Calcivis announced that it has received a Biomedical Catalyst award and also raised 800,000 pounds ($1.11 million) in equity funding. The award and new investment will support further clinical development work as the company prepares to commercialize its Calcivis caries activity imaging system, which was recently granted the European CE Mark.
The Calcivis system is designed to aid in the assessment and management of dental caries. It involves a proprietary bioluminescence approach, combined with a specialized imaging device that allows accurate detection and visualization of demineralization by imaging free calcium ions at the tooth surface; a caries lesion that is actively demineralizing is more likely to progress and lead to cavitation.
The Calcivis system is an in-clinic device that combines a sensitive intraoral camera and application technology to deliver a precise amount of disclosing solution, containing a photoprotein, onto the tooth surface. The photoprotein binds calcium ions and emits a blue light signal proportional to the amount of calcium present. This sensitive chemiluminescent system produces a demineralization map of the tooth. The resulting images provide a focus for discussion with patients about their caries management program and the development of a tailored, rational, evidence-based treatment in line with dental best practice, according to the company.
