Unleashing the Power of Innovation: Pioneering Breakthroughs in Endometriosis Research
Your Weekly Shortcut to Deeptech Investing—Exclusive Trends & Startup Reports for VCs & Angels in Just 5 Minutes
By Sarah Brunet Amouyal, Deeptech Expert
What is going on?
In May 2023, the 15th World Congress of Endometriosis took place in Edinburgh, Scotland. This global event provided a valuable platform to explore the latest advancements and trends in diagnosing and treating this condition, offering an opportunity to review and acquire knowledge in the field.
What does it mean?
What is endometriosis and why is it a widely discussed topic?
Endometriosis is a condition characterized by the growth of tissue similar to the lining of the uterus outside of the uterus itself. It affects approximately 1 in 10 menstruating women, which amounts to 200 million women worldwide, as stated by the World Health Organization (WHO). Endometriosis can occur in women of all age groups, including teenagers.
The exact cause of endometriosis remains unknown, and there are no known preventive measures. While there is no cure for the condition, its symptoms can be managed through medication or, in certain cases, surgical intervention. Recurring pelvic pain is a prominent symptom associated with endometriosis.
One of the primary complications of endometriosis is difficulty conceiving or infertility. Approximately one-third of women experiencing infertility have endometriosis, and among those with the condition, around 40% face challenges in conceiving.
Furthermore, endometriosis has significant implications on social, public health, and economic aspects. It can significantly diminish the quality of life due to severe pain, fatigue, depression, and anxiety.
Currently, endometriosis remains inadequately understood, as reflected by the average diagnosis time of 7.5 years from the onset of symptoms. However, research efforts are striving to catch up and expand our understanding of this complex condition.
How is the diagnosis carried out?
The diagnosis of endometriosis is established through a combination of clinical examination, ultrasound, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These diagnostic tools help assess the severity of the disease and determine its extent.
What are the current treatment options?
There is a range of medications available to manage endometriosis and alleviate its symptoms:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and analgesics (painkillers) such as ibuprofen and naproxen are used to treat pain associated with the condition.
Hormonal medications, such as GnRH-antagonists and contraceptive methods, are employed to help control pain and hormonal imbalances commonly associated with endometriosis.
Surgery is another treatment option and is performed to alleviate pain, restrict the progression of the disease by removing endometriosis lesions, adhesions, and scar tissues, and sometimes to improve fertility. However, it's important to note that the recurrence rate after surgery is approximately 1 in 5 women.
Surgical procedures are typically carried out using minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy or laparotomy, which utilize advanced medical devices such as the HICURA Laparoscopic Hand Instruments by Olympus, Harmonic Scalpel by Johnson and Johnson, and Ligasure by Medtronic.
The choice of treatment depends on individual preferences, effectiveness, potential side effects, long-term safety considerations, costs, and availability of the treatment options.
Why does it matter?
💸For markets: exciting market expansion is anticipated as novel innovations continue to emerge in the field.
According to the allied market report, the global market for endometriosis reached a value of $1.22 billion in 2022, and it is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.5% from 2022 to 2030.
In 2022, the pain medication segment accounted for a revenue share of 15.16%. Meanwhile, the hormone therapy segment is projected to experience a CAGR of 13.99% throughout the forecast period.
Key players in the endometriosis treatment market are actively pursuing strategic initiatives such as new product launches, collaborations, and mergers and acquisitions. These efforts are expected to further stimulate market growth. For instance, in February 2022, Theramex and ObsEva SA announced a strategic licensing agreement aimed at supporting the commercialization and expansion of Linzagolix in the global market.
Some of the major players in the endometriosis treatment market include:
🧑🏿🤝🧑🏻For society: innovative startups are witnessing the recognition and significance of their contributions in the field of endometriosis.
We are well aware of the severity of this condition, which affects a significant population of women. Currently, research is striving to catch up and address the challenges associated with it. Let's now shift our focus to innovative startups in the field of endometriosis.
Startups revolutionizing diagnosis:
Ziwig, a French startup, has introduced Ziwig Endotest®, an in vitro diagnostic device designed for healthcare professionals. It enables the diagnosis of endometriosis using a saliva sample. Their groundbreaking technology earned them the prestigious Galien Prize in 2022.
DotLab, a US-based company, specializes in developing advanced diagnostic tests for women's health conditions, including endometriosis. They are currently working on a blood-based test that can identify specific biomarkers related to endometriosis. This less invasive and more accurate diagnostic tool has the potential to revolutionize diagnosis in the field.
Luna offers LunaEndoScore®, the first diagnostic app for endometriosis. This innovative tool calculates a risk score based on a questionnaire, allowing individuals to assess their probability of having endometriosis. Developed over 15 years of research and development, this CE-certified medical device provides valuable guidance for appropriate treatment with a sensitivity of 84% and specificity of 94%.
Matricis.ai employs machine learning algorithms to advance endometriosis research. They collaborate with radiologists to create medical-grade applications that enhance diagnostic accuracy and make the expertise of leading specialists accessible to all patients, thereby saving time and reducing medical errors.
Startups transforming care:
Lucine, a French startup, offers Endocare® treatment, a stand-alone software medical device. It consists of a mobile application and a virtual reality (VR) headset accessory. Endocare® treatment helps alleviate pain in patients with endometriosis, providing a potential alternative to hormonal therapy or surgery for women who desire to conceive.
IceCure Medical Ltd., an Israeli startup, has developed the ProSense® System, a minimally invasive cryoablation technology. Surgeons use this innovative technology to achieve Pain-Free After Percutaneous Image-Guided Cryoablation of Extraperitoneal Endometriosis. Cryoablation offers a less invasive alternative to surgery, with surgical procedures only performed if cryoablation fails. Published studies in March 2023 demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach in avoiding the progression of endometriosis and reducing symptoms.
Lyv, an informative app designed for patients, aims to improve the lives of women suffering from endometriosis. The app provides evidence-based patient information, multidisciplinary self-management tools, and empowerment resources. Created by patients for patients, and developed in collaboration with medical experts in endometriosis, Lyv aims to enhance the daily lives of individuals living with endometriosis and contribute to scientific research on the condition.
🔮What’s next?
Presently, these startups aim to achieve faster and more accurate diagnoses of the disease, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for women. Here are the latest treatments available in the market:
ORILISSA® (Elagolix, GnRH antagonist) developed by Neurocrine Biosciences and AbbVie.
MYFEMBREE® (relugolix, estradiol, and norethindrone acetate) from Myovant Sciences and Pfizer.
Furthermore, several other treatments are currently undergoing clinical trials:
Evotec and Bayer are progressing with their third endometriosis program, which has entered Phase I clinical development.
A medication called dichloroacetate is being evaluated in clinical trials in the UK, and researchers are optimistic about its potential as a new treatment option.
Endometriosis is a highly intricate and diverse disease, and there remains a significant unmet medical need for innovative therapies, especially considering its impact on 1 in 10 women worldwide.
✨ That’s all for today. Thanks for reading !
💖Like, follow and subscribe to our Community ! Stay tuned for our next article coming up next week with our Deeptech Trends Newsletter.
Much love Deeptechers!👋
🤔 Did we miss something? Write us BELOW or directly at info@deeptechcommunity.com.