First Known DNA Biomarker Licensed for Use in Determining Drug Response in Multiple Myeloma

Empire Genomics (Buffalo, NY, USA) reported it has acquired an exclusive license for patent-pending new genomic biomarkers from Emory University (Atlanta, GA, USA) for use in developing a molecular diagnostic test that could help fulfill a large unmet medical need in determining optimal therapeutic treatment for multiple myeloma (MM) patients.

Recent studies have shown that specific genetic biomarkers may identify which patients would benefit from receiving treatment with the various therapies opposed to those that receive no benefit. The investigators are initiating in a phase II biomarker-driven clinical trial using this technology to substantiate its effectiveness to predict outcomes in new generations of MM pharmaceuticals.

“Developing a clinically validated multiple myeloma cancer theranostic assay with informative data would represent a major breakthrough in improving disease management,” said Leon Bernal-Mizrachi, MD, assistant professor of hematology and medical oncology, Emory University School of Medicine. “It would fulfill an unmet medical need to help patients with multiple myeloma better plan treatment options that will help produce the best outcomes.”

MM accounts for approximately 10% of blood based cancers, with an estimated 21,700 new cases and 10,710 deaths in the United States in 2012. MM is a malignant blood cell cancer that is increasing in frequency in the current aging population. While developments in therapeutic treatments have improved the response rate, there are considerable side effects to these very expensive treatments.

Empire Genomics is marketing a genetic test for multiple myeloma that is designed to guide treatments and decrease healthcare costs, while sparing patients the negative consequences of treatments that may not be effective. This new diagnostic test will be the first DNA biomarker test to direct treatment of MM. Empire will also examine the use of this biomarker in lymphoma patients.

“This is a meaningful breakthrough in the area of personalized medicine and we are excited to work with Emory University and Dr. Bernal-Mizrachi to bring it to the market to help oncologists make more informed treatment decisions for this dreadful disease,” said Anthony Johnson, CEO of Empire Genomics.

It is expected that this test will be employed in clinical trials in the future as well as launched through clinical labs in early 2013.

Related Links:
Empire Genomics
Emory University