Phoenix, AZ (September 23, 2025) – In 2024, more than 600,000 people in the United States died from cancer. Yet, research shows that an estimated 30–50% of cancer deaths are preventable with proper screening and early detection.
That is where Binary Genomics plans to make a difference. Founded by Michael T. Barrett, PhD, Abhijit A. Patel, MD, PhD, and Mitesh J. Borad, MD, the company is taking a more inclusive approach to cancer detection. Their DNA-based blood test is designed to capture unique epigenetic fingerprints from each patient’s tumor—regardless of the cancer type.
The technology, developed by Dr. Patel at Yale University, enables detection across any tumor type, in any patient, at any stage of treatment. By focusing on epigenetic changes targeting gene regulatory sites, so-called CpG islands, rather than relying on genetic mutations, the assay overcomes major challenges of tumor heterogeneity, evolution, and limited genetic targets.
Binary Genomics’ initial clinical focus is on minimal residual disease (MRD) detection in lung cancer patients undergoing immunotherapy. Using patient blood samples from a Yale clinical trial, researchers aim to demonstrate that the test can detect treatment response or resistance weeks before imaging scans, helping to improve the delivery of therapy while reducing unnecessary toxicity and treatment costs.
Funded by NIH SBIR grants, Binary Genomics established operations at the Phoenix Bioscience Core (PBC), taking advantage of the region’s talent pool and collaborative ecosystem. “We convinced Abhijit that Phoenix is the place to be because of resources like 850 PBC, our ability to hire people like Alysia Hughes, MS (Senior Research Technologist), and overall, the resources here are much better than what we could get on the East Coast,” said Barrett.
Also located at 850 PBC is the company’s automated workflow system, the Hamilton Microlab STAR (nicknamed ‘Stella’). Stella enables streamlined high-throughput processing and delivers samples for next-generation sequencing in less than a week, positioning the company for rapid clinical adoption.
Binary Genomics aims to transform cancer care by creating a universal, non-invasive blood test that enables earlier detection, real-time monitoring, and better outcomes for patients.
About the Phoenix Bioscience Core
The Phoenix Bioscience Core (PBC) is a 30-acre life sciences innovation district located in downtown Phoenix. It hosts Arizona’s three public research universities—Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University, and the University of Arizona—as well as leading genomics pioneers like the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen), part of the City of Hope, and the International Genomics Consortium. The PBC also collaborates with major healthcare systems, including Banner Health, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Dignity Health, HonorHealth, Phoenix VA, and Valleywise Health, alongside a growing number of emerging life science companies. This unique concentration of research scientists and healthcare professionals fosters unprecedented collaborations, advancing precision medicine from discovery to delivery. To learn more, please visit phoenixbiosciencecore.com.
By: Madisson Simental | September 23, 2025