VitaPath Genetics

About VitaPath Genetics

VitaPath Genetics was a molecular diagnostics company focused on the emerging field of nutrigenomics, specifically the interplay between vitamin metabolism and an individual's genetic profile. The company was founded in 2009 by Bruce Cohen, Dennis Gilbert, and was based on the pioneering research of Dr. Jasper Rine and Dr. Nicholas Marini, which was exclusively licensed from the University of California, Berkeley. Dr. Rine, a professor at UC Berkeley, and Dr. Marini, a research scientist, co-authored research indicating that common genetic variations can impair enzyme function, and that these deficiencies could potentially be corrected with targeted vitamin supplementation.

The company's central thesis was that a "one-size-fits-all" approach to vitamin daily allowances, largely unchanged for decades, was outdated. VitaPath aimed to commercialize this insight by developing and performing genomic-based tests to identify individuals with vitamin-remediable genetic variants. The business operated in the personalized medicine and molecular diagnostics market, providing actionable genetic assays to healthcare providers and their patients. Revenue was to be generated from these diagnostic tests, which were performed in the company's own CLIA-certified and CAP-accredited clinical laboratory, ensuring high standards for clinical testing.

VitaPath's initial product was a genetic test to identify risk factors associated with spina bifida, a birth defect that can often be prevented with physician-prescribed high-dose folic acid therapy. This test was designed to help physicians identify women who would most benefit from such supplementation. The company secured significant venture backing, raising a total of $15.5 million over four rounds from investors including Mohr Davidow Ventures and XSeed Capital. A key milestone was a commercialization agreement with Alere Inc. in 2009 for its spina bifida test. Despite its promising start and solid scientific foundation, VitaPath Genetics is now considered a deadpooled company.