01-12-2017: CELLINK launched revolutionary BIO X bioprinter
Bioprinter was equipped with three exchangeable, printheads
On January 12, 2017, CELLINK launched the BIO X, the most advanced bioprinter of its time, setting a new direction for devices in this category. BIO X stood out for its innovation, ease of use, and exceptional aesthetics, marking a revolutionary departure from the prevailing "standards" in the sector. Beyond its striking design, BIO X significantly expanded functional capabilities with interchangeable printheads, a closed print chamber, and a much more user-friendly operation.
CELLINK was founded in 2016 by Erik Gatenholm, Hector Martinez, and Gusten Danielsson in Gothenburg, Sweden, with a vision to create accessible bioprinting technologies enabling scientists worldwide to conduct research on biological tissues more easily and affordably. From its inception, CELLINK distinguished itself as the first company in the world to offer commercial bioinks, representing a breakthrough in bioprinting.
The company's initial products included bioinks based on patented formulas that mimicked natural cellular environments, allowing researchers to create three-dimensional biological structures such as skin, cartilage, and bone tissues. Shortly after, CELLINK introduced its first bioprinters: INKREDIBLE and INKREDIBLE+, which were relatively affordable compared to competing devices while sufficiently advanced to meet researchers' needs.
In November 2016, the company went public on the NASDAQ, accelerating its international expansion. CELLINK’s products quickly gained traction in research laboratories at prestigious institutions like Harvard, MIT, and the FDA, as well as in the cosmetics industry.
BIO X revolutionized the market with intuitive software, interchangeable printheads, and Clean Chamber technology with HEPA filtration. The bioprinter featured three interchangeable printheads that allowed for the use of a variety of biomaterials tailored to specific cellular needs. This enabled scientists to optimize processes for printing tissues and cartilage. Additionally, BIO X included a temperature-controlled print bed, offering flexibility when working with biomaterials.
BIO X utilized the Neocortex M1 onboard computer and Clean Chamber technology with HEPA filtration, ensuring a safe and sterile working environment. It was equipped with pneumatic and syringe-based printheads. A touchscreen interface made it user-friendly, even for less experienced users.
Priced at $39,000, BIO X significantly exceeded the cost of the company's earlier models, INKREDIBLE and INKREDIBLE+.
In August 2021, CELLINK rebranded as BICO while retaining the Cellink name for its bioprinting business.
Source: www.voxelmatters.com