Llusern Scientific, a spinout from the University of South Wales, secures substantial equity investment.
- The Development Bank of Wales supports Llusern Scientific’s commercialisation efforts.
- Llusern’s rapid diagnostic test for UTIs aims to address antibiotic resistance.
- Funding aids the development of Llusern’s innovative diagnostic tool, Lodestar DX.
- University spinouts like Llusern play a crucial role in advancing health sciences and technology.
Llusern Scientific, a pioneering life sciences firm originating from the University of South Wales, has recently secured a notable six-figure equity investment. This financial support originates from the Development Bank of Wales and is aimed at accelerating the company’s efforts to bring their advanced diagnostic technologies to market.
Established by microbiologist Dr. Emma Hayhurst and molecular geneticist Dr. Jeroen Nieuwland, the company has developed a rapid and efficient diagnostic test specifically for urinary tract infections (UTIs). This innovation comes at a time when antibiotic resistance is a growing concern, particularly within the context of an ageing population more susceptible to such infections.
The product, known as Lodestar DX, offers a non-invasive testing approach, providing reliable results within 35 minutes. This capability is crucial as traditional microbiological urine cultures can take up to two days to yield results, thus delaying effective treatment decisions.
With the support of forward-thinking partners like the Development Bank, Llusern’s diagnostic kits have been fully developed and are already available commercially in the UK. They are undergoing a real-world evaluation in the primary care sector, aiming to enhance antibiotic stewardship and patient outcomes. This technological advancement hopes to reduce unnecessary GP visits and hospital admissions.
Dr. Hayhurst emphasised the importance of such investment, stating that commercialising academic research would not be possible without significant funding and support. The company is poised to scale its operations, thanks to the Development Bank’s backing and is set to make a significant impact in both human and animal health diagnostics.
Dr. Harry George from the Development Bank highlighted their focus on supporting technology-driven start-ups with high growth potential, reinforcing their commitment to fostering innovation within Wales. The bank’s investment strategy also aims at enhancing the ecosystem for university spinouts, which are often rich in potential for growth and innovation.
Lodestar DX is primed to play a substantial role as a diagnostic tool not only in human healthcare but also in the veterinary market, providing rapid and accurate results beneficial for both domains. Dr. Louise Bright of the University of South Wales expressed her pride in Llusern’s achievements, underscoring the investment’s potential to catalyse regional and global economic growth.
With strategic investment and innovative technology, Llusern Scientific is set to revolutionise diagnostic testing in healthcare.
