InSphero obtains strategic investment from ZEISS Ventures

InSphero is the pioneer of industrial-grade and scalable 3D-cell-based assay solutions and scaffold-free 3D organ-on-a-chip technology. With its efficient and automation-compatible technology platform, InSphero assists researchers in pharmaceutical and biotechnology in decision-making processes by accurately rebuilding human physiology in vitro.

InSphero has raised an eight-figure amount in its latest funding round. It will utilize the funds to commercialize its cryo-preservation technology to enable further growth and scalability. ZEISS Ventures is among the participants in the financing round, along with internal and external investors. The strategic investment is closely linked to ZEISS Research Microscopy Solutions and its capabilities in automated, high-resolution imaging and 3D image analysis.

InSphero's comprehensive solutions for preclinical drug safety and efficacy testing are based on 3D microtissues, which are phenotypic models of the smallest functional unit of a tissue or organ. These drug-discovery and testing platforms combine scalable 3D technology, ISO quality-controlled 3D human tissue models, 3D-optimized media, as well as tailored assay services and support. Drug discovery partners immediately gain access to the depth and breadth of InSphero's experience in developing and applying 3D models for liver toxicology, metabolic diseases, and oncology.

"The market for complex 3D in-vitro models is very attractive and is experiencing new tailwinds with the FDA Modernization Act. This Act elevates alternative methods for drug development to the same level as animal testing. InSphero has uniquely positioned itself with its highly industrialized platform solution to address this market opportunity," says Gerrit Schulte, Head of ZEISS Ventures.

"The widespread use of 3D microtissues following the ratification of the FDA Modernization Act requires efficient, automation-compatible, and scalable 3D models quickly," said Dr. Jan Lichtenberg, CEO and co-founder of InSphero. "Our ground-breaking, cryopreserved ARCTis 3D Microtissue portfolio offers a storable, always ready-to-use solution to efficient and insightful compound testing. We are on the way to becoming the biggest 3D microtissue biobank in the world."

Earlier this year, InSphero and Brenus Pharma were awarded a Eurostar grant of EUR 1.5 million for a joint cancer research project.

InSphero's managing team includes experts in 3D-microtissue engineering, cell-based assays, laboratory automation, and industry-scale production and quality assurance. The company was awarded CHF 130,000 by Venture Kick in 2008 and participated in the Venture Leaders program in 2010. The company was named a TOP 100 Swiss Startup every year from 2011 to 2014 as well as a TOP 100 Scale-Up in 2019.