Lucero Bio - Innovative work with 3D cell models

Purpose and goal:

Through this project, Lucero began to validate its technology through the production of three data sets related to specific product functionalities. These data sets will be used to show European pharmaceutical companies that Lucero’s system is capable of functioning in a high-throughput drug screening environment to motivate future pilot projects. Further tests will be conducted after the project’s end in order to further de-risk its technology.

Expected results and effects:

Through this project, Lucero produced preliminary data on the effect of our laser on 3D cartilage, ovarian cancer, and liver models, as well as the size range of cell models we are able to handle, and the speed at which we can isolate individual models in wells.

We have also been able to create multiple, simultaneous optical traps, we have developed application-specific microfluidic designs, and we have expanded on our image-recognition AI. Approach and implementation:

Overall, the project was a success. We were able to begin gathering crucial data on our system and we have established partnerships to enable us to continue to do so after the completion of this project. We did face unexpected challenges as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic regarding the acquisition of biological samples to perform certain tests. However, the Lucero team did a great job of adopting an agile and flexible work strategy which allowed us to meet our project goals on time.