Xerion Healthcare has emerged as a leader in innovating cancer treatments through nanotechnology. With a recent £2m investment, their groundbreaking work is set to revolutionise the field of oncology.
Based at Cherwell Innovation Centre, the start-up aims to improve patient outcomes by enhancing radiotherapy with advanced nanoparticles. This forward-thinking approach addresses significant clinical needs.
Groundbreaking Nanotechnology Innovation
Xerion Healthcare, a promising start-up, has harnessed the power of nanotechnology to revolutionise cancer treatment. By securing a £2m investment, the company is poised to enhance therapies for cancer patients. Situated at the Cherwell Innovation Centre, Xerion’s primary focus is on developing nanoparticles that amplify radiotherapy effects. These breakthroughs signify a vital step in cancer treatment innovation.
The Science Behind the Technology
Nanoparticles developed by Xerion are injected directly into tumours, dispersing uniformly and targeting cancer cells. Upon exposure to radiotherapy, these nanoparticles generate ‘free radicals,’ highly active molecular species that obliterate tumour cells. This innovative approach, which involves splitting water instead of interacting with oxygen, enables targeting of the most aggressive, oxygen-deficient tumour types.
Dr Gareth Wakefield, CTO and co-founder of Xerion, emphasized the technology’s potential, stating, “Initial targets for our technology are head and neck and pancreatic cancers both of which have unmet clinical needs.” This statement highlights the focused strategy on hard-to-treat cancers.
Addressing Unmet Clinical Needs
Some cancers, such as certain throat cancer types, remain exceedingly difficult to surgically remove. The prognosis for pancreatic cancer is often poor, with patients usually surviving only months after diagnosis. Xerion’s technology aims to extend life expectancy and improve the quality of life.
This approach particularly benefits cancers that lack oxygen, providing new treatment possibilities. By addressing these unmet clinical needs, Xerion’s innovation holds promise for radically changing cancer treatment outcomes.
Company Growth and Expansion
Since relocating to Cherwell Innovation Centre in 2015, Xerion Healthcare has significantly expanded. The company currently occupies 1,840 sq ft of combined lab and office space. This expansion supports their cutting-edge research and development needs.
The recent £2m investment will catalyze further growth, allowing Xerion to continue pushing boundaries in nanotechnology and cancer treatment.
In addition to venture capital funding, Xerion has gained support from Innovate UK’s Biomedical Early Catalyst scheme. Such financial backing is instrumental in advancing their technology from pre-clinical trials to patient trials.
Future Trials and Developments
Xerion is preparing to transition from pre-clinical to patient trials, which are anticipated to commence early in 2020. This crucial phase will evaluate the technology’s real-world effectiveness.
Successful trials could lead to wider implementation of these nanotechnologies in oncology practices, representing a monumental leap forward in cancer treatment.
With continued investment and research, Xerion remains at the forefront of medical innovation, potentially saving numerous lives.
The Impact of Funding and Support
The impact of the £2m funding cannot be understated. It facilitates rapid advancement in research and ensures Xerion’s ground-breaking work remains well-funded.
Through collaborations and venture capital, the company can extend its reach, potentially transforming cancer care globally.
Support from local venture capital funds and state bodies highlights the trust and expectation placed on Xerion’s technology.
Conclusion
Xerion Healthcare’s pioneering work in nanotechnology represents a significant advancement in the battle against cancer. With strategic investments and promising technology, the future of cancer treatment looks increasingly hopeful.
In conclusion, Xerion Healthcare is paving the way for future biotechnology applications in oncology. Their initiatives not only promise extended life expectancy for cancer patients but also improve treatment quality.
