Stream Bio started their collaboration with CPI in 2017 after a referral from an industry operator to explore the process of potential commercialisation and ERDF support. CPI has helped develop and manufacture four different coloured molecular probes, to trial and test under two ERDF (European Research Development Fund) projects worth approximately £130,000 combined. Prior to working with CPI, Stream Bio was unaware of the potential of ERDF funding.

Stream Bio calculated that to achieve an equivalent level of expertise and facilities used in the development of their product, they would have needed a VC investment of between £750,000 and £1 million.

However, by using CPI’s facilities, the company was able to accelerate the timeline to commercialisation, without having to make such significant investment in infrastructure.

An initial proof of concept study undertaken by staff at CPI has shown the products created in the initial lab research can be used in flow cytometry and are readily visible both inside the cell and as individual nanoparticles. This concept study has helped to build confidence that their utility can be extended through their conjugation to target molecules to bind specific cellular proteins. These findings go a long way in the demonstration that the development of CPNs™ can be beneficial in a breadth of applications.

Working with CPI showcased the development of a successful innovation pathway from an academic institution, to a start-up company working with experts based in CPI’s state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories. Ease of access enabled closer collaboration and highlighted how bridging the gap between invention and commercialisation can allow companies to progress in the innovation eco-system more efficiently.