Transforming Brain Health Diagnostics Through Precision Medicine

Overview

Circular Genomics is pioneering a new frontier in brain health diagnostics by unlocking the potential of brain-derived circular RNA biomarkers. Their mission is bringing actionable, real-time insights to clinicians through innovative blood tests that redefine how neurological and psychiatric disorders are detected and managed. With a focus on improving outcomes across conditions like Alzheimer’s and other brain health challenges, they are shaping the future of precision medicine in brain health.

Following a successful proof of concept, Circular Genomics entered a phase of rapid commercial growth, supported by an $8.3M Series A round in early 2024 and a $250,000 investment from the Alzheimer’s Drug Discovery Foundation in 2025. With a presence at Lilly Gateway Labs in San Diego, the company is forging partnerships and advancing its diagnostics platform alongside leading neuroscience innovators.

“We’re not just developing tests, we’re aiming to create a new standard of care for brain health.”
— Sami Shihabi, Chief Commercial Officer, Circular Genomics

The Challenge

As Circular Genomics transitioned from early discovery to commercialization, they faced a series of complex, time-sensitive challenges requiring specialized expertise to maintain momentum and deliver on growth milestones. They needed to:

  • Build clinical and operational capacity with experienced leaders who could help guide commercialization strategy.
  • Identify and onboard business development leadership to accelerate strategic partnerships.
  • Develop a partnership and outreach strategy to support upcoming Series B fundraising and market expansion.

“We were scaling up across the organization and needed quality candidates and advisors who could support our growth and help set the stage for a successful commercial launch.”
— Sami Shihabi

The MDisrupt Solution

Circular Genomics partnered with MDisrupt to embed critical talent into their business, filling gaps quickly and effectively without slowing execution. These experts included:

  • A business development leader who took on a full-time role to drive strategic partnerships and market access relationships with health systems.
  • A seamless recruitment process led by MDisrupt that sourced high-quality, pre-screened candidates, allowing just a two-week hiring process.

The Results

With the support of MDisrupt experts, Circular Genomics advanced several critical initiatives that positioned them for continued growth:

  • Completed multiple strategic meetings with pharma and diagnostic partners.
  • Developed a comprehensive 12–18 month outreach and partnership plan.
  • Initiated health system engagement to generate real-world clinical utility data.
  • Positioned the company for Series B fundraising with clear commercialization and partnership strategies in place.

“The outreach plan and strategic partnerships we’ve built since bringing on this expert are crucial to both our growth and our next fundraising round.”
— Sami Shihabi

Why It Matters

Circular Genomics’ experience demonstrates how MDisrupt helps early-stage innovators:

  • Rapidly embed specialized talent in days, not months.
  • Navigate scientific, clinical, and commercial complexities with confidence.
  • Maintain execution momentum while preparing for key growth milestones.

Ready to accelerate your next milestone? Whether you’re launching a new product, building strategic partnerships, or scaling your business, MDisrupt can connect you with the experts you need.

Connect with Us →