https://bio.nikkeibp.co.jp/atcl/news/p1/23/08/29/11028/
https://carbgem.com/en/
The startup CarbGem uses AI and other technologies to test for infectious disease. The company now has developed a compact automated Gram staining device called PoCGS-iE. In addition to research institutions, the company will also sell the product to food companies, livestock farms, and other companies with a need to confirm bacterial species. The company also intends to obtain Class I medical device certification in 2024. Once certified as a medical device, the product will be marketed to medical institutions.
Gram staining is a method of classifying or estimating the type of bacteria by staining them with two different colored stains using the differences in the cell wall structure of the bacteria species. Gram-positive bacteria are stained purple and Gram-negative bacteria are stained red. In the past, glass slides coated with specimens were prepared and stained manually through multiple processes, including fixation, staining, decolorization, rinsing, and drying. Manual staining takes about 10 minutes in most cases, depending on the skill level and individual skill level.
With the compact automated Gram staining system developed by CurveGen, a stained specimen is ready in about 5 to 6 minutes after a single glass slide is set in the system.
CarbGem is developing a programmed medical device that uses AI to determine the type of bacteria. The device uses AI to determine and estimate Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and bacterial species from Gram-stained images. The company also aims to develop services to support other testing processes for infectious diseases in the future.