In a remarkable advancement for sustainable biopharmaceuticals, Belgian company Bio-Sourcing has successfully secured €12.5 million from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator. This funding comprises €2.5 million in grants and €10 million in equity, aimed at enhancing the company’s innovative BioMilk platform, which is poised to redefine the production of biotherapeutics, particularly monoclonal antibodies.
The high costs associated with traditional biosimilar production have long impeded access to crucial medical treatments, even after patent expiration. Bio-Sourcing addresses this challenge with its groundbreaking approach, leveraging the natural capabilities of goats to produce complex proteins in their milk. This method is touted as being five times more cost-effective than conventional techniques, while also significantly minimizing the environmental impact of production.
The first biosimilar to emerge from this innovative platform will be adalimumab (Humira), a cornerstone treatment for autoimmune diseases. The anticipated success of this biosimilar is expected to generate substantial upfront payments and ongoing royalties, providing a robust foundation for further research and development initiatives. With these funds, Bio-Sourcing plans to broaden its portfolio, aiming to develop additional biosimilars such as trastuzumab and golimumab—two prominent biologics.
“Our BioMilk platform is a game-changer for the biopharmaceutical industry,” remarked Dr. Bertrand Merot, founder and CEO of Bio-Sourcing. “The recognition and financial support from the EIC Accelerator underscore the transformative potential of our platform and its importance in addressing global healthcare challenges. Not only are we advancing our mission to make biotherapeutics more affordable with this funding, but we are also creating an opportunity for Europe to position itself as a leader in the global biopharmaceutical market.”
The support from the EIC Accelerator is especially timely, as the need for self-sufficiency in pharmaceutical production has become increasingly apparent following recent global health crises. By fostering domestic production of biosimilars, Bio-Sourcing aims to enhance Europe’s sovereignty in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. The €2.5 million grant will facilitate the transition of the first biosimilar from the BioMilk platform to clinical trials by 2027, while the €10 million equity investment will be utilized to scale operations, including the expansion of goat facilities and the establishment of an industrial milk processing plant.
Editorial Opinion
The potential of Bio-Sourcing in the biopharmaceutical landscape cannot be overstated. By effectively combining sustainability with innovation, the company is addressing two critical concerns: the high costs of biotherapeutics and the environmental impact of their production. This dual focus positions Bio-Sourcing not just as a market player but as a pioneer in a much-needed transformation of the industry.
Furthermore, with the European Union increasingly emphasizing self-reliance in healthcare supply chains, Bio-Sourcing stands at the forefront of a movement that could reshape pharmaceutical manufacturing in the region. Their BioMilk platform not only promises to democratize access to essential medications but also exemplifies how biotechnology can be harnessed responsibly and sustainably. As they move forward with trials and expansions, the company is poised for significant growth and impact, not just within Europe, but on a global scale. For those watching the biopharmaceutical sector, Bio-Sourcing is a name to remember, as its innovative approach could well define the future of therapeutic production.
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