Axol Bioscience raises $2.8M to expand its human-based in vitro disease models

13 January 2026

Edinburgh-based CRO Axol Bioscience announces it has raised $2.8M in funding led by US life sciences specialist BroadOak Capital Partners. This investment will build upon Axol's double-digit revenue growth in 2025 to further support the development of its human-relevant in vitro disease models and its expansion to the US market.

"We’re proud to partner with BroadOak, a global leader in life sciences investing. Their expertise and support, alongside our long-term partner Roslin Foundation, reflects confidence in our long-term vision, team, products, and technology as we scale operations and expand internationally,” said Liam Taylor, CEO of Axol Bioscience."

Axol Bioscience develops and supplies iPSC-derived cells, reagents, and services to pharmaceutical, biotech, CROs, and academic institutions across five key areas - neuroscience, pain & sensation, ophthalmology, dermatology, and cardiovascular. The company’s key capabilities include axoCells™ (high-quality, functionally consistent iPSC-derived cells), axoModels™ (iPSC-derived human-relevant disease models) and axoServices™ (technical iPSC services and specialist services). 

Its dynamic iPSC lines portfolio was recently extended to include patient-derived cell lines for age-related macular degeneration, which is poorly modelled in animals and currently represents the most common cause of blindness in developed countries.

Through its strategic focus, product excellence and service agility, Axol Bioscience is positioning itself to drive significant advances in biomedical research in the coming years.