Cellis
Overview
Cellis is a biotechnology company founded in 2015, headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, with additional operations in Warsaw, Poland. The company is committed to revolutionizing cancer treatment through the development of its breakthrough technology, Macrophage Drug Conjugates (MDC), aimed at treating solid tumors by effectively delivering therapeutic compounds directly to cancer cells. Cellis has garnered significant attention and support in the biotechnology space, raising EUR 10 million from TWITI Investments in 2021 to further its innovative research and development.
Recent Developments
- November 2024: Cellis won the prestigious Innovation Radar Prize for its groundbreaking MDC platform, a transformative cell-based immunotherapy that modifies the tumor microenvironment to fight drug resistance in various aggressive cancers. This award underscores the potential impact of Cellis in the biotechnology landscape by connecting the company with EU investors and policymakers, thus enhancing its innovation ecosystem.
- 2024: Cellis was honored as one of The Europas 100 Hottest Startups, celebrating its commitment and breakthroughs in health technology. This recognition is a testament to the innovative solutions Cellis continues to advance in the healthcare technology sector.
- November 2024: The company excelled at BIO-Europe, a significant biopharma industry partnering event, showcasing its research advancements in solid tumor treatments.
- Second Quarter 2024: Cellis announced collaborations with leading scientists specializing in oncology and molecular biology, enhancing its integrated therapeutic and diagnostic solutions.
- June 2024: Cellis advanced with its first-in-human clinical trials planned for the second quarter of 2025, marking a significant milestone in its R&D endeavors.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2015 |
| Headquarters | Zurich, Switzerland |
| Founders | Not publicly disclosed |
| Revenue | Not publicly disclosed |
| Profits | Not publicly disclosed |
| Key Investors | TWITI Investments, Horizon 2020 SME Instrument |
| Industry | Biotechnology |
| Number of Employees | Approximately 24 |
Early History
Cellis began its journey in 2015, driven by a mission to transform cancer treatment through innovative biotechnological solutions. The company's inception was marked by assembling a distinguished group of scientists from the fields of nanotechnology, oncology, and molecular biology. These experts came together to harness the potential of macrophage-mediated drug delivery. The early years were focused on developing their Macrophage Drug Conjugate (MDC) technology, tackling the challenge of effectively targeting solid tumors. This initial phase was crucial in establishing a strong intellectual property portfolio protected by international patent applications.
Company Profile and Achievements
Cellis’ business model is centered around its unique MDC technology, which uses macrophages to deliver drugs directly to cancer cells. This approach not only targets tumor cells but also modifies the surrounding microenvironment, fostering stronger immune resistance against cancer. Key milestones in its journey include:
- 2016: Establishment in Zurich, laying the groundwork for its cutting-edge research in oncology.
- 2020: Secured significant funding from TWITI Investments, enabling the expansion of its research capabilities.
- 2024: Winning the Innovation Radar Prize, solidifying its reputation as a leader in biotechnology innovation.
- Development: Successful formulation of the MDC platform, demonstrating potential in preclinical studies for treating aggressive cancers such as glioblastoma and pancreatic cancer.
Current Operations and Market Position
Currently, Cellis is pioneering its MDC technology across various fronts. The company’s operation includes preparation for initial clinical trials, furthering its research into solid tumor therapeutics, and expanding its patent portfolio to safeguard its innovations. Cellis holds a competitive edge with its specialized focus on macrophage-based therapies and a robust pipeline for solid tumor treatment, which positions it strongly in the biotechnology sector poised for significant growth and advancements.
Conclusion
Cellis has emerged as a forward-thinking entity in the biotechnology industry, particularly within the realm of immunotherapy for cancer treatment. With its pioneering MDC technology, the company stands at the forefront of innovative cancer solutions. Positioned to conduct human trials and boasting a clean sweep of awards and recognitions, Cellis is positioned for impactful long-term growth and leadership in biotechnologies aimed at addressing critical challenges in cancer treatment. As it advances its clinical programs, Cellis is expected to continue making significant contributions toward innovative healthcare solutions, showcasing potential for future breakthroughs in cancer therapy.