Biomarker Combinations Diagnose and Manage Ovarian Cancer

Biomarker combinations are used to diagnose and manage ovarian cancer by a variety of methods, including mass spectrometry and immunoassay approaches.

Vermillion (Fremont, CA, USA) was issued a patent for biomarkers detecting ovarian cancer by the U.S. Patent Office (USPTO). The Vermillion OVA1 test utilizes five well-established biomarkers: Transthyretin (TT or prealbumin), Apolipoprotein A-1 (Apo A-1), Beta2-Microglobulin (Beta2M), Transferrin (Tfr), and Cancer Antigen 125 (CA 125 II), and a proprietary algorithm to determine the likelihood of malignancy in women with pelvic mass for whom surgery is planned. A qualitative serum test combines the results of five immunoassays into a single numerical score. It is indicated for women who meet the following criteria: over age 18, ovarian adnexal mass present for which surgery is planned, and not yet referred to an oncologist.

Vermillion is dedicated to the discovery, development, and commercialization of high-value diagnostic tests that help physicians diagnose, treat, and improve outcomes for patients. Vermillion, along with its scientific collaborators, has diagnostic programs in oncology, hematology, cardiology, and women's health.

"Vermillion has been creating a comprehensive patent portfolio to protect our ovarian cancer testing franchise. The issuance of this patent supports our overall intellectual property strategy and we continue to pursue additional patent applications in support of our diagnostic programs," said Gail S. Page, Vermillion executive chairperson.

Related Links:
Vermillion
U.S. Patent Office