Finnish companies and research organizations have secured funding and launched products to address a variety of challenges in modern medicine.
In December, Orion announced a significant advancement in its medicinal product pipeline, securing a 100 million euro loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB). The loan will propel the development of products targeting diseases within Orion’s three focus areas: oncology, neurological disorders, and respiratory diseases. Despite the ongoing focus on COVID-19, themes such as antibiotic resistance remain a concern, and Orion aims to contribute solutions through its wide-ranging research and development efforts.
Valo Therapeutics, a Helsinki-based startup, reported raising approximately 11 million euros in pre-initial public offering funding. The funds will be utilized to conduct a phase-one clinical study for its lead tumor antigen-coated oncolytic virus candidate, PeptiCRAd-1. The startup plans to develop adaptable immunotherapy platforms for cancers and infectious diseases, showcasing its commitment to advancing medical solutions.
Aalto University and the University of Helsinki have embarked on a collaborative three-year research project on cerebral mechanisms of depression, supported by a grant of over two million euros. Utilizing magnetoencephalography (MEG), the project aims to identify biological mechanisms of depression, offering a leap forward in understanding cerebral aspects. The goal is to discover mechanistic biomarkers for diagnosing depression, enabling personalized therapies and predicting treatment outcomes.
Diagnostics has become a vital export sub-sector for Finland, with in-vitro diagnostic solutions’ exports increasing by over 27% to 830 million euros last year. The efficient healthcare system, a tradition of university-industry research cooperation, and the availability of skilled professionals contribute to this booming sector.
Additionally, Finnish universities have achieved a breakthrough in hormonal therapies for breast cancer. By adopting an interdisciplinary approach combining cancer biology with materials chemistry and soft matter physics, researchers discovered a way to retain hormone receptors in gel-grown miniature breasts in laboratory conditions. This breakthrough opens new avenues for studying treatment responses and developing novel therapies.
Turku-based Brinter has launched Brinter Core, an entry-level bioprinting solution. This modular and portable bioprinter offers basic bioprinting features in a smaller and more affordable package, aiming to democratize 3D bioprinting. The launch of Brinter Core seeks to make 3D bioprinting accessible to a broader audience, enabling researchers and companies to explore innovative applications in medicine, pharmaceuticals, and life sciences.
These advancements underscore Finland’s commitment to healthcare innovation, addressing current challenges and laying the foundation for future breakthroughs.