What Live Cell Instrument does

Live Cell Instrument (LCI), founded in 2004 and headquartered in Namyangju-si, South Korea, develops and manufactures imaging systems, microscopes, scientific instruments, and laboratory consumables primarily serving live cell imaging applications. The company's core product platform includes QUADSCAN (high-speed confocal imaging system with up to four-channel simultaneous excitation), Image ExFluorer (high-content imaging system with AI-powered analysis), and the Incubator T Series (stage-top incubators for precise temperature, CO2, O2, and humidity control). Supporting the platform are patent-pending Magnetic Imaging Chambers (Chamlide series), MagLevit anti-vibration platforms, W3 LED irradiation systems for optogenetics, Nanocon exosome isolation devices using tangential flow filtration, and Ingens large-scale cell cultivation systems.

LCI operates a diversified business model spanning bio-instrument hardware sales, recurring bio-consumables (imaging chambers, culture dishes, single-use EV isolation cartridges), ODM/OEM services for partners including Clinomics, Labspinner, Genolution, and Curibio, medical device distribution (including PENTAX MEDICAL endoscopic equipment in Korea), and cosmetic products under the Ureborn brand. The company employs 11-50 staff across headquarters, R&D, sales, and a bio-consumables manufacturing facility in Gumi city. Its go-to-market combines direct enterprise sales with a global distributor network spanning 15+ countries across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East, supplemented by scientific conference participation and a January 2026 Amazon US marketplace launch.

The company holds ISO 13485, ISO 14001, CE, FCC, and ChinaRoHS certifications, and its products are cited in peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals including Nature, Science, and Cell. LCI maintains research collaborations with leading Korean institutions including KAIST, Seoul National University, and UNIST, and operates wholly-owned subsidiaries in medical device distribution (Dr. Sinbad), cosmetics (Ureborn), and medical R&D (Medical R&D Division). The company is privately held with no disclosed venture capital or private equity investment.

Name

Live Cell Instrument

Legal name

Live Cell Instrument

Website

https://lcibio.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

2004

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

Live Cell Instrument (LCI), founded in 2004 in South Korea, manufactures live cell imaging systems, microscopes, and laboratory consumables for academic research institutions, pharmaceutical/biotech companies, and ODM partners globally through direct sales and a 15+ country distributor network.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Live Cell Imaging Instruments and Bio-Consumables

NAICS

Analytical Laboratory Instrument Manufacturing (334516), Surgical and Medical Instrument Manufacturing (339112)

SIC

Laboratory Analytical Instruments (3826), Laboratory Apparatus & Furniture (3821), Surgical & Medical Instruments & Apparatus (3841)

akta.pro primary industry

Microscopy, Imaging & Flow Cytometry Instruments (HLAGAIAE)

akta.pro secondary industries

Cell Culture & Bioprocess Lab Equipment (Bioreactors, Single-Use Systems, Controllers) (HLAGAIAG), Cell Therapy Manufacturing Platforms & Automation (closed systems, bioreactors, fill-finish) (HLAAABAG)

Keywords

• Live cell imaging
• Confocal microscopy systems
• Stage-top incubators
• Bio-consumables chambers
• Exosome isolation devices

Headquarters

HQ city

Namyangju

HQ country

South Korea

HQ region

Asia

Offices5 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Personnel, Supply Chain, Technology or R&D, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Bio-instrument Sales: Sale of live cell imaging instruments including QUADSCAN, Image ExFluorer, Incubator T Series, Magnetic Imaging Chambers, anti-vibration platforms, LED irradiation systems, heating control systems, and IVF chambers. One-time capital equipment purchases with potential aftermarket consumables and service contracts.
2. Bio-consumables: Sale of imaging chambers, special well plates, culture dishes, and single-use devices like Nanocon. Recurring revenue from consumables that complement instrument installations.
3. Medical Device Distribution: Distribution of medical devices in dermatology, general practitioners, and internal medicine including diagnostic equipment, laser treatment equipment, consumable supplies, and endoscopic equipment (authorized PENTAX MEDICAL distributor).
4. ODM/OEM Services: Original design and manufacturing partnerships for third-party companies including Clinomics (CTC enrichment), Labspinner (exosome enrichment), Genolution (automated RNA/DNA extraction), and Curibio (extracellular matrix devices).
5. Cosmetic Products (Ureborn): Cosmetic product line featuring umbilical cord stem cell-based skincare products including Ageless Serum & Cream, distributed under Ureborn brand with patented Seoul National University technology.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion4 records

