MedTech Innovator

Epineuron Technologies, Inc. is a medical device company based in Hamilton, Canada, focused on developing innovative treatment solutions for peripheral nerve injuries. Founded in 2016, Epineuron is pioneering bioelectronic medicine with a mission to set new standards in nerve repair and regeneration. The company is creating a range of surgical solutions, including an electroceutical device that provides electrical stimulation to enhance the natural healing processes of injured peripheral nerves. By accelerating nerve regeneration, Epineuron aims to offer patients advanced care options and aims to establish itself as a leader in the field of bioelectronic nerve therapy.

52 North Health is focused on enhancing healthcare for cancer patients, specifically those undergoing chemotherapy, by providing a portable and easy-to-use medical device. This device employs artificial intelligence to assess the risk of neutropenic sepsis, a serious and potentially fatal side effect of chemotherapy. Through a finger prick blood test and a corresponding digital platform, the device measures a patient's neutrophil count and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels at home. This functionality allows for timely identification of patients at risk of sepsis, thereby improving their safety and quality of life. By facilitating rapid management of their condition, 52 North Health offers a reliable and cost-effective solution for cancer patients.

Operator of a microbiology research company intended to democratize molecular biology by moving complex molecular biology tools out of highly skilled laboratories to non-laboratory settings. The company's innovative enzymatic approach to nucleic acid extraction offers sample preparation suitable for PCR (polymerase chain reaction) analysis, enabling clients to create the next generation of person-portable diagnostic devices for the management of infectious diseases and other personalized medicine applications.

DermaSensor, Inc. develops a hand-held device that uses artificial intelligence to evaluate skin lesions for cancer. It offers DermaSensor, a device that allows physicians and consumers to perform skin checks in physician offices and patient homes. The company’s device is also used for lesion identification, scanning, photon scattering, and algorithmic analysis. DermaSensor, Inc. was founded in 2009 and is based in Miami, Florida.

Oxford Endovascular are developing a novel treatment for treating brain aneurysms. The Oxford technology uses a special laser-cut metal alloy which has a shape-memory. It can be posted into a catheter during surgery, inserted into the brain and opened up into a tiny tube mesh (‘flow diverter’) that fits into the natural shape of the blood vessel. This diverts the blood away from the aneurysm, allowing it to heal.

Neurovalens Limited is a company based in Ballymena, United Kingdom, that specializes in the development of medical devices grounded in neuroscience, bioscience, and neurophysiology. Founded in 2013, the company focuses on creating non-invasive neurostimulation products to address significant health challenges, particularly obesity. Notable products include Stimu Slim and Modius, which are electronic headsets designed to promote weight loss through transdermal activation of brainstem and hypothalamic functions. These devices aim to enhance autonomic function and circadian regulation, offering healthcare providers drug-free alternatives to improve patient health outcomes. Neurovalens has also received support from Invest NI as part of the European Union’s Investment for Growth and Jobs Programme, which will facilitate research and development to enhance the company's competitiveness.

OncoRes Medical Pty Ltd is an early-stage medical device company based in Nedlands, Australia, founded in 2014. The company specializes in developing a patented imaging technology that provides surgeons with real-time, micro-scale images of tissue stiffness and elasticity during breast cancer surgeries. This innovative tool integrates optical coherence tomography to enhance surgical accuracy, aiding in the differentiation between tumor and healthy tissue. OncoRes collaborates with leading researchers at the University of Western Australia and the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, as well as breast cancer surgeons in the Western Australian public health system. With support from the Medical Research Commercialisation Fund, OncoRes Medical aims to improve clinical applications by enabling precise intraoperative assessments of tissue microstructure, ultimately striving to transform the standard of care in breast cancer treatment.

EPIC Neuro is focused on creating a small, leadless device designed for brain stimulation and cortical EEG recording to aid in stroke recovery. The device is powered externally through a headset or handheld module, making it simple to implant and eliminating the need for battery replacements. Its minimally invasive design ensures that it is inexpensive, easily removable, and safe for MRI procedures. This innovation aims to provide a hassle-free recovery experience for patients suffering from stroke symptoms.

