LifeSciKY, a biomedical incubator located at the OneNKY Center in Covington, welcomed its first international tenant on Tuesday.
Gov. Andy Beshear and local leaders joined a special ceremony to herald the arrival of Mitsui Chemicals, a Japanese biomedical and chemical manufacturer. The company will be the first international business to establish itself at the incubator.
Mitsui Chemicals is an autonomous business owned by the Mitsui Group, a family-owned Japanese international conglomerate with origins dating back to the 17th century. Mitsui Chemicals is known mostly for manufacturing polymers; their MR series of optical lenses is one of their flagship products. The company will operate locally under its brand Innocell.
The company is currently collaborating with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital on research into stem cells and genetic medicine. Specifically, Cincinnati Children’s Center for Stem Cell & Organoid Medicine uses stem cells to create organoids: small, in vitro organ tissue that pulls from the unique genetic signatures of patients. This allows researchers to create personalized medical interventions and conduct genetic research without relying on donors.
“By harnessing stem cells, we create organoids,” said Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Center for Stem Cell & Organoid Medicine Director of Research and Development Dr. Magdalena Kasendra, “and those model human disease, predict drug responses and unlock new opportunities for regenerative medicine.”
“So for many years, Mitsui Chemical has pursued innovations that improve the quality of life and contribute to the healthier, more sustainable society,” said Mitsui Chemical CEO Osamu Hashimoto. “And today, we believe that the next generation of medical and life science innovation will be powered by organoid technologies platforms that enable more accurate disease modeling, safer drug development and ultimately a future of personalized medicine.”
Beshear, as well as several local leaders, characterized it as a win for the region and its economy.
“Right here, Kentucky scientists, engineers, technicians and more will be working on some of the world’s most cutting edge projects,” Beshear said. “The company’s innovative Innocell platform will revolutionize pharmaceutical testing and development that makes it easier for Kentuckians and people across the world to have access to safe and effective medications.”
“For Covington, this moment is bigger than a ribbon cutting,” said Covington Mayor Ron Washington. “It shows that when a global company is looking toward the future of healthcare and scientific discovery, when they decide to invest, they look at Covington because Covington stands out.”