Introduction: In 2019, Ben Nashman, the founder of Synex Medical, found himself in an unexpected predicament. Detained by US customs while transporting materials for his homemade MRI from Buffalo to Toronto, Nashman faced hours of questioning due to the label on his package: “nuclear magnetic resonance.” Despite the ordeal, this experience became a pivotal moment in Nashman’s journey to develop groundbreaking medical technology.
Early Challenges: Nashman, then an 18-year-old scientist, spent hours in a bright waiting room, trying to convince customs officials that he was simply a young innovator with a passion for MRI technology. Eventually, he was allowed to proceed with his 80-pound magnet, returning to Toronto in the early hours of the morning, just in time for his classes.
The Vision: Now 24, Nashman reflects on that night as a crucial step in his mission to create a portable MRI device capable of non-invasive glucose testing. This vision has driven him to overcome numerous obstacles and has now brought Synex Medical to a significant milestone.
Funding Success: Synex Medical recently announced a successful $21.8 million Series A funding round, with contributions from prominent investors such as Accomplice, Radical Ventures, Fundomo, and Khosla Ventures. This brings the company’s total funding to over $36 million, including seed funding from notable investor Sam Altman.
Prototype Development: The current prototype of Synex’s device is about the size of a toaster. It utilizes MRI technology to create a 3D image of the finger, identifying the optimal spot for testing. The device then employs magnetic resonance spectroscopy to send radio pulses that excite different molecules, filtering the signals to detect specific ones.
Future Aspirations: Nashman envisions a future where the device is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. Initially focusing on glucose testing, Synex plans to expand its capabilities to monitor other important molecules such as amino acids, lactate, and ketones.
Real-World Impact: The potential impact of this technology is exemplified by Diane Morency, a Massachusetts resident with Type 2 diabetes. Morency, who has endured years of painful finger pricks, expressed hope that Synex’s device could alleviate her discomfort and improve her quality of life.
Challenges Ahead: Despite the promising technology, non-invasive glucose testing remains a significant challenge. Accurately tracking glucose levels without drawing blood is difficult, and making the device both portable and affordable adds to the complexity.
Investor Confidence: Jun Jeon, an investor at Khosla Ventures, acknowledges the challenges but believes in Nashman’s vision. Although he has yet to try the prototype, Jeon considers the investment a worthwhile risk, given the potential benefits.
A Personal Drive: Nashman’s dedication to this project is rooted in his long-standing curiosity about health and longevity. His journey from a curious teenager to a pioneering entrepreneur highlights his commitment to making a difference in the field of medical technology.
Technological Innovation: Synex’s device represents a significant advancement in medical technology. By combining MRI and magnetic resonance spectroscopy, the device offers a non-invasive method to monitor critical health metrics, potentially transforming diabetes management.
Community Support: The support from investors and the broader medical community underscores the importance of Synex’s work. The company’s innovative approach has garnered attention and funding, positioning it as a leader in the field of non-invasive health monitoring.
Looking Forward: As Synex continues to refine its technology, the company remains focused on its goal of providing accurate, real-time health data without the need for invasive procedures. This vision aligns with the broader trend towards personalized and predictive healthcare.
Conclusion: Synex Medical’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation and perseverance. From a challenging night at the border to securing significant funding, Nashman and his team are on the path to revolutionizing glucose testing and improving the lives of millions of people with diabetes.
