IdentifySensors Biologics, a leading developer of digital diagnostic technologies, announced it has raised $20 million to commercialize a software platform utilizing semiconductors that function as rapid biosensors. And when connected to a dedicated Bluetooth device, the sensors are intended to rapidly detect targeted gene sequences indicative of infectious diseases and potentially various cancers using a patient sample.
This new platform is expected to redefine molecular detection by eliminating reliance on centralized laboratories and enabling real-time molecular diagnostics at the point of need.
The sensors are printed with a proprietary ink made from graphene – a single layer of carbon atoms used for advanced electronics, energy storage, and health-care applications. And the sensors are integrated into a multiplex test cartridge about the size of a cell phone. Depending on the target, the cartridges are designed to analyze various sample types. Each sensor can be programmed to detect and differentiate multiple pathogens or biomarkers simultaneously using a single half-milliliter sample, including blood and saliva specimens.
The cartridge connects to a reusable Bluetooth reader, and the reader transmits results to a mobile app and cloud-based algorithms, which generate final test results. The users are informed by text message in minutes.
IdentifySensors started manufacturing and intends to make its first FDA submission later this year. And the company’s three-year plan includes rapid molecular tests for many common diseases and other conditions, such as cancer that can be molecularly detected through genetic sequences.
IdentifySensors holds over 20 patents on the technology and manufacturing processes. And the company is currently seeking an additional $7.5 million to scale production and develop additional test targets.
KEY QUOTE:
“Current molecular diagnostics are based on decades old technologies that are slow, expensive and require complex laboratories and highly skilled labor to administer. This new platform is intended to detect targeted DNA or RNA in minutes through small, simple and inexpensive electronic circuits that interact with Cloud-based algorithms and software.”
- IdentifySensors CEO Greg Hummer
