The NLC Health Impact Fund

Spinal cord Injury represents a large unmet medical need with approximately 1.2M new cases per year resulting mainly from motor vehicle accidents, falls and water related accidents. Currently available treatments only offer symptomatic relief but do not target the underlying pathophysiologic changes. The spinal cord injury market is predicted to reach US$3B by 2025. MLP-1236 is a First in class dual inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) 9 and MMP 12 and has already completed Phase 1 and Phase 2a clinical studies. In preclinical models, MLP-1236 was effective in preventing/reversing the neurodegeneration associated with spinal cord injury and ischemic stroke.

FlowView Diagnostics addresses the challenge of analyzing complex cell data from blood samples using multiparameter flow cytometry, vital for conditions like leukemia monitoring. They tackle this with an algorithm that quickly processes raw data, detecting Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) more accurately and rapidly than manual methods. In a case study, the algorithm analyzed 8 million cells in 2 minutes, presenting simplified results for quicker interpretation, reducing the risk of false negatives, and enhancing efficiency in leukemia monitoring.

The rising number of surgeries in healthcare systems like the National Health Service is challenging due to increasing demand and backlogs. However, new solutions like the Asclepius Platform aim to streamline assessments before and after surgery using digital tools and AI. By analyzing patient data, it helps doctors make better decisions, reduce complications, and improve patient outcomes. Designed with input from patients, it's a cost-effective way to make surgery safer and more efficient.

Foveo Fertility addresses the challenge of improving in vitro fertilization (IVF) success rates by providing a stable physiological environment for egg cells. Unlike current methods that expose egg cells to air, leading to cooling and evaporation, Foveo Fertility ensures consistent conditions for optimal egg cell quality. This innovation also streamlines workflow in the IVF lab, reducing human error and saving time for embryologists. With no other product on the market offering constant physiological conditions for egg cells, Foveo Fertility aims to improve the lives of both lab workers and patients by maximizing the potential for successful pregnancies.

Neurolieve Biosciences, a pre-clinical stage company, is developing Fc2-13 GalR2, an innovative bioengineered protein (FC fusion protein) targeting neuropathic pain. Peripheral Neuropathy, a debilitating condition affecting millions, damages the peripheral nervous system, causing severe discomfort and lowering quality of life. The fusion protein reduces peripheral neuron excitability, providing pain relief. After successful in vitro and in vivo validations, the company is advancing towards GLP toxicology studies completion.

StarTric, created by cardiovascular experts, developed a new, less invasive device to fix a serious heart valve problem, Tricuspid Regurgitation (TR). Addressing Tricuspid Regurgitation (TR), a severe condition with high mortality rates, StarTric's device offers a safer alternative to open-heart surgery. The technology can be implanted via a transfemoral catheter, combining the safety of minimally invasive methods with the proven efficacy of the Clover technique, aiming to provide effective treatment to millions of TR patients worldwide who currently lack suitable options.

SERDA presents a solution for wound debridement, particularly useful for burn wounds and chronic wounds like diabetic foot ulcers. Traditional debridement methods can be expensive, painful, or less effective. SERDA offers an enzymatic debrider in the form of a hydrogel that selectively breaks down necrotic tissue, leaving healthy tissue intact, promoting faster healing with minimal discomfort for the patient. SERDA aims to improve the efficiency and ease of wound care, providing a more effective alternative to existing options.

Laparoscopic surgery, while effective, faces limitations in low-resource areas due to cost and sustainability concerns associated with CO2 insufflation. Gasless laparoscopy provides an alternative, that are costly and difficult to use. To address these challenges, LORESA has developed an affordable and user-friendly gasless laparoscopy retractor, designed with input from surgeons worldwide, offering improved usability and cost-effectiveness. This innovation, aims to democratize laparoscopic techniques, benefiting rural hospitals and developing communities.