This Startup Aims To Regenerate Damaged Tissues With The Help Of AI And Lasers
Cellino, cofounded by 30 Under 30 alumni, got a $25 million grant to develop self-contained biomanufacturing units for stem cells that treat degenerative diseases.
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Revolutionizing Disease Treatment: Cellino's Breakthrough Technology Makes Personalized Stem Cell Therapies Affordable
For decades, researchers have sought to harness the potential of stem cells to treat debilitating diseases such as Parkinson's and Type 1 diabetes. However, the high cost of creating induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) has hindered progress. Biotech startup Cellino is poised to change this landscape with its innovative technology, Nebula, which promises to reduce manufacturing costs by at least 10 times.
The Challenge of iPSCs
iPSCs are created by reprogramming adult cells to behave like embryonic stem cells, allowing them to transform into any cell type. This potential has sparked hope for treating degenerative diseases. However, the current process of creating useful tissues from iPSCs is labor-intensive and expensive, costing hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars per patient.
Cellino's Solution
Founded in 2017, Cellino has developed self-contained units called cassettes, likened to "Nespresso pods," which can grow personalized cell treatments on-site at hospitals. This technology has garnered significant attention, including a $25 million grant from the federal government's Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) and $96 million in venture capital funding.
How it Works
Cellino's automated system utilizes computer vision to monitor cell growth and lasers to eliminate unhealthy cells. This approach enables mass production of iPSCs, making personalized treatments more accessible. The company plans to use its recent funding to develop a more compact version of its technology, ideal for widespread hospital use.
Expert Endorsement
Susan Hockfield, former MIT president and neuroscience professor, praises Cellino's innovative approach, citing its ability to "industrialize the production of cells." Alex Morgan, partner at Khosla Ventures, highlights Cellino's multidisciplinary team as a key advantage, making it difficult for competitors to replicate.
A Vision for the Future
Cellino's CEO, Nabiha Saklayen, envisions a future where personalized iPSCs are available to patients everywhere. With its groundbreaking technology and significant funding, Cellino is poised to revolutionize disease treatment, making hope a reality for millions.
Key Takeaways
Cellino's Nebula technology reduces iPSC manufacturing costs by at least 10 times.
Automated cell growth and laser technology enable mass production of personalized treatments.
$25 million ARPA-H grant and $96 million in venture capital funding support Cellino's development.
Expert endorsement highlights Cellino's innovative approach and multidisciplinary team.
Cellino aims to make personalized iPSCs widely available, transforming disease treatment.