Reproductive Health Science is developing advanced prenatal screening
technology, invented by biomedical researchers in South Australia, for
worldwide use.
The company’s first product is a diagnostic test or microarray, which detects chromosomal abnormalities in fetal DNA. The test works by comparing the number of fetal chromosomes with healthy reference chromosomes. The detection of extra chromosomes can indicate conditions such as Down Syndrome.
Compared with existing tests, the microarray is simpler, faster, more comprehensive and less invasive because it can test a much smaller sample of amniotic fluid, which reduces risk to both mother and baby. The test will be used by pathology laboratories in Australia and overseas, predominantly in Europe and North America.
RHS was founded in 2003 as a spinout company from the University of Adelaide. It is commercialising technology originated by the University’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
The company has received over $1 million in grants from the Australian Federal and South Australian State Governments in addition to $1.5 million in venture capital investment. It has four shareholders: Adelaide Research and Innovation, the commercialisation arm of the University of Adelaide; the South Australian Life Sciences Advancement Fund, Playford Capital and angel investor Single Cell Pty Ltd.
The chairman of the RHS board is Bob Finder, recognised internationally as an industry leader, with more than 30 years’ experience in the biopharmaceutical and chemical industries.
Today, RHS has a team experienced in product development and project management and continues to draw on South Australia’s reputation for excellence in the field of biomedical research.
“We are developing local, home-grown technology with worldwide application to provide career opportunities for South Australians. At the BioSA Incubator we are part of a dynamic bioscience community, building skills and sharing know-how.”
- Michelle Fraser, CEO
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Bio Innovation SA
Level 15/33
King William Street
Adelaide SA 5000
Australia
Phone:61 8 8217 6400
Fax:61 8 8217 6416
