Innovation and Impact in Inhalation Therapy from the Heart of the Brainport Region
Gilbert, based in the high-tech Brainport region in Eindhoven, is poised to revolutionize the world of inhalation therapies. With their groundbreaking Smart Precision Inhaler, the company is setting a new standard for medication delivery. This innovative device utilizes cutting-edge electrospray technology, enabling highly precise delivery of medications deep into the lungs. Under the leadership of CEO Maurits Huigen and CCO Scott Fleming, Gilbert combines advanced technology with a patient-centered approach. Their mission is clear: to transform and make inhalation therapy more accessible, ultimately leading to better health outcomes and more efficient care.
University Roots
Gilbert's roots trace back to TU Delft, where the core technology was developed. "Our idea is based on electrospray technology, an innovation that atomizes liquids into a very fine mist with precise and uniform particle sizes," Huigen explains. "What’s unique is our ability to adjust the particle size, enabling targeted delivery to specific lung regions."
Originally from the U.S., Fleming has lived in the Netherlands since 2014 and brings extensive pharmaceutical industry experience. He adds, "Current inhalers often lack precision. Our device not only has the potential to achieve higher effectiveness but also reduces side effects by delivering medication more accurately." This precision is crucial for treating complex lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis or lung cancer.
A Smart Precision Inhaler
The breakthrough technology behind Gilbert’s innovation is called Electro Hydrodynamic Atomization (EHDA), or electrospray. This method converts medicated liquids into a monodisperse aerosol - a mist of uniform particles. “This allows us to deliver medication deep into the lungs, even where airways are narrowest,” says Fleming. “With traditional inhalers, only a small percentage of the medication reaches the lungs, with much of it remaining in the throat or wasted. Our inhaler sprays only during inhalation and stops automatically during exhalation.”
The innovation could radically change how medications are delivered. The platform technology is not only highly precise but also versatile and future-proof. "The unique aspect is that with a fixed electronic component and a replaceable mouthpiece, we can support a wide range of applications," Huigen explains. "A simple firmware update or software adjustment, combined with a modified mouthpiece, can prepare and validate the device for new applications. This makes our platform both flexible and scalable."
The device’s core component is suitable for various medications, with the mouthpiece and formulation tailored to each therapy. This innovative design has already attracted interest from pharmaceutical partners. “We aim to showcase what our device can do,” says Fleming.
“Once we launch our first application, it will open the door to many more opportunities.”
Focus on Cystic Fibrosis
Gilbert’s first prototype targets an inhalable antibiotic for cystic fibrosis patients - a deliberate choice, Huigen emphasizes. "Inhalable antibiotics already exist for this condition, allowing us to complete a relatively short clinical program. This makes it feasible and quick to implement."
Gilbert’s technology provides a key improvement. Current treatments require relatively high antibiotic dosages, which are not always optimal for patients. “The lower the overall dosage needed to achieve a high antibiotic concentration in the desired lung area, the better,” Huigen explains. “We aim to demonstrate in clinical trials that our technology makes this possible while also enhancing patient convenience. If successful, we can apply the technology to many other areas.”
Designed for ease of use and patient-friendliness, the Smart Precision Inhaler incorporates lessons learned from existing therapies. “The device will be simple to operate and easy to clean. For many patients who depend on daily therapy, this makes a significant difference,” Fleming notes.
The Shortest Route
What sets Gilbert’s technology apart is its potential to go beyond lung diseases. The inhaler can deliver high concentrations of tiny medication particles deep into the lungs, opening new possibilities - using the lungs as a direct gateway to the bloodstream. “We see the lungs as an alternative delivery route for many medications,” says Huigen. “It’s an efficient path to the bloodstream, enabling faster and more efficient drug delivery. This creates opportunities for treating complex conditions such as neurological diseases. The lung provides a relatively short route to the brain.”
A Strong Team and Strategic Partners
Gilbert operates from a small but efficient lab on Eindhoven's High Tech Campus, where prototypes are tested and refined. “Everything happens under one roof,” Fleming explains. “Our office and lab are in the same building, allowing for efficient collaboration, which is crucial for a small organization like ours.”
A dedicated team of seven specialists, supported by external partners, drives Gilbert’s ambitious plans. Philips played a critical role in the device’s early research and development. Gilbert is now working with Unitron to refine prototypes for market readiness. "Our compact team brings unique expertise, from formulation to medical regulations," Huigen adds. "Together, we make this possible."
The Brainport Ecosystem
Gilbert’s success is deeply tied to the Brainport region's innovative ecosystem. As one of Europe’s most advanced technological regions, Brainport offers fertile ground for startups and scale-ups. Huigen highlights its influence: “When we started here, the Brabant Startup Fund was our first investor. Along with an innovation loan from Rabobank, they provided the means to develop a proof-of-concept prototype. Neighboring investor DeepTechXL then played a significant role in funding and connecting us to a wide network, including ASML, Philips, TNO, BOM, and Invest-NL.”
This support positions Gilbert strongly for developing and commercializing its innovative technology. “The expertise and knowledge shared by these companies enable faster innovation,” says Fleming. “Additionally, the region’s collaborative culture fosters shared ambition rather than competition.”
The Brainport region’s strategic location helps attract top talent. “We are surrounded by highly educated professionals,” Huigen notes. “Access to the best scientists and engineers is crucial for advancing our innovations.”
The Challenge of Regulations
Despite promising progress, regulatory hurdles remain. Medical device regulations, such as Europe’s CE marking, have become stricter. “The new rules introduce extra requirements, and there’s a shortage of certification bodies,” Huigen explains. “This makes bringing innovations to market time-consuming.”
Fleming views this as a challenge but not an insurmountable obstacle. “Achieving CE marking will be a key milestone. It builds trust with pharmaceutical partners and opens doors to international markets. We work closely with partners to navigate this step efficiently.”
Collaboration with Pharmaceutical Companies
Gilbert’s strategic approach involves partnerships with pharmaceutical companies. “We develop the device, conduct clinical trials jointly, and they handle commercialization,” Fleming clarifies. “This allows us to focus on innovation while leveraging their global networks to bring therapies to market.”
Fleming underscores the importance of these partnerships: “Pharmaceutical companies increasingly rely on startups for early innovations. We take on the risk and develop the technology to a stage where they can scale it.”
A Future Full of Possibilities
Gilbert is on the brink of a major milestone: completing their first prototype and securing CE marking. “We aim to make our first application available to patients within three years,” Huigen concludes. “Initially, we’re focusing on antibiotics for cystic fibrosis, but our ambition extends further. Our platform’s adaptability opens endless possibilities. We aim not only to improve therapies but also to ease global healthcare system burdens. We want to create meaningful societal impact through better drug delivery and adherence for millions of patients.”