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels5 records

Core offering

Live Cell Instrument (LCI) develops and manufactures total solutions for live cell imaging, centered on the QUADSCAN confocal imaging system and Image ExFluorer high-content imaging system, and complemented by stage-top incubators, gas mixers and temperature controllers, magnetic imaging chambers, anti-vibration platforms, LED irradiation systems, IVF chambers, exosome/virus isolation cartridges (Nanocon), and large-scale cell cultivation devices. The portfolio extends into medical device distribution (PENTAX MEDICAL endoscopy, dermatology and GP equipment), ODM/OEM design-and-manufacturing services for partner biotech firms, and a stem cell-based cosmetics line under the Ureborn sub-brand.

Product overview

Live Cell Instrument (LCI) develops and manufactures total solutions for live cell imaging, operating as a platform-plus-modules architecture. The core product portfolio centers on QUADSCAN (high-speed confocal imaging system) and Image ExFluorer (high-content imaging system), complemented by a comprehensive ecosystem of environmental control products including Incubator T Series (stage-top incubators in TS, TL, TW variants), Cage Incubator System HX, Controller & Mixer units (CU-301/302/501), and Gas Exchange System GX-2. Supporting hardware includes Magnetic Imaging Chambers (Chamlide series: CMB, CMM, CMS, AC, EC, CF types), MagLevit anti-vibration platforms (Hybrid and Premium), W3 LED irradiation systems, and Heating Control Systems (Glass and Plate). Specialized offerings include FS-1 IVF Chambers, Nanocon for EV isolation, and Ingens for cell cultivation. LCI also distributes third-party products (Nexcope microscopes, ASI stages, IMARIS software) and operates Medical Device and Cosmetics divisions. The company provides ODM/OEM services and sells through Amazon. The product lineup is unified by environmental control precision for maintaining physiological conditions during live cell imaging experiments.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• Dr. Sinbad: Total solutions for medical device sales including second-hand marketplace, A/S, relocation, installation, finance, and legal advice services.
• Ureborn
• Nanocon

