Biotech startup LIfT Biosciences has entered into an agreement with Portal Innovations.
Through this deal, LIfT will gain access to the life sciences venture capital firm's 30,000 sqft of US laboratory and office space in Houston Helix Park, Texas.
This will significantly expand LIfT's transatlantic footprint, complementing its current operations in the UK, Ireland and US.
By utilising the Portal's laboratory space, the biotech hopes to accelerate the development of its first-in-class immuno-modulatory alpha neutrophils (IMANs) designed to overcome treatment resistance in solid tumours.
Situated in one of the fastest growing lifescience ecosystems in the US, LIfT will now have better access to investors and R&D infrastructure through the Helix Park site.
This includes Portal's fully serviced laboratory, tailored operational and safety support, as well as a robust programme of networking events and expert advisory resources.
This means that LIfT will be more equipped to scale its US operations as it advances its candidates towards the clinic.
Helix Park's ecosystem includes both academic and clinical experts; all of whom offer potential new collaboration opportunities as LIfT advances its platform towards clinical translation.
Portal’s venture development model also offers access to strategic capital, providing LIfT with flexible options to support future US growth.
“In addition to premium lab and office spaces, Portal Innovations provides LIfT with a unique ecosystem of scientific expertise, with proximity to the highly distinguished clinical trial centre in MD Anderson," noted LIfT Biosciences' CEO, Alex Blyth.
"It is an important milestone in our journey to deliver curative neutrophil immunotherapies to patients globally.”
“Portal Innovations is designed to help innovative companies like LIfT move rapidly from discovery to clinical and commercial success through curated capital, best-in-class infrastructure, and access to a strong life sciences network," added Zach Hightower, Director of Business Development at Portal Innovations.
"LIfT’s novel immunotherapy approach exemplifies the innovative science that we aim to support, and we believe they will be a great fit in our collaborative environment. We look forward to welcoming them into our growing Houston ecosystem.”
[Image credit: Helix Park]