Ghent-based SpectaCell launches with €6 million to advance its cell analysis platform for immunotherapy development

SpectaCell, a Ghent-based startup focusing on next-generation cell therapy analytics, has launched with €6 million in Seed funding. Formed by spinning out of imec, VIB, and Ghent University, the company secured investments from imec.xpand, PMV’s Flanders Future Tech Fund, InnovationQuarter Capital, Qbic, and VIB. CEO and co-founder Tony Montoye stated that breakthrough medicines require breakthrough tools, as researchers need early insights into candidate viability.

SpectaCell aims to provide detailed cell analysis insights within hours, simplifying the workflow from research to manufacturing. Led by Mathieu Rabaey, Veronique De Vroey, Jan Van de Velde, and Montoye, the Belgian company is developing a platform that combines digital imaging and data analysis to measure treatment effects on individual cells.

This technology allows for early prediction of which immunotherapy candidates will work in patients and enables consistent production. SpectaCell addresses current testing bottlenecks by offering a comprehensive view of treatment impacts on cells, helping developers understand treatment effects more effectively and efficiently. The platform combines chip-based imaging with data analysis, enabling the tracking of large numbers of individual cells and their interactions at high resolution and over time, without requiring fluorescent labels that could interfere with cell behavior.

Initially targeting pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies and specialist manufacturers globally, SpectaCell plans to use the funds to develop and commercialize the platform, ultimately aiming to improve the selection, development, and production of new medicines for patients.