Wednesday, May 12, 2020

JS Genetics Inc

Presentation followed by networking, refreshments & wine bar

JS Genetics Inc. develops and markets proprietary, low cost, high value DNA diagnostic tests for underserved medical conditions in newborns, children, and adolescents. This focus grew out of the recognition that most genetic tests require blood samples, have longer turn-around times, and are expensive. The company's principal strategy is to internally develop tests using cheek swabs for sample collection and a PCR based testing platform to bring to market accurate, convenient, and cost effective DNA screening tests for adolescents focused in three key areas of developmental disorders:

● Physical Developmental Disorders: Turner Syndrome, Klinefelter Syndrome, Down's Syndrome
● Cognitive Developmental Disorders: Dyslexia
● Behavioral Developmental Disorders: Fragile X

The company also has a novel therapeutic compound under development for the treatment of Periventricular White Matter Injury (PWMI) in premature infants. That program is currently in preclinical testing.

The underlying technology for the company's Turner syndrome and Dyslexia tests was developed at Yale University and is exclusively licensed to JS Genetics. Since 2006 the company has received seven SBIR (small business innovation research) awards totaling $3.4 million. Those grants have been the principal source of funding for the company's R&D initiatives. 

The company's first product, a Turner Syndrome screening test, is scheduled to be commercially available in the second quarter of 2010. The company's second product, based on the same underlying technology as the Turner test, is a screening test for Klinefelter syndrome, the most common generic abnormality in males. The product is currently in clinical validation trials and is scheduled to be commercialized in the first quarter of 2011.  In the next 18-36 months, the company plans to commercialize follow-on tests for identification of Fragile X and Trisomy 21 as well as offer a test for predisposition to Dyslexia.

The BioHaven Entrepreneurship Series features presentations designed to showcase regionally developed life science technologies that have progressed along the path to commercialization.  Speakers at the BioHaven events represent both the scientific and business side of the enterprises.

The programs focus on key success factors of each company, scientific or technological advantage, business model, and lessons learned in starting and developing the business. The series also provides social networking opportunities for scientists, researchers, and businessmen.

For a calendar of all the 2009-10 BioHaven events, click here.

Speakers