Medtech in a Minute: Babson, SetPoint, and More

Can Babson Succeed Where Theranos Failed?

Austin, TX-based Babson Diagnostics is focused on moving laboratory testing to the pharmacy counter. The company says it has developed a model for diagnostic blood testing that maintains a high standard of accuracy, yet requires only one-tenth the sample size of traditional venipuncture methods. The company also uses a proprietary blood collection device to collect the sample right there at the pharmacy, then the sample is processed back at Babson's labs. It's a story that feels familiar, yet Babson is taking a science-first approach that could make all the difference.

SetPoint Is Set on Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis

Valencia, CA-based SetPoint Medical has raised $64 million in a preferred stock financing. The financing is expected to help move SetPoint's pivotal trial through the development of its bioelectronic platform to treat rheumatoid arthritis.

Researchers Explore the Diagnostic Possibilities of Saliva 

Researchers at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Dentistry are exploring the use of saliva in early lung cancer detection and analysis. Saliva is being looked at more closely than ever for its diagnostic possibilities, a trend somewhat driven by discoveries in testing for COVID-19.