Rosetta Genomics Selects PCR as Platform for its microRNA-based Diagnostics to be Launched in 2008, Licensed Nanogen's MGB Probe Technology
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First microRNA-based Diagnostic Tests are Expected to be Launched in 2008 and Will Incorporate Nanogen's MGB Probe Technology
Rosetta Genomics Will use the Licensed Technology in its Custom Designed Real-Time PCR Diagnostic Assays That Allow for Sensitive Detection and Quantification of microRNA in Tissues and Body Fluids
REHOVOT, Israel; NORTH BRUNSWICK, New Jersey, December 11 -- Rosetta Genomics, Ltd. (NASDQ: ROSG) announced today it has selected the technological platform for its line of microRNA-based diagnostic products, the first of which are expected to launch in 2008. The company has licensed the MGB Probe technology from Nanogen, Inc. (NASDAQ: NGEN). The licensing deal will allow Rosetta Genomics to combine the technical performance advantages of Nanogen's MGB Probe technology with the Company's own proprietary microRNA biomarkers to create a line of quantitative real-time PCR diagnostic tests.
Leveraging microRNAs' strong tissue specificity and involvement in the regulation of a large number of human genes, Rosetta Genomics has identified specific microRNA signatures that it believes will allow for accurate diagnosis of various cancers.
The Company expects the following three tests to launch in 2008:
o Differentiating squamous from non squamous lung cancer - As current targeted therapy for lung cancer can cause hemorrhaging in squamous cell lung cancer patients, differentiating between the cancer types is critical. Rosetta Genomics has identified several microRNA biomarkers that may allow for sensitive and specific identification of squamous cell carcinoma.
o Differentiating mesothelioma from lung adenocarcinoma - Rosetta Genomics has identified a panel of microRNA biomarkers potentially allowing for differentiation between these cancer types.
Cancer of Unknown Primary (CUP) - This test is designed to assist clinicians to accurately identify the origin of metastases. In 3%-5% of all cancer patients, clinicians cannot identify the origin of a patients' tumor. This information is crucial for determining treatment type. Rosetta Genomics has developed a panel of microRNA biomarkers potentially able to identify approximately thirty cancers
"Our proprietary microRNA detection and quantitation technologies are at the heart of our sensitive diagnostic products," noted Amir Avniel, President and CEO of Rosetta Genomics." Using very small amounts of tissue samples or body fluids, we are able to detect microRNAs on the order of single molecules, as well as differentiate microRNAs with only a single nucleotide mismatch. We look forward to the launch of our first diagnostic products in 2008."
About Rosetta Genomics
Rosetta Genomics (Nasdaq: ROSG) is a leader in the development of microRNA-based diagnostics and therapeutics. Founded in 2000, the company's integrative research platform combining bioinformatics and state-of-the-art laboratory processes has led to the discovery of hundreds of biologically validated novel human microRNAs. Building on its strong IP position and strategic alliances with leading biotechnology companies, Rosetta Genomics is working to develop a full range of diagnostic and therapeutic products based on microRNAs.
The company's primary focus is in the development of microRNA-based products to diagnose and treat different forms of cancer.
Contact:
Media
Alan Zachary
T: +1-312-944-6784
media@rosettagenomics.com
Source: Rosetta Genomics Ltd
