TrivarX Raises $4.2M to Fund Phase 1 Trial of Stabl-Im Brain Cancer Diagnostic
TrivarX Limited has announced the acquisition of Stabl-Im, a novel stable isotope MRI technology for early brain tumor detection, backed by a $4.2 million capital raise including investment from biotech leader Dr Daniel Tillett.
- Acquisition of Stabl-Im brain tumor imaging IP from Nucleics
- Technology enables early, safe detection of brain metastases via standard MRI
- $4.2 million placement led by Dr Daniel Tillett as cornerstone investor
- Phase 1 clinical trial planned for 2026 to validate safety and imaging precision
- Strategic expansion into high-growth neuro-oncology diagnostic market
TrivarX Moves Into Neuro-Oncology Diagnostics
TrivarX Limited (ASX, TRI) has taken a significant step to broaden its footprint in neurological and oncology diagnostics by entering into a binding option agreement to acquire the intellectual property behind Stabl-Im, a pioneering brain tumor imaging technology developed by Nucleics Pty Ltd. This acquisition aligns with TrivarX’s ambition to leverage innovative diagnostic platforms that can transform patient outcomes in high-value markets.
The Promise of Stabl-Im Technology
Stabl-Im represents a potential breakthrough in the early and safe detection of brain metastases, which affect up to 20% of adult cancer patients and currently have limited treatment options. Unlike conventional MRI scans that detect tumors only after they reach 2-3mm in size, Stabl-Im uses stable isotope labelling to highlight replicating cells within the brain; an activity absent in healthy tissue but indicative of tumor growth. This method offers a non-invasive, radiation-free approach that could enable clinicians to identify and monitor brain cancers much earlier than before.
Backing from Industry Leaders and Capital Markets
The acquisition is supported by a $4.2 million capital raise through a placement of 525 million shares at $0.008 each. Notably, Dr Daniel Tillett, founder and CEO of Nucleics and Managing Director of Race Oncology Limited, has committed $500,000 as a cornerstone investor, underscoring his confidence in the technology’s potential. TrivarX’s directors have also pledged $200,000, subject to shareholder approval. The funds will be directed towards finalising the acquisition, manufacturing stable isotope compounds, regulatory engagement, and initiating clinical trials.
Clinical Development and Regulatory Pathway
TrivarX plans to commence a Phase 1 clinical trial in calendar year 2026 to evaluate the safety, imaging precision, and reproducibility of the Stabl-Im platform in patients with confirmed brain tumors. This trial will be a critical milestone, with successful completion potentially triggering the conversion of performance shares issued as deferred consideration. The company is also preparing for regulatory submissions in key markets including the US and Europe, with ongoing technical support from Dr Tillett and Nucleics.
Strategic Implications and Market Opportunity
The global neuro-oncology imaging market is projected to exceed US$2.5 billion by 2030, driven by rising incidence of brain metastases and demand for earlier intervention technologies. Stabl-Im’s unique capability to detect tumor replication non-invasively positions TrivarX to disrupt this growing sector. The acquisition complements TrivarX’s existing diagnostic portfolio, which includes mental health screening technologies, and signals a strategic pivot towards precision neuro-oncology diagnostics.
Bottom Line?
TrivarX’s acquisition of Stabl-Im and the upcoming clinical trial mark a pivotal moment in its evolution, with the potential to reshape brain cancer diagnostics and unlock new market opportunities.
Questions in the middle?
- How will TrivarX navigate regulatory hurdles in the US and EU for Stabl-Im approval?
- What are the timelines and success probabilities for the Phase 1 and Phase 2 clinical trials?
- How might competitors respond to Stabl-Im’s early detection capabilities in the neuro-oncology market?