News in Brief - regulatory concerns over at-home genetic tests
tests from the internet, Microfluidics International receives
funding to globally expand its processing equipment business and
the Georgette Klinger skin care brand returns to the family fold.
Microfluidics International goes for global growth The US-company, headquartered in Massachusetts, has announced a $2.5m multi-year revolving line of credit from Silicon Valley bank in support of its global growth strategy. Microfluidics International manufactures microfluidizer processors for the cosmetics industry that are designed to create emulsions and lotions that will not separate prior to use, as well as operating in the pharmaceutical and food industries. Investment from the Silicon Valley bank will allow the company to pursue new growth initiatives. "Specifically, these financial resources will support key growth initiatives, including the development and launch of new products, ongoing improvements in product and service quality, increases in sales and distribution channels, and the implementation of targeted marketing and lead-generation programs," explained Michael C. Ferrara, CEO of Microfluidics International Corporation HairDX withdraws at-home genetic test California-based biotechnology company HairDX has announced it will only be offering its genetic test for predicting risk of hair loss through physicians. The test was previously available online and consumers were invited to purchase the at-home genetic test for $149, which would help estimate an individual's risk of hair loss before any visible signs were noted. The results can then be used to assist a physician to decide on the best course of action, according to the company. However the company has removed the test from the internet as it is worried about the regulation surrounding at-home genetic tests. "Given the uncertain regulatory environment that governs direct to consumer genetic testing, we decided to focus on our core business, the research and development of new prescription-based therapies for hair loss tailored to an individual's genetic makeup," says HairDX CEO Andy Goren. Controversy surrounds at-home genetic tests in particular regarding the reliability of the results and interpretation, or rather the potential for misinterpretation, of the results. The Federal Trade Commission that works to protect American consumers states that: "The FDA and the CDC [Center for Disease Control and Prevention] say that because of the complexities involved in both the testing and the interpretation of the results, genetic tests should be performed in a specialized laboratory, and the results should be interpreted by a doctor or trained counsellor who understands the value of genetic testing for a particular situation." Georgette Klinger back in family hands The skincare brand Georgette Klinger, which was sold in the late 1980s has been repurchased by the family and a new line of products are to be launched. Georgette Klinger began by opening a spa in the 1940s and offering a range of facial skincare treatments to visiting patients. At the time the business was sold in 1988 revenues were approximately $20m annually, according to the company. Kathryn Klinger, Georgette's daughter and the new CEO of the business believes the new line of skin care products will appeal to active women who have little time for a complicated skincare regime.
