Advancements in Diagnostics
Posted by | September 10, 2010
Advances in the life sciences will continue to have a far-reaching impact on virtually every aspect of our society. There is an abundance of companies within the healthcare industry that are looking for better ways to more accurately diagnose diseases and increase the efficacy of treatments, especially as the cost of healthcare continues to rise. It’s critical to provide the highest quality of medical care and treatment options in the most effective and efficient manner. Growth-stage diagnostic companies with compelling value propositions continue to emerge to meet these challenges.
Today, we announced that we co-led a Series A financing round for Good Start Genetics with OrbiMed Advisors and SV Life Sciences. Good Start Genetics is developing a clinical diagnostic DNA sequencing platform which includes a pre-pregnancy genetic test that utilizes advanced DNA sequencing technology to screen for a panel of genetic disorders, including those recommended by the ACOG and the ACMG.
Good Start Genetics has a unique next-generation sequencing technology, designed to deliver a higher detection rate and improved clinical performance compared to currently available screening methods. Higher detection rates provide physicians with more accurate results and more clinically relevant genetic information. More accurate, personalized results have the potential to alleviate the high costs associated with pre-pregnancy carrier testing, which may ultimately reduce the costs of healthcare.
Another diagnostic company with some promising developments is Alverix, which has been a Safeguard Scientifics’ partner company since February 2008. Alverix provides next-generation instrument and connectivity platforms for diagnostic point-of-care testing.
In June 2010, Richard “Ric” C. Tarbox, III was recruited to be Alverix’s new CEO. Ric’s experience extends across the point-of-care value chain and will be invaluable as Alverix continues to develop products, commercialize its instrument and technology platforms, and foster partnerships. Most recently, Alverix announced a partnership with Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD) to develop instrumentation to be part of new system to improve infectious disease diagnoses at point-of-care.
We are proud to be partners with Good Start Genetics and Alverix, as well as our other diagnostic companies as they continue to develop innovative new solutions and medical advancements that will ultimately have a positive impact on healthcare and improve patient care.
