VB Spine Funds Landmark Research to Deliver the First Predictive Blood Test for Scoliosis in Adolescents

The partnership will fund the next phase of Dr. Alain Moreau’s research, advancing the groundbreaking scoliosis diagnostic predictor test toward commercialization

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--VB Spine LLC (“VB Spine”), a global, family-owned spine company, today announced that it has entered a partnership to fund research of molecular genetics affecting pediatric scoliosis. The research will be conducted by Dr. Alain Moreau of the Centre de recherche Azrieli du CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Canada.

“VB Spine’s mission is specifically centered around the patient: Everything starts with the patient, inspiring us to redefine spine care,” said Marc Viscogliosi, co-CEO of VB Spine, speaking on behalf of his brothers and fellow co-CEOs Anthony and John Viscogliosi. “The trailblazing research that Dr. Moreau is conducting brings that mission to life by allowing doctors the ability to intervene earlier in a patient’s journey and greatly reducing the need for critical care later in life.”

Dr. Moreau’s research began in 2001 with a focus on understanding the biological mechanisms behind idiopathic scoliosis and identifying whether biomarkers present in patient blood could help predict spinal deformity progression. Initial clinical studies launched in 2006 successfully demonstrated proof of concept, and subsequent peer-reviewed research has continued to validate the underlying science. The next phase of the project is expected to focus on further clinical validation, FDA submission, and eventual commercialization of the predictive diagnostic test.

As part of its mission to accelerate the development of high-potential innovations, Axelys played a key role in structuring and securing the agreement, helping ensure the continuation of strategic funding provided by Quebec’s Ministère de l’Économie, de l’Innovation et de l’Énergie (MEIE). “This agreement reflects the rigor of our support in technology transfer and intellectual property, while enabling a promising Quebec innovation to reach a key milestone toward international commercialization,” said Jesse Vincent-Herscovici, President and CEO of Axelys.

“We are on the threshold of what could become the first truly predictive test to identify children at risk of developing severe scoliosis, opening the door to earlier interventions,” said Dr. Moreau. “I am excited about this strategic alliance with VB Spine. It reflects a bold and forward-looking vision and long-standing commitment to bringing transformative innovations to patients.”

In its agreement with the Centre de recherche Azrieli du CHU Sainte-Justine, Axelys, and the Ministère de l’Économie, de l’Innovation et de l’Énergie (MEIE) of Quebec, VB Spine will receive exclusive worldwide license to commercialize and distribute any predictive scoliosis tests derived from Dr. Moreau's scoliosis research.

Forward-looking statements

Certain statements in this release are forward-looking and are based on current expectations, forecasts, and assumptions. Actual results may differ materially due to regulatory, commercial, and operational risks. VB Spine disclaims any obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by law.

About VB Spine

VB Spine LLC is the largest privately held spine company and among the largest family-owned medical technology companies in the world. With a comprehensive product portfolio and a large and growing global distribution network, VB Spine delivers specialized solutions that address critical needs in spine surgery and enhance patient outcomes. Focused on people, partnerships and operational excellence, VB Spine ensures healthcare professionals have access to the tools and resources needed to provide the highest standard of care. VB Spine is owned and led by the Viscogliosi Brothers. For more information on VB Spine, please visit www.vbspineco.com.

About Axelys

Axelys is a non-profit organization whose mission is to contribute to the economic and social prosperity of Quebec by accelerating the development and transfer of high-potential innovations stemming from public research. Axelys offers consulting and support services in development, intellectual property management and innovation transfer to all public research institutions in Quebec, in all regions. In addition, Axelys contributes to the creation of scientific companies spun off from public research.

About The Centre de recherche Azrieli du CHU Sainte‑Justine

The Centre de recherche Azrieli du CHU Sainte-Justine is a leading mother-child health research institution affiliated with the Université de Montréal. It is an integral part of CHU Sainte-Justine, the largest mother-child health centre in Canada. Driven by a passion for excellence, it aims to develop true precision health by leveraging the full potential of data and of the most advanced technologies. It brings together 298 research investigators, including more than 170 clinician-scientists, and over 700 graduate and postgraduate students, all focused on advancing knowledge, finding innovative means for prevention, developing faster and less invasive diagnostic methods and treatments, and optimizing patients’ care trajectories. recherche.chusj.org

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