AltraTech Limited, established in 2013 and located in Shannon, Ireland, specializes in the design of biosensors and semiconductor chips aimed at DNA testing for food traceability in the agricultural sector. The company has developed a portable device that enhances molecular detection of viral DNA and RNA using advanced enrichment and semiconductor techniques. This innovation achieves the sensitivity and specificity comparable to traditional PCR methods, allowing for rapid and accurate measurement of viral samples. Through these technologies, AltraTech contributes to improving food safety and quality in the agri-business industry.

Olfactomics is a Finnish university-based spinoff company developing a novel technology for surgical tissue assessment. They focus on improving breast-concerving lumpectomies where residual tumor continues to be an issue. Realtime tissue analysis allows the surgeon to remove the whole tumor in one operation and minimize the resection of healthy tissues.

Avisi Technologies Inc. is focused on developing innovative solutions to combat glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness. The company has created VisiPlate, a next-generation aqueous shunt designed for mid to late-stage glaucoma treatment. This product is notable for its ultrathin design, being 20 times thinner than a human hair, which facilitates a less invasive insertion procedure that reduces operating time and simplifies follow-up care. VisiPlate is constructed from alumina, a material recognized for its use in hip replacements, thus ensuring biocompatibility. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Avisi Technologies aims to address the challenges associated with current glaucoma treatments, including patient non-compliance and post-operative complications, ultimately striving to prevent blindness in affected individuals.

Conavi Medical is a healthcare company focused on providing image guidance technologies for minimally invasive cardiovascular procedures.

Deton Corp. is a diagnostics technology company based in Pasadena, California, founded in 2011. It specializes in developing innovative solutions for measuring and controlling lower respiratory infections. The company's flagship product, the aerosol biopsy solution, captures aerosol droplets expelled during coughing, allowing for the extraction of genetic information from within the lungs. This technology enables the collection of samples from the lower respiratory tract, facilitating the diagnosis of infections and providing valuable insights into the growth of fungal and bacterial microbes. Through its advancements, Deton aims to enhance the understanding and treatment of lung diseases by delivering complete and timely lung health information.

PhotoniCare, Inc. is a medical device company founded in 2013 and based in Champaign, Illinois. The company develops advanced diagnostic tools aimed at improving the standard of care for patients with ear infections. Its primary product, the TOMi Scope, utilizes near-infrared light waves to provide three-dimensional views of the middle ear, allowing physicians to see beyond the eardrum. This innovative device leverages patented technology derived from bioengineering research at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, addressing the limitations of traditional otoscopes, which can only provide surface-level views. By enabling more accurate screening and diagnosis of ear diseases, PhotoniCare aims to enhance patient outcomes and streamline the diagnostic process for healthcare providers.

Advanced Chemotherapy Technologies is a healthcare company that is developing breakthrough combination drug-device technologies for treating pancreatic cancer.

The Otricath™ introduces a new perspective on therapy delivery. The platform technology delivers cancer-fighting agents to solid tumors with unparalleled control, predictability, and safety for optimal therapeutic benefit and minimal systemic toxicity.

Nexeon MedSystems is a bioelectronics company developing active medical devices for the treatment of chronic medical conditions. The solutions we're developing are a unique blend of traditional device technologies such as electronics, software, mechanical engineering, and material science, as well as pharmaceuticals, protein chemistry, and cell biology.

NXTSENS Microsystems is a performance leading fabless semiconductor company that provides tailored sensing, timing and frequency reference solutions. From prototype to full-scale production, NXTSENS provides an efficient path to commercial application.

NovaGray is focused on creating advanced companion diagnostic tests designed to enhance radiation therapy planning. The company develops biomarker-based tests that evaluate patients' sensitivity to radiation through a single blood sample. This approach allows healthcare practitioners to tailor treatment plans, including dosage and session sequencing, based on individual patient profiles. By personalizing standard treatments, NovaGray aims to improve patient outcomes while also reducing both complication and overall treatment costs.

Encellin, Inc. is a biotechnology company based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2015. It specializes in developing innovative cell-based therapeutics, particularly focusing on a novel thin-film cell encapsulation device. This device utilizes advanced thin-film cell delivery technology, which encapsulates and replaces cells, allowing the enclosed cells to operate as smart molecular factories. Encellin's primary mission is to provide effective treatments for patients with chronic diseases, with an initial emphasis on Type 1 diabetes. The company is committed to advancing next-generation therapies through the expertise of its dedicated team.

