Ghent-based start-up 4Tissue aims to offer a valuable alternative for natural breast reconstruction

The young biotech company 4Tissue, based in Ghent, is developing fully biocompatible and injectable breast implants made from the body’s materials. This innovative technology can potentially benefit many cancer patients in the long term. The solution is designed specifically for women and has been primarily conceived and developed by a team of women. Over half of the team and the board of directors are women. 'We have found a balance in that,' says Sandra Van Vlierberghe. 'Moreover, it is essential for us, as our product is intended for women.' Recently, the company has been selected for the Women Tech EU and EIC Women Leadership Programme.

After battling breast cancer, many women begin the journey of natural breast reconstruction. This process is primarily performed using their own fat tissue. However, women often face the need for 4 to 6 surgeries because a significant portion of these cells tends to die off, as if the fight against cancer weren’t challenging enough.

In response to this issue, plastic surgeon Phillip Blondeel from Ghent University Hospital collaborated with the Department of Polymer Chemistry at Ghent University. He sought a solution—a "backpack"—to help the new cells survive longer. The researchers turned to the principles of tissue engineering and developed a biocompatible hydrogel that can be injected with the cells. This gel ensures that the cells remain in the right location and provides essential nutrients during the initial stages of growth. The gel actually mimics the tissue environment in which these cells thrive. After it has completed its role, the body gradually breaks down the gel, allowing the new cells to continue growing successfully.

This start-up can thrive in the healthy tissue of the ecosystem, just like their newly generated cells

This technology has been developed at Ghent University over many years, but 4Tissue was officially founded in 2023. After successful testing on pigs, the company is now preparing for its first in-human trials. To support this, they recently raised 1.5 million euros in capital and are eager to offer this solution to patients as soon as possible.

'Quite often, you see a real tech-push,' says An Van Den Bulcke. 'Something is developed, and then, later on, people take the practical application into account. This approach is, of course, less interesting. It’s far more rewarding to start with a significant medical need and provide a targeted solution. This is what makes our startup quite unique: we’ve connected the worlds of research and application. Research shouldn’t be conducted from an ivory tower; instead, you have to find practical applications and engage with the medical world from the beginning. 

However, it’s not always easy for investors to understand. Our solution falls in between two domains—biotech and medtech—which can sometimes be intimidating. But it also provides us with a unique perspective. Because of our focused approach, we’ve got a clear vision of where we want to go and what we need to get there. In today’s economic climate, raising capital is challenging for everyone. Five years ago, it could have been done more efficiently. But, as they say, you have to row with the oars you have.'

Moreover, it’s important to note that we’re among the best in the world, both in plastic surgery at Ghent University Hospital and in polymer chemistry at Ghent University. We collaborate with large teams on emerging projects and have gathered significant expertise. Professor Schacht began researching hydrogels for medical applications in the 1980s, a truly innovative endeavour at the time. I completed my doctorate under his guidance in this research area, collaborating with Innogenetics, the first Belgian biotech company. 

Together with them, we applied for a patent for the hydrogel material I had developed. They later utilised this material in a new company called Xcellentis, which focused on treating burns. Although the product never reached the market, investment in hydrogel research continued. This all took place while I was still working in the industry. It wasn’t until about ten years later, when I returned to Ghent University, that I discovered this research, which had progressed partly due to Sandra’s contributions.'

Knocking on the right doors

4Tissue has recently been selected for Women TechEU, which comes with a grant of €75,000 and a personalised coaching program to further support their development. 

'You have to meet several specific conditions and submit a substantial dossier,' explains An Van Den Bulcke. 'Fortunately, we were able to check off those conditions with ease, and preparing that dossier gave us a valuable opportunity to reflect on what our company stands for.'

Sandra Van Vlierberghe adds, 'doing nothing is equivalent to standing still. This selection not only helps our company but also aims to inspire other women. The healthcare sector, both in academia and within corporations, remains predominantly male-dominated. I hope that women can serve as role models through initiatives like this. Even if the odds of success seem low, it’s important to take action. If you don't buy a ticket, you can't win the lottery.

It’s all about perspective. Nothing is impossible, and such programs often act as a springboard for larger opportunities. Thanks to this initiative, we’ve also been selected for the EIC Women Leadership Programme. Women TechEU really has opened several doors for us.'

Bright future

'In the coming period, we will raise more capital,' says An. 'After completing this clinical study, we plan to initiate a ‘pivotal study’ to expand internationally. We still have quite a way to go. Thanks to media coverage and the visibility gained from being selected for these programs, we hope to attract more investors. Additionally, we need to strengthen our comprehensive dossier, application further, and obtain approval for additional studies. This will require some perseverance.'

'We also hope to attract more than just investors,' says Sandra. 'We’re aiming for collaborations with other companies active in the field of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs) and follow-up projects focused on regenerative medicine. By doing this, we can enhance and expand academic expertise in Ghent to make a real-world impact in helping patients. Our goal is to create a sustainable ecosystem in Ghent, where we can develop new products and foster the emergence of new companies in this field.'