TissueInformatics

About TissueInformatics

TissueInformatics, Inc. operates at the intersection of bioinformatics and pathology, providing quantitative analysis of tissue micro-arrays. The company was established in Pittsburgh in 1997 by a team including physician Peter C. Johnson, who recognized the potential of applying computational analysis to microscopic tissue samples. Other founders include Daniel L. Farkas, MaryDel Brady, and Michael Becich.

The firm specializes in developing automated pathology software for the quantitative analysis of tissue changes. This technology enables the automated screening of pathology slides to identify and quantify changes in over 43 different tissues, a critical function in the drug discovery process. By combining digital imaging with gene expression data, TissueInformatics offers deeper insights into how genes influence disease, serving clients in the drug discovery and tissue engineering sectors. For instance, the company developed software for a tissue engineering firm to automate the quality control of its engineered skin products by analyzing cell numbers, distribution, and overall skin structure.

TissueInformatics' business model centered on providing cell and tissue analysis services to pharmaceutical companies, helping them identify signs of benefit or toxicity in tissues exposed to experimental drugs. The company raised a total of $12.5 million over two funding rounds, with a notable Series B round on January 24, 2002. The company was later reported as being acqui-hired in a deal dated March 12, 2004.