Axion BioSystems, a leading life sciences tools company focused on advanced live-cell assay systems, announces the acquisition of the Netherlands-based CytoSMART Technologies—an innovator in kinetic live-cell imaging analysis. The collaboration positions Axion for significant expansion in the fields of stem cell research, immuno-oncology, cell-based therapies, and drug discovery.

“Since Axion BioSystems’ inception, our focus has been on developing user-centric products that accelerate scientific discovery, with the specific goal of building innovative systems that monitor cellular activity without disturbing the underlying biology. The Maestro, our flagship bioelectronic assay (BEA) platform, has transformed neurological disease research over the past 14 years. Likewise, our most recent addition to the BEA portfolio is doing the same in groundbreaking fields like immunotherapy,” said Tom O’Brien, President & CEO of Axion BioSystems. “In CytoSMART, we found a company with technology complementary to our own, as well as a partner with the same fundamental objective—to provide customers with high-quality instruments and powerful software that rapidly advance live-cell research and cell therapy development. We welcome the entire CytoSMART team, and we are excited to add their expertise to our own.”

This transaction was led by Harry Rek and Thomas van Hövell, who were assisted by Berend Westerveld, Bart De Hek, Sam van der Weiden, Corianne Netze-Ritsema, Allard van Duijn, Marleen van der Horst and Remco Bäcker, and was done in cooperation with White & Case Stockholm.