Bulletin No. 1, 2023

Where the MagIC Happens MagIC is determined to harness and empower microbiome into cutting- edge innovations that will transform lives of patients and their families. We are committed to developing novel classes of microbiome diagnostics and therapeutics that will accelerateHong Kong into aworld-classmicrobiome biotechnologyhub. Professor Ng Siew Chien Director of Microbiota I-Center “ ” company. With the university structured to provide education rather than create independent companies, carving out a spinoff requires persistence. “Commercialisation and entrepreneurship are buzzwords—execution is the real challenge,” Professor Chan says. In October 2022, the team launched the GenieBiome Molecular and Microbiome Laboratory in Wan Chai to provide novel gut-microbe diagnostics. The lab’s initial focus is to run a stool-sample test that can provide early detection warning for colon cancer. Colorectal cancer is the No. 2 source* of cancer deaths in Hong Kong, behind only lung cancer. But all too often colon cancer is only detected in the late stages, when it is very difficult to treat and often little can be done. The testing is earlier and quicker to detect cancer. It’s also less-invasive and considerably cheaper than a colonoscopy. There’s also scope to use the lab to test for childhood maladies, since getting a stool sample from an infant or child is far easier than drawing blood or other invasive measures. The lab, using technology licensed from CUHK, also has a second arm working on therapeutics, to augment the diagnostics side. “Commercialisation is not just about profit, it’s about turning your ideas into something that can benefit society,” Professor Chan says. GenieBiome now has a staff of more than 100. Its Wan Chai lab augments its operations in mainland China, Singapore and Malaysia, while it also has expansion to the UK and the US in mind. *Centre for Health Protection (2022), Colorectal Cancer . Department of Health. Hong Kong government, <https:/ www.chp.gov.hk/en/ healthtopics/content/25/51.html>. Envisioning a healthier future 21