$1 billion Chinese Startup iCarbonX gets Funding Boost for Predictive Medicine Technology
Arthur Dominic Villasanta | | Jul 21, 2016 09:54 AM EDT |
(Photo : Getty Images) Wang Jun, founder of iCarbonX
Shenzhen-based unicorn startup iCarbonX has received a $45 million investment from financial services firm China Bridge Capital.
China Bridge Capital also plans to establish a $1.5 billion special purpose investment fund to acquire precision healthcare assets to be developed by iCarbonX, a health data mining startup based on artificial intelligence (AI) founded in 2015 by Wang Jun.
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In October 2015, iCarbonX was valued at $1 billion following a series A round led by Tencent Holdings Ltd., making it only one of three Chinese healthcare startups with a $1 billion or higher valuation.
Wang, who founded genome sequencing firm Beijing Genomic Institute (BGI) before establishing iCarbonX, said his new firm will use AI to mine big data so individuals can better manage their health. The result will be what's called "predictive medicine technology."
"I'm trying to build a crystal ball," said Wang. "By analyzing all the data that we can get our hands on, we will be able to see more clearly to predict what might happen to your body in the future."
What he wants is to build Building a "predictive digital avatar" for all his clients. This "virtual you" will contain data derived from an individual's biological biological samples such as saliva, proteins and DNA.
Added to this data will be environmental measurements such as air quality and lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise. This data will be analyzed by iCarbonX algorithms so the company can recommend tailor-made wellness programs, food choices and also prescription medicines. The system will make healthcare truly personal.
"By analyzing all the data that we can get our hands on, we will be able to see more clearly to predict what might happen to your body in the future," according to Wang.
Wang, who holds a PH.D in genomics, said the first commercial product of iCarbonX will be personalized cosmetics and skincare products. But before making these personalized products, iCarbonX will analyze samples before making tailored products (over-the-counter and prescription) for different skin conditions. The service is expected to launch by the end of this year.
TagsiCarbonX, Wang Jun, predictive medicine technology, Beijing Genomic Institute
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