CASCADE BIOSYSTEMS, INC.

Cascade Biosystems, Incorporated (CBI) has developed a novel molecular diagnostic platform for use at point of care or in the field for example for on-the-spot pathogen tests. Compared to Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), current gold standard for DNA target detection, CBI’s Restriction Cascade (RC) technology has the following advantages: - higher specificity (better selectivity and sensitivity), - test results within just 30 minutes to max 3 hours instead of days, - will only require a hand held device to read results. Technology: The RC technology is highly selective and sensitive by amplifying the signal instead of the DNA target, thus significantly reducing the time to generate test results. The major commercialization advantage RC has over PCR is that RC chemistry can be easily formatted to be used with inexpensive and easy-to-use field deployable kits. CBI will offer custom assay development and is seeking licensing and partnering opportunities. IP position: 6 patents have been granted so far: In October 2012 CBI was granted US/PCT patent 8,278,048 Detecting Nucleic Acid and since then 5 other U.S. patents and several foreign patents have been granted including a new platform patent covering all subsequent patents. Funding: In 2013 CBI was awarded a grant of $1m by Qatar National Research Foundation grant to develop a rapid and inexpensive assay to detect MRSA. CBI is founded by its founder Kenneth Smith and is currently seeking additional private funding to accelerate assay development and partnering initiatives as well as further R&D activities. CBI was founded by Dr. Maryia Smit and Kenneth Smith.