25 April 2019 - - Canada-based LightIntegra Technology, developer of a five-minute test for platelet activation status, has received USD 5.3m in series A funding to bring its test to the US market, the company said.

The investment was led by Genome BC and Boardwalk Ventures Inc. and includes funding from Tower Beach Capital Ltd., Coleco Investments, and Quimby Investments Ltd.

ThromboLUX, a non-invasive, rapid, easy-to-use optical test, does not require dilution. It relies on the principle of dynamic light scattering to determine the size and distribution of all particles in a platelet sample.

The technology is based on the premise that healthcare providers need to get the right bag to the right patient at the right time.

Activated platelets are optimal for clotting and therefore most effective for trauma or surgery patients. Non-activated platelets are optimal for cancer patients.

The current standard of care assumes all platelet bags are the same; however, up to 50% of a platelet bag inventory may be activated.

When activated platelets are given to immunocompromised patients, such as those with cancer, it could potentially lead to failed transfusions.

Multiple failed transfusions result in platelet refractoriness, which can ultimately lead to death.

LightIntegra Technology is a privately funded medical diagnostics company launched from the Canadian Blood Services R and D labs through the efforts of research scientist Dr. Elisabeth Maurer.

LightIntegra's efforts to minimize platelet refractoriness have resulted in the introduction of ThromboLUX, a rapid in-vitro test that assesses platelet activation status.

As a routine test for platelet concentrates, ThromboLUX identifies which platelet units may be best suited for prophylaxis and which units may be best suited for therapeutic use.