dr. Hwang said, “Identifying therapeutic targets and understanding treatment response require a precise view of proteins, spatial context, and tumor biology. By combining VUMC’s Molecular AI and spatial analysis capabilities with Bertis’ proteomics and AI-enabled target discovery platform, this collaboration is designed to generate high-confidence therapeutic targets and predictive biomarkers that can support future translational research and therapeutic development”.Seung-man Han, CEO of Bertis, emphasized that the alliance accelerates the global reach of their platform. “Partnering with VUMC, a leading U.S. academic medical center with strong expertise in Molecular AI, spatial biology, and cancer research, is highly meaningful and reflects the growing global recognition of Bertis’ technological capabilities,” stated Mr. Han. “Through this collaboration, we aim to expand the role of AI-driven proteomics in drug discovery and identify therapeutic targets that may open new possibilities in oncology”. Ultimately, this joint endeavor reflects a shared commitment to building a more precise, biologically informed approach to cancer drug discovery.

Bertis Supports the 9th Annual Kimchi-Making Donation Event Hosted by the Union of Korea Breast Cancer Patient- Sharing warmth this winter by delivering homemade kimchi to more than 300 breast cancer patients nationwide[Photo] Bertis employees participate in making kimchi with volunteers at the “9th Annual Kimchi-Making Donation Event” in Icheon, Gyeonggi Province.Bertis, a proteomics-based precision medicine company (co-CEOs Dong-young Noh and Seung-man Han), announced that it supported the “9th Annual Nationwide Kimchi-Making Donation Event for Breast Cancer Patients,” organized by the Union of Korea Breast Cancer Patient (UKBCP).UKBCP is a non-profit organization registered under the Ministry of Health and Welfare dedicated to protecting the rights and improving the quality of life of breast cancer patients. The organization runs patient community groups, operates rest shelters, and offers various welfare support services. As part of its ongoing patient support efforts, this year’s kimchi-making event was held on November 18–19 at the UKBCP shelter in Icheon, Gyeonggi Province. Kimchi prepared directly by UKBCP members and volunteers was delivered to more than 300 breast cancer patients nationwide to help them prepare for the winter season.Through this sponsorship, Bertis supported the healthy recovery of breast cancer patients and contributed to a meaningful act of sharing. Bertis is the company behind MASTOCHECK®, the world’s first proteomics-based blood test for the early detection of breast cancer, and continues to engage in patient-focused initiatives alongside its technological advancements.Seung-Ran Choi, UKBCP President, said, “This kimchi donation event is more than just sharing food—it provides patients an opportunity to feel warmth and encouragement throughout their healing journey. Thanks to the interest and support from companies like Bertis, many patients will be able to spend this winter with comfort and hope.”Seung-man Han, CEO of Bertis, stated, “We are honored to join UKBCP in this meaningful event for breast cancer patients. As a biotech company, Bertis will continue to uphold its social responsibility and remain committed to supporting patients and contributing to a healthier society through various community initiatives.”

Bertis Enables Hanmi’s Breakthrough Obesity Drug Mechanism Discovery with Advanced Proteomics Expertise- Hanmi Pharmaceutical’s ‘HM17321’ captures global attention at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) for its dual mechanism of increasing muscle mass while reducing fat- Bertis’ ‘PASS’ has overcome limitations in skeletal muscle proteome analysis through advanced mass spectrometry and data interpretation, providing scientific evidence for HM17321’s mechanism of action- Global proteomics market projected to reach KRW 95 trillion; utilization in clinical research and drug development rapidly expandingBertis, a proteomics-based precision medicine company (co-CEOs Dong-young Noh and Seung-man Han), announced that its advanced proteomics platform, PASS (Pan-omics Analysis Service & Solution), played a key role in uncovering the molecular mechanism of Hanmi Pharmaceutical’s novel obesity drug candidate, HM17321.At the 61st European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD 2025), held in Vienna, Austria (September 15–19), Hanmi Pharmaceutical presented six preclinical studies on three investigational obesity drug candidates, including HM17321.Among these, HM17321—powered by Bertis’ PASS (Pan-omics Analysis Service & Solution)—stood out as an innovative first-in-class obesity treatment candidate demonstrating a dual mechanism that promotes muscle growth while selectively reducing fat, addressing one of the most persistent challenges in obesity therapeutics.PASS is Bertis’ customized proteomics analysis service that integrates the company’s large-scale mass spectrometry infrastructure and bioinformatics expertise. In the HM17321 study, Bertis successfully identified high-resolution changes in both proteome and phosphoproteome profiles in muscle and adipose tissues.Through close collaboration with Hanmi’s R&D Center, the analysis revealed activation of mTOR signaling and protein synthesis pathways and identified changes in satellite cell–related proteins in muscle tissue, while uncovering lipid metabolism and anti-inflammatory protein regulation patterns in adipose tissue. The resulting proteomic data served as key molecular evidence supporting HM17321’s mechanism of action and its translational potential in clinical applications.In particular, this analysis utilized Thermo Fisher Scientific’s high-resolution mass spectrometer ‘Orbitrap Astral’ along with Bertis’ proprietary fractionation technology (COFFER), achieving approximately 20% higher protein identification coverage compared to previous studies. As a result, more than 10,000 proteins were identified from skeletal muscle samples, enabling quantitative assessment of key protein changes within activated signaling pathways. Given the high complexity that makes phosphoproteome analysis in skeletal muscle particularly challenging, this achievement represents an unprecedented level of analytical coverage—demonstrating the high sensitivity and interpretive power of Bertis’ PASS platform.Meanwhile, the global proteomics market is experiencing rapid growth. According to MarketsandMarkets, the market—valued at approximately USD 36.8 billion in 2023—is expected to grow more than 14% annually to reach USD 72.9 billion by 2028. The clinical diagnostics segment, which accounts for nearly half of the market, is projected to expand to USD 37.7 billion by 2028, reflecting the increasing demand for proteomics in drug mechanism research and biomarker discovery. In this context, platforms such as PASS are gaining recognition as critical infrastructure for shortening research timelines and reducing risks for pharmaceutical and biotech companies.Un-beom Kang, Ph.D., Head of the Biomarker Research Institute at Bertis, commented, “PASS is currently collaborating with multiple pharmaceutical and biotech companies worldwide to support precision diagnostics and drug development research. This project clearly demonstrates PASS’ capability to directly contribute to elucidating drug mechanisms, and we expect proteomics analysis to play an even more pivotal role in a broad range of future studies.”

