German startup TimeTeller has developed a saliva test kit to help individuals understand their circadian rhythm, potentially improving outcomes in personalized medicine. CEO Angela Relógio, a physicist-engineer and molecular biologist, aims to align cancer treatments with patients' internal clocks, reducing side effects and enhancing efficacy. While cautioning against over-selling, Relógio highlights the potential for TimeTeller to revolutionize precision medicine.
The company, which started with demand from longevity clinics, is expanding its reach. A partnership with Techniker Krankenkasse, one of Germany’s largest health insurance providers, could bring the test to millions of cancer patients, making it a more accessible option. TimeTeller's ultimate goal is to integrate 'when' into precision medicine, recognizing that nearly every bodily process is timed.
The test, currently aimed at cancer, could also benefit those with metabolic diseases, neurodegenerative conditions, and women's health issues. Relógio's journey to founding TimeTeller began when she noticed that many cancer patients stopped or started treatment due to side effects. This realization led her to develop a circadian rhythm test, which became the core of her startup.
TimeTeller’s success is not just in its science but in its business model. With backing from the Medical School Hamburg and a partnership with Techniker Krankenkasse, the company is poised to make significant strides in personalized medicine. As Relógio prepares to appear at TechCrunch Disrupt, the future of health testing looks increasingly promising, with TimeTeller at the forefront.







