Gene Signature Is Basis of Colon Cancer Molecular Test

A molecular test is being developed based on a colon cancer-specific gene signature, which is more predictive of patient prognosis than currently available assays. The gene signature that is designed to predict the likelihood of disease-free survival of patients with colon cancer using biopsy tissues from a colonoscopy will be clinically developed and validated.

The H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center (Tampa, FL, USA) is collaborating with Xceed Molecular (Wellesley, MA, USA) to finalize the list of genes in the signature that will be included on the colon cancer TipChip (the consumable microarray device used by Xceed's Ziplex System). Xceed will run the first samples in its Toronto laboratory to optimize the performance of the signature on the Ziplex platform. Xceed will also provide a Ziplex System to the Moffitt team, which will complete additional validation studies. Together, Moffitt and Xceed will determine the clinical utility of the colon cancer TipChip and the technical and commercial feasibility of developing a diagnostic test.

Xceed's quest is to advance molecular diagnostics by translating novel multiplex tests into routine clinical practice and creating robust diagnostic solutions to improve disease outcomes. The Strategic Collaborator Program is a mutually beneficial agreement with a high-profile institution or investigator designed to propel the partners' clinical research, while providing Xceed with additional real-world clinical-laboratory experience and access to critical scientific results. The program is an integral part of the company's strategy to add condition- or pathway-specific assays to its range of products that will be commercialized for use as diagnostic tests or in clinical research.

Moffitt has joined Xceed's Strategic Collaborator Program and has granted Xceed a worldwide, exclusive license to the gene signature for colon cancer. Specific terms were not disclosed.


Related Links:
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center
Xceed Molecular