Products and services

• QUADSCAN High-speed confocal imaging system integrating confocal unit, motorized microscope, and software into a single platform. Supports single to four multi-channel simultaneous excitation and observation (405 nm, 488 nm, 561 nm, 638 nm) with all-in-one per-channel structural module. Designed for fluorescence imaging at research institutions, universities, and biotech companies.
• Incubator T Series Stage-top live cell incubator system with 3-mode temperature control (External, Sample, Manual), precise CO2/O2/humidity control, dual-layered glass cover (Gorilla 6 + ITO heating), and CCP software for programmable gas gradients. Three models: TS (Standard), TL (Light), TW (Wide). Used by research laboratories for long-term live cell imaging on microscope stages.
• Cage Incubator System HX Acrylic cage-type incubator providing precise and synchronized temperature control of microscope and various peripherals, recommended for super-resolution microscopy and experiments using high-magnification lenses.
• Image ExFluorer High-content live cell imaging system combining wide-field imaging with AI analysis capabilities including 2D/3D/real-time deconvolution, autofocus, environmental control (CO2, O2, humidity), and compatibility with multi-well plates up to 1536-well format. Designed for automated high-content analysis at academic and biotech research laboratories.
• Magnetic Imaging Chamber (Chamlide Series) Patent-pending imaging chambers combining chamber and slide via magnetic attachment system, available in Bottom Glass (CMB, CMM, CMS), Perfusion Open (AC), Perfusion Closed (CF), and Electric Stimulation (EC) configurations. Semi-permanent reusable design with bottom coverslip for high-resolution imaging and non-toxic polycarbonate construction. Consumable used alongside live cell imaging instruments.
• Controller and Mixer (CU-301, CU-302, CU-501, FC-5N, FC-9) Temperature controllers (CU-301 1-channel, CU-302 2-channel, CU-501 5-channel) and gas mixers (FC-5N, FC-9) for precise CO2/O2/N2 control on microscope stages. Accessories integrated with live cell imaging instruments.
• Gas Exchange System GX-2 Automatic gas supply system that switches between gas cylinders when depleted, designed to utilize air pressure differences to open valves without electricity, supporting uninterrupted environmental control for live cell imaging.
• MagLevit Hybrid Anti-vibration platform using hybrid magnetic-spring technology to protect sensitive instruments from vertical and horizontal vibration and noise. Available in table-top and table configurations with load capacities from 2-100 kg.
• MagLevit Premium Advanced anti-vibration module with strong neodymium magnet and specially designed case for enhanced vibration isolation, complementing MagLevit Hybrid line for sensitive microscopy setups.
• W3 LED Irradiation System Multi-well plate LED system for optogenetics with IP55 waterproof rating, independent well control, programmable intensity/pattern, automatic LED temperature management, and ±5% brightness uniformity.
• Heating Control System (Heating Glass and Heating Plate) Temperature control systems including Heating Glass (compatible with inverted, upright, stereoscopic microscopes) and Heating Plate for commercial slides, coverslips, and culture dishes.
• FS-1 IVF Chamber Enclosed workstation for safe manipulation of live cells and embryos providing optimal temperature and CO2 environment with HEPA filter and contamination prevention, used in IVF and embryo handling workflows.
• Nanocon Single-use tangential flow filtration device for exosome, virus, and nanoparticle isolation at 2000G centrifugal force. 30 nm polymer membrane with special surface treatment, processes up to 40 ml sample to 4 ml concentrate in approximately 1 hour. Used by biotech and academic researchers in exosome purification and liquid biopsy workflows.
• Ingens Large-scale cell cultivation device with 24-layer disposable bottle providing 1,718 cm² surface area (equivalent to 30 × 90 mm dishes) for production of cell therapy products, exosomes, protein drugs, and viruses.
• Customization Products Custom-made products including heating glass and table-top MagLevit systems tailored to specific experimental requirements, offered as engineering services for research and industrial customers.
• ODM/OEM Services Original design and manufacturing services for CTC enrichment devices, exosome enrichment devices, automated RNA/DNA extraction systems, and extracellular matrix-mimicking devices. Active ODM partners include Clinomics, Labspinner, Genolution, and Curibio.
• Medical Device Division Medical device sales and supply division specializing in dermatology, general practitioners, and internal medicine including diagnostic equipment, laser treatment equipment, consumable supplies, and authorized PENTAX MEDICAL endoscopic equipment distribution in Seoul and northern Gyeonggi province.
• Ureborn Cosmetics Line Cosmetics brand featuring stem cell-based skin care products extracted from umbilical cord Wharton's Jelly, including Ageless Serum and Cream, with patented Seoul National University technology and quality control system.
• Hujector Intra-Dermal Injection System Intra-dermal injection system combining multi-needle array with electroporator for maximum drug introduction efficiency, using 25 needles and 25 electrodes per cm².
• Dr. Sinbad Medical Device Marketplace Total solutions provider for medical device sales including second-hand medical device marketplace, A/S, relocation, installation, finance, and legal advice services.

Quantifiable outcome

• Nanocon processes 40ml sample to 4ml concentrate in approximately 1 hour at 2000G
• +3 more outcomes

Named customers7 records

Segments4 records

Ideal customer profiles2 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

AI capability9 records

Feature7 records

Partnerships

23 partnerships are on record, tiered core, minor and major.

