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.”

Bertis to Participate in BIO KOREA 2025,Showcasing Panomics Analysis Service & Solution ‘PASS’- Highlights recent research achievements using PASS, including exosome and PROTAC-based therapeutic studies- Offers customized analysis consultations for drug discovery and basic research in the biopharmaceutical fieldOn May 2nd, Bertis, a company specializing in proteomics-based precision medicine technology (led by CEOs Dong-young Noh and Seung-man Han), announced its participation in BIO KOREA 2025, taking place at COEX, Seoul, from May 7 to 9. At the event, Bertis will operate a promotional booth to showcase its mass spectrometry-based omics analysis service, PASS (Pan-omics Analysis Service & Solution).Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, BIO KOREA is Korea’s largest biohealth exhibition and conference, co-hosted by the Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI) and Chungcheongbuk-do Province. The event serves as a platform for global healthcare professionals to share the latest industry trends and explore international collaboration and business opportunities. During the exhibition, Bertis will offer on-site consultations to domestic and international researchers and R&D professionals, introducing the customized analytical services and bioinformatics solutions provided by PASS.PASS is an integrated omics analysis solution that combines advanced mass spectrometry-based proteomics with bioinformatics expertise, supporting diverse needs in pharmaceutical and biotech research, including drug discovery and early-stage development. PASS has recently gained recognition for its data quality and customized consulting capabilities through successful project outcomes, including publication in top-tier journals and regulatory approvals. Notably, a study on acute liver failure using exosome therapeutics was published in Nature Communications in February, and a PROTAC (PROteolysis-Targeting Chimera)-based study for promoting bone regeneration was featured in Advanced Science in March. In April, exosome-based acute ischemic stroke therapy developed by S&E Bio—supported by protein characterization and quality assessment through PASS—received Korea’s first IND approval for a clinical trial in this therapeutic area.Seong-jun Park, Director of the PASS Center at Bertis, stated, “Through our participation in BIO KOREA 2025, we look forward to sharing our analytical capabilities and recent project achievements with domestic and international stakeholders in basic and translational research. We will continue enhancing our technologies and consulting expertise to serve as a reliable partner in the biopharmaceutical industry.”Bertis will provide in-depth consultations regarding the PASS service at Booth F19 in Hall C of COEX.

Bertis Expands MASTOCHECK® into Thailand and the Philippines- Bertis signs a supply agreement with LifeStrands, an innovative clinical genomics company, to launch MASTOCHECK® testing in Thailand and the Philippines- High expectations for rapid adoption of MASTOCHECK®, driven by strong interest from local medical professionals and LifeStrands' extensive network[Image] Analyzing samples sent from a medical institution in the Philippines for MASTOCHECK® testingOn April 21, Bertis, a company specializing in the development of proteomics-based precision medicine technology (led by CEOs Dong-young Noh and Seung-man Han), announced the launch of MASTOCHECK®, a blood test for early breast cancer detection, in Thailand and the Philippines.Bertis has signed a supply agreement with LifeStrands, an innovative clinical genomics company, to initiate MASTOCHECK® testing in the two countries. The sales and marketing of MASTOCHECK® in Thailand and the Philippines will be handled by LifeStrands, which is headquartered in Singapore. The agreement was finalized with LifeStrands on January 10th.LifeStrands, the genomics and life sciences subsidiary of Pathology Asia Group—a leading diagnostic service provider in Southeast Asia—was established in June 2020 and specializes in clinical and translational genomics and provides genomic testing services through its partnered hospital networks across Singapore, Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia and Australia.MASTOCHECK® is the world's first proteomics-based blood test for early breast cancer detection developed by Bertis. It diagnoses breast cancer by quantifying three blood-based protein biomarkers and analyzes the results using a patented algorithm. The test has proven efficacy in screening for early-stage breast cancer (stages 0-2) and has been approved as an in vitro diagnostic medical device by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. It is currently used in over 500 medical institutions in Korea and has also entered the Singapore market.Seung-man Han, CEO of Bertis, stated, "We are excited to introduce MASTOCHECK® in Thailand and the Philippines through our partnership with LifeStrands, a key player in Southeast Asia. We anticipate rapid adoption in the region, supported by strong interest from local medical professionals and LifeStrands' robust network."Asian women are more likely to have dense breasts compared to Western women. In dense breast tissue, the high proportion of glandular tissue can obscure tumors on mammogram images, making early detection more difficult. As a blood-based diagnostic tool, MASTOCHECK® demonstrates high accuracy even in women with dense breasts. It also ensures consistent results by eliminating variations caused by subjective interpretation and is suitable for young women, women of childbearing age, and pregnant women.

