Cancer cells spread through the circulatory system as “circulating tumor cells” (CTCs) and represent unique diagnostic targets. CTCs are released from primary tumors into blood circulation and then lodge at distant organs to initiate new cancer growth. Thus circulating tumor cells constitute the major cause for mortality among cancer patients. Recent advancements in detection and characterization of CTCs can have a significant impact on early cancer detection. For instance, the quantization of CTCs can be used for prognosis of the outcomes of metastatic diseases. In another example, identification of cancer stem cells, a subpopulation of CTCs believed to be tumorigenic, can be used for identifying metastasis and recurrence of disease.
Our mission is to provide oncologists and pathologists with better diagnostics tools for measuring and monitoring circulating tumor cells. By doing so, physicians will be able to determine effectiveness of therapy and thus save lives.
IVDiagnostics was formed to develop, test and market more effective diagnostic tools for addressing rare circulating tumor cells and blood borne diseases. By collaborating with several academic and commercial partners, the company has accelerated its research and development.
Within a short period of time, IVDiagnostics has assembled a team of researchers, scientists, medical advisors, scientific advisors and clinicians -- all passionate about moving toward personalized medicine and focused on assisting physicians with the knowledge of ''what's inside" the body, and providing the ability to monitor the patient's circulatory system with minimally invasive techniques.