Rival Alleges Biopool Stole Trade Secrets

Biopool International, a Ventura company that produces kits for diagnosing blood, vascular system and other disorders, has been sued by a rival firm in Camarillo for allegedly stealing trade secrets.

The plaintiff, Medical Analysis Systems Inc., charges that Biopool and its subsidiary, Medical Diagnostic Technologies Inc., misappropriated Medical Analysis’ “secret processes and formulas” for producing liquid controls and reagents, said Karen A. Breslow, a Los Angeles attorney representing Medical Analysis.

Michael D. Bick, Biopool’s chairman and chief executive, said in a statement that the charges “are totally without merit, and we will vigorously defend our position.” He added, “Biopool has always run its business in accordance with the highest ethical standards.”

The products in question are used by hospitals, laboratories and doctors to measure chemicals in body fluids. Medical Analysis claims that its products are easier to use and more accurate than others in the field.

Breslow said her client believes that its secrets were obtained from former Medical Analysis employees who went to work for Biopool and its subsidiary.

The lawsuit, filed Nov. 30 in Ventura County Superior Court, seeks to enjoin Biopool and its Medical Diagnostic subsidiary from marketing products using Medical Analysis’ technology. The suit also seeks unspecified punitive damages.