Molecular-Based Test Will Help Pathologists Diagnose Prostate Cancer

A DNA methylation biomarker will be used to develop a molecular-based laboratory-developed test that can help pathologists diagnose prostate cancer.

Quest Diagnostics (Madison, NJ, USA) and Epigenomics AG (Berlin, Germany) have entered into a nonexclusive licensing agreement. According to the agreement, Quest Diagnostics has obtained rights to use Epigenomics' glutathione S-transferase pi (GSTP1) DNA methylation biomarker (mGSTP1) to establish and commercialize a molecular-based laboratory-developed test.

Methylated DNA of the GSTP1 gene in tissue may indicate the presence of prostate cancer. A test that detects the DNA methylation of the gene GSTP1 in tissue biopsies in combination with conventional histopathology may augment the accuracy of prostate cancer diagnosis especially in cases with suspicious but inconclusive histology findings or patients with elevated PSA but repeatedly negative biopsies.

"We are pleased that Quest Diagnostics is expanding its menu of DNA methylation tests using our technologies and biomarkers. Quest Diagnostics has a strong record of innovation in diagnostics, including development of other DNA methylation diagnostic tests. They also share our goal to develop technologies that will help physicians achieve improved health outcomes for their patients through better diagnosis of prostate cancer and early detection of colorectal cancer," said Geert Nygaard, CEO of Epigenomics.

Epigenomics is a molecular diagnostics company with a focus on the development of novel products for cancer. Using DNA methylation biomarkers, Epigenomics aim is to more accurately diagnose cancer at earlier stages.

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Quest Diagnostics
Epigenomics AG