Astek Diagnostics Named One of Maryland’s Best Startup Businesses 2025

Baltimore, MD – August 15, 2025

2025 BEST STARTUP BUSINESSES IN MARYLAND Astek Diagnostics is a medical device company led by CEO Mustafa Al-Adhami, focused on developing innovative diagnostic solutions for major health threats. The company comprises a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs working to create life-changing medical treatments

The company has developed a rapid and highly accurate diagnostic platform for urinary tract infections, with plans to expand its applications across multiple sample types, including urine, cerebrospinal fluid, effluent and blood. Astek is prioritizing its urine-based test for initial market entry, with clinical trials expected to conclude by January 2027.

Their long-term vision centers on the JIDDU platform, designed as a comprehensive multipurpose diagnostic platform. This system aims to both confirm bacterial infections and assess antibiotic sensitivity across four different sample types: urine, CSF, effluent, and blood, potentially revolutionizing how physicians diagnose and treat bacterial infections.

What inspired you to launch your business?

My grandfather developed a UTI and I saw firsthand how serious and fast-moving it can be. He was in pain, became delirious and eventually fell. That experience made it clear how critical early and accurate diagnosis is. I started this company to make sure others don’t have to go through that without timely help.

What challenges have you faced as a new business?

Funding has been the biggest challenge. Developing medical diagnostics is capital-intensive, and investors are often hesitant until you’ve cleared major technical and regulatory milestones. We’ve had to be strategic, stretching limited resources while still hitting key proof points to build credibility and momentum.

What accomplishments are you most proud of?

We took a sketch on a whiteboard and turned it into a fully functional alpha product. It now delivers real-time diagnostic results and has been independently validated. Going from concept to working system is something we’re proud of.

How do you support the larger community?

We mentor new entrepreneurs, especially those working in health care innovation, and we regularly host interns — from high school to graduate level — giving them hands-on experience in biotech and diagnostics.

Media Contact:

Mustafa Al-Adhami, PhD
Founder & CEO
Astek Diagnostics, Inc.
mustafa@astekdx.com 
www.astekdx.com