Detect diseases quickly and intuitively
Innovative technology from INTU Diagnostics makes this possible
The innovation from INTU Diagnostics, a spin-off of the Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology [IZI], is fundamentally transforming the diagnosis of infectious diseases: a fast, mobile option that does away with the need for expensive equipment. The Saxon biotech cluster leap:up plays a key role in this, from financing to networking with investors.
Even before COVID-19, it was obvious that rapid and reliable detection of an infectious disease is the only way to provide targeted treatment. By means of an example, human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections and a major factor in the development of cervical cancer and other types of cancer. According to the WHO, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide, with around 660,000 new cases and around 350,000 deaths in 2022. About 85% of this disease burden can be attributed to developing countries, where HPV is responsible for almost 12% of all tumors in women. Late diagnosis of HPV-related diseases can significantly worsen the prognosis. HPV infections are often asymptomatic and, without regular screening, frequently go undetected. Regular cancer screening is therefore crucial in preventing serious HPV-associated diseases.
Molecular diagnostics at home
The technology developed by the start-up INTU Diagnostics promises improvements: It facilitates reliable diagnosis of the human papillomavirus or infectious diseases such as COVID-19, influenza and tuberculosis even in remote areas, without the need for any electricity or laboratory equipment. A key component of the innovation is an all-in-one cartridge that can detect up to fourteen pathogens at the same time using an easy-to-take sample. The entire process takes just 30 minutes: A color change indicates whether a pathogen is present. This development is particularly significant for regions with poor medical infrastructure. In this way, INTU Diagnostics is addressing a global need and pursuing a sustainable business model that makes modern diagnostics available even in resource-poor areas.
Beyond HPV...
The technology is currently particularly suitable for detecting HPV. The affordable home test is intended to help reduce the global burden of disease and achieve progress in cancer prevention. It offers a practical solution for people who may not attend regular medical screenings but still want to take responsibility for their own health. But INTU Diagnostics is already taking things a step further: Respiratory pathogens will also be detectable very soon. Furthermore, work is being carried out on developing a test for diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis and other sexually transmitted infections – an approach that is particularly relevant for regions with limited resources.
Field tests under real-world conditions
Back in 2020, a prototype for the test was tested under extreme conditions by the Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology [IZI] in Tanzania. In collaboration with the Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, diagnoses of eye infections caused by chlamydia trachomatis were made possible, with a requirement for only minimal equipment. The research determined that the test is also effective where conventional laboratories fail.
Innovation takes money
An innovation like that of INTU Diagnostics requires not only scientific expertise, but also the right financing, which is where leap:up steps up to the plate. The network actively supports INTU Diagnostics in securing capital for the development and market launch of the multiplex diagnostic test. leap:up provides various services that accompany the start-up on its journey all the way from conception to market maturity – workshops and consultations on financial planning, networking with investors, customized financing strategies and participation in international events. By presenting at conferences and trade fairs organized by leap:up, INTU Diagnostics has already been able to establish a strong network and attract international attention. The collaboration demonstrates how important strategic partnerships are for the success of start-ups.
Thanks in part to the support of leap:up, INTU Diagnostics has already been able to attract its first investors, who have recognized the enormous potential of this technology. With fresh capital from private and institutional investors, decisive development steps are to be finalized in the coming months and the transfer to production is to begin by the end of 2026. One offer from leap:up, the medical:forge accelerator program, facilitates the start-up by means of targeted support in the form of modern laboratory space and expertise in key industry-specific areas. The close collaboration with leap:up not only got INTU Diagnostics off the ground, but also demonstrates the innovation potential that Leipzig offers as a center for diagnostics. The cluster ensures a continuous exchange between start-ups, science and industry, creating a solid basis for long-term success.
With the support of leap:up, a clear business model and a technology that addresses global needs, INTU Diagnostics is perfectly positioned to fundamentally revolutionize diagnostics. The planned expansion into new markets and further development of the platform to detect additional pathogens could transform INTU Diagnostics into a pioneer for sustainable, decentralized diagnostic solutions. At the same time, the company is sending out an important signal – pioneering innovations are not only emerging in the world’s metropolises, but also cities such as Leipzig, which provides the ideal conditions with its biotech cluster.