Swiss-based start-up Isospec Analytics has raised $1.9 million in pre-seed funding to continue its work in biomolecular analysis technology. The company aims to identify small biological molecules in blood samples that can offer critical insights into a person’s health, with potential applications in early disease detection and treatment development. Co-founder Ahmed Ben Faleh, along with Stephan Warnke and Thomas Rizzo, met at the Swiss technology institute EPFL and have been developing their techniques for years before launching Isospec in 2022.
Isospec’s technology allows for the rapid identification of a larger number of molecules in a blood sample than conventional techniques, providing crucial information in a matter of hours. This is achieved through a combination of insights from multiple disciplines such as analytical chemistry, photonics, and cryogenic materials. The company is working with hospitals and research institutes to analyze existing samples and develop diagnostic tests based on the newly identified molecules found in blood samples.
The ultimate goal for Isospec is to offer rapid diagnoses of health problems and diseases at an early stage, potentially revolutionizing the healthcare industry. By identifying specific biomarkers for diseases like lung cancer, Alzheimer’s, and diabetes, the technology can provide invaluable information for developing new drugs and treatments. While full-scale standalone testing is still a few years away due to regulatory approvals, the company plans to offer its technology as a complementary diagnostic tool within the next year.
Isospec’s progress is being accelerated through investments in automation technologies and software engineering to expand testing capacity and speed. The pre-seed funding was provided by Founderful, with additional participation from Tiny.vc and Venture Kick. Founderful partner Alex Stöckl, who now sits on Isospec’s board, was convinced of the potential of the technology and the team’s ability to revolutionize biomolecular analysis as a service. The founders see this as an opportunity beyond commercial success, envisioning a future where their work can change the lives of millions by identifying critical biomarkers for various diseases.
The company’s early access to cutting-edge research in biomolecular analysis will not only hasten diagnosis but also contribute to the development of new drugs and treatments. Isospec is in discussions to explore alternative commercial models, including offering diagnostic services independently or licensing its intellectual property to pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. By establishing itself as a key player in the field of biomolecular analysis, the company aims to bring about a significant impact on healthcare by detecting diseases at an early stage and advancing treatment options for patients.
