Quick Read:
- AI-enabled genomic and multi-omics testing now available locally in Lagos through a new sequencing laboratory
- Launch portfolio includes hereditary cancer and conditions panels, somatic oncology panels, NIPT, pharmacogenomics, and health & wellness testing
- New Direct Nigeria Precision Medicine Network (DNPMN) to drive clinical adoption, with a joint tumor board in partnership with Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center (USA)
Syndicate Bio has announced the launch of Direct by Syndicate Bio, a comprehensive genetic testing and precision medicine service designed to deliver actionable insights to patients, providers, and consumers across Africa.
The launch coincides with the opening of a state-of-the-art sequencing laboratory in Lagos, enabling world-class genomic and multi-omics testing powered by AI, delivered locally for Nigeria’s 200 million citizens and the global diaspora.
Raising the Bar for Precision Medicine in Africa
The Lagos facility is built to set new global standards for precision medicine on the continent. Equipped with next-generation sequencing and advanced molecular workflows, the lab supports clinical-grade testing and research while ensuring faster turnaround times for Nigerian clinicians, researchers, and patients.
Nigeria’s unparalleled ethnic diversity creates unique mutational signatures and drug-metabolism profiles. By integrating genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics with AI-driven analysis, Direct by Syndicate Bio will uncover biomarkers tailored to local populations, advancing precision medicine not only in Nigeria but also for millions worldwide who share genetic ancestry with its communities.
Launch Event and Stakeholder Engagement
The launch event, held at the new Lagos facility, brought together leading stakeholders, including representatives from the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), Lakeshore Cancer Center, Redus Center for Digestive Health, Beacon Health, Healthtracka, Society for Family Health, and Atlantis Pediatric Hospital.
Guests joined Dr Abasi Ene-Obong, Syndicate Bio’s founder, and the leadership team for a guided tour and introduction to the Direct platform.
Dr Abasi Ene-Obong commented:
“Nigeria’s diversity is both a challenge and an opportunity for precision medicine. For too long, the absence of locally derived genomic data has limited how we prevent, diagnose, and treat disease. With Direct, Syndicate Bio is harnessing Nigeria’s rich genetic diversity to generate insights that improve care for Nigerians and the diaspora, while advancing inclusive precision medicine globally.”
Comprehensive Testing Portfolio
Direct by Syndicate Bio launches with a focused portfolio addressing urgent healthcare needs:
- Hereditary cancer testing: 300+ genes, including BRCA1/2 and others linked to breast, ovarian, pancreatic, prostate, and colorectal cancers
- Hereditary conditions testing: 90 inherited disorders across cardiovascular, hematological, metabolic, neurodevelopmental, ophthalmological, and immune system categories
- Health & Wellness testing: 80+ genes related to nutrition, metabolism, fitness, skin health, immunity, sleep, and lifestyle traits
- Somatic oncology panels: Comprehensive solid and myeloid tumor profiling for targeted cancer treatment decisions
- Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT): Early, safe assessment of fetal health
- Pharmacogenomics: Drug selection and dosing guided by individual genetic profiles
- Population-relevant traits: Sickle cell disease, thalassemia, G6PD deficiency, and hemophilia A/B included as standard
- NGS-based testing: Next-generation sequencing ensures comprehensive results in the absence of large African genomic reference datasets
Reports are delivered in a clinician-ready format, supported by genetic counselling, with strict adherence to quality control, data protection, and privacy standards.
Driving Clinical Adoption: The Direct Nigeria Precision Medicine Network (DNPMN)
To accelerate adoption, Syndicate Bio has established the Direct Nigeria Precision Medicine Network (DNPMN) in partnership with leading institutions.
The network will convene a multidisciplinary tumor board to enable local and international case collaboration, second opinions, and knowledge exchange.
Key partners include:
- Lakeshore Cancer Center – Nigeria’s premier oncology facility, providing advanced diagnostics, treatment and comprehensive patient support services
- Redus Center for Digestive Health – leader in pancreatobiliary and digestive care, home to Nigeria’s first endoscopic ultrasound program
- Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center (USA) – an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, ranked among the top U.S. cancer centers
Through DNPMN, patients and at-risk families will gain access to personalised prevention and intervention strategies, including interventional endoscopies and risk-reducing surgeries, guided by genomic insights.
Partner Perspectives
Dr Sai Yendamuri, chief strategy officer, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center:
“We are honored to enter into this collaboration, which reflects our shared commitment to making precision medicine accessible to underserved populations across Africa. By combining our expertise in genomic testing with educational initiatives in oncology and cancer awareness, we can help empower clinicians and communities with the tools they need to improve outcomes. The creation of a joint tumor board will further strengthen this partnership, fostering multidisciplinary dialogue, advancing knowledge, and ensuring that patients benefit from the latest insights in genomics, personalized treatment, and clinical research.”
Dr Chukwumere Nwogu, Co-Founder & CEO, Lakeshore Cancer Center:
“Partnering with Syndicate Bio allows us to offer precision oncology services that reflect the unique genetic profiles of our patients. This marks a milestone in bringing data-driven cancer care to Nigeria.”
Dr Kenechukwu Chudy-Onwugaje, Founder & CEO, Redus Center for Digestive Health:
“Gastrointestinal cancer poses a growing public health challenge in Nigeria. Understanding genomic variation in digestive diseases ushers in a future where treatments are tailored to each patient’s unique biology. Direct by Syndicate Bio equips clinicians with the tools to elevate care standards nationwide.”
