OneCell Diagnostics, a genomics-based startup founded in 2021, focuses on precision oncology with the goal of helping cancer survivors reduce recurrence through its innovative cell biopsy technology.

Having served nearly 10,000 patients in India, OneCell plans to replicate its successful model in the U.S. market.

The startup's early presence in India has enabled it to gather substantial data by partnering with leading hospitals, including the All India Institute of Medical Sciences and Apollo Hospital.

Recently, OneCell raised $16 million in an oversubscribed Series A funding round led by Celesta Capital, with participation from Tenacity Ventures and the addition of Nobel Laureate James Rothman to its board.

OneCell has secured intellectual property rights to isolate circulating tumor cells from a 10 ml blood draw, which is collected at patients' homes by a phlebotomist and analyzed using a method called True-Single-Cell-Multi-omics.

This blood-based biopsy testing method detects cancer recurrence by analyzing circulating tumor cells, providing significantly more diagnostic information compared to traditional methods like PET scans and MRIs.

OneCell offers pan-cancer analysis for all solid tumors but does not cater to first-time cancer patients due to regulatory constraints in the U.S.

The company competes with established firms like Guardant Health and Natera, claiming its precision and affordability set it apart, offering tests at one-fifth the price of its competitors.

To assist oncologists in interpreting test reports, OneCell has developed an app named iCare, which utilizes AI and machine learning to address gaps in precision oncology training.

The recent funding will support OneCell's expansion into the U.S. and further scaling in India, with aspirations to reach over 1,000 oncologists and one million patients.

Currently, there are 53.5 million cancer survivors globally, with recurrence rates varying from 15% to 100% based on cancer type and individual circumstances.

In the U.S., companies like OneCell face stricter pre-market approval requirements, while India’s regulatory environment has allowed for a more focused approach on recurrence patients.