The University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG) is setting up G² Solutions, a company that will focus on developing innovative technology in DNA sequencing and stem cell models. Endorsed by a €5.7 million subsidy from the National Growth Fund (Nationaal Groeifonds), the company aims to invest in research facilities with the final goal of making this technology profitable and ready to hit the market.
Why is this important?
A patient suffering from a certain illness can be diagnosed more precisely by using single-cell DNA sequencing, a technology that allows researchers to examine DNA at the level of single-cells. This innovative approach can also predict whether a specific treatment will work for a certain patient based on the individual’s genetic information. By Investing in this type of innovative mechanism, G² Solutions can contribute to lessening patients’ discomfort from ineffective treatments and reducing the expenses of unnecessary medicines.
Another cutting-edge technology that will receive further development is the Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (IPSC) which allows the creation of patient-derived stem cells. In combination with CRISPR, a genetic engineering technique, disease models can be designed based on these patients. By implementing them, researchers can observe the behavior of various diseases and test new drugs.
“As a knowledge institute, the UMCG is at the service of society. The fact that, by founding G² Solutions, we can ensure that not only our own research lines but also those of other parties can benefit from our knowledge and expertise does this full justice,” says UMCG director Wiro Niessen.
Effects for society
The National Growth Fund’s investment in sustainable projects, including this one, is part of a broader initiative to support long-term economic and social benefits in the Netherlands. Hence, making these technologies available to other researchers and companies is an important step as it allows the UMCG to make profits by renting its infrastructure and equipment. In this way, more money can be invested in scientific research, fostering more efficacy and availability of medical treatments in the country.
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