Canadian biotech startup Afynia Laboratories, a spin-out from McMaster University, has raised $5 million in seed funding to commercialize its groundbreaking blood test for endometriosis. This condition affects nearly 200 million people worldwide, often causing chronic pelvic pain and fertility issues. Diagnosis remains a significant challenge, with many patients waiting years or even a decade for confirmation due to invasive testing methods. Afynia aims to change this by offering a non-invasive, microRNA-based blood test called EndomiR, which can provide faster and more reliable diagnoses.
Co-founder Dr. Lauren Foster, a former McMaster University professor with over two decades of research experience, explains that endometriosis is a complex syndrome with various manifestations. Traditional diagnostic methods rely on surgical confirmation, which can be both expensive and time-consuming. EndomiR uses an algorithm to analyze microRNA levels in blood samples, comparing them to patients with confirmed endometriosis. This approach allows for earlier and more accurate detection by identifying biomarkers linked to inflammation, nerve growth, and other disease-related processes.
Afynia’s focus on microRNA rather than protein biomarkers gives it an edge over competitors, as microRNA is more stable and reliable for detecting disease. Foster and her co-founder, Dr. Jocelyn Wessels, developed the test after years of research and validation, recognizing its potential to transform endometriosis diagnosis. The startup is now in the process of obtaining regulatory approval in Canada for a laboratory-developed test (LDT), with plans to launch in North America later this year. If successful, the test could be available in Canada as early as this summer, with a U.S. launch expected in early 2026.
The company believes its test will significantly reduce the current diagnostic timeline, which averages seven to eight years. Unlike imaging-based or saliva tests that may face skepticism from patients and clinicians, Afynia’s blood test provides a trusted and scalable solution. The company is also exploring ways to refine its technology further, with the long-term goal of developing a finger-prick test for even greater accessibility.
Afynia’s $5 million seed round was led by Bio-Rad Laboratories, with participation from Impact America Fund, SOSV, the Capital Angel Network, and Gaingels. Prior to this, the startup had raised $1.5 million in pre-seed funding, backed by McMaster University and several early-stage investors. While endometriosis remains the company’s primary focus, Afynia envisions expanding its microRNA technology to diagnose other women’s health conditions in the future. By combining cutting-edge science with patient-centric innovation, Afynia is poised to become a leader in non-invasive diagnostics, offering hope to millions affected by endometriosis.
