Keisuke, can you please explain your value proposition involving the acceleration of genome analysis through semiconductor technology?
Our core value proposition is the significant acceleration of genome analysis by harnessing the power of semiconductors.
Our innovative device incorporates a chip that drastically speeds up the computation required for DNA genome analysis. This advancement is crucial given the exponential growth in sequencing data, which, while it has become cheaper to generate, requires substantial computational resources to be meaningful for diagnostics or drug discovery.
Traditionally, analyzing DNA sequencing data necessitated outsourcing or the use of supercomputers, a process that could take weeks and was prohibitively expensive. Our device, however, completes the analysis in just five minutes and at a fraction of the cost. We estimate that our approach makes DNA analysis up to a hundred times cheaper, thereby making it both faster and more accessible for diagnostic and drug discovery purposes.
Is your technology applicable to all types of DNA analysis?
Currently, our device is specialized for analyzing the human whole genome. While it could be adapted for other species, this would require customization. The foundation of our rapid and efficient analysis capabilities is the semiconductor technology, which utilizes an innovative algorithm inspired by astronomical patterns and parallel computing to enhance the speed of DNA calculations.
Could you provide insights into the semiconductor technology that is the foundation of your device?
Our semiconductor technology is inspired by the dynamics of astronomy, where the movement and interaction of planets and stars are akin to parallel calculations in computing. By applying these mathematical principles to semiconductor-based parallel computing, we have developed a unique algorithm that significantly speeds up DNA analysis.
Are there any competitors using semiconductor technology for DNA analysis?
Yes, companies like Illumina are also employing semiconductor technology for DNA analysis, achieving results in around 30 minutes. While their solution is effective, it is notably more expensive than ours. Our device not only outpaces such solutions in terms of speed, completing analyses in five minutes, but also in cost-efficiency, offering a dramatically cheaper alternative.
What was the genesis of your company, Mitate Zepto Technica?
The company was founded on a collaboration between myself, with a background in semiconductor and medical devices, and an astronomy professor specializing in parallel computing. Our discussions about leveraging our combined expertise for DNA calculations sparked the idea for our business, aiming to contribute a novel solution to the field.
What are your strategic reasons for attending the Biocom California conference?
Attending the Biocom California conference in San Diego, known for its prominence in biotechnology and bioinformatics, was a strategic move to stay abreast of industry trends and connect with potential investors. Our goal is to secure investment to further develop and eventually launch our product, with a particular interest in forming partnerships with U.S.-based venture capitalists.
What are the next steps for your technology, and when do you plan to launch it?
Our technology is still in the prototype phase, with a target launch date in the first quarter of 2025. The immediate focus is on securing substantial investment to transition from development to market launch, aiming to introduce our groundbreaking device to the healthcare and research industries.
