Stratify Genomics Secures $2.2M Seed Funding to Advance Prostate Cancer Screening Tool Prompt PGS

On July 23, 2019, VCBeat (WeChat ID: vcbeat) learned that cancer detection company Stratify Genomics had completed a $2.2 million seed funding round, with the investors undisclosed. The company’s flagship product, the Prompt Prostate Genetic Score (PGS), was launched last year. Following this round of financing, Stratify Genomics will further promote PGS sales and commercial partnerships.

Stratify Genomics is a company specializing in cancer risk testing for the general population, headquartered in California, USA. Founded by an oncologist, the company has developed a low-cost next-generation sequencing method using proprietary chemical technology. It is dedicated to raising awareness of cancer and other diseases, enabling patients and physicians to conduct more effective screening and treatment.

Stratify Genomics’ flagship product, PGS, is a cancer detection tool that assesses genetic predisposition to prostate cancer in men and identifies individuals at higher risk. Developed by Karim Kader, Director of Urologic Oncology at the University of California, San Diego, PGS is the first commercialized test offered by Stratify Genomics. The company has commercialized next-generation sequencing methods, helping smaller laboratories significantly reduce costs and turnaround time.

Karim Kader stated, “Abandoning PSA-based prostate cancer screening has placed us in the midst of a healthcare crisis. Men at high risk represent the second largest group to die from cancer; they should be aware of their status and take action. Our genetic testing tool can identify men at elevated risk for prostate cancer, enabling them to receive treatment before the disease progresses.”

Martyn Gross, President of Stratify Genomics, stated, “Since the launch of our PGS, we have received numerous partnership invitations, which is very encouraging. This funding will help further promote our prostate cancer detection tool, bringing us closer to our goal of implementing prostate cancer risk screening nationwide in the U.S. and significantly reducing the risk of metastatic prostate cancer both domestically and abroad.”

(Compiled by Hu Yifan)