Systemic Bio, the bioprinting subsidiary of 3D Systems focused on developing bioprinted tissue models for drug development, has officially ceased operations. The news was shared by founder Taci Pereira in an emotional statement, reflecting on the company’s journey and emphasizing that her mission to transform drug discovery continues despite the closure.
Systemic Bio aimed to create high-quality, human-relevant tissue models to aid in AI-driven drug discovery, offering an alternative to traditional animal and cell-line data. A significant challenge was the lack of bioprinting tools capable of industrial-scale production. Pereira collaborated with 3D Systems, leading to the acquisition of Allevi and eventually the creation of Systemic Bio with $15 million in internal funding in 2022.
Under Pereira’s leadership, Systemic Bio launched its h-VIOS™ platform, established a 15,000-square-foot facility, grew to a team of 30, and filed seven patent families. The company’s bioprinting process could produce 6,000 vascularized hydrogels per month and secured partnerships with major pharmaceutical firms.
However, the high cost associated with developing deep technology proved to be a hurdle. Pereira noted that 3D Systems, now focused on profitability, could no longer sustain the cost-intensive investment in Systemic Bio. While Systemic Bio has closed, Taci Pereira has made it clear that her dedication to advancing bioprinting and drug discovery is unwavering.
Original Source
