Meet Alex Fisher, Co-Founder of AOA Dx
Enabling early diagnosis of ovarian cancer
We recently caught up with Alex Fisher, Co-Founder of AOA Dx, the company that has developed the first liquid biopsy test that accurately enables early diagnosis of ovarian cancer through the analysis of tumor marker gangliosides. Read more about Alex’s journey from Oxford and his personal story behind the founding of AOA Dx.
What did you study at Oxford?
I was a member of Keble College where I completed an Executive MBA at the Said School of Business.
What is the problem the company is solving?
Ovarian Cancer is the 5th leading cause of cancer deaths in women globally and three times more lethal than breast cancer.
Why is this an important problem to solve?
80% of ovarian cancer cases are diagnosed at stage III or IV where the 5-year survival rate is <30%. Enabling earlier cancer detection can provide better outcomes for many women.
What motivated you to start this company?
In 2020 my mother was diagnosed with Stage III Ovarian Cancer. The repeated visits to the GP, despite showing symptoms, led to a delayed diagnosis. The lack of an accurate test available from the first GP appointment could have made a significant difference on my mother’s journey and so we are committed to improving this journey for any woman that may have signs and symptoms of Ovarian Cancer.
How is the company solving the problem in an innovative way?
AOA has developed a non-invasive, liquid biopsy blood test that can diagnose women with suspicion of ovarian cancer at the earliest stages.
Did you always think you would be an entrepreneur?
Yes, since completing my Masters in 2012, I have always been part of startups. I am drawn to difficult challenges that require creative problem solving.
What was your most important takeaway from Oxford?
Oxford offered a unique opportunity to connect and learn from leading scientists, researchers and investors in the field of diagnostics. By connecting with experts and asking the tough questions, answers to big problems can be solved much faster. Sharing knowledge is key to making progress and the Oxford ecosystem offered this.
What are the biggest struggles you have experienced as a founder?
Unpredictable external events outside the control of the startup can create substantial challenges for founders with very little notice. Most recently the Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) crisis in March 2023 caused great difficulty for AOA Dx prior to the intervention by the US Government.
What has been your most rewarding accomplishment to date as a founder?
The recent oversubscribed Seed Series totaling $17m was an incredible milestone given the SVB crisis and difficult macro-economic environment.
Why is the Oxford Angel Fund excited about this investment?
Each year 8.5 million women are tested for suspected ovarian cancer in North America and Europe alone, representing a $6B market opportunity. Early diagnosis can save up to 100,000 women per year. We are impressed by the team and are excited to see the results on the large clinical trial occurring throughout the US. To learn more visit AOAdx.com.
AOA Dx
Ovarian Cancer Diagnostics
Founders: Alex Fisher, Oriana Papin-Zoghbi, Ana Jeter
Founded: June 2020
Stage: $17M Seed, Sept 2023
Notable Investors: Good Growth Capital
AOA has developed a non-invasive, liquid biopsy blood test that can diagnose women with suspicion of ovarian cancer at the earliest stages. >90% of women present to their OBGYN with signs and symptoms when the cancer is in its earliest stages.