Trince: Laser Photoporation for Europe’s Biotech Sovereignty
Trince is a Belgian deep-tech spin-off that has emerged from Ghent University’s biophotonics research community. The company is pioneering a laser-based method for inserting genetic material into living cells, offering a gentler alternative to traditional gene delivery techniques. Its proprietary LumiPore technology uses ultrashort laser pulses and custom-designed nanoparticles to temporarily open pores in cell membranes, allowing DNA, RNA, or other therapeutic molecules to enter without harming the cells. This innovation addresses a crucial bottleneck in cell therapy manufacturing: how to genetically modify patient cells efficiently while preserving their viability and function. Founded in late 2021 in Ghent, Trince has quickly gained recognition in the biotech industry for its novel approach. In 2024 it won Nature’s Spinoff Prize, underscoring the broad potential of its platform. The company’s vision aligns with Europe’s drive for technological sovereignty in critical health and defense-related domains, positioning Trince as a promising contributor to European strategic autonomy in biotechnology.