Karna D Shinde has made a significant investment in Navaux, a company based in Arkansas, USA, which is set to transform early cancer detection and treatment monitoring through its blood test called ACTIVH.
India is rapidly emerging as a hub for healthtech innovations. The trend is highlighted by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s recent announcement in the Union Budget 2024-25, which offers relief to cancer patients by exempting three crucial cancer treatment medicines from customs duty. This policy change aims to improve access to essential treatments. Amidst this backdrop, “This investment will play a pivotal role in helping Navaux, a company specialising in early cancer detection technology, establish connections within the Indian healthcare industry as they prepare to introduce their cutting-edge solutions to the Indian market,” informs the statement.
Navaux’s ACTIVH test, developed from preclinical studies, can predict the onset of cancer up to 3-4 years in advance. This early detection capability enables individuals to make crucial lifestyle changes to potentially prevent the development of cancer.
“Furthermore, ACTIVH is a critical tool for patients undergoing cancer treatments, providing real-time insights into the efficacy of chemotherapy, radiation, or other therapies by monitoring Hepsin levels in the blood. A decrease in Hepsin levels indicates effective treatment, while an increase signals the need for alternative therapies,” the statement added.
Karna D Shinde remarked, “Determining aggressive cancer development before symptoms arise will lead to longer survival and a better quality of life for patients. Moreover, biomarkers like Hepsin offer the potential for future therapies that are more effective and produce fewer side effects.”
For over a decade, Hepsin has been recognised for its role in prostate cancer progression. Traditional detection methods, targeting the inactivated form of Hepsin, posed challenges. However, Navaux’s scientists have identified activated circulating Hepsin in bodily fluids, leading to the creation of the ACTIVH liquid biopsy. This test, now analytically validated, is used to detect early metastasis, stratify risk, and monitor treatment response.
Don Fowler, CEO of Navaux, emphasised the transformative impact of Karna’s investment. “Karna’s involvement goes beyond financial support. His insights, dedication, and hands-on approach have been invaluable to our growth.”
Navaux’s ACTIVH test, utilises a simple blood draw to detect elevated Hepsin levels, indicating the presence of tumours. This test not only aids in early detection but also provides insights into tumour characteristics and potential metastasis. “ACTIVH is more affordable and accessible than traditional methods, making proactive health management feasible for more individuals,” the statement added.
Navaux will also present the new pre-clinical and clinical data on the prognostic potential of circulating Hepsin at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR).