Epigenomics and QIAGEN Sign Collaboration Agreement in Colorectal Cancer Blood Testing

01-Mar-2011 - Germany

Epigenomics AG and QIAGEN announced that the companies have entered into an option agreement allowing QIAGEN to develop and, should QIAGEN exercise the option, commercialize a colorectal cancer blood test based on Epigenomics’ proprietary biomarker mSEPT9 and certain DNA methylation analysis technologies.

Under the terms of the agreement, QIAGEN receives an option to a worldwide non-exclusive commercial license to Epigenomics’ proprietary mSEPT9 biomarker and DNA methylation technologies for the detection of colorectal cancer in blood. The option can be exercised by QIAGEN within the next two years. Furthermore, Epigenomics has granted QIAGEN a research license to the mSEPT9 biomarker and the technologies. Under this license, QIAGEN is currently developing a novel sample preparation technology that meets the requirements for the future broad implementation of methylation-based molecular diagnostics, such as Septin9-targeted blood testing for the detection of colorectal cancer, on QIAGEN’s modular molecular testing platform QIAsymphony. Epigenomics will support QIAGEN in the R&D phase through know-how transfer and the collection of clinical specimens as required.

Under the terms of the option agreement, Epigenomics will receive an upfront payment from QIAGEN and will be reimbursed for any R&D support and clinical specimens provided during the R&D phase. Upon QIAGEN exercising the option Epigenomics would receive a further license payment. Once QIAGEN commercializes a colorectal cancer blood test based on Epigenomics’ biomarkers and technology, Epigenomics would be entitled to royalties on QIAGEN’s net sales as well as certain commercial milestones upon reaching specific revenue targets.

https://www.bionity.com/en/news/131108/epigenomics-and-qiagen-sign-collaboration-agreement-in-colorectal-cancer-blood-testing.html