Mimetas, a spin-off from Thomas Hankemeier's research group, is being acquired by Bruker Corporation. For Hankemeier, it is proof that scientific ideas can reach far beyond the laboratory: 'In Leiden, we have the expertise to make a difference.'
Bruker Corporation, a manufacturer of advanced scientific instruments and analytical and diagnostic solutions, has recently announced that it will acquire a majority stake in Mimetas. Founded in 2013 as a spin-off from Leiden University, Mimetas is considered one of the world's leading companies in organ-on-a-chip technology.
Mimetas develops and produces miniature organ models that enable researchers to study highly complex and physiologically relevant biological processes. Using tiny samples of human tissue, researchers can perform multiple automated experiments simultaneously to investigate disease mechanisms and accelerate the development of new medicines.
From a laboratory idea to an internationally leading company
Mimetas emerged from the research group of Thomas Hankemeier. Hankemeier, Professor of Analytical Biosciences at the Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR), recalls how it all began. 'When postdoctoral researcher Paul Vulto developed a new technique for routing extremely small volumes of liquid across a chip, the pieces of the puzzle fell into place. Combined with advanced 3D cell models, this quickly led to the prototype of what is now OrganoPlate.'
The initial results for drug research generated considerable enthusiasm among pharmaceutical companies. 'We immediately recognised the enormous potential of this technology and took the step of founding Mimetas. Paul subsequently transformed that scientific innovation into an internationally leading company.'
'If you believe in something, go for it'
Paul Vulto, who at the time worked in Hankemeier's research group, founded Mimetas together with PhD candidate Bas Trietsch, business partner Jos Joore and Hankemeier himself. Hankemeier is proud of how the company has developed under their leadership.
'The idea originates in the lab, but success comes from people who are willing to take responsibility and persevere. That is why I always tell my students: if you believe in something, go for it. Most people never take that step. Those who do can achieve remarkable things. Paul is a wonderful example of that.'
Hankemeier welcomes Bruker's investment and sees significant opportunities for further collaboration between Bruker, Mimetas and his own research group at Leiden University.
The added value of universities
According to Hankemeier, Mimetas is also a strong example of how scientific research can create societal impact. 'Universities do not only generate knowledge and publications; they also develop technologies that find their way into society. Research leads to new medicines, new companies, employment opportunities and investment. That makes this not just a success story for one company, but for the entire region.'
Leiden as hotspot for drug discovery
Hankemeier also contributed to the report The Road to Future Prosperity: A Strong Netherlands in a Relevant Europe, prepared by former ASML chief executive Peter Wennink. 'We are highly innovative in Leiden and in the Netherlands when it comes to drug discovery and development, but also in molecular precision diagnostics and personalised health. We have everything we need to play a leading role worldwide. The Netherlands can develop into an innovative ecosystem for the development, optimisation and implementation of evidence-based healthcare, resulting in better, more appropriate care and reduced disease progression. The key condition is that we actually take action. I hope this story inspires people.'
