TwinStrand develops Duplex Sequencing, a biochemistry and software-based solution that identifies ultra-low-frequency DNA mutations with a resolution 10,000-fold greater than conventional next-generation sequencing tools. The platform enables detection, quantification, and characterization of variants previously undetectable, supporting applications including early cancer detection, residual cancer monitoring, recurrence surveillance, tracking advanced cellular immunotherapies, and genetic toxicology such as CRISPR and gene therapy assessment. In 2020 the company commercially launched its first products and began building out a clinical lab, and it validated and expanded its intellectual property portfolio while closing a major liquid biopsy out-licensing deal. TwinStrand's scientists have authored more than two dozen peer-reviewed articles using Duplex Sequencing and the company has developed a portfolio of more than 100 patents and patent applications. The company partners with pharmaceutical companies, academic centers, clinical research networks, and federal regulatory agencies to bring high-precision genomics to their science. TwinStrand intends to expand adoption of its technology in applications requiring the highest sensitivity and accuracy. TwinStrand Biosciences develops Duplex Sequencing, a biochemistry and software platform that enables researchers and clinicians to detect ultra‑low frequency DNA mutations for applications such as early cancer detection, residual cancer monitoring, genetic toxicology, and drug development. Led by CEO and co‑founder Jesse Salk, the company is collaborating with pharmaceutical companies, academic centers, clinical research networks, and federal regulatory agencies. TwinStrand intends to use new funds to accelerate its commercial pipeline, expand corporate infrastructure, and grow pharmaceutical partnerships. Financially, the company closed a $16M Series A (including $12M in new capital) and had previously raised $5.5M in seed funding plus $6.4M in SBIR grants to develop and commercialize its technology. The company is based in Seattle, WA and is a University of Washington spinout. TwinStrand Biosciences is a University of Washington spin-out commercializing Duplex Sequencing, an approach that duplicates and analyzes both strands of DNA to remove sequencing errors. The company says the method eliminates noise common in sequencing and enables detection of tiny mutations that current sequencers miss. TwinStrand is focusing on medical and diagnostic applications, while noting the technology could also apply in forensic science. According to an SEC filing, the company has raised $1.2 million so far in a financing that could reach $4 million. The filing lists company executives including co-founder and chief science officer Jesse Salk and CEO Christopher Benoit, and also names University of Washington professor Lawrence Loeb and Bay Area investor Steve Dow. TwinStrand is based in downtown Seattle and currently has about 18 employees.

Total raised

$67M

Funding rounds

3

Latest round

Series B

Latest activity

May 2021