Il Sole 24 Ore, Italy’s leading financial newspaper with a dedicated health section, has featured an innovation marking a historic breakthrough in medicine and research: GAF® (Glyoxal Acid Free), the fixative developed by Addax Biosciences to definitively replace formalin.
For decades, formaldehyde-based fixatives have been the standard for preserving tissues in pathology, forensic medicine, and research. However, their use has always posed a concrete risk: since 2014 formaldehyde has been classified by the European Union as a proven carcinogen, on the same level as asbestos and benzene.
GAF®, on the other hand, stands out as a safer and more effective alternative. It is non-carcinogenic and better preserves DNA and RNA, making biological samples more stable and reliable for modern genomic sequencing techniques. This not only improves the quality of research but also paves the way for more accurate and timely diagnoses for patients.
In addition to its scientific and health benefits, GAF® also delivers tangible economic advantages: according to a study conducted by Deloitte, hospitals are expected to save between €40,000 and €120,000 per year, thanks to lower management and disposal costs and the reduced risks for healthcare professionals.
With CE marking already obtained and trials underway in several hospitals, GAF® represents a virtuous example of Italian biotechnological innovation that combines safety, sustainability, and scientific progress.
Read the full article on Il Sole 24 Ore – Salute: