'Patient in a test-tube' wins top innovation award

A product that identifies patients most likely to respond to particular cancer treatments has claimed the top prize at the government-backed iAwards.

Cambridge-based Horizon Discovery, the small business behind X-MAN Model Cancer Patient, was one of 10 companies rewarded at the inaugural running of the scheme which recognises the best of British innovation.

The initiative is supported by science minister Lord Drayson and Dragons' Den panellist James Caan.

Horizon Discovery took the overall title as well as technology start-up of the year. The company's product is a tool that identifies personalised cancer medications - reducing R&D costs, shortening clinical cycles and increasing patient survival.  

Chair judge Mike Butcher said: "Horizon Discovery really impressed us with their 'patient in a test-tube', which is the first human cell model that can identify personalised cancer medications, leading to shorter drug trials and increased patient life.

"Quite simply, this is world-class scientists doing first-class work. They have developed a revolutionary approach and demonstrated clever innovation in a difficult area, with excellent prospects for impact on the health sector."

Other winners at the ceremony held at the Science Museum in London included Solargorilla, a portable solar charger for power-hungry electronic devices created by Hampshire-based Powertraveller. The company won the digital communications prize, a category sponsored by BusinessZone.co.uk and judged by editor Dan Martin.

Chair judge Justin Pearce said: "As digital communications become freed from the fixed-line internet, being able to efficiently power digital devices via renewable energy sources is increasingly important. Solargorilla is an innovative solution to a growing issue and a well-deserved winner of the iawards digital communications category."

For more information and videos of the winners visit www.iawards.org.uk.