Syndex Bio has introduced mcPCR technology, a proprietary platform that amplifies DNA methylation patterns alongside the four-base genetic code during polymerase chain reaction workflows. The company unveiled the platform at the Advances in Genome Biology and Technology 2026 conference in Orlando.
Conventional PCR methods replicate genetic sequence information but cannot preserve DNA methylation signals, which are critical for epigenetic biomarker detection in many diseases, including cancer. The mcPCR technology platform addresses this limitation by enabling simultaneous copying of methylation patterns and genetic sequence during amplification, expanding the capabilities of DNA methylation analysis in laboratory settings.
According to Syndex Bio, the technology may simplify workflows and improve sensitivity for analyzing methylated DNA in clinical samples, including noninvasive specimens and small biopsy samples used for early disease detection and recurrence monitoring.
“Syndex Bio's mcPCR platform makes amplifying DNA methylation possible for the first time,” said Geoff Smith, PhD, founder and CEO of Syndex Bio. “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.”
mcPCR technology targets molecular diagnostics workflows
By enabling direct amplification of methylated DNA, mcPCR technology is designed to remove technical barriers that have historically limited epigenetics-based testing. Current approaches to DNA methylation analysis often require complex preprocessing or indirect detection strategies. The new platform aims to streamline these workflows and support broader use in molecular diagnostics applications.
In addition to the platform launch, the company announced the successful 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 funding will support the expansion of the platform, the development of clinical workflows and applications, and the growth of the company’s research and development footprint in Cambridge, UK.
Following the financing, Gautam Kollu, former chief commercial officer of Grail, joined the company’s board of directors.
“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,” said Kollu. “This capability is essential for expanding precise clinical testing across diverse disease areas, where sensitivity has historically been the bottleneck.”
What this means for laboratory testing
For laboratory organizations, mcPCR technology could influence DNA methylation analysis workflows by enabling more direct amplification of epigenetic biomarkers without complex conversion or enrichment steps. Improved sensitivity and simplified processes may support expanded applications of molecular diagnostics in oncology and other disease areas.
Sean Kendall, board member at Syndex Bio and partner at ARCH Venture Partners, said the milestone reflects the team’s efforts in launching what he described as a foundational technology with the potential to improve the accuracy and speed of cancer screening and diagnosis.
As molecular diagnostics continues to evolve toward earlier detection and precision medicine, platforms that extend the capabilities of PCR-based workflows may play an increasingly important role in laboratory innovation.
This article was created with the assistance of Generative AI and has undergone editorial review before publishing.
