US-based personal genomics marketplace developer Helix closed the first tranche of a $200m series B round featuring genomics technology provider Illumina and medical research firm Mayo Clinic yesterday.
Growth equity firm DFJ Growth led the tranche, which also included Kleiner Perkins Caufield Byers, Sutter Hill Ventures and Warburg Pincus. The company has not revealed how much it has raised so far but said it expects to close the round at $200m.
Helix launched in 2015 with $100m from Illumina, Mayo Clinic, Warburg Pincus and Sutter Hill and operates what it refers to as an online store for personal genomics products, offering services such as genetic sample collection, DNA sequencing and secure genetic data storage.
The marketplace links to a range of partners that can provide the services, but Helix also operates its own sequencing laboratory which utilises a proprietary assay called Exome+. It will put the series B proceeds into expanding the platform.
Illumina chairman Jay Flatley said: “Helix is proving how a next generation sequencing platform can drive incredible innovation, by engaging individuals and empowering them to interact with DNA and enhance their lives.
“Of the estimated 12 million people who have purchased a consumer genomics service to date, more than 7 million did so for the first time in 2017. We are clearly at an inflection point in personal genomics and Helix is well-positioned to take advantage of this growth.”
DFJ Growth partner Barry Schuler will join the company’s board of directors in connection with its investment.