Singletto, a Seattle-based startup, has developed a groundbreaking medical mask incorporating its patented Oxafence technology. This innovative technology utilizes methylene blue, a chemical compound known for its potent antimicrobial properties, to actively neutralize viruses, bacteria, and fungi upon contact. Unlike conventional masks that primarily act as physical barriers, the Singletto mask provides an additional layer of protection by actively eliminating pathogens, significantly reducing the risk of infection. This feature has earned the mask FDA approval, making it the only FDA-cleared mask on the market with virus-killing capabilities. Singletto likens this advancement to adding an airbag to a seatbelt, enhancing the protective function of the mask. While wearing a standard mask offers some protection, the Oxafence technology adds a critical active defense mechanism.
Methylene blue, the active ingredient in Oxafence, has a long history of safe use in various medical treatments. Its effectiveness against a broad spectrum of pathogens makes it a promising alternative to silver nanoparticles, which are currently used in some healthcare products for their antimicrobial properties but raise concerns about environmental accumulation and potential contribution to antibiotic resistance. Rigorous testing of Oxafence has demonstrated remarkable efficacy, inactivating 99.9% of specific viral strains within just five minutes of contact. This rapid action underscores the potential of this technology to significantly curb the spread of infectious diseases. The versatility of Oxafence also allows for its incorporation into various healthcare products, expanding its protective reach beyond masks.
Singletto’s journey began in 2020, amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic, with a team deeply rooted in healthcare and entrepreneurship. Co-founders John Bjornson, Dr. Tom Lendvay, and Dr. Jim Chen brought together their diverse expertise to tackle the pressing need for enhanced protective measures. Dr. Lendvay, a pediatric urologist and professor at the University of Washington, and Dr. Chen, a former neurosurgeon, played key roles in a WHO-led study demonstrating the effectiveness of methylene blue photochemical treatment in decontaminating COVID-19 viruses on masks. Bjornson, with his extensive experience in business consulting and venture capital, provides the strategic leadership to guide Singletto’s growth and market entry.
The development of the Oxafence technology has been a collaborative effort, involving partnerships with key players in the industry. Singletto collaborated with Prestige Ameritech, the largest domestic surgical mask manufacturer in the U.S., to produce the Oxafence-containing masks. This strategic partnership ensures a robust supply chain and facilitates the widespread availability of these innovative masks. The production process involves incorporating the methylene blue compound into a polypropylene fabric, which forms the outer layer of the mask. This meticulous design ensures that the active ingredient is strategically positioned to maximize its effectiveness in neutralizing pathogens.
Beyond its immediate application in surgical masks, Singletto envisions a broader scope for the Oxafence technology. The company is exploring its potential use in various healthcare settings, including respirators, hospital scrubs, other personal protective equipment, and even hospital room privacy curtains. This expansion could revolutionize infection control protocols and significantly reduce the risk of hospital-acquired infections. Furthermore, Singletto has partnered with the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to develop military uniform applications for Oxafence, highlighting the technology’s potential to protect individuals in high-risk environments.
Having successfully navigated the rigorous FDA approval process, Singletto is now poised to scale its operations and bring its innovative masks to the market. The company is preparing to close a Series A funding round to support its expansion plans and further research and development. With the green light from the FDA, Singletto is focused on ramping up production and sales, aiming to make its pathogen-killing masks widely accessible. The company’s commitment to innovation and its strategic partnerships position it to play a significant role in enhancing public health and safety. As the world continues to grapple with the threat of infectious diseases, Singletto’s technology offers a promising new line of defense.
