Biolux Research

About Biolux Research

Biolux Research, founded in 2003 by Dr. Peter Brawn, is a medical device company focused on developing light-based technologies for the dental and orthodontic markets. Initially based in Vancouver, Canada, the company has since established headquarters in Fremont, California, and Geneva, Switzerland, reflecting its global commercialization efforts. Over the years, Biolux has had several leaders, including Kevin Strange and David Thrower, with Marcel Pordes currently serving as CEO. A significant milestone in the company's history was securing $14 million in a Series A funding round in 2019, led by Venrock and Correlation Ventures. More recently, in 2024, the company raised approximately $4.5 million in seed funding to further develop its digital platform and expand operations. On January 1, 2021, Biolux Research was acquired by LLLT Technologies.

The company's core business revolves around photobiomodulation (PBM), a therapy that uses low levels of near-infrared light to stimulate bone and tissue regeneration. This technology is embodied in its flagship product, OrthoPulse®, a medical device designed to accelerate orthodontic treatment and reduce associated pain. OrthoPulse® is intended for patients undergoing treatment with either traditional braces or clear aligners. The device consists of a soft silicone mouthpiece that the patient uses for a short daily session, typically 10 minutes. The near-infrared light stimulates the bone surrounding the teeth, facilitating faster movement and potentially reducing overall treatment time by up to 50%. The product is cleared by the FDA in the U.S. and has received regulatory approvals in Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Biolux Research's business model targets both orthodontic professionals and their patients. The company sells the OrthoPulse® device to orthodontic practices, which then offer it to patients as a way to enhance their treatment experience. To support this, Biolux provides a digital platform that includes an iOS app for patients to track their usage and a doctor portal for real-time monitoring of treatment progress. This integrated system aims to improve patient compliance and provide orthodontists with valuable data. The company has actively promoted its technology through partnerships, such as its collaboration with the Schulman Study Group, a nationally-recognized association of orthodontic practices. Another of the company's developments, the OsseoPulse™ Bone Regeneration System, received an honourable mention in the red dot product design award in 2010.