Biotechnology company Aelius Biotech recently made headlines by securing a significant investment of £750,000. The company’s groundbreaking approach to drug and food testing has garnered attention for its unique laboratory gut model, which eliminates the need for traditional animal testing methods.
### Revolutionizing Testing Methods
Aelius Biotech stands out in the industry for its cutting-edge technology that can simulate all three crucial stages of the digestion process. This includes substances passing through the gut, crossing the mucus layer on its surface, and being absorbed into the body. While many existing models only focus on specific stages, Aelius’s model offers a comprehensive solution that provides a holistic view of how substances interact with the human body.
### Meeting Industry Needs
Based in Newcastle, Aelius Biotech caters to a diverse range of clients in consumer health, pharmaceuticals, and functional food sectors. Companies like Huel have benefited from Aelius’s services, which help them predict how their products will be digested and absorbed by consumers. By using this advanced testing model, customers can minimize risks during product development and enhance their formulations for better outcomes.
### The Story Behind Aelius
Founded in 2018 by Dr. Peter Chater, Dr. Matt Wilcox, and Professor Jeff Pearson—based on their research at the University of Newcastle—Aelius Biotech has quickly established itself as a pioneer in innovative testing solutions. With an initial funding boost from Mercia Ventures and the North East Venture Fund in 2023, the company has experienced significant growth since its inception.
### Steady Growth and Expansion
With an expanding team—from five employees to fifteen—and a growing clientele that includes alternative protein manufacturers and lab-grown meat producers, Aelius Biotech has seen remarkable progress over the years. In 2024 alone, they managed to double their revenue—a testament to their impact on the industry.
Dr. Peter Chater comments:
“I’m proud of our team’s achievements over the past year as we’ve showcased the demand for innovative testing methods. Our recent funding round will propel us towards international expansion.”
### Industry Recognition
Chris McCourt from Mercia Ventures highlighted how Aelius’s unique model addresses a critical gap in laboratory testing within pharmaceuticals and food industries alike. The company’s success is evident through partnerships with renowned clients and its growing influence in food technology.
Chris McCourt states:
“Aelius’s model was created to meet this need… This latest funding will help it expand internationally.”
The recent investment injection will enable Aelius Biotech to broaden its reach across US and European markets while finalizing work on its state-of-the-art laboratory facility at Blandford Square.
As Aelius continues to push boundaries with its innovative approach to drug and food testing without animal involvement, it is poised to make significant strides towards becoming a global leader in this specialized field.
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