Minapath

The start-up MINAPATH for MInéraloNAnoPATHologie, studies the causal relationship between mineral exposome and the presence of particles in diseased tissues.

The main tools are:  
an extensive questionnaire on occupational, environmental or implant exposures and a scanning electron microscope with a microanalyzer to determine the chemical nature of the particles and observe their shape and size.
Minapath, the only health biotech in the Auvergne Rhône Alpes region, with social and solidarity economy status, was created in 2015 by Dr Michel Vincent, a pulmonologist and oncologist. In 2019, she obtained the prize for scientific innovation from the metropolis of Lyon. Dr. Michel Vincent was also a medical expert within the framework of the European Silicosis project carried out at the Center for European Studies at Sciences-Po Paris with Prof. PA Rosetnal from 2013 to 2018.

Minapath has developed a case allowing the analysis of the size and the chemical nature of the mineral particles of the pollution in particular silica, silicates and metals with at the same time study of the impact of this pollution on a biomimetic surfactant and on the power of lipid peroxidation.
Minapath is likely to provide expert advice on the dangerousness of certain occupational and environmental pollution. She works in particular to identify causal links in diseases most often considered idiopathic, such as sarcoidosis and pulmonary fibrosis or autoimmune diseases. Finally, Minapath identified in 2020 traces of major corrosion of the Essure sterilization implants removed, linked to the presence of abundant tin particles in the wall of the fallopian tubes and uterine horns. Minapath collaborates with CNRS and INSA Lyon, as well as many internist clinicians, pulmonologists, neurologists and pathologists.

Lastly, Minapath also advises on any suspected causal link between inflammatory or cancerous diseases and mineral exposure.