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Health care industry

Low-Cost Biotechnology Analysis System Developed by Fluidware Technologies and Hitachi

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Fluidware Technologies Inc., a startup born at the University of Tokyo, has collaborated with Hitachi Ltd. to create a cutting-edge, cost-effective biotechnology analysis system. This innovative technology employs a tiny silicon chip to match proteins linked to diseases with potential drug substances. The system is poised to revolutionize the development of new medicines and genetic diagnosis. Starting this month, Fluidware will market the system to pharmaceutical companies, universities, and other organizations.

Key Takeaways:

  • The system utilizes a stamp-sized silicon chip with a nitride film surface, allowing for easy attachment of proteins and DNA, unlike existing metal-film chips.
  • The system's main unit will be available for 3.4 million yen, with regular chips selling for 18,000 yen per lot of 10 and high-function chips for 30,000 yen for 10.
  • The technology has broad applications in drug development and genetic diagnosis, offering a more efficient and cost-effective alternative to existing systems.
  • The system uses interference light reflected from the chip interior to determine the binding status of the two substances, providing accurate results.
  • Fluidware's joint development with Hitachi Ltd. highlights the potential for collaboration between academia and industry to drive innovation.
  • The startup's origins at the University of Tokyo demonstrate the value of fostering entrepreneurship and innovation within academic institutions.

Statistics:

  • The system's main unit will be priced at 3.4 million yen (approximately $29,647 USD).
  • Regular chips will sell for 18,000 yen per lot of 10.
  • High-function chips better suited for DNA analysis will sell for 30,000 yen for 10.
  • The system's technology has the potential to revolutionize the development of new medicines, with applications in drug development and genetic diagnosis.
  • The joint development with Hitachi Ltd. showcases the importance of industry-academia partnerships in driving innovation.

Sources:

  • Asia Pulse, June 15
  • Nikkei (no specific date mentioned)

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