Revolutionising Cell Research Through Its Hydrogel Technology
A new biotech spin-out, Atelerix, is turning ‘great science’ into an exciting business opportunity through innovations in the use of encapsulated stem cells.
Atelerix is the first spin out company created under a new joint collaborative project between Newcastle and Durham University.
The startup has a transformative technology for the storage and transport of viable cells at room temperature, overcoming the barriers and limitations presented by the current need for cryo-shipping.
The cells are encapsulated using gel made from seaweed. According to the company’s technical experts, the hydrogel technology provides a better service which ‘is simple, cell-friendly and offers immediate access to stem cell therapy’.
The shipping of cells from one location to another for clinical and research use is a widespread and everyday practice. Asterix’s technology allows immediate access to cells which scientists believe generates many potential commercial outlets for its incorporation into practice.
The breakthrough, patented invention, provides dramatic improvements to an everyday process in a rapidly growing market.
Scientific founder, Professor Che Connon of Newcastle University, has been working on the underpinning technology for five years. He said: “Encapsulating cells in the alginate hydrogel is a simple, low cost system capable of
preserving the viability and functionality of cells at temperatures between 4 and 21°C for extended periods of time. Used as a method of cell storage and transport, it overcomes the acknowledged problems associated with cryo-shipping. Cells are encapsulated by in situ formation of the gel for shipping in plates or vials, and can be rapidly released from the gel by the addition of a simple buffer.”Atelerix is set to revolutionise the market with their use of encapsulated stem cells as Dr Mick McLean, CEO for Atelerix explained: “Understanding both the technology and its commercial potential is essential for the translation of great science into an exciting business opportunity. Putting these elements in place by working together with the expert scientific team means that Atelerix has a clear value proposition – we enable the transport and storage of human cells at room temperature.”
“Working alongside the University team on the strategy for the Intellectual Property and the corporate framework has really helped give the business a base from which to expand as it starts to move on from its academic roots.”
David Huntley, Head of Company Creation at Newcastle University and overall Project Manager, said: “Atelerix is an excellent example of the clear benefits of the Northern Accelerator programme. By combining Mick’s business skills with the technical excellence of the scientific team’s world-leading background research, we have created a brand new technology business that we believe will make a real and significant commercial impact.”
