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-based 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,” announced 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-based 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 on human-based in vitro tools, product excellence and service agility, Axol Bioscience is positioning itself to drive significant advances in biomedical research in the coming years.