Beyond a few key applications in HIV, HCV and sexually transmitted diseases, genomics has yet to make its presence felt in infectious disease testing. Technological advances in molecular testing, as well as a better understanding of genomics and a growing interest in defenses against bioterrorism are generating interest in new approaches to diagnosing infectious diseases and determining drug resistance. Several small companies are leading the way.

Diabetes seems like a great clinical and commercial opportunity but it's been a technological nightmare for many small device and diagnostic companies. Still, there's enough good news coming out of R&D to keep entrepreneurs going