2013-03-19 08:07:56 -
Data from Epigenetic Sequencing Study Published in PLOS One
IRVINE, CA, and LIEGE, BELGIUM - March 19, 2013 - MDxHealth SA (NYSE Euronext:
MDXH), a leading molecular diagnostic company that develops and commercializes
epigenetic tests to support the diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients, and
collaborator Ghent University, today announced the results from a large,
epigenetic next generation sequencing based study that establishes a sensitive
and cost-effective industry standard for genome-wide DNA methylation profiling.
The results were published in the March 15 PLOS One Volume 8, Issue 3 (e59068).
This study is an early result of the NXTGNT Center in Pharmaco (Epi)genomics, a
joint collaboration between MDxHealth and the Ghent
University first announced
in November 2012.
Methyl Binding Domain (MBD)-based sequencing is currently the most cost-
effective method for genome-wide identification of DNA methylation. Five
commercially available kits for MBD enrichment, combined with Illumina-based
next generation sequencing, were evaluated using inherent sequence data
characteristics and most importantly, external validation data. Overall, the
results obtained confirmed the need for quality control as the scientists found
consistent large-scale differences in yield, sensitivity and specificity between
the various kits.
"Although epigenetics and DNA methylation are playing and increasingly important
role in clinical practice, most biomarkers in use today are the result of a
candidate gene approach," noted Prof Dr. Wim van Criekinge, Chief Scientific
Officer of MDxHealth. "As the field of epigenetics matures, it is clear that the
development of clinically useful applications requires detailed and accurate
information. The different next generation sequencing-based methods evaluated
are indeed accurately measuring DNA methylation profiles on a genome-wide scale,
however, as reported there are major differences in yield, sensitivity and
specificity. The goal of this study was to compare and harmonize industry
standards, so that individual testing and comparative analyses can be conducted
more objectively. Interestingly, profiling resulted in a re-discovery and
validation of established markers in addition to valuable insights in the
constitution of the entire epigenome. At MDxHealth, we are already applying this
cutting-edge knowledge in our development of next generation epigenetic sequence
products and services both for clinical and pharmaco molecular diagnostics."
About MDxHealth
MDxHealth is a molecular diagnostics company that develops and commercializes
advanced epigenetic tests for cancer assessment and the personalized treatment
of patients. The company's first commercial product, the ConfirmMDx(TM) for
Prostate Cancer test, has been shown to help distinguish patients who have a
true-negative biopsy from those who may have occult cancer. MDxHealth helps to
address a large and growing unmet medical need for better cancer diagnosis and
treatment information. The company has a proprietary platform and a strong
epigenetic product pipeline focused on the development of products for brain and
lung cancers. The company is based in Irvine, California with a European
headquarters in Liege, Belgium. For more information visit MDxHealth website at
www.mdxhealth.com.
Contacts
Dr Jan Groen, CEO
MDxHealth
US: +1 949 812 6979
BE: +32 4 364 20 70
info@mdxhealth.com
Mike Sinclair
Halsin Partners
UK: +44 20 7318 2955
Cell: +44 7968 022075
msinclair@halsin.com
Seth Lewis
Trout Group
US: +1 646 378 2952
slewis@troutgroup.com
This press release contains forward-looking statements and estimates with
respect to the anticipated future performance of MDxHealth and the market in
which it operates. Such statements and estimates are based on assumptions and
assessments of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which
were deemed reasonable but may not prove to be correct. Actual events are
difficult to predict, may depend upon factors that are beyond the company's
control, and may turn out to be materially different. MDxHealth expressly
disclaims any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements in this
release to reflect any change in its expectations with regard thereto or any
change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is
based unless required by law or regulation.
NOTE: The MDxHealth logo, MDxHealth, ConfirmMDx and PredictMