By A biotechnology startup based in Bengaluru, Mestastop, is making strides in the fight against cancer metastasis with its innovative solutions. The startup, currently under trial, has secured ₹1.3 crore funding from the renowned IIM Ahmedabad incubator, Center for Innovation, Incubation and Entrepreneurship (CIIE.CO). Additionally, IKP Knowledge Park, a prominent incubator established by ICICI Bank and the Telangana government, has also contributed to this funding round alongside several angel investors.
Focus on Cancer Metastasis
Mestastop Solutions is dedicated to addressing the critical issue of cancer metastasis, which is the primary cause of cancer spreading to different parts of the body. Metastases occur when cancer cells detach from the original tumor and travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to form new tumors in other organs. This spreading mechanism is responsible for a significant portion of cancer-related deaths, accounting for about 90% of cases, as highlighted by Mestastop in its press release.
Innovative Approach and Technologies
Founded in 2018 by Dr Arnab Roy Chowdhury and Dr Debabani Roy Chowdhury, Mestastop combines wet lab biology techniques with predictive analytics to identify unique properties of metastasis. The company leverages this understanding to drive drug discovery and develop personalized treatment strategies for patients. Wet labs, where biological matter can be analysed using various liquids, play a crucial role in Mestastop’s research and development activities.
Proprietary Platforms for R&D
Mestastop has developed three proprietary platforms — METAssay, METSAN, and METVivo — that facilitate research in metastasis drug discovery and predictive diagnostics. These platforms enable the company to conduct comprehensive studies and gather insights into cancer cell behavior, which is essential for advancing drug discovery efforts.
Advancing with AI-based Predictions
The startup is at the forefront of using assay and genetically engineered cell-based approaches to build an artificial intelligence-driven platform for predicting metastasis. This groundbreaking technology holds promise in revolutionizing cancer treatment by providing early detection and personalized interventions.
Future Prospects and Market Insights
With a growing focus on cancer treatment and advancements in medical research, the global metastatic cancer treatment market is projected to reach a value of $111.16 billion by 2027, according to a report by Emergen Research in 2020. Mestastop’s initiatives align with these trends, positioning it as a key player in the evolving landscape of cancer care and drug discovery.