Bertis’ 'MASTOCHECK®' Promotes the Importance of Regular Breast Cancer Screening at the 2025 Pink Run- Participated as a sponsor in the October Breast Cancer Awareness Month event- Operated the MASTOCHECK® promotional booth highlighting the need for regular breast cancer screening[Photo] Participants visit Bertis’ MASTOCHECK® booth at the Pink Run event to join interactive activities.On October 13, Bertis, a company specializing in proteomics-based precision medicine technology (led by CEOs Dong-young Noh and Seung-man Han), announced that it participated in the 2025 Pink Run held on October 12 at Peace Plaza in Sangam World Cup Park, introducing its breast cancer early-detection blood test, MASTOCHECK®, and promoting the importance of regular breast cancer screening.The Pink Run, part of the Pink Ribbon Campaign, is jointly hosted by the Korea Breast Cancer Foundation, the Korean Breast Cancer Society, the Korean Cancer Association, and the Seoul Foundation of Women & Family. The event aims to raise public awareness of breast health and encourage women to practice regular breast cancer screening. Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the event gathered about 5,000 pre-registered participants who shared their commitment to breast health. Participants took part in 5 km and 10 km runs, as well as various on-site programs and events designed to highlight the importance of early detection and regular screening for breast cancer.In celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Bertis joined the event as a sponsor and operated a promotional booth at the venue. The booth featured MASTOCHECK® and provided information on the importance of regular breast cancer screening and testing methods through quiz events, drawing strong interest and engagement from participants.MASTOCHECK® is the world’s first commercialized proteomics-based blood test for early breast cancer detection, developed by Bertis. Having been approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) for its validated effectiveness in detecting early-stage (Stage 0–2) breast cancer, MASTOCHECK® offers a convenient, non-invasive blood test option free from radiation exposure or discomfort. It also allows screening for women in their 20s and 30s who are not typically recommended for mammography. The test is currently available at more than 550 hospitals and health screening centers across Korea.Seung-man Han, CEO of Bertis, said, "Following our participation in last year’s Pink Ribbon campaign, we are honored to take part in this year’s Pink Run to help raise public awareness of breast health and the importance of regular screening. Bertis will continue to contribute to the early detection and awareness of major diseases, including breast cancer, through innovative early-diagnosis solutions such as MASTOCHECK®.”

Bertis and Innoquest Diagnostics Sign a Strategic Partnershipto Bring Bertis’ Technology to the Southeast Asian Market[Image] Innoquest Diagnostics & Bertis logoOn July 3, Bertis, a company specializing in proteomics-based precision medicine technology, led by CEOs Dong-young Noh and Seung-man Han, announced the signing of a strategic partnership agreement with Innoquest Diagnostics, the leading clinical diagnostics laboratory in Singapore.Innoquest Diagnostics is a leading independent and internationally accredited diagnostics provider in Singapore. It is a subsidiary of Pathology Asia, one of Southeast Asia’s largest networks of independent laboratories. With operations across Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, and Australia, Pathology Asia collectively serves a population of over 500 million. With its large-scale infrastructure and regional reach, the group is well-positioned as a key enabler of accessible, high-volume cancer screening throughout Southeast Asia. This partnership aims to establish the local testing infrastructure for Bertis’ proteomics-based blood test for early breast cancer detection, while laying the foundation for service expansion into new Asia-Pacific markets.Under this strategic collaboration, Bertis will provide its mass spectrometry-based proteomic analysis technology, which powers its CHECK series of blood-based diagnostic tests, including MASTOCHECK® as well as additional pipeline tests targeting other cancers, such as pancreatic and ovarian cancer.Innoquest Diagnostics will operate the test at its facilities and handle its distribution and commercialization in Singapore. This collaboration enables Bertis to establish a strong operational footprint to meet the growing demand for advanced diagnostic solutions. The two companies plan to sequentially expand the service through the Pathology Asia network of laboratories into other Southeast Asian countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Australia, and Hong Kong.Through this partnership, Bertis aims to accelerate the localization and adoption of its cancer early detection technologies, further strengthening the global competitiveness of its proteomics-based precision diagnostic platform. Southeast Asia presents a significant unmet need for early cancer detection given high cancer incidence rates coupled with low screening coverage. Blood-based diagnostics such as MASTOCHECK® offer a compelling, accessible solution for this region.Thomas Halusa, CEO of Innoquest Diagnostics, added, “We are excited to partner with Bertis to bring innovative, blood-based cancer screening tools to Singapore and the broader region. This collaboration aligns with our commitment to advancing accessible, science-led diagnostic solutions and reinforces our role as a region's partner of choice for global medical technology innovators.”Seung-man Han, CEO of Bertis, stated, “This partnership reflects the trust and executional experience we’ve built in Singapore around proteomics technologies. More than just a distribution deal, it marks a strategic entry into the Southeast Asia cancer diagnostics market based on our proprietary technology. We hope that MASTOCHECK® and our broader portfolio of proteomics-based early detection solutions will make a meaningful contribution to improving cancer care across diverse healthcare systems.”