Axol Bioscience strengthens disease modelling capabilities with strategic Phenocell acquisition
In a significant move to enhance its induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology portfolio, Axol Bioscience has announced the complete acquisition of French biotechnology firm Phenocell SAS, marking a strategic expansion into ophthalmology and dermatology research models.
The acquisition introduces crucial additions to Axol’s existing repertoire of iPSC-derived cell models, which previously focused on neuroscience, pain and touch, and cardiovascular applications. The integration of Phenocell’s expertise brings sophisticated human iPSC-derived sebocytes, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), and photoreceptor cells into Axol’s product portfolio.
Advanced modelling capabilities for age-related disorders
Of particular significance is Phenocell’s specialisation in dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) services, which complements Axol’s existing drug discovery support platform. This addition is especially relevant given the growing importance of developing targeted therapeutics for age-related disorders.
Commenting on the strategic acquisition, Axol Bioscience CEO Liam Taylor said: “Axol has previously operated in three areas of drug research and discovery: neuroscience, pain and touch, and cardiovascular drug discovery. This acquisition enables us to extend our product portfolio into ophthalmology and dermatology and offer iPSC-based skin and vision loss models.”
Enhanced research methodology
The merger represents a significant advancement in in vitro disease modelling capabilities. Phenocell’s founder and CEO, Brigitte Onteniente, highlighted the company’s evolution, noting: “We have built a unique set of products and services over the last decade to meet the growing requirements from the drug discovery and cosmetic industries to move from primary models to more consistent, human iPSC-derived models.”
Axol Bioscience’s existing infrastructure includes a commercial library of 70 human iPSCs (axoLines™), iPSC-derived cells (axoCells™), and customised research capabilities (axoServices™). These services encompass gene editing, electrophysiology, reprogramming, and differentiation, all conducted under ISO 9001:2015 quality management systems.
The combined entity will maintain operations across multiple locations, with Axol’s primary facilities in the UK and Phenocell’s established presence in Grasse, France. This geographical distribution is expected to facilitate broader market access and enhanced service delivery capabilities.
While financial details remain undisclosed, the acquisition positions the combined entity as a more comprehensive provider of iPSC-based research tools and services. The merger particularly strengthens their position in developing advanced human disease models, crucial for both pharmaceutical development and cosmetic research applications.
