Syndex Bio has officially introduced its proprietary mcPCR™ (methyl-copying PCR) technology at the Advances in Genome Biology and Technology (AGBT) conference in Orlando, marking a significant step forward in molecular diagnostics. The launch follows the successful close of an oversubscribed $15.5 million seed financing round led by ARCH Venture Partners.
Designed to address a longstanding limitation of traditional PCR, mcPCR enables high-fidelity copying of both DNA methylation patterns and the four-base genetic code during amplification. For lab managers focused on improving sensitivity, workflow efficiency, and clinical utility, the platform may represent a meaningful advancement in methylation analysis.
Overcoming PCR’s Methylation Limitation
Conventional PCR cannot amplify DNA methylation patterns—an essential component in detecting and monitoring diseases such as cancer. Syndex Bio’s mcPCR technology aims to change that.
“Syndex Bio’s mcPCR platform makes amplifying DNA methylation possible for the first time. This powerful method will redefine the sensitivity and accuracy that is achievable in DNA methylation analysis, opening new possibilities for early detection and disease monitoring,” said Geoff Smith, PhD, Founder and CEO of Syndex Bio. “We’re honoured to have the support of world‑class investors and advisors as we advance toward clinical translation.”
By enabling what the company calls “PCR for methylation,” the platform is designed to support:
- More sensitive detection of cancer and chronic disease
- Improved analysis of non-invasive samples
- Greater reliability in small-sample biopsies
- Enhanced recurrence monitoring capabilities
For laboratories managing limited sample volumes or developing early detection assays, the ability to preserve methylation information during amplification could simplify workflows while improving data quality.
$15.5M Seed Financing and Strategic Board Appointments
Syndex Bio’s technology debut coincides with the close of an oversubscribed $15.5 million seed financing round led by ARCH Venture Partners, with participation from +ND Capital, OMX Ventures, and Meltwind. The company plans to use the funding to expand the mcPCR platform, develop clinical workflows and applications, and grow its R&D footprint in Cambridge, UK.
In conjunction with the financing, Gautam Kollu, former Chief Commercial Officer of Grail, has joined the newly formed Board of Directors alongside Patrick Weiss (Chairman), Geoff Smith, Sean Kendall, and Eric Moessinger.
Gautam Kollu commented: “The mcPCR platform removes the technical barriers that have long limited epigenetics, finally allowing us to tap into the highest-value segments of the molecular diagnostics market. This capability is essential for expanding precise clinical testing across diverse disease areas, where sensitivity has historically been the bottleneck. I look forward to helping the team bring such a high-impact platform technology to the global stage.”
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Sean Kendall, Board Member at Syndex Bio and Partner at ARCH Venture Partners, added: “This milestone is testament to Syndex Bio’s talented team and their extraordinary efforts in launching this foundational technology. We believe mcPCR holds the potential to elevate the accuracy and speed of cancer screening and diagnosis and look forward to seeing the company continue to go from strength to strength.”
AGBT 2026 Presentation Details
Founder and CEO Geoff Smith, PhD, is presenting a poster (#470) titled “mcPCR: PCR For Methylation” at the AGBT General Meeting from 23–26 February 2026 in Orlando, Florida. Copies of the poster will also be available for download via the company’s website.
As clinical laboratories continue to prioritize earlier detection, higher sensitivity, and streamlined molecular workflows, technologies that preserve epigenetic information during amplification may play an increasingly important role in next-generation diagnostics.
