Mercia investment is in the DNA

HENLEY-in-Arden-based technology investor Mercia Fund Management has provided a funding package of up to £500,000 for Oxford Genetics, a synthetic biology company with expertise in DNA design.
 
Mercia has worked closely with Oxford Genetics for more than four years, during which time it has developed the world’s largest library of DNA plasmid ‘building blocks’.

This provides simplified genetic engineering via the firm’s main technology, SnapFast, offered under an intellectual property-free policy to help enable efficient research for customers.
 
This latest investment will allow Oxford Genetics to propel the commercialisation of its DNA design and algorithm technologies which can enable biopharma and biotech companies to overcome poor protein yield, a key barrier in terms of high unit cost and/or failure to bring drugs to market.
 
Founded in 2011 by genetic engineer Dr Ryan Cawood and Len Seymour, Professor of gene therapies at the University of Oxford, the company’s in-depth knowledge and expertise provides a wealth of improvements and optimisations for the complex creation of recombinant proteins, which will be used to help combat many life-threatening illnesses, including Hepatitis B, HIV and Diabetes.
 
Mercia CEO Mark Payton said: “We are pleased to further our support of Oxford Genetics as they continue to commercialise their innovative services, which have far-reaching benefits for the industry. 

“Oxford Genetics’ successful track record for DNA design and optimisation will soon establish it as a market leader in the improvement of protein manufacture.”
 
Ryan Cawood, CEO and Founder of Oxford Genetics, said: “Mercia’s investment will allow us to accelerate our research, leverage public funding and roll out our commercial programme. 

“Over the last four years, Mercia has not only provided investment, it has also been a supportive presence on our board, providing guidance to a rapidly evolving business.”