• Elim GlobalcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorKorean distribution and exhibition partner representing LCI at major scientific conferences including KoreaLab, KSBM, KSBNS. Joint exhibition presence with dedicated booth staffing.
• Quorum Technologies Inc.coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor for Canada and USA markets. Contact: +1-519-824-0854, located in Puslinch, Ontario, Canada.
• LSR Co., Ltd.coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor for Japan market. Contact: 090-1606-0559, [email protected], located in Fukuoka, Japan.
• Givetechs LLCminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAdditional distributor in Japan market covering Chiba prefecture area.
• Major Instrument Co., Ltd.coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor for Taiwan. Contact: +886-2-2808-1452, located in Taipei, Taiwan.
• SRstar Instruments Ltd.coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor for China (Shanghai). Contact: +86-21-6206-2021, www.srstar.biomart.cn.
• World Precision InstrumentscoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor for China (Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone). Contact: +86-21-6888-5517, www.wpiinc.net.
• Chinetek ScientificcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor for Hong Kong. Contact: +852-2784-0630, [email protected], located in Kwun Tong.
• microLAMBDA pte Ltd.coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor for Singapore. Contact: +65-69049093, [email protected].
• microLAMBDA Sdn BhdcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor for Malaysia. Contact: +60(3)6733-4245, [email protected], located in Rawang, Selangor.
• Medi Analytika India Pty Ltd.coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor for India and Sri Lanka. Contact: +91-44-2446-0988, [email protected], located in Chennai.
• Lastek Pty Ltd.coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor for Australia and New Zealand. Contact: +61 08 8443 8668, www.lastek.com.au, located in Thebarton, South Australia.
• Micro System ABcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor for Sweden and Finland. Contact: +46-8-754-0840, www.microsystem.se, located in Spanga, Sweden.
• Gataca SystemcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor for France. Contact: +33-680724968, www.gataca-systems.com, located in Massy, France.
• FemtonicsminorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor for Hungary. Contact: +31-1-210-3349, [email protected], located in Budapest.
• Eisenberg Bros. Ltd.coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor for Israel. Contact: +972-3-977-7000, www.eisenbros.co.il, located at Ben-Gurion Airport.
• BioLine LLCcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor for Russia. Contact: +812-320-49-49, www.bioline.ru, located in Saint-Petersburg.
• Thermo Fisher Scientific / Pierce BiotechnologymajorStrategic or Co-development PartnerStrategic partnership for exosome isolation technology. LCI's Nanocon CFF-based purification cartridge recognized in partnership with Thermo Fisher. Global life sciences leader providing validation and market credibility.
• ClinomicscoreOEM/ Whitelabel/ Licensing PartnerODM partnership for CTC liquid biopsy driving device and disc (2018). KOSDAQ listed company specializing in circulating tumor cell separation for precision medicine and liquid biopsy applications.
• LabspinnercoreOEM/ Whitelabel/ Licensing PartnerODM partnership for exosome separation driving device and disc. Company specializes in extracellular vesicle/exosome-based precision medicine and liquid biopsy using tangential flow nanofiltration technology.
• GenolutioncoreOEM/ Whitelabel/ Licensing PartnerODM partnership for automated RNA/DNA extraction system (2019). Company focuses on molecular diagnostics and RNAi related products and services.
• CuribiocoreOEM/ Whitelabel/ Licensing PartnerODM partnership for integrated platform for mechanically conditioned cell and tissue (2019). Company founded by University of Washington researchers, specializes in extracellular matrix imitation and acquired AI/ML company for in vitro cell-based assays.
• PENTAX MEDICALmajorChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAuthorized distributor for PENTAX MEDICAL endoscopic equipment in Seoul and northern Gyeonggi province, providing equipment sales and repair services.

Scale indicators4 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• PeCon: German maker of incubation and environmental control systems for microscopy, overlapping LCI's stage-top and cage incubator products.
• ibidi: German supplier of imaging chambers, slides, and live-cell assay consumables, directly comparable to LCI's Chamlide magnetic chambers and bio-consumables.
• Warner Instruments: Provides perfusion chambers, temperature control, and cell-imaging accessories, directly comparable to LCI's chamber and heating-control lines.
• Okolab: Italian maker of stage-top incubators and environmental control systems for live cell imaging microscopy, directly overlapping LCI's Incubator T and controller product lines.
• Tokai Hit: Japanese manufacturer of stage-top incubation systems for microscopes, competing head-on with LCI's core environmental-control imaging offering.

Broad incumbents

• Molecular Devices: Large provider of high-content imaging and screening systems; overlaps LCI's Image ExFluorer high-content imaging but with a broader, better-capitalized portfolio.
• Evident (Olympus Life Science): Major microscopy manufacturer with live-cell and confocal imaging platforms, an established incumbent overlapping LCI's imaging systems.
• Nikon Instruments: Global microscopy leader offering confocal, live-cell, and incubation-integrated imaging platforms that compete with LCI's core imaging systems at larger scale.
• Andor Technology (Oxford Instruments): Supplies confocal and live-cell imaging systems and cameras (and IMARIS software, which LCI distributes), overlapping LCI's confocal QUADSCAN category as part of a larger portfolio.

Emerging players

• CytoSMART (Axion BioSystems): Provides compact live-cell imaging and incubator-based monitoring devices, an emerging player overlapping LCI's live-cell imaging niche.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• Xx.com/lcibio

Compliance14 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Subsidiaries4 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds1 record

Investors1 record

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments1 record

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Live Cell Instrument