ExpressCells

Based in Philadelphia, ExpressCells operates in the biotechnology sector, providing genetically engineered cell lines to researchers in academic institutions and pharmaceutical companies. The company was co-founded in 2018 by CEO Matthew Handel and Dr. Oscar Perez-Leal, who also serves as the Scientific Adviser. The venture originated from technology developed by Dr. Perez-Leal, a professor at Temple University with a background in medicine, molecular biology, and biosensor development. Handel brought his business experience to the partnership, having previously held leadership roles in the energy sector and run other businesses.

ExpressCells' core business revolves around its proprietary genetic vector system, which is used in conjunction with CRISPR/Cas9 technology to create custom knock-in cell lines. This technology enables the insertion of new genes into a cell's genome, a process that is reportedly faster than conventional methods. The company's business model focuses on two main offerings: selling standardized, off-the-shelf cell lines and developing customized cell lines for specific client projects. Revenue is generated through the sale of these products and services to researchers who use them as tools for drug discovery and biological research. These clients are typically involved in fields like cancer research and are looking to visualize and study specific proteins and cellular processes.

The primary product is custom-engineered living cells that can replicate diseases or have specific proteins tagged with bioluminescent or fluorescent markers. This allows scientists to perform live-cell imaging and observe the effects of their experiments in real-time, which can save time and reduce costs associated with other assay methods. For example, a cell line can be engineered to make a particular protein glow, enabling researchers to track its behavior when a new drug molecule is introduced. While the initial focus has been on visualization, the technology can be used to insert other types of genes as well. The company maintains a small inventory of its generalized products and can create custom solutions through consultation with its clients.

Keywords: gene editing, CRISPR, cell line engineering, drug discovery tools, biological research, custom cell lines, knock-in cell lines, genetic engineering, live-cell imaging, fluorescent proteins, bioluminescent proteins, research tools, biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, disease modeling, molecular biology, plasmid system, gene tagging, stable cell lines, cell-based assays