Breakthrough Cancer Treatment Attracts New Investors
UAE-based healthtech startup BioSapien has successfully extended its pre-Series A funding round to $7 million. This round saw new investment from Golden Gate Ventures, marking the venture capital firm’s first deployment through its dedicated MENA Fund. This extension builds on the $5.5 million raised in December 2024, led by Global Ventures and supported by Dara Holdings.
Founded in 2018 by Khatija Ali, BioSapien focuses on revolutionizing cancer treatment with its innovative product MediChip™, a 3D-printed, slow-release drug delivery platform. This device delivers localized treatments with minimal systemic side effects, making it a game-changer in oncology care.
Localized Cancer Treatment at the Forefront
MediChip™ is designed to deliver medication directly to tumors, significantly reducing the side effects associated with traditional chemotherapy. Its localized approach not only improves patient outcomes but also requires smaller drug doses for effective treatment.
Currently, BioSapien is preparing for clinical trials in colorectal cancer patients, with plans to expand its technology to treat other cancers, such as pancreatic and lung cancers. The company is also exploring applications beyond oncology, including opioids, hormones, biologics, and cell and gene therapies.
BioSapien is accelerating innovation in the UAE
The new funding will help BioSapien scale its manufacturing capabilities, enhance product development, and launch clinical trials in the UAE by Q2 2025. These trials represent a significant milestone for both BioSapien and the UAE’s growing role as a global healthcare innovation hub.
“The UAE’s forward-thinking approach to healthcare makes it the perfect environment for BioSapien’s growth,” said Khatija Ali, CEO and Founder of BioSapien. “This investment is a testament to our mission to make localized cancer treatment the global standard. Together with our investors, we’re creating a future where patients experience better outcomes with fewer side effects.”
Strategic Investor Support
Golden Gate Ventures expressed enthusiasm about BioSapien’s vision. Michael Lints, Partner at Golden Gate Ventures MENA, stated, “We were inspired by Khatija’s passion and vision when we met her at Hub71 in Abu Dhabi. Supporting BioSapien aligns with our commitment to transformative technologies addressing global challenges. This partnership also underscores the Gulf region’s emerging leadership in healthcare innovation.”
BioSapien has a Vision for Global Impact
BioSapien’s mission is ambitious yet achievable: to treat over one million patients by 2035 through MediChip™ and its versatile applications. With the global cancer burden rising, localized treatment solutions like MediChip™ could redefine how cancer care is delivered worldwide.
By leveraging advanced 3D printing technology, BioSapien is not just improving cancer care—it’s positioning itself as a leader in the next era of patient-centered healthcare solutions.
