Gamma invests in bio-sensor and analytics firm Nirrin

Nirrin’s near-infrared spectrometry platform offers a reliable and cost-effective method of real-time analytics and will be leveraged across Gamma’s growing bioprocessing network, the firms says.

Gamma Biosciences’s undisclosed investment in Maryland-based Nirrin Technologies brings access to sensors and analytics that support the bioprocess space, including automation tech with real-time, in-process monitoring for upstream and downstream applications.

“This is a structured investment with longer term features that allow Nirrin to leverage Gamma’s resources and network in the near term as the company and technology mature while maintaining substantial continued ownership and upside opportunity for the existing shareholders,” Phil Vanek, CTO at Gamma Biosciences, told BioProcess Insider.

Image: iStock/Skarie20

According to the firms, Nirrin’s tech overcome many of the challenges associated with conventional process analytical technologies (PAT) by using near-infrared spectroscopy combined with a back-end data processing platform.

“The technology leverages the strength of the near IR spectrometry platform (rapid, reliable, and with very high dynamic range), but overcomes many of the limitations that allow it to be more broadly applied to bioprocess monitoring and control,” Jonathan Hartmann CEO at Nirrin explained.

“The result is a more reliable and cost-effective method to achieve fast direct measurements of key analytes and phenomena within a variety of bioprocess unit operations. This is accomplished through a combination of proprietary sensor deployment designs, novel laser technology, and unique signal processing and data analytics methods.”

Gamma Biosciences was launched last year by investment firm KKR and has steadily built up a portfolio of life sciences tools through investments and acquisitions. Having first acquired ligand discovery and adsorbent development services firm Astrea Bioseparations, the entity has since acquired cell selection company BioMagnetic Solutions, and taken stakes in Univercells and Mirus Bio.

“The technology expands Gamma’s commitment to finding and developing innovative solutions across the biomanufacturing workflow from cell line development, cell culture intensification, down-stream purification, and analytical technology,” Vanek told us.

“Nirrin’s sensing and data analytics capability will also be leveraged across the Gamma portfolio of companies to expand our capabilities and help deliver on the promise of advanced therapies that are effective, accessible, and affordable.”