In 2019, a night spent in a U.S. customs detention center marked a pivotal moment for Ben Nashman, the founder of Synex Medical. As an 18-year-old scientist with a singular focus on MRI technology, Nashman found himself in a challenging situation when customs officials questioned the contents of his shipment labeled “nuclear magnetic resonance.” After hours of explanations, he successfully retrieved his 80-pound magnet and returned to Toronto, fueled by a determination to revolutionize medical diagnostics. Fast forward to today, and Nashman’s vision is gaining traction as Synex Medical recently secured $21.8 million in Series A funding from notable investors such as Accomplice, Radical Ventures, Fundomo, and Khosla Ventures. This brings the company’s total funding to over $36 million, including seed investments from tech luminary Sam Altman.
At its core, Nashman’s ambition is to create a portable MRI device that can test glucose and other crucial molecules without the need for blood draws. Current prototypes are about the size of a toaster, but Nashman envisions a future where this technology could fit in the palm of your hand. The prototype employs traditional MRI techniques to generate a 3D image of the finger, identifying optimal testing sites. Subsequently, it utilizes magnetic resonance spectroscopy to emit radio pulses that excite various molecules, allowing the machine to isolate specific signals for analysis. While the initial focus is on glucose testing, future iterations aim to monitor a range of substances, including amino acids and ketones.
The potential impact of this innovation is profound, particularly for individuals like Diane Morency, a Massachusetts resident living with Type 2 diabetes. Morency shared her struggles, including painful finger pricks that have made playing her beloved ukulele impossible. “It would be a godsend to not have to prick my fingers anymore,” she expressed. Such sentiments echo the frustrations of countless patients who rely on invasive methods to monitor their health, highlighting the need for non-invasive alternatives.
However, creating a practical, non-invasive glucose monitor is no small feat. Historically, accurately tracking glucose levels without blood samples has posed significant challenges, particularly when it comes to portability and affordability. Jun Jeon, an investor at Khosla Ventures, acknowledged the hurdles involved, describing the task as a “moonshot.” Yet, he remains hopeful that if Nashman can deliver on his promises, the investment will prove worthwhile.
Nashman’s fascination with health and longevity is deeply personal. His journey began at age 16 when he attempted to prescribe immunosuppressive therapy for his dog, driven by findings from scientific studies he had researched. Despite pushback from veterinary professionals, his determination only grew stronger. He has since delved into various health interventions, including a stint on the diabetes drug acarbose and extensive usage of continuous glucose monitors. This relentless pursuit of knowledge about the human body led him to experiment with homemade MRI technology, ultimately culminating in his enrollment at the University of Toronto for engineering science.
Despite the backing of influential figures in Silicon Valley, Nashman faces stiff competition in a crowded market. Startups like Know Labs and Berlin-based DiaMonTech are also developing non-invasive glucose monitoring technologies, while tech giants like Apple have reportedly been working on their own solutions. The anticipated Apple Watch glucose monitor could revolutionize diabetes care, though its commercial release remains uncertain.
Looking ahead, Synex Medical’s path is fraught with challenges. The company must navigate rigorous clinical trials to satisfy FDA requirements, demonstrating that its device can accurately measure glucose levels without invasive procedures. Additionally, the feasibility of miniaturizing the technology to a portable size remains a critical question. If the device cannot be effectively used outside of clinical settings, its utility may be limited.
Even if Nashman successfully addresses these hurdles, the road to widespread adoption is equally complex. According to Jeon, the healthcare infrastructure currently lacks adequate reimbursement models and access for patients. This reality underscores the importance of not only innovation but also the systemic changes needed to ensure that new technologies are accessible to all.
Nashman remains resolute in his mission, viewing the pursuit of longevity and health as a personal crusade. “I want to know exactly what my body needs. I want to know what my parents need,” he stated, emphasizing the role of predictive medicine in improving healthcare outcomes. His journey encapsulates the intersection of technology and personal health, where innovative solutions could pave the way for a future where monitoring and managing health becomes simpler, more effective, and less invasive for everyone.
As Synex Medical moves forward, the potential for significant advancements in non-invasive diagnostics holds promise for countless individuals grappling with chronic conditions. The evolution of this technology could redefine how we approach health management, making it more accessible and less burdensome for patients everywhere.
