Pictor technology
A biotechnology company from Auckland, Pictor Limited, has formally signed agreement with their partners in India and Europe, four years after having developed their unique technology that can screen for a range of diseases from just a drop of blood.
The company has created a simple and cost-effective system that can test for multiple medical conditions simultaneously, with results provided almost instantly through an easy-to-read printout.
TechNZ, the business investment programme of the Foundation for Research, Science and Technology, has invested around $620,000 in Pictor since the start-up was established, helping it with research, development and intellectual property protection.
The available tests, in addition to the screening panel developed for rheumatoid arthritis, includes three of the most prevalent viral infections – Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS.
Other potential applications include a generic wellness test where people could have an annual check up to screen for common diseases. This test, according to Pictor co-founder Dr Anand Kumble, is also ideal to use with babies and young children because it only needs a tiny amount of blood or fluid to test for a variety of diseases.
Pictor has been supported by capital from six private investors along with government investment through TechNZ and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise.
Aside from financial support, TechNZ has connected Pictor with outside experts and knowledge, which has paved the way for the company’s reach to the market.
Source: Scoop, NZ: Health
Tags: AIDS, Blood, Dr. Anand Kumble, Foundation for Research, FRST, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, NZTE, Pictor Limited, Pinprick, Science and Technology, TechNZ
