Syndex Bio, a biotech firm pioneering next-generation molecular diagnostics, unveils its proprietary mcPCRTM (methyl-copying PCR) platform at the Advances in Genome Biology and Technology (AGBT) conference in Orlando, Florida.
Breakthrough in DNA Methylation Analysis
The mcPCR technology performs ‘PCR for methylation,’ accurately replicating both DNA methylation patterns and the standard four-base genetic code during amplification. This innovation addresses a key shortfall in traditional PCR, which fails to preserve methylation marks essential for detecting diseases like cancer.
mcPCR streamlines, accelerates, and enhances sensitivity in methylated DNA testing, revolutionizing clinical sample analysis—particularly for non-invasive biopsies and small samples used in early disease detection and recurrence surveillance.
$15.5 Million Seed Round Secured
Syndex Bio completes an oversubscribed $15.5 million seed financing round, led by ARCH Venture Partners and joined by +ND Capital, OMX Ventures, and Meltwind. Proceeds fuel mcPCR platform expansion, clinical workflow development, application advancements, and R&D growth in Cambridge, UK.
New Board Member Joins
Gautam Kollu, former Chief Commercial Officer at Grail, assumes a seat on the newly formed Board of Directors. He joins Chairman Patrick Weiss, Geoff Smith, Sean Kendall, and Eric Moessinger.
“Syndex Bio’s mcPCR platform makes amplifying DNA methylation possible for the first time. This powerful method will redefine the sensitivity and accuracy achievable in DNA methylation analysis, opening new possibilities for early detection and disease monitoring,” states Geoff Smith, PhD, Founder and CEO of Syndex Bio.
“The mcPCR platform removes technical barriers that have long limited epigenetics, finally allowing access to high-value molecular diagnostics markets. This capability proves vital for precise testing across diverse diseases, where sensitivity remains the main challenge. I look forward to helping bring this high-impact technology to the global stage,” adds Gautam Kollu, Board Member.
Sean Kendall, Board Member and Partner at ARCH Venture Partners, comments: “This milestone highlights Syndex Bio’s talented team and their exceptional work in launching this foundational technology. mcPCR promises to boost accuracy and speed in cancer screening and diagnosis, and we anticipate continued progress.”
Upcoming Presentation
Geoff Smith, PhD, presents poster #470, titled “mcPCR: PCR For Methylation,” at the AGBT General Meeting from February 23-26, 2026. Digital copies of the poster are available for download on the company’s website.
