The startup develops tethered enzyme technology for a multiplex assay that diagnoses SARS-CoV-2, influenza, RSV, and adenovirus, utilizing blood testing to assess brain injury related to stroke. Their device, measuring less than one-hundredth the width of a human hair, enhances catalytic efficiency through enzyme immobilization on nanoparticles, enabling precise diagnostics in critical care settings.
Funding
$2.5M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
Founders
Product
Problem
In emergency departments, distinguishing between actual ischemic strokes and stroke mimics quickly is challenging, especially since CT scans often fail to detect ischemic strokes in the acute phase. Delays in accurate diagnosis can lead to inappropriate treatment with clot-busting drugs, posing risks to patients who are not actually experiencing a stroke. Current antibody-based tests for Neuron-Specific Enolase (NSE) lack the necessary sensitivity and speed for timely clinical decision-making.
Solution
TETmedical is developing the Neuron Specific Enolase Functional Activity Stroke Test (NSE-FAST), an in vitro diagnostic assay designed to rapidly detect brain injury from stroke using a standard plate reader. NSE-FAST measures the functional activity of Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE), an enzyme released into the bloodstream upon neuronal damage, providing a direct indication of recent brain injury. The assay utilizes tethered enzyme technology (TET) where multiple enzymes are immobilized on nanoparticles to amplify the signal and enhance the speed and sensitivity of the reaction. By quantifying the activity of NSE rather than just its concentration, NSE-FAST aims to provide a more accurate and timely assessment of stroke, enabling clinicians to make informed treatment decisions quickly. The test is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing emergency department workflows, providing results in minutes.
Target Audience
The primary target audience includes emergency departments, neurologists, and clinical laboratories needing a rapid and accurate diagnostic test for acute stroke assessment.
Features
- Utilizes Tethered Enzyme Technology (TET) for signal amplification and enhanced sensitivity.
- Measures the functional activity of Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE) for accurate detection of brain injury.
- Designed for use with standard plate readers, fitting into existing clinical laboratory infrastructure.
- Provides rapid results, enabling timely decision-making in emergency settings.
- Includes test reaction wells, positive control wells, and negative control wells for quality control.
- Employs a multi-step enzymatic reaction to generate luminescence proportional to NSE activity.
- Features tethered enzyme nanobots containing multiple enzymes for efficient conversion of substrates.