Local company advances upper-limb prosthetic technology
Marins Inc., a medical device company based in Georgetown, is redefining upper-limb prosthetics with its flagship product, the ProHensor.
The modular terminal device is engineered for improved function and real-world usability. The company is led by husband-and-wife team Darryl and Suzen DuBre, who serve as chief technical officer and CEO, respectively.
The idea behind Marins Inc. came from Darryl’s personal journey as an amputee. After losing his arm in a terrible work accident at 19, he was frustrated by the outdated and ineffective prosthetic options available. Realizing better solutions weren’t available, he decided to create one himself. After years of development, the ProHensor, also known as the ProHook, was formed. The product was officially patented in 2021.
The ProHensor is the first modular, voluntary-closing and locking terminal device. It’s engineered for real-world function, control and durability, with an auto-lock and release on command.
“We knew what wasn’t working, but it took years of trial, error and prototyping,” said Suzen. “We built and tested multiple versions until we had something that solved the key problems: poor grip, constant slippage and lack of control. The result is the ProHensor, or what we affectionately call the ProHook.”
Marins Inc. worked closely with prosthetists, clinicians and upper-limb users throughout the product development process. The company collaborates with a range of partners, including Root3Labs, The Victoria Hand Project, Delaware SBDC and the University of Delaware’s Engineering and Management Information Systems programs.
“We work with Root3Labs, an outstanding engineering firm that helped us move from prototype to final manufacturing design and is now an equity partner,” said Suzen. “Internationally, we collaborate with the Victoria Hand Project, a nonprofit providing 3-D-printed arms in 11 countries. They recently delivered two of our ProHensor devices to Ukraine.”
Marins Inc. is rooted in Delaware and has benefited extremely from the strong support of the local community. Through the EDGE Grant program, the company has received direct assistance from the state as well as valuable access to individuals in leadership roles, including the governor and U.S. senators. As the business expands, Marins Inc. hopes to support its local community by offering internships and collaborating with the area’s manufacturers.
“Our goal is to become the industry standard for body-powered devices, replacing the century-old technology still in use today,” said Suzen. “We’re building a trusted, sustainable brand that delivers practical, affordable tools people will actually use. We also plan to expand internationally and continue developing new tools that restore function and confidence.”
To contact Marins Inc., email info@marinsmed.com. For more information, go to marinsmed.com.
