RoukenBio, the collaborative research organization (CRO) formerly known as Antibody Analytics, has completed the phase 2 expansion of its Discovery Centre in Motherwell, Scotland, and unveiled its new brand identity.
 
An increase in demand for its preclinical immuno-oncology drug discovery services and cell-based bioassays coupled with growing market interest in auto-immunity, inflammation and allergic diseases has driven the need for the phase 2 expansion. It will enable the CRO to enhance its in vitro selection and characterization capabilities for therapeutics aimed at addressing immune-regulated diseases.
 
The facility expansion will be fully operational later this year and the new space has also enabled RoukenBio to increase its instrumentation bandwidth and invest in new cutting-edge equipment.
 
Customers will be able to experience Real-Time Interaction Cytometry for the first time as it has invested in Dynamic Biosensors’ heliXcyto, an automated biosensor that enables advanced analysis of molecule-on-cell interactions. This technology allows the measurement of a biotherapeutic’s association kinetics, dissociation kinetics, half-life, affinity and avidity in the native cellular environment. This investment makes RoukenBio one of only two companies in Europe able to offer these capabilities as a service.
 
Completion of phase 2 has also seen a 55% increase in laboratory and office space at the 24,000-square-foot facility. The additional lab capacity will boost the firm’s cell engineering capabilities. With capacity for 150 staff, RoukenBio is also looking to make more senior scientific hires to further support the team’s knowledge base of brilliant minds.

New Brand Identity

Coinciding with the phase 2 expansion is a name change for the company. Proud of its Scottish roots, the firm’s new identity draws inspiration from the Rouken Glen waterfalls which surround its Motherwell headquarters.
 
Andy Upsall, CEO, RoukenBio said: “The completion of the second phase of our expansion and our rebrand signals a new era for the company.”
 
Phase 3 of the expansion is due to begin in 2025. This final phase will complete the existing facility footprint to house more laboratories and instrumentation, and expand the workforce to up to 250. RoukenBio is also considering using the remaining space for regulated labs, such GCP compliance to support the testing of patient samples for clinical trials, or GMP compliance to allow the firm to release test therapeutics, enabling their use in clinical trials.