From Impossible to Possible – The Journey
Supported by the Runar Bäckström Foundation
Our invention emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, utilizing the targeting capability of viruses by creating synthetic virus-like particles for disease prevention. This invention led to the formation of the Finnish biotechnology company FINNCURE Oy in 2021, supported by private investors and the Runar Bäckström Foundation – the only entity that believed in our vision at the time. To date, we have raised nearly one million euros in funding and several hundred thousand euros in research and development support from various sources.
Our technology enables the scalable production of lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) that mimic the desired pathogen and can be used as carriers in targeted treatments. These include the prevention and treatment of infectious and non-communicable diseases, immunotherapy, targeted drug delivery, and vaccine solutions. Our microfluidic manufacturing technology allows for precise control of the particles with a very narrow size distribution compared to traditional production methods (Zhang & Niemelä et al., 2024).
We have multiple patent applications and granted patents in the field of VLP (Virus-Like Particles) and synthetic particle production. Our platform technology utilizes biocompatible solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) functionalized with targeting extensions, mimicking the structure of selected pathogens like SARS-CoV-2. The effectiveness of the particles is based on their ability to bind efficiently to host receptors, allowing them to be used to prevent pathogen spread or as carriers for the targeted delivery of various compounds or drugs (as shown in Diagram 1).
Our technology enables rapid responses to future pandemics and epidemics to prevent infections, and it opens the door to customized and targeted medical treatments.
Diagram 1. Illustration of the customized lipid nanoparticle (LNP) production for various applications, such as preventing infections with VLP particles by blocking pathogen entry, while simultaneously delivering immunogenic epitopes and/or different compounds for targeted drug delivery to specific diseases or conditions.