Tvaster Genkalp, a leading innovative molecular diagnostics startup, has raised $1.25 million in a Pre-Series A funding round led by Ideaspring Capital.
Existing investors include Invigo Softwares and Prof. Mohamed Rela, a globally renowned liver transplant surgeon.
The fresh investment will accelerate expansion and commercialisation of Episcreen Liver, a pioneering methylation-based liquid biopsy test for early liver cancer detection.
Co-founded in 2021 by Dr Srikar Raman and K Sreedurgalakshmi, Tvaster is transforming molecular diagnostics and precision oncology through advanced epigenetic screening technologies.
The company develops proprietary, high-accuracy genetic solutions, setting a new benchmark in non-invasive cancer detection.
Dr Srikar Raman, Co-founder of Tvaster Genkalp, said, “The funding will accelerate nationwide deployment of Episcreen™ Liver, offering a non-invasive, highly accurate diagnostic alternative for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of liver cancer.”
He further added that while Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), the current standard for HCC screening, has 50% sensitivity, Episcreen Liver achieves 90% sensitivity thus significantly improving early detection and increasing survival chances by over 70%.
To achieve this, Tvaster is forging partnerships with leading diagnostic companies.
Liver cancer is a rapidly growing global health concern, with over 900,000 new cases annually. In India, one in five adults suffer from Chronic Liver Disease (CLD) due to Fatty Liver Disease, Hepatitis B & C, Alcohol-related CLD, and other metabolic disorders. However the current diagnostics remain inadequate, reinforcing the need for high-accuracy, non-invasive alternatives.
K. Sreedurgalakshmi, Co-founder of Tvaster Genkalp, added, “True healthcare innovation lies in making a meaningful impact, transforming lives beyond technological advancements. Tvaster’s mission is to push the boundaries of genetic research and deliver life-saving solutions to those in need. The fundraise marks a pivotal step in transforming cancer detection and improving patient outcomes.”
Tvaster is also advancing its oncology diagnostics pipeline with Episcreen Bile, a novel test for Cholangiocarcinoma, an aggressive bile duct cancer with limited early detection options.
Additionally, the company has developed Episcreen™ HBResist, the first-ever chemotherapy resistance test for pediatric hepatoblastoma, addressing a critical gap in childhood cancer treatment.
“We see immense potential in Tvaster’s approach, not just for initial diagnosis but also for monitoring recurrence in patients undergoing treatment. Their liquid biopsy test, Episcreen Liver, has been developed and validated using over 600 patient samples, achieving 90% sensitivity and specificity for detecting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Early detection can significantly improve the survival rates and ensure patients receive curative treatment early on. Ideaspring is very excited to partner with Srikar and Durga scale Tvaster.” Naganand Doraiswany, MD at Ideaspring Capital said.
Tvaster’s potential beyond early diagnosis, emphasisss its ability to enable recurrence monitoring and treatment response evaluation. With 90% accuracy, its liquid biopsy test is a game-changer for cancer screening, and Ideaspring is eager to support Tvaster’s global healthcare expansion.
With this investment, Tvaster Genkalp is poised for significant growth and strengthening R&D efforts. The company remains focused on delivering next-generation cancer detection solutions, ensuring accessibility, affordability, and better health outcomes for all.
Source : Press Release
