MOLECULAR ASSEMBLIES

Company Overview

Molecular Assemblies, founded in 2013, is commercializing a next-generation DNA synthesis technology based on enzymatic synthesis. This method of DNA synthesis involves using a template-free polymerase (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase, or TdT0). The technology enables production of long strands that are thousands of nucleotides in length of DNA at high yields. The key aspect of the technology is a proprietary design of the nucleotide monomers.

In June 2020 Molecular Assemblies formed a strategic partnership with Codexis to engineer enzymes for improved and cost-effective DNA synthesis. Codexis purchased $1 million in Molecular Assemblies’ preferred stock and Codexis’ president and CEO John Nicols joined Molecular Assemblies’ board of directors. Also, based on success-based milestones, Codex may accumulate more than 10% ownership of Molecular Assemblies in the future.

Codexis’ CodeEvolver platform will be used to improve the DNA polymerase enzymes used in the enzymatic DNA synthesis workflow.

In March 2022, Molecular Assemblies raised $25.8 million Series B funding led by Casdin Capital, and all other major Series A investors. The funding shall help to accelerate the commercialization of the company’s proprietary enzymatic DNA synthesis technology and aims to start a customer program by end of the year.

In August 2022 Codexis Inc. and Molecular Assemblies Inc. executed their Commercial License and Enzyme Supply Agreement that enabled Molecular Assemblies to employ an evolved terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TdT) enzyme in Molecular Assemblies’ Fully Enzymatic Synthesis (FES) technology.

Company's Business Segments

• DNA Synthesis Technology : The company provides enzymatic DNA synthesis technology designed to power DNA-based products.