Cancer treatment often relies on trial-and-error methods, leading to unnecessary side effects and costs. Solid IO, a medtech company based in Finland, aims to improve precision oncology by developing a tumour-on-chip platform that replicates the tumour microenvironment. The company recently closed its first funding round of €800,000 to further its research and prepare for clinical validation. Investors, including Nordic Science Investments and BSV Ventures, see potential in the technology’s ability to personalise cancer treatment and accelerate drug development. With growing interest in patient-specific therapies, Solid IO is positioning itself as a key player in this emerging field.
Other companies have previously attempted to personalise cancer treatment using artificial intelligence and biomarker-based diagnostics. However, these approaches rely on predictive models rather than real-time patient-specific data. Solid IO’s platform differentiates itself by creating live tumour models, allowing clinicians to test immunotherapy responses before administering treatment. This method may provide more precise treatment options compared to traditional diagnostic tools. The company’s focus on integrating real tumour-environment data into clinical decisions reflects a broader trend in personalised medicine.
How Does Solid IO’s Tumour-on-Chip Platform Work?
The tumour-on-chip technology developed by Solid IO mimics a patient’s tumour environment by integrating bioengineering techniques. This system enables real-time analysis of how different immunotherapies affect individual cancers. By providing detailed tumour-immune interactions, the platform helps clinicians determine the most effective treatment from the outset. This approach is intended to reduce unnecessary costs and side effects associated with ineffective therapies.
What Are the Market and Regulatory Challenges?
Solid IO plans to first enter the US market, where regulations for in vitro diagnostic medical devices are more centralised. In contrast, Europe’s fragmented regulatory landscape presents a more complex approval process. The company also sees greater willingness among US clinicians to adopt new medical technologies. According to CEO Noora Hujala, this openness to innovation could accelerate clinical adoption of the tumour-on-chip platform.
The funding will support Solid IO in conducting clinical trials, refining its regulatory strategy, and preparing for market entry. The company has already completed proof-of-concept studies and published its initial scientific paper in October 2024. The next milestone is securing a clinical validation partner, which will be essential for moving toward real-world application.
Investors view Solid IO’s platform as beneficial not only for patient care but also for pharmaceutical research. The technology could enhance clinical trials by improving patient selection and accelerating drug development in immuno-oncology. Nordic Science Investments and BSV Ventures expressed confidence in the startup’s potential to improve precision medicine and reduce reliance on generic treatment approaches.
As precision oncology advances, integrating patient-specific data into clinical decision-making remains a challenge. Solid IO’s approach highlights the potential of organ-on-chip technology in refining treatment strategies. However, widespread adoption will depend on clinical validation and regulatory approvals. If successful, this technology may lead to more targeted cancer treatments and improved patient outcomes. The coming years will determine whether tumour-on-chip models can become a trusted clinical tool for oncologists and pharmaceutical companies.
