CSEM and MOMM Diagnostics develop rapid preeclampsia test

CSEM and MOMM Diagnostics have developed a point-of-care preeclampsia test up to 100 times more sensitive than conventional lateral flow assays.

CSEM, the Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology based in Neuchâtel, has partnered with MOMM Diagnostics, a Swiss start-up, to develop a point-of-care diagnostic test for preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication affecting an estimated 5 to 8% of pregnancies globally and a leading cause of maternal and infant morbidity. The collaboration brings together CSEM’s Tools for Life Sciences expertise and MOMM Diagnostics’ clinical vision to address a condition that remains difficult to detect reliably and early with existing tools.

The joint solution centers on a multiplexed sensing device that simultaneously detects two biomarkers associated with preeclampsia in blood samples. It uses enzyme-linked lateral flow immunoassays (ELLFIA) with ion-sensitive electrodes embedded in a disposable test cartridge, which resembles a pregnancy test in form factor, paired with a specialized digital readout unit. This integrated architecture delivers sensitivity 50 to 100 times greater than conventional lateral flow immunoassays, enabling reliable early detection in a clinical setting without requiring laboratory infrastructure. The point-of-care format means the test can be carried out directly in a doctor’s office, significantly reducing time to diagnosis.

The development reflects the broader collaboration model that defines CSEM’s approach to applied research, translating deep technical expertise into commercially relevant tools alongside specialized start-ups. CSEM is also a central participant in the Bern medtech ecosystem, where it collaborates with Insel Gruppe and the University of Bern on applied R&D projects targeting clinical translation across several therapeutic areas.

For a broader perspective on CSEM’s role in Switzerland’s innovation ecosystem, listen to our Getting Serious podcast conversation with Dr. Alexandre Pauchard, CEO of CSEM, in which he explores what keeps Switzerland at the top of global innovation rankings.