What: Healshape is a biotech startup that has developed a personalized bioprosthesis solution for breast reconstruction. A prosthesis is created with a 3D printer using an absorbable hydrogel. The prosthesis is then put in place temporarily and can be absorbed into the body as the natural breast tissue regenerates. Eventually, the prosthesis is gone and is replaced completely with natural breast tissue.
Why: According to Healshape, 2 million women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year and 40% of those will undergo mastectomies. But, only one-third opt for some kind of breast reconstruction. Healshape says its solution is minimally invasive and works with current surgical practices to create a prosthesis composed of 100% bio-sourced materials. This would replace alternatives that involve more complex surgeries and synthetic materials.
Who: Co-founders are CEO Sophie Brac de la Perrière, Caroline Durand, Amélie Thepot, Christophe Marquette, Morgan Dos Santos, and Luciano Vidal.
Seed Round: €6 million
Investors: Go Capital, Demeter, Bpifrance, Credit Agricole Création, Win Equity, Angels Santé, l’Institut de Cancérologie de l’Ouest (ICO), as well as several private investors.
What's next: The Lyon-based company will open a second research center in Nantes in partnership with the Institut de Cancérologie de l’Ouest (ICO) to further develop its 3D printing and 3D bio-printing technologies and other clinical developments. The company is also preparing for the clinical trials needed for regulatory approval.
