Clarapath, a medical robotics startup transforming how researchers process tissues in laboratories using modern technology, has secured $36 million in a series B1 funding round to advance its innovative laboratory automation technology to commercialization.
Founded in 2014 by Partha Mitra, Ph.D, Clarapath’s latest round was spearheaded by Northwell Ventures, with significant support from strategic investors CU Healthcare Innovation Fund, Ochsner Ventures, and Mayo Clinic.
To date, the company has raised a total of $75 million. Part of the latest capital set to support laboratory process consolidation in the future.
Robotics and Automated Systems in Pathology
Clarapath has developed a technology platform that helps laboratories automate prior steps to provide consistent results and the best samples for diagnostic review. Known as SectionStar, the company’s platform provides an all-in-one tissue sectioning and transfer system.
According to Clarapath, the system (pending US launch) can significantly reduce turnaround time, boost capacity, and improve reliability without the need for highly skilled labor. The new automation and digital tools also help capture and aggregate new data, delivering results quickly with less subjectivity.
This new technology is a game-changer in digital pathology, which involves microscopic examination of cells and tissues. It underpins research, diagnosis, and treatment pathways for critical illnesses, including autoimmune conditions, cancer, degenerative diseases, and more.
Due to the persistent staff shortage in healthcare across the United States, automated systems, and robotics have been deployed to help plug the gap while also improving workflow, consistency, efficiency, and accuracy.
However, most of the existing laboratory automation tools and systems focus on physical rehabilitation and surgical robots.
With the new capital, Clarapath aims to be the first US company to develop and deploy a new category of machine vision, digital automation tools, and healthcare robotics focusing on improving laboratory processes— a critical part of patient care often overlooked.