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Pleasanton Today
By the People, for the People
Helix Partners with Mawi DNA to Expand Non-Invasive Genomic Sample Collection
Buccal swab technology complements existing collection approaches, enabling broader participation in population genomics.
Published on Feb. 10, 2026
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Helix, the leading enterprise genomics company, has partnered with Mawi DNA Technologies, a leader in DNA sample collection and storage, to expand access to non-invasive DNA collection for genomic sequencing. The collaboration enhances Helix's ability to reach new patient populations while maintaining a flexible, multimodal approach to population genomics.
Why it matters
The partnership enables Helix to meet the needs of health systems and life sciences partners by offering multiple validated pathways for high-quality genomic data, which is critical for understanding genetic diseases and their effects on overall health and wellness across different communities.
The details
Mawi has developed buccal collection technology, which involves swabbing cells from the inside of a participant's cheek for analysis. The approach is quick, painless, easy to administer, and designed to improve collection efficiency while reducing resampling, failure rates, and overall operational costs. By incorporating Mawi's buccal collection technology, Helix will further strengthen its sequencing programs by improving collection flexibility and supporting more consistent data generation across diverse cohorts.
- Helix and Mawi DNA Technologies announced their partnership on February 10, 2026.
The players
Helix
The leading enterprise genomics company that transforms health systems and enables life science organizations to leverage the power of genomics across their enterprise.
Mawi DNA Technologies
A leader in DNA sample collection and storage that has developed buccal collection technology, which involves swabbing cells from the inside of a participant's cheek for analysis.
James Lu, M.D., Ph.D.
The CEO of Helix.
Dr. Bassam El-Fahmawi
The CEO and Chief Technical Officer of Mawi DNA.
What they’re saying
“By adding buccal swab collection to our existing blood and saliva options, we give our partners greater flexibility to design programs that work for their specific populations and settings. This multimodal approach helps increase participation and generate high-quality genomic data that can drive meaningful clinical and research insights.”
— James Lu, CEO of Helix (PRNewswire)
“We are thrilled that Helix has selected Mawi's sample collection technology as an important component of their global effort to understand population genomics on a large scale. This initiative aligns with our mission of enabling sample collection accessibility from any individual regardless of age or geographical location. Global sample diversity is critical for a better holistic perspective of understanding genetic diseases and their effects on overall health and wellness across different communities around the world.”
— Dr. Bassam El-Fahmawi, CEO and Chief Technical Officer of Mawi DNA (PRNewswire)
The takeaway
This partnership between Helix and Mawi DNA Technologies expands access to non-invasive genomic sample collection, enabling broader participation in population genomics research and the potential for more comprehensive insights into genetic diseases and their effects on diverse communities.
