partners

Who are we?
Experimentica Ltd. is a Finnish contract research organization (CRO) specializing in preclinical ophthalmic disease models. Experimentica bridges the gap between novel ocular model development and clinical applications using a diverse array of skills and industry experience, from cell cultures to intricate surgeries and in vivo models. Operating from Finland, Lithuania, and the USA, Experimentica has conducted extensive preclinical studies for global pharmaceutical and biotech companies over the past 10 years, utilizing rodent and non-rodent models for retinopathy, toxicity, and compound evaluation.
Having demonstrated expertise through several successful EU-funded ocular projects, Experimentica is well-equipped to oversee the NeoVasculoStop EU consortium project and to offer valuable insights. Collaborating with four other partners, Experimentica Ltd. (Finland) and its affiliate Experimentica UAB (Lithuania) focus on the in vivo development of an oral medication for retinopathies such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy. This robust collaborative framework has empowered the project to harness advanced technologies and methodologies, thereby enhancing both the speed and efficiency of its progress.
In this project, Experimentica’s Kuopio team tests specific orally-administered vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor inhibitors for retinal enrichment in mice. They will evaluate the compound efficacy in a mouse choroidal neovascularization (CNV) model, mimicking neovascular lesions akin to wet phase of AMD patients. Furthermore, Experimentica manages project coordination and ensures ethical compliance, securing necessary licenses and permissions for animal models and human cells/tissue use through Research Ethics Committees and Institutional Review Boards.
Experimentica’s Vilnius team uses a DL-AAA-induced retinal leakage model in rabbits, closely monitored using fluorescein angiography and spectral domain optical coherence tomography for precise lesion assessment. Advanced staining methods will be applied for precise quantification of neovascularization. Additionally, Experimentica Vilnius team administers the lead compound to rabbits, obtaining intraocular measurements, performing ophthalmic slit lamp examinations, and subsequent histopathological evaluation.
Experimentica is honored to be part of the NeoVasculoStop consortium and to advance the development of innovative drug candidates against ocular angiogenic diseases, including age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, which – if left untreated – could result in vision loss. We are proud that the European Innovation Council (EIC) trusted the skills and expertise of our scientist, a testament to our decade-long investment into state-of-the-art technology and scientific excellence in ocular models and model development. With its high-risk/high-gain approach, NeoVasculoStop aims at combating the ever-growing social and economic impact of these debilitating ocular diseases by developing novel oral medications. The development of innovative and efficacious oral drugs that can readily reach retinal tissue bears great promise for the long-term management of retinopathies and related angiogenic ocular diseases by providing an alternative to invasive intraocular injections.

Our team
The Experimentica Kuopio team is comprised of accomplished professionals dedicated to advancing the development of treatments for ophthalmic indications. The team is comprised by Marc Cerrada-Gimenez, PhD, as Principal scientist, and supported by Satu Mering, PhD, as Director Laboratory Animal Research, Maria Vähätupa, PhD, as Director of In Vivo Pharmacology, and a team of skilled scientists including Birgitta Lappeteläinen, Niina Jääskeläinen, and Leena Tähtivaara. Experimentica’s Chief Operating Officer Jenni J. Hakkarainen, PhD, serves as the coordinator between the NeoVasculoStop consortium and European Innovation Council (EIC) – Pathfinder funder.
Our team at Experimentica Kuopio is tasked with conducting the early pre-clinical studies in mice, including the essential first in vivo testing of Neovasculostop compounds in Pharmacokinetics-Toxicity studies and efficacy assessments using the mouse laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) model. Leveraging our skillful teamworking in a state-of-the-art facilities equipped with the latest imaging technologies tailored for rodent research, such as fluorescein angiography (FA) and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), we ensure the thorough monitoring of the study subjects, enabling us to gather comprehensive data without compromising animal welfare.
At Experimentica, we are dedicated to pioneering advancements in pre-clinical research methodologies. Our unwavering commitment to excellence ensures that we uphold the highest standards, facilitating the development of innovative treatments to combat ophthalmic indications.
The Experimentica Vilnius team comprises a diverse group of experts specializing in various fields related to pharmacology, biology, chemistry, molecular biology, histology, and veterinary science. Together, they collaborate to conduct cutting-edge preclinical studies aimed at generating exceptional results while prioritizing the ethical treatment and welfare of laboratory animals. The team operates within state-of-the-art laboratories equipped with advanced technologies tailored for early-stage research in small animal models such as mice, rats, and rabbits.
Within the team are individuals with distinct roles and expertise. Symantas Ragauskas, PhD, Director In Vivo Pharmacology, oversees strategic direction and provides guidance, drawing from extensive experience in pharmacology and in vivo studies. Dovile Litvinaviciute, Head of Molecular and Histology Laboratory, brings expertise in molecular biology and histology techniques, managing operations and ensuring the quality of laboratory procedures. As the Designated Veterinarian Donatas Neverauskas, ensuring animal welfare and regulatory compliance are paramount, overseeing the ethical treatment and care of laboratory animals. The team also comprises specialists Inesa Lelyte, Kernius Mickevicius, Robertas Cesna, Marius Dragasius, each contributing unique expertise, technical proficiency, and problem-solving skills essential for project success.

Unique Technologies and Industry Knowledge
The team employs cutting-edge technologies, including Optical Coherence Tomography, Fluorescein Angiography, Electroretinography, Vitreofluorophotometry, and Optomotor Reflex Measurements. These advanced techniques enable precise assessment of physiological parameters and disease models, facilitating the generation of high-quality data crucial for the project’s success. With meticulous attention to animal welfare and access to state-of-the-art technologies, the team is poised to achieve outstanding results in early preclinical studies.