The NLC Health Impact Fund

Nicolab tackles the challenge of stroke diagnosis and treatment by offering computational support through their portfolio of six algorithms. These algorithms analyze radiological images of acute stroke patients, providing fast and objective interpretation for physicians. With stroke affecting millions annually and significant economic burdens, Nicolab's solution improves decision-making speed and accuracy, allowing clinicians to assess stroke severity objectively and make timely treatment decisions.

More information coming soon

OCCLUNOVA introduces a novel solution for chronic atrial fibrillation (AF), a condition affecting millions worldwide where the heart's upper chambers beat irregularly. Their implantable device aims to prevent strokes associated with AF by sealing off the left atrial appendage (LAA), where blood clots often form. Unlike traditional methods, which can cause complications due to their rigid frame, OccluNova's design uses a flexible balloon to fully seal the LAA. This innovative approach minimizes risks like pericardial effusions and incomplete closure, offering a safer option for AF patients.

Epilepsy causes uncontrolled seizures, greatly reducing quality of life and sometimes leading to early death. Over 50 million people worldwide have epilepsy, but only two-thirds respond to medication. For those with drug-resistant epilepsy, treatment options are limited and often ineffective. MIR Therapeutics is developing a new gene therapy to provide lasting and powerful seizure control for drug-resistant epilepsy patients. Their therapy delivers microRNA-335 to the affected brain regions using an AAV9 viral vector, which helps control hyperexcitability by regulating voltage-gated sodium channels. This results in fewer and less severe seizures.

Audaxis Medical revolutionizes the treatment of stress urinary incontinence with Plielle™, a next-generation polyurethane support system. While traditional polypropylene slings often lead to chronic inflammation and tissue complications, Plielle™ offers a safer alternative by replicating the native structure and viscoelastic properties of the pelvic floor. By providing a high-performance, biocompatible solution that integrates seamlessly with human tissue, Audaxis aims to improve clinical outcomes and restore patient confidence, filling a critical gap in women’s healthcare.

Nilocas offers a revolutionary solution for detecting coronary artery disease non-invasively and without radiation. Patients wear a lightweight chest patch that captures the sounds of turbulent blood flow through arteries using microphones and accelerometers. Advanced machine learning and AI rapidly analyze the data, providing a clear diagnosis in just 10 minutes. This innovation eliminates the need for costly and invasive procedures, making cardiac diagnosis more accessible in both clinical and non-clinical settings.

Sigilla Medical is developing an innovative, implant-free radiofrequency device designed to close PFOs (patent foramen ovale) in stroke-risk patients. PFOs are associated with cryptogenic stroke and migraine, and current treatment involves placing a large metal device that spans the septum of the heart in an otherwise young and healthy patient. Sigilla’s device offers a safer, more efficient alternative by using controlled radiofrequency to seal the PFO without the need for implants. This less-invasive approach reduces procedural risk and adverse cardiac events while leaving options open for future minimally invasive procedures.

MindAffect is redefining what’s possible in diagnostics. By harnessing Brain-Computer Interface technology and AI, we can “read” how the brain reacts to sound and visual stimuli—objectively, in real time, and without requiring a single response from the patient. At the core is our patented and clinically validated Rapid CAEP® technology, which captures the brain’s automatic reactions. This breakthrough allows clinicians to diagnose patients who would otherwise be difficult or impossible to test—such as infants, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. In a world where over two billion people are underserved by current diagnostic methods, this changes everything. Our first product, Sofi, is the world’s fastest objective hearing diagnostic system, delivering accurate hearing thresholds in minutes. Sofi has been validated in leading hospitals, championed by key opinion leaders across the audiology community, and recognized globally—winning the Innovation Award at the World Congress of Audiology