QIAGEN Acquires Exclusive Licence for Key PI3K gene
Patent licensed from Johns Hopkins University for PCR-based companion diagnostics for cancer treatments
QIAGEN already markets a PI3K test for research use. This test is based on real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), a widely available technology to make DNA sequences visible through amplification. The assay, which uses technology that allows a very significant sensitivity, detects mutations frequently missed by sequencing methods.
The patent for PI3K mutations in human cancers was initially filed by researchers at Johns Hopkins who assessed the biomarker during their evaluation of tyrosine kinase inhibitors targeting the EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) pathway. Various EGFR inhibiting drugs have shown to be not effective in cancer patients with mutations in genes of the EGFR pathway (EGFR, K-RAS, B-RAF etc.). QIAGEN already markets several tests determining the mutation status in oncogenes. This portfolio includes tests for mutations of K-RAS and B-RAF, which are indicative for metastatic colorectal, lung and other cancers. The K-RAS test is CE-marked for companion diagnostic use with EGFR inhibitors Vectibix® and Erbitux® and is expected to be submitted for FDA approval shortly.
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