Singapore-based Nova Satra has raised $2 million from Genting Bio Cellular Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Genting Berhad.

The molecular diagnostics startup will invest the freshly raised funds for regulatory approval and commercialization of its lead test: a revolutionary non-invasive blood-based diagnostic test for breast cancer. Nova Satra believes a patient-friendly option, easily included in routine check-ups, could increase the often currently low, breast cancer screening participation rates of women across the Asian region.

As part of the deal, two directors of Genting will be seen joining the startup’s board. Also, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Genting Bio Cellular has got the exclusive rights to distribute the tests that Nova Satra is developing in Malaysia.

The company said that they intend to make available a pipeline of molecular diagnostics tests across a range of cancer indications.   Its development pipeline includes molecular diagnostics tests for Colon Cancer, Lung Cancer, Prostate Cancer and Stomach Cancer.

Nova Satra added that Nova Satra breast cancer test relies on highly stable DNA-based targets as part of chromosomal signatures, also known as gene loops, chromosome domains, long-range chromosomal interactions. This can be attributed to the reason that they utilize a University of Oxford developed epigenetic platform technology. It has completed multi-centre Asian validation trials in two countries – Singapore and Malaysia, and is slated for commercialization this year. Kane Black, CEO and co-founder of Nova Satra, was quoted saying,

 We are pleased to announce the commitment and support of one of Asia’s pre-eminent conglomerates, with extensive investments in the life sciences space.

He further added,

This not only brings to Nova Satra capital resources but also substantial operational support to our research, development and commercialisation program to bring to market revolutionary and potentially life-saving non-invasive blood-based diagnostic tests for cancer.

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