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Epigenomics AG: Key patents for cancer testing granted

05 Oct 2007 - Epigenomics AG announced that key patents covering Epigenomics' core technology HeavyMethyl® for the sensitive detection of methylated DNA have been granted by the patent authorities in a wide range of market regions including Europe and the U.S.
 
Epigenomics uses this technology for detecting DNA methylation biomarkers for the early detection of cancer. These biomarkers, when measured in body fluids such as blood plasma or urine, form the basis for Epigenomics' reliable and patient-friendly cancer screening tests in development. The most advanced product is a blood test for the early detection of colorectal cancer based on Epigenomics' proprietary DNA methylation biomarker Septin 9.
 
In numerous clinical studies with blood samples from more than 3,000 individuals, Epigenomics could demonstrate that measuring methylated Septin 9 DNA with HeavyMethyl® technology can detect colorectal cancer at early stages before symptoms typically occur. Diagnosed early, colorectal cancer has a 5-year survival rate of more than 90%. A Septin 9 based regular screening blood test for the early detection of colorectal cancer may eventually target almost 300 million men and women aged 50 and older in Europe, the U.S., and Japan.
 
Together with further key patents in the areas of sample preparation and DNA methylation detection technologies already issued in Europe and the U.S., the granted HeavyMethyl® patents complete the patent protection of the entire workflows for Epigenomics' diagnostic tests on body fluids and tissue.