Chennai-based molecular diagnostics startup Tvaster Genkalp has secured $1.25 million in a Pre-Series A funding round led by Ideaspring Capital. Existing investors Invigo Softwares and globally renowned liver transplant surgeon Prof. Mohamed Rela also participated in the round.

The newly raised funds will drive the commercialization and pan-India expansion of Episcreen™ Liver, a pioneering methylation-based liquid biopsy test designed for the early detection of liver cancer. The investment will also support Tvaster’s ongoing research and development efforts in precision oncology and molecular diagnostics.

Advancing Molecular Diagnostics in Oncology

Founded in 2021 by Dr. Srikar Raman and K. Sreedurgalakshmi, Tvaster Genkalp is revolutionizing molecular diagnostics through advanced epigenetic screening technologies. The company develops high-accuracy genetic solutions that enhance early cancer detection, setting a new benchmark in non-invasive diagnostics.

Dr. Srikar Raman, Co-founder of Tvaster Genkalp, highlighted the importance of this funding, stating, “The funding will accelerate nationwide deployment of Episcreen™ Liver, offering a non-invasive, highly accurate diagnostic alternative for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of liver cancer.”

He further emphasized the test’s accuracy, explaining that while Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) — the current standard for HCC screening — has only 50% sensitivity, Episcreen Liver achieves 90% sensitivity, significantly improving early detection rates and increasing survival chances by over 70%.

Addressing a Growing Healthcare Challenge

Liver cancer is an escalating global health concern, with more than 900,000 new cases reported annually. In India, one in five adults suffers from Chronic Liver Disease (CLD), driven by conditions such as Fatty Liver Disease, Hepatitis B & C, Alcohol-related CLD, and metabolic disorders. The limitations of existing diagnostic solutions highlight the urgent need for high-accuracy, non-invasive alternatives like Episcreen™ Liver.

1. Sreedurgalakshmi, Co-founder of Tvaster Genkalp, emphasized the company’s mission, stating, “True healthcare innovation lies in making a meaningful impact, transforming lives beyond technological advancements. Tvaster’s mission is to push the boundaries of genetic research and deliver life-saving solutions to those in need. The fundraise marks a pivotal step in transforming cancer detection and improving patient outcomes.”

Expanding Oncology Diagnostics Beyond Liver Cancer

In addition to Episcreen™ Liver, Tvaster is advancing its oncology diagnostics pipeline with:

• Episcreen Bile: A novel test for Cholangiocarcinoma, an aggressive bile duct cancer with limited early detection options.
• Episcreen™ HBResist: The first-ever chemotherapy resistance test for pediatric hepatoblastoma, addressing a crucial gap in childhood cancer treatment.

Investor Confidence in Tvaster’s Breakthrough Solutions

Expressing enthusiasm for Tvaster’s innovative approach, Naganand Doraiswamy, MD at Ideaspring Capital, remarked, “We see immense potential in Tvaster’s approach, not just for initial diagnosis but also for monitoring recurrence in patients undergoing treatment. Their liquid biopsy test, Episcreen Liver, has been developed and validated using over 600 patient samples, achieving 90% sensitivity and specificity for detecting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Early detection can significantly improve survival rates and ensure patients receive curative treatment early on. Ideaspring is very excited to partner with Srikar and Durga to scale Tvaster.”

He further noted that Tvaster’s capabilities extend beyond early detection, enabling recurrence monitoring and treatment response evaluation. With 90% accuracy, its liquid biopsy technology is poised to transform cancer screening globally.

Also Read :- Apple Expands AI Ambitions with Health App Overhaul

Recognized for Scientific Excellence & Innovation

Tvaster Genkalp has gained international recognition for its research excellence:

• Winner of the ILTS Young Researcher Award at the ILTS Congress 2024 in Houston for its advancements in liver cancer diagnostics.
• Recipient of the BIRAC BIG Grant for its breakthrough Cholangiocarcinoma detection technology.
• Research showcased at ILTS Netherlands (2023), AASLD Boston (2023), and ILTS Houston (2024), with publications in leading medical journals.

A Future-Focused Vision

With this strategic investment, Tvaster Genkalp is set to scale its impact in molecular diagnostics. The company remains committed to developing next-generation cancer detection solutions, ensuring improved accessibility, affordability, and better health outcomes for patients worldwide.

As Tvaster continues to push the frontiers of genetic research, its liquid biopsy innovations promise to reshape cancer diagnostics, providing highly accurate, non-invasive alternatives for early detection and treatment monitoring.

Like

Dislike

Be a part of Elets Collaborative Initiatives. Join Us for Upcoming Events and explore business opportunities. Like us on Facebook , connect with us on LinkedIn and follow us on Twitter , Instagram.

"Exciting news! Elets technomedia is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest insights!" Click here!