Biosphere firm lands five-figure funding to fight COVID-19

A Newcastle-based company has secured government funding to support the fight against coronavirus.

Alcyomics, which is based in The Biosphere in the heart of the city, has been awarded £50k by Innovate UK to carry out scientific support in the production of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Founded in 2007, Alcyomics specialises in human skin explant testing, using its own self-developed technique known as Skimune to detect adverse immune responses to a variety of drugs, biologics, chemicals, and cosmetic products.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the firm has adapted this service provision to develop a suite of human-based assays specifically designed to aid research into the virus causing COVID 19, SARS-CoV-2.

Professor Anne Dickinson from Alcyomics commented: “We are proud to be able to assist with the development of a vaccine for COVID-19 by adapting our already successful technology.

“As a small North East business this fund will allow us to continue critical research that will support the world with its global fight against this virus. So many people across the world have been impacted and our screening will identify those most at risk, helping to keep more people safe.

“This funding has supported us to innovate and comes at a time where support to keep our research going vital.”

Luke Dunnett, property business manager at The Biosphere, added: “Businesses like Alcyomics are testament to the talent, skills and expertise we have in the North East.

“This funding will make a huge difference and is recognition of the role they can play in the fight against COVID-19.

“We are surrounded by innovation and talent [and] are so proud to have companies like Alcyomics operating from The Biosphere.”