XOR Labs Toronto

XOR Laboratories Toronto, founded in 2011 by Dr. Shaf Keshavjee, operated in the medical device sector with a focus on organ preservation technology. The company was established as a spin-off from the University Health Network, showcasing a direct link between academic research and commercial application. Dr. Keshavjee's extensive background as a thoracic surgeon and researcher in lung transplantation at the Toronto General Hospital was fundamental to the company's creation and its core mission.

The firm's principal offering was the Toronto Ex-Vivo Lung Perfusion (EVLP) system. This technology was designed to address the critical shortage of viable donor lungs for transplantation. The EVLP system works by placing donor lungs in a specialized sterile chamber outside the body, where they are supplied with oxygen and a nutrient-rich solution. This process not only preserves the organ but also provides a platform for medical teams to assess lung function and administer treatments to repair damage, thereby increasing the pool of suitable organs for patients with conditions like pulmonary fibrosis and cystic fibrosis.

The business model centered on the development and commercialization of these medical devices for healthcare providers and transplant centers. The company's operations were supported by significant investment, having raised approximately $4.76 million over two funding rounds. A notable Series A round in September 2016, led by TIAP (Toronto Innovation Acceleration Partners), secured $2.16 million. Despite its developments, XOR Laboratories Toronto is now considered a deadpooled company.

Keywords: organ transplantation, Ex-Vivo Lung Perfusion, EVLP system, medical devices, lung preservation, transplant technology, Shaf Keshavjee, University Health Network, organ repair, thoracic surgery, transplant logistics, personalized medicine for organs, medical technology financing, TIAP, organ viability