Nanowear, Inc. specializes in developing textile-based nanosensor technology designed for wireless and real-time electrophysiological monitoring. The company offers products like SimplECG, a remote cardiac monitoring undergarment, and SimpleSense, which focuses on monitoring and managing congestive heart failure. These garments capture multi-channel electrocardiogram (ECG), heart rate, and respiratory rate data, which is transmitted to a web-based portal for physician review via a mobile application. Nanowear's technology is versatile, finding applications in cardiac, neurological, industrial safety, government, sports medicine, and performance diagnostics. Founded in 2014, the company is headquartered in Brooklyn, New York, with a research and development facility located in University Park, Pennsylvania.

Nebula Industries is solving the problem of medical adhesive related injuries for those with fragile skin, particularly older people, using innovative approaches developed at MIT/Brigham and Women's Hospital.

PixelEXX Systems Inc. develops prototype imaging devices for diagnosing cancer. The products include nanoarrays that take images of molecular signals associated with cellular activity. PixelEXX Systems Inc. was founded in 2008 and is based in Saint Louis, Missouri.

CytoChip Inc., founded in 2014 and based in Irvine, California, specializes in designing and manufacturing in vitro diagnostic devices. The company's flagship products include the CHIPNOW SYSTEM and CHIPNOW CARTRIDGES, which facilitate various diagnostic tests such as complete blood counts, lipid panels, and assessments of liver and kidney functions. These tests are tailored for use in physician offices and pharmacy clinics, addressing the need for accessible medical testing outside of centralized laboratories. CytoChip's innovative microfluidic technology allows users to perform tests using only a drop of blood obtained via fingerstick, with results delivered in about two minutes. This approach not only enhances patient care but also supports the financial viability of decentralized testing, with a market potential of approximately $1.2 billion annually for such services. By offering simple-to-use technology, CytoChip meets the growing demand for routine diagnostic tests in a more accessible and efficient manner.

UnaliWear Inc., based in Austin, Texas, develops the Kanega watch, a multipurpose wearable designed for seniors to maintain independence and dignity. This discreet device offers features such as fall detection, medication reminders, and assistance for individuals who may wander, all through a voice-activated interface. The Kanega watch is equipped with various technologies, including cellular, Wi-Fi, GPS, and Bluetooth, allowing it to provide emergency support anywhere without the need for a smartphone. Its patented battery system ensures that the watch remains charged without requiring removal. Additionally, the device incorporates data-driven artificial intelligence to learn the user’s lifestyle, enabling it to offer predictive and preemptive assistance tailored to individual needs.

2C Tech Corporation, based in Irvine, California, is a biotech company specializing in the development of medical devices that utilize nanotechnology for ophthalmic applications. The company's flagship product, SeeQ, employs intraocularly delivered photoactive nanoparticles to convert light into electrical energy, functioning similarly to a solar cell. 2C Tech is dedicated to creating innovative therapies for retinal degenerative conditions, particularly focusing on Retinitis Pigmentosa, a disease for which there are currently no effective treatments. The company's research also aims to address other serious eye conditions, including certain forms of Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma, and Diabetic Retinopathy, which affect larger patient populations. By leveraging its expertise in nanoparticle technologies, 2C Tech seeks to provide meaningful therapeutic benefits for those suffering from these debilitating diseases.

Bionic Vision Technologies Pty Ltd is an Australian company focused on developing visual prostheses aimed at restoring vision to individuals affected by blindness, particularly those with inherited retinal diseases. Founded in 2007 and based in Carlton, the company creates a suprachoroidal visual implant system that works by electrically stimulating the remaining retinal cells in patients with retinal degeneration. The innovative devices operate by capturing images through a camera mounted on an eyeglass frame, which are then converted into electrical signals. These signals stimulate the nerves using electrodes placed behind the retina, allowing visual information to be transmitted to the brain. Through this technology, Bionic Vision Technologies seeks to improve the quality of life for blind patients by enhancing their eyesight.

