Vilnius University Scientists' Discoveries Lead to $25 Million Investment
Groundbreaking development of single-cell -omics tools by Vilnius University (VU) Life Sciences Center (LSC) scientists—Dr Greta Leonavičienė and Prof. Linas Mažutis—has paved the way for advancements in biotechnology. Their research have led to a $25 million Series A investment in the biotech startup "Atrandi Biosciences."
"The academic environment at Vilnius University provides scientists with the freedom to explore new ideas without immediate commercial pressures. In recent years, the reduced administrative burden at VU has further enabled researchers to focus on fundamental research and innovation," says Prof. Linas Mažutis.
Scientific Challenges and Breakthroughs in SPC Technology
The foundations of SPC (semi-permeable capsule) technology were established in VU LSC laboratories, with Dr Leonavičienė publishing key scientific papers in 2020 and 2022 confirming its applicability. "Atrandi Biosciences" has already licensed or is in the process of licensing several patents developed at VU LSC.
"One of the biggest challenges in developing SPC technology was achieving precise and reproducible capsule formation. While the process is theoretically based on thermodynamic principles—where two liquid polymer solutions phase-separate into a core/shell topology—its practical implementation required extensive research and optimizations. Greta successfully identified the optimal conditions for capsule generation, selecting polymers with the right molecular weight, adjusting their density, choosing suitable fluorinated oils and multiple other aspects. As a result, we established conditions allowing stable phase separation, reliable capsule formation and reproducible encapsulation of single cells and other samples of interest“ explains Prof. L. Mažutis.
„SPC technology allows for efficient single-cell isolation, retention and controlled biochemical reactions, opening new possibilities in fundamental research and, increasingly, in the biotechnology industry," adds Dr G. Leonavičienė.
Academic Research and Commercial Impact
VU LSC scientists emphasize that academic research lays the foundation for innovation, but commercial success depends on the maturity of the biotechnology ecosystem.
"Much of our lab's research focuses on SPC technology applications in single-cell analysis and multi-omics development. Whether these studies will lead to new inventions remains to be seen, but some of our doctoral students' ideas already show significant commercial potential," says Prof. L. Mažutis.
Despite lack of systematic mechanisms to support scientists transitioning from academia to industry, VU LSC has become a key talent incubator for biotech startups. "Many of the key minds behind 'Atrandi Biosciences' success have been trained in our department" he notes.
Products developed by "Atrandi Biosciences" are now used in over 200 scientific laboratories worldwide. This year, the company is expanding with a new division in Boston, where it will continue developing and applying SPC technology in both academic research and industry. "Atrandi Biosciences" is the first company globally to develop SPC technology for large-scale single-cell multi-omics research, with patented solutions that simplify experimental workflows and accelerate biological discoveries.