The significance of upstream process development extends beyond the technical realm – it is a strategic imperative for the biotech industry. The efficiency, scalability, and robustness of upstream processes directly influence the cost of goods, production timelines, and ultimately, the accessibility of biologics to patients. As such, continuous improvement and innovation in upstream manufacturing are not merely operational goals, but are central…
23andMe has recently unveiled an initiative aimed at offering deeper insights into the risk of developing breast cancer. The company’s new genetic reports bring forth a new approach to cancer risk prediction, particularly focusing on breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer. Recent studies have underscored a concerning trend: a notable increase in cancer diagnoses among younger individuals. Federal data from the US indicates…
SökerData, a London-based, female-founded digital health startup, has been awarded a substantial portion of a £6.2 million grant by Innovate UK. The startup is set to advance the field of drug discovery through its innovative biomarker database project, aimed at enhancing disease characterisation and drug development efficiency. With a focus on bridging the gap in clinical trials and improving representation across demographics,…
Tiny Health, the creator of the first at-home gut microbiome test specifically for babies, has raised $8.5 million in a Series A funding round. The round was led by Spero Ventures, contributing to a total of $13 million raised by the company aimed at enhancing gut health innovation. This funding round also saw participation from TheVentureCity, Overwater Ventures, Next Coast Ventures, and…
Invitae, a company in medical genetics, announced the completion of its reproductive health assets sale to Natera. This transaction, valued at up to $52.5 million, includes cash, milestone payments, and litigation credits. The assets sold to Natera involve carrier screening and non-invasive prenatal screening services. Ken Knight, President and CEO of Invitae, stated: “Today’s announcement further helps us streamline operations and focus…
Daré Bioscience, a women’s health company, has announced the receipt of a $750K grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. This funding is earmarked for the development of bacteria-based live biotherapeutic products, aiming to enhance the health of women and newborns globally. This recent grant follows a previous award of approximately $585K from the foundation, granted to Daré in November 2022…
NEXT Life Sciences, the creator of the male contraceptive product Plan A, recently announced a successful $2.5 million funding round to advance the launch of its innovative solution into the market. The Family, a high-impact startup accelerator led the round with participation from Transform VC and a combination of angel investors and early-stage venture funds including entrepreneur Brock Pierce, Transform VC, StartupHealth, Pay…
Illumina Ventures Labs, an incubator for early-stage genomics and precision health companies, has officially launched operations in Foster City, California, and Cambridge, United Kingdom. The venture, part of Illumina Ventures, aims to nurture the growth of start-ups in the healthcare sector, particularly those focusing on genomics. Illumina Ventures Labs is finalizing agreements with several startups, providing them access to advanced genomics laboratories…
