Wavelet: Innovative Fetal Brain Monitoring for Safer Deliveries
An emerging innovator in obstetrics technology, Wavelet is tackling the critical issue of preventable brain injury during childbirth. Leveraging neuroscience and AI, this startup, with strong ties to Yale, introduces a transformative approach to fetal brain monitoring, aiming to enhance safety for mothers and infants alike.
“We're not only aiming to improve fetal monitoring but to revolutionize how we ensure the well-being of both mother and child during childbirth. Our journey from groundbreaking research to a viable commercial device has been fueled by collaboration and an unwavering commitment to making childbirth safer.” —Liz Golden, CEO
Fast Facts
FOUNDED: December 2024, Brooklyn, NY (Offices in New Haven, CT)
FOUNDERS:
- Jose Cortes-Briones, PhD, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Yale School of Medicine
- Liz Golden, CEO and Co-Founder
- Emily Lee, PhD, Assistant Professor Adjunct, Yale School of Medicine
Technology Summary
Core Technology: Non-invasive fetal brain monitoring using EEG
Applications: Reducing preventable brain injuries at birth, improving outcomes for mother and baby
Wavelet’s technology bridges a significant gap in current obstetrics care. Traditionally, fetal distress during childbirth is monitored indirectly through heart rate, which only shows downstream effects of oxygen deprivation. Wavelet’s approach monitors fetal brain activity directly, offering earlier and more accurate detection of distress.
Impact Potential
Wavelet's mission is to eliminate preventable brain injuries at birth and improve maternal and infant outcomes. The company addresses critical issues such as:
Statistics: 1 in 100 babies suffer brain injury at birth, contributing to high rates of maternal mortality and over $3 billion in annual malpractice.
Market Opportunity: Estimated at over $5 billion annually.
By providing real-time insights into fetal brain health, Wavelet's technology can significantly reduce birth-related brain injuries and associated long-term health complications.
Recent Milestones & News
- Blavatnik Fund for Innovation at Yale Award: Received a 2023 Blavatnik Award, an accelerator managed by Yale Ventures.
- NIH Grant: Secured $1 million in non-dilutive funding.
- FDA Pre-Submission Meeting: Successfully completed pre-submission, advancing regulatory processes.
- First Place at Yale Innovation Summit Health Pitch Contest: Recognized for innovative contribution to medical technology.
- MedTech Innovator Program: Recently accepted into the MedTech Innovator Program, which is the world’s largest accelerator for medical device, digital health, and diagnostic companies.
With the continued support from Yale Ventures and other key stakeholders, Wavelet is gearing up to commence its clinical trials and regulatory submissions, marking another step towards transforming obstetric care.