A Canadian biotech startup has secured significant funding to revolutionize endometriosis diagnosis through an innovative blood-based testing approach. Afynia Laboratories, emerging from McMaster University's research ecosystem, has raised $5 million in seed funding to commercialize their microRNA panel test for endometriosis detection.
Addressing a Critical Diagnostic Challenge
Endometriosis, affecting approximately 200 million people worldwide, has long presented a significant diagnostic challenge. Current diagnostic pathways often result in delays of seven to eight years – sometimes extending beyond a decade – before patients receive confirmation of their condition. These delays significantly impact treatment initiation and management of symptoms including chronic pelvic pain and fertility issues.
Innovation in Diagnostic Technology
The company's flagship test, EndomiR, represents a sophisticated approach to endometriosis detection. Rather than relying on traditional invasive diagnostic procedures, the test analyzes blood samples for specific microRNA patterns – tiny molecules that regulate gene expression.
"We recognized that we needed to go beyond just a single biomarker and look at a panel – a panel that would have more consistency and reliability to pick up endometriosis from different types and at different stages of the disease," explains Dr. Lauren Foster, Afynia's co-founder and former McMaster University professor.
The test's comprehensive approach examines multiple disease aspects:
- Inflammation markers
- Blood vessel growth indicators
- Nerve growth factors related to pain
- Other physiological disease functions
Clinical Implementation and Market Strategy
Afynia is currently navigating Canada's regulatory approval process for laboratory developed tests (LDT). The company anticipates launching in the Canadian market by summer 2024, with U.S. market entry planned for early 2025.
Dr. Jake Prigoff, Afynia's Chief Medical Officer, emphasizes the test's potential impact: "While we can't quantify exactly how much of a reduction we're going to be able to bring to these patients, we're confident that we're going to be able to reduce that timeline substantially."
Investment and Future Developments
The seed funding round was led by Bio-Rad Laboratories, with participation from Impact America Fund, SOSV, the Capital Angel Network, and Gaingels. This follows approximately $1.5 million in previous pre-seed funding from various investors including McMaster University.
Looking ahead, Afynia plans to expand its diagnostic portfolio beyond endometriosis, developing additional microRNA tests for other women's health conditions. The company is also exploring the possibility of developing a finger-prick version of their test to further improve accessibility.
