Currently, thousands of immunological cancer drugs are under development worldwide, facing challenges such as high costs and lengthy clinical trials. Solid Immuno-Oncology Oy (Solid IO), emerging from the University of Helsinki, offers new solutions to these challenges.
“Our tumour-on-a-chip' technology helps pharmaceutical companies determine which treatments are most likely to be effective. This enables data-driven decisions at an earlier stage,” says Solid IO's CEO Noora Hujala.
Enabling tailored and effective treatments for patients
One of the key features of Solid IO's technology is its ability to personalise cancer treatments. The company's "tumour-on-a-chip" technology allows for drug testing directly on a patient's own cancer cells and immune system, helping to predict the effectiveness of different therapies. This method provides doctors with the ability to design care plans for each patient individually, reducing the uncertainty and trial-and-error typically associated with cancer therapy.
“Using real data, doctors can select the most effective treatments for patients, increasing the likelihood of successful outcomes,” says one of Solid IO's founders, Associate Professor Heidi Haikala from the University of Tampere and Principal Investigator at the University of Helsinki.
“This spinout company is an excellent example of how world-class research conducted at the University of Helsinki can produce impactful innovations that address critical healthcare challenges. We are excited to see the company move forward and bring its technology to market, ultimately benefiting cancer patients worldwide,” says Helsinki Innovation Services Ltd, CEO, Marko Hakovirta.
Strong commercial prospects for the innovation
Solid IO begins by offering preclinical drug testing services to pharmaceutical and biotech companies. This positions the company well within the $1.2 billion preclinical oncology market, allowing for rapid adoption of the technology. The long-term goal involves expanding the technology to clinical diagnostic services in hospitals and clinics. The company plans to extend its reach to both the US and European markets, where it can accelerate the development of immunological cancer treatments, improve access to therapies, and make them more personalised for patients.
“Pharmaceutical companies have already shown great interest in our product. The technology scales excellently to both the US and European markets, and we are excited to accelerate the development of immunotherapies globally,” says Hujala.
Backed by years of research
The method developed by Solid IO is based on years of research conducted at the University of Helsinki, studying the interaction between a patient’s tumour and immune system. By simulating this interaction on a microfluidic chip, Solid IO can quickly test and refine immunotherapies, enabling faster and more efficient drug development. This, in turn, accelerates the introduction of new treatment options to the market. Solid IO's technology also holds strong potential as a future diagnostic tool, providing hospitals with patient-specific information to support treatment decisions.
The spinout company was founded by CSO Heidi Haikala, CEO Noora Hujala and Lead Scientist Bassel Alsaed, who contributed to the invention of the platform. Solid IO has secured €800,000 in funding from Nordic Science Investments, BSV Ventures, Helsinki University Funds, and a European angel investor. The technology transfer and commercialisation company Helsinki Innovation Services Ltd has played a key role in supporting Solid IO in the preparations of the innovation for market entry.
Further information:
Solid IO, CEO, Noora Hujala, noora.hujala@solid-io.com