AncestryDNA
As founder, it was Ken’s vision that brought AncestryDNA into existence. Drawing on his Ph.D. in genetics, he laid the groundwork for what would become a revolutionary product—one that, for the first time, could reveal an individual’s ethnicity with remarkable accuracy and identify distant cousins through shared ancestors dating back to the 1800s. He used his law degree to navigate complex regulatory challenges, address ethical dilemmas such as false paternity, and protect privacy—successfully pushing back against law enforcement efforts to access the genetic database. He wove these skills together with his business acumen to create the most popular genetic test ever developed.
Hemophilia Gene Therapy
Ken was CEO of Avigen, the company that initially developed the gene therapy product that would become Beqvez™. The treatment was ultimately licensed to Pfizer, who advanced it through regulatory approvals in the US and Europe and now markets it under the Beqvez™ brand. Designed for adults with hemophilia B, Beqvez™ delivers a functional copy of the Factor IX gene to the liver, allowing the patient’s cells to produce the missing clotting factor themselves. This one-time gene therapy represents a cure for patients born with this life-threatening genetic disease.
Helio Liver
Ken was the CEO and primary inventor behind HelioLiver™—a breakthrough blood-based test for the early detection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Designed for high-risk patients, HelioLiver™ combines protein biomarkers, cell-free DNA methylation analysis, and machine learning to identify liver cancer at earlier, more treatable stages. Now under FDA review, the test has the potential to transform clinical practice by enabling accurate detection through a simple blood sample—representing a significant advancement in the effort to reduce mortality from liver cancer.
Nectar Allergy
Ken was the founder and CEO of Nectar Allergy, a company that reinvented allergy care through innovation, accessibility, and technology. Nectar introduced a new model of treatment by offering at-home immunotherapy in the form of drops instead of traditional shots, combined with virtual care and a seamless digital experience. The company vertically integrated its operations with a 503A compounding pharmacy licensed in 49 states, enabling personalized treatment at scale. This model not only expanded patient access, but also powered a new generation of allergy clinics that are significantly more profitable.