Participated · Seed · Dec 2021

Axithra is a spin-off of imec and Ghent University developing a therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) platform based on Raman-on-chip optical/photonics technology to quickly and accurately measure drug concentrations in blood. The company leverages imec’s semiconductor process knowledge and the Photonics Research Group’s expertise to make Raman spectroscopy more sensitive via integration on a photonics chip. Its initial application targets measurement of beta-lactam antibiotic concentrations in intensive care patients, with plans to incorporate additional drug classes into the pipeline over time. Axithra positions the platform for fast, bedside-capable measurements to enable individualized dosing in rapidly changing clinical conditions, potentially improving outcomes and reducing ICU length of stay and costs. The company announced a €10 million seed round to secure the first two years of R&D and to achieve a prototype proof-of-concept milestone. Investors include imec.xpand, Kurma Partners, Qbic, Noshaq, White Fund, Wallonie Entreprendre, Hamamatsu Photonics and Werfen Diagnostics.