The rising prevalence of infectious diseases, increasing healthcare awareness, and a growing geriatric population have fuelled the growth of in vitro diagnostics market in Asia. As a result, the region is witnessing an increasing adoption of in vitro diagnostic tests. However, as the demand rises for accurate and rapid diagnostic solutions, there is a need for innovation and R&D to develop advanced diagnostic solutions that can improve accuracy and expand detection capabilities. In addition, there is a lack of standardization in different diagnostic settings, hindering seamless integration.
Helico leverages its 30 years of experience in the field to build innovative diagnostic products through research and development and elevate standardization. “We are a company driven by innovation, supported by a strong distribution network comprising over 400 distributors across India and abroad. Our R&D team maintains an impressive product pipeline, consistently launching successful products every quarter since our inception,” says Prashanth Kumar, Managing Director, Helico.
As diagnostic laboratories often face the issue of varying test results, particularly in Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate(ESR), Helico has conducted in-depth studies on their working patterns and material procurement for testing. It has advised them to standardize their blood collection tubes to improve consistency. Another common challenge lies in the Dengue rapid test, which typically involves two cassettes for NS1, IgG/IgM detection. In contrast, Helico’s innovative Dengue rapid test utilizes a single cassette with a simplified one-step procedure, streamlining the testing process.
Adhering to Scientific Rigor
Presently, the company offers more than 30 products in the market, with one being a market leader and three ranked in the top three in India. Several products are undergoing patenting, while a few are being co-developed with a North American partner. It also undertakes exclusive manufacturing for its clients in North America.
In the highly specialized niche of diagnostics, Helico focuses on providing innovative solutions that prioritize quality and affordability. For instance, it offers a syphilis rapid test with unique features, including IgA, IgG, and IgM coatings, enhancing the product’s effectiveness, and enabling faster and more accurate diagnoses.
Aiming at User Convenience
Focusing on user convenience, Helico has innovatively combined the Mango antigen and IgM, IgD into a single card, optimizing the precious patient sample volume. With only 35 microliters required for two tests in a month, the remaining sample volume can be utilized for other tests, allowing for more tests to be conducted. This is particularly significant in rural areas, where healthcare workers conduct diagnostic tests on the spot, and saving sample volume for confirmation is crucial for accurate diagnoses.
In cases of potential ailments, the last sample can be sent back to automated systems for confirmation of additional tests, as per the doctors’ advice. Collaborating with scientists nationwide, Helico is currently exploring a rapid
test for detecting arbitration in aquaculture testing, aiming to introduce a new product in this field. Its R&D team prioritizes aspects that enable faster and more accurate testing, ultimately benefiting individuals seeking medical evaluation.
“In diagnostics, success hinges on leading with innovative ideas. That is why, we constantly reinvent our products. We have made numerous breakthroughs and adopted several first-of-its-kind concepts in the industry. One of our ongoing works involves developing a revolutionary pregnancy test in a cup format. Unlike traditional tests where urine collection and the test are done separately, our product combines both, providing results instantly. It eliminates common errors such as users placing more drops of urine, leading to invalid results,” shares Prashanth.
We are a company driven by innovation, supported by a strong distribution network comprising over 400 distributors across India and abroad
Remarkable Track Record
Helico’s portfolio consists of several flagship products with a remarkable track record. Its ESR pipette has emerged as the industry standard in the market, being widely used in labs across the country. With robust material quality management, efficient production, and safe packaging, it assures the utmost product quality. Following closely are its rapid test kits for Syphilis, Typhoid, and Malaria. These kits are extensively used in various government programs, implemented through multiple NGOs, government hospitals, and private labs. International companies have also approached Helico for contract manufacturing of these products.
In addition to these, its range of rapid tests includes Hepatitis E, Chikungunya, PCT, Cardiac Troponin, Vitamin D(25OH), TSH, LH, Hepatitis A, Pregnancy, and Dengue, among others. These cutting-edge tests showcase its commitment to delivering a comprehensive range of diagnostic solutions to cater to diverse medical needs.
Allowing its product innovation to thrive organically, Helico’s user base plays a significant role in inspiring questions and offering suggestions based on their real-world application challenges. The team also carefully analyzes global trends and future directions, incorporating multifaceted inputs at every stage of product development.
Continuous Evolution
Over the past decade, Helico has embarked on an incredible journey marked by consistent growth. Prashanth takes pride in its continuous expansion into new and uncharted territories, boldly exploring untapped markets. The company’s organic growth is a reflection of its deep market insights and responsiveness to the needs of this sector. Its well-received products have propelled the firm to strengthen and expand over the years. From a single premise, it has evolved into multiple production facilities, and it is going to launch its third state-of-the-art R&D unit, compliant with global manufacturing standards. This facility will enable high-volume production to cater to both in-house requirements and international contract manufacturing.
Ideal Partner for Diversificationinto Diagnostics
“We are actively seeking partners within the healthcare industry who wish to expand their portfolio into diagnostics. Our production facility, spanning 50,000 square feet, will be operational soon, offering an ideal opportunity for potential investors to grow together. If a pharma company, for example, wants to diversify and grow in the diagnostic sector, we welcome them to accompany us in a joint partnership. We are specifically looking for established healthcare players to associate with us, ensuring successful and mutually beneficial ventures,” adds Prashanth.
Pursuing all international certifications to enhance its global presence and boost export opportunities, Helico aims to become the ideal partner enabling companies to expand their reach and gain a competitive edge in the international market. With its extensive 30 years of experience in selling diagnostic products, it continuously introduces cutting-edge technologies that set it apart from other competitors in the industry.“Through continuous innovation, we strive to revolutionize the diagnostics industry, offering cutting-edge solutions that are accurate, user-friendly, and redefine convenience for our customers,” says Prashanth.
Currently, Helico is diligently developing a diabetes diagnostic product that is nearing the final stages of research and development. It is an unprecedented product worldwide, pioneered by the company. Based on Saudi international studies, this innovation will bridge a crucial gap in the global market. Completion is expected soon, and Helico will become the first to introduce this groundbreaking diagnostic tool. Its team’s dedication and adherence to scientific rigor have brought the company closer to realizing this significant advancement and many more in medical technology.
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