Bertis Signs MOU with COSMAX for Joint Research in Skin Proteomics Analysis-Collaboration to begin with establishing skin proteomics analysis technology, expanding into joint development of skin biomarker panelsand related business initiatives-Expanding the application of proteomics into personalized skin aging care<Photo: From left, COSMAX Group Chairman Kyung-soo Lee, Bertis Co-CEO Dong-young Noh, and Bertis Co-CEO Seung-man Han pose for a commemorative photo during the MOU signing ceremony held at COSMAX’s headquarters in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, on April 11.>On April 15, 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 memorandum of understanding (MOU) with COSMAX, a global leader in cosmetic ODM (Original Development and Manufacturing), to collaborate on research in skin proteomics analysis.Under this MOU, the two companies plan to collaborate comprehensively in areas including academic exchange related to skin proteomics analysis technology, joint development of skin biomarker panels, and co-development, production, and commercialization of cosmetic ingredients and formulations.Skin proteomics analysis utilizes advanced proteomic technologies to precisely identify and quantify proteins expressed in skin tissues or cells. This allows for the detailed understanding of physiological changes in the skin and its biological responses to external stimuli. It can be applied to diagnose skin aging, damage, regeneration, and irritation, as well as to develop personalized skincare and cosmetic solutions.COSMAX, the world’s top cosmetic ODM company, possesses world-class capabilities in utilizing biological resources and was the first in the world to commercialize microbiome-based skincare in 2019. The collaboration will start with building a foundation for skin proteomics, with plans to expand into database construction, protein profiling by cause of aging, and diagnostic software development.Seung-man Han, CEO of Bertis, stated, "We at Bertis possess unmatched expertise in discovering biomarkers for cancer, aging, and other major diseases through proteomics, and in developing diagnostic and analytical solutions based on those findings. We are excited to collaborate with COSMAX to advance our capabilities in skin proteomics and broaden the application of proteomics technology into personalized skin aging care."Bertis is a leading company in commercializing proteomics technology based on its proprietary ProteoID platform, which spans from protein data analysis to product and service development. In 2019, the company launched MASTOCHECK®, the world’s first proteomics-based blood test for the early detection of breast cancer. Additionally, Bertis offers PASS (Pan-omics Analysis Service & Solution), an integrated omics analysis solution that provides customized results tailored to the needs of clients across the biotech and CDMO industries—from basic R&D to novel modality drug development.

Bertis Appoints Global Life Sciences Innovation and Sustainability ExpertDr. David Berryto Scientific Advisory Board - Dr. David Berry, a global authority in innovation and sustainable management, has participated in founding over 30 companies, including Moderna- First collaboration with a Korean company as a Scientific Advisory Board member, supporting Bertis’ global expansion[Image] Dr. David BerryOn February 6th, Bertis, a company specializing in proteomics-based precision medicine technology (led by CEOs Dong-young Noh and Seung-man Han), announced that it has appointed Dr. David Berry, a world-renowned authority on innovation and sustainable management in the life sciences, as a member of its Scientific Advisory Board (SAB).Dr. David Berry, who received hisMD from Harvard Medical School and PhD in Biological Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), holds over 200 patents in life sciences and other fields. He has co-founded more than 30 companies, including 7 valued at over $1 billion. Notably, Dr. Berry contributed to the establishment of Moderna, a company developing mRNA technology-based vaccines and therapeutics.As a globally recognized expert in innovation and sustainable management, Dr. Berry currently serves as an Emeritus member of the Leadership Council for the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UN SDSN). His achievements have been widely recognized: he was named an Innovator of the Year in 2007 by the MIT Technology Review, a 2014 Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, and one of 12 Innovators Helping Reshape Reality by the U.S. State Department.Dr. Berry's appointment to Bertis' Scientific Advisory Board draws significant attention as it marks his first collaboration with a Korean company. Bertis aims to leverage Dr. Berry's extensive experience and expertise as an innovation leader, inventor, and entrepreneur to formulate its global expansion strategy and establish itself as a leading company in proteomics-based precision medicine technology on the world stage. Dr. David Berry stated, "Bertis possesses world-class proprietary technology in clinical proteomics and is leading the realization of precision medicine through early disease diagnosis and personalized treatment activation. I look forward to contributing to the global dissemination of Bertis' proteomics-based precision medicine technology and driving innovation in the medical field." Seung-man Han, CEO of Bertis, emphasized, "Since ourfounding in 2014, Bertishas built a globally competitivetechnological framework through continuous challenges and achieved commercialization and technological development in proteomics, includingmulti-protein biomarker-basedblood tests. Weexpect our collaboration withDr. Berry to be a significantboost in elevating Bertis to the next level as aglobally competitive precision medicine technology company, building on the technological achievements we've accumulated overthe past decade."