About Us
Our Technology
We use CRISPR to make precision cuts into a cell's genome and then use our patent-pending plasmid system to insert new genes into the cell. This produces a genetically-altered cell line for research use.
Using Proteins to Color Cells
Our first product line is designed to help researchers visualize proteins and organelles inside the cell. By inserting genes that produce bioluminescent and fluorescent proteins, ExpessCells provides insight that enhances researchers' work.
A Better Way to Insert DNA
Our novel technology allows ExpressCells to create custom cell lines in as few as 30 days. We can insert up to three genes in cells that continue to thrive and divide. We plan to launch commercial operations midyear 2019.
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ExpressCells in the News
July 18, 2019: ExpressCells Profiled in the Philadelphia Business Journal
"ExpressCells Inc. is hoping for a knockout with its knock-in cell lines. The Philadelphia genetic engineering company, founded last year by life sciences industry entrepreneur Matt Handel and Temple University School of Pharmacy researcher Dr. Oscar Perez-Leal, is focused on creating advanced cell lines for drug discovery.
ExpressCells is combining Perez-Leal’s patent-pending plasmid system for inserting new genes into a cell with CRISPR (an acronym for clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) gene-editing techniques. The result, the company said, is a method to deliver custom cell lines in which a new gene is inserted into the cell’s DNA in 25% of the time required with current technologies."
July 1, 2019: ExpressCells Announces First Close of Series A Financing
ExpressCells has completed the first close of its Series A financing round. The Rowan Innovation Venture Fund and Keiretsu Forum Mid-Atlantic are jointly leading this round. ExpressCells plans to use the $800,000 in proceeds from the first close of its Series A financing to build the commercial and operational infrastructure to sell its knock-in cell lines. This includes operating its lab in Philadelphia and establishing its promotional platform.
May 6, 2019: CEO Matt Handel Interviewed on Comcast's Money Matters
ExpressCells CEO Matt Handel was a guest on the Comcast show Money Matters. Watch the video to learn more about ExpressCells and the life of an entrepreneur.
April 24-26, 2019: ACA Innovation Showcase
ExpressCells presented to the Angel Capital Association as part of the Innovation Showcase. The company made connections to many leading angel investment groups.
https://events.angelcapitalassociation.org/2019summit/innovationshowcase
August 7, 2018: Startups shine at Princeton-HBS Showcase
In our first open pitch, the audience of Princeton Alumni Angels and the HBS Alumni Angels of Greater New York voted ExpressCells as the best of six startups.
Biosensors light the way for drug development
Our Team
Matt Handel, CEO & Co-Founder
Serial entrepreneur with over 25 years experience in life sciences. Graduate of Princeton and the MIT Sloan School of Management. Launched multiple successful products. Worked in product development, business development, strategy, and commercial at both Merck and Shire.
Oscar Perez Leal, MD, Scientific Advisor & Co-Founder
Assistant Professor at Temple University School of Pharmacy. Conducts research on biochemistry and molecular biology. Inventor on multiple patents, including ExpressCells’ technology. Holds both medical and business degrees.
David Becker, MD, Commercial Lead
Former Managing Director of Catalysis Partners and president of The Exeter Group. Sold into most major pharma and biotech companies. Board-certified internist, attended Yale, received medical degree from NYU, and earned his business degree from the MIT Sloan School of Management.
Connie Davies, Financial Consultant
Principal of CD Advisory Services, LLC, serving startups and development companies in life science. Worked with SaaS and consultancy firms, IT customized technology management, and biotech development companies including Shire. Graduated from Immaculata College and earned her MBA at Penn State.