Samsung Invests $110M to Bring Galleri Blood Test to More Markets

Samsung aims to strengthen its presence in the healthcare sector. The Korean firm recently announced that it will invest $110 million in Grail, an American biotechnology company. The investment will help it expand the early cancer detection service to more regions while creating new opportunities in digital health.

Samsung partners with Grail to bring AI-powered cancer test to more regions

The most well-known product of Grail is the Galleri blood test (launched in 2021), which detects over 50 types of cancer early with a single blood test. The test analyzes microscopic DNA fragments in the blood using AI-based genome data technology. This helps to predict the presence or absence of cancer. Furthermore, it can also identify the location of the affected organ in the body.

So far, the Galleri test has been used in around 400,000 cases. Grail is currently conducting large-scale clinical trials of the test with the National Health Service (NHS), with plans to apply for FDA approval within the next year. Samsung’s investment will help the biotechnology company offer insurance for the Gallery test in the US and other key markets.

Additionally, Samsung C&T has secured exclusive rights to distribute the Galleri test in South Korea. It also plans to expand its collaboration with Grail into other Asian markets, such as Japan and Singapore. Samsung Health platform will also gain access to advanced cancer detection technology and genetic data. This means Samsung Health users will enjoy a smarter healthcare experience.

Kim Jae-woo, Vice President of Samsung C&T Life Science Business, said, “Grail is the leading company in the field of early diagnosis of multiple cancers based on genes. Through this investment and strategic collaboration, Samsung C&T has created an opportunity to expand its bio/healthcare investment portfolio into the field of technology that combines genes and AI.”

Meanwhile, Samsung invested in C2N, a company that develops blood tests for Alzheimer’s. It also invested in Element Bioscience for DNA analysis technology and recently acquired Xealth, a digital healthcare platform.