Cambridge Epigenetix is a commercial-stage life sciences tools and technology company developing a proprietary genetic and epigenetic sequencing platform. Its first product identifies five letters of DNA—A, T, C, G and methylated cytosine (5mC/5hmC)—in a single sequencing workflow and integrates with existing sequencers. The technology requires low DNA input, aims to increase data quality and reduce sequencing costs, and combines laboratory kits with software. Manufacturing of the first product is underway with expected commercial availability in early 2022, and the company plans additional platform products including a six-letter kit. Early access programs with leading genomic research institutions are ongoing and have validated the technology. Proceeds from recent financing will be used to commercialize the platform and expand the organization. The company is based in Cambridge, United Kingdom, and was founded by Professor Sir Shankar Balasubramanian. Cambridge Epigenetix (CEGX) builds a proprietary discovery platform to affordably and accurately identify hydroxymethylated (5hmC) DNA from blood and tissue samples. The platform is aimed at earlier cancer diagnosis, improved patient stratification, and the development of liquid biopsy–based tests. CEGX intends to simplify several routine diagnostic screening tests to a simple blood draw as patients’ epigenetic codes change over time. The company spun out of the University of Cambridge in 2012 and was co-founded by Sir Shankar Balasubramanian and Dr Bobby Yerramilli-Rao. Jason Mellad, PhD, serves as CEO and has emphasized that the funding will support transforming patient care and making testing routine. CEGX has attracted investment from world-leading investors including Ahren, Sequoia, GV, New Sciences Ventures and Syncona. Cambridge Epigenetix is a U.K.-based Cambridge University spin-out that develops DNA modification analysis tools for epigenetics researchers. Its core products enable analysis of epigenetic marks to study how environmental and behavioral factors regulate gene expression without changing underlying DNA. The company positions the epigenome as holding potential similar to the commercialization of genome sequencing for improving human health. CEO Dr Geoff Smith highlighted the new investors' expertise in building data-driven businesses. The team and investors frame more accurate epigenetic data as foundational to future quantified health tracking and research applications. The company recently raised a $21M Series B to support commercialization and further development of its tools.

Total raised

$139M

Funding rounds

3

Latest round

Series D

Latest activity

Nov 2021