Fibralign Corporation utilizes Nanoweave® a proprietary scaffolding technology to develop advanced biomedical devices. Fibralign has launched its first product, the BioBridge® Collagen Matrix, and is now engaging in clinical studies to evaluate its use for treating and preventing secondary lymphedema, as well as advancing R&D development for new applications for treating ischemia and novel delivery devices for use with stem cells and gene therapy.

ChemoFilter is developing a novel catheter device enables chemotherapy delivery in a targeted manner, reducing patient side effects and improving treatment efficacy. The ChemoFilter device filters chemotherapeutics from the bloodstream, preventing toxic drugs from leaving the tumor site. ChemoFilter’s first version will treat unresectable liver cancer, the 3rd leading cause of cancer death with over 600,000 new cases per year by working in tandem with trans-arterial chemoembolization (TACE), the current standard of care for this disease. ChemoFilter will save the healthcare system over $5,000 per patient, while increasing hospital and physician margins and improving patient care. ChemoFilter has potential worldwide sales of over $1 billion in liver cancer with the opportunity to expand into other cancers. A UCSF based startup, ChemoFilter is supported by seed grants from UCSF, Society of Interventional Radiology, and the prestigious NIH Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grant.

Shape Memory Medical is a medical device company based in Santa Clara, California, established in 2009. The company specializes in the commercialization of innovative medical devices that utilize shape memory polymer (SMP) materials, originally developed at Texas A&M University and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Shape Memory Medical targets the peripheral vascular, cardiovascular, and neurovascular markets, focusing on minimally invasive endovascular applications. The company has introduced the first FDA-cleared medical device in the vascular sector that employs SMP technology, enhancing the ability of physicians to deliver improved patient care. With a team experienced in SMP foam technology and medical device commercialization, Shape Memory Medical aims to provide advanced therapeutic solutions in its field.

NeuroTronik, spun out of medical technology incubator Synecor, is developing a medical device that could take the place of drugs currently used to heart failure. Read more about the company's technology,

As of October 22, 2019, NeuroRecovery Technologies, Inc. was acquired by G-Therapeutics B.V. NeuroRecovery Technologies, Inc., a medical device company, develops therapeutic systems for individuals suffering from paralysis. Its products develop external and implantable spinal cord neuromodulation systems for restoring function/enabling movement in paralysis patients. The company was incorporated in 2013 and is based in San Juan Capistrano, California.

Headquartered in Silicon Valley, NeuroSyntek Modeling & Manufacturing is rapidly emerging as a leader in the field of regenerative medicine, a group of biomedical approaches to clinical therapies that involve the use of stem cells to replace or regenerate human cells, tissues or organs to restore or establish normal function. NeuroSyntek is entering human trials on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) with a uniquely powerful personalized medicine solution and is able to help with other diseases - such as stroke, brain trauma, Parkinson's, diabetes - to ophthalmology, orthopedic and cosmetic applications. Leveraging their semiconductor platform they bring major cost and automation benefits into stem cell therapy. NeuroSyntek technology allows for autologous mono-phenotype stem-cells cultures to be screened, grown and differentiated for transplantation without the risk of transformation into tumors. They enable this revolutionary approach through the use of their proprietary StemOptimizer platform and behavioral models. This powerful combination allows for unprecedented control over the cellular behavior, in vitro, for precise, automated and continuous cell culture monitoring and manipulation. The StemOptimizer is build around an advanced System-on-Chip architecture and their proprietary silicon extra-cellular sensor. This design allows for an adaptive, dynamically reconfigurable, and able to learn architecture that is the anchor for their aggressive and broad-based product roadmap. Their disruptive technology will help to optimize the massively inefficient $6 trillion healthcare market by dramatically driving down costs and providing effective solutions for stem-cell therapies. In Phase I of their product roadmap they are addressing the $30B+ stem cells market.

NovaSignal is a medical technology company commercializing a robotic cerebral ultrasound system. Its Robotic System combines non-invasive ultrasound, robotics, and artificial intelligence to assess real-time cerebral blood flow. Through the use of cloud computing and data analytics, NovaSignal supports physicians in their clinical decision making to help improve patient outcomes. It was founded in 2013 and is headquartered in Los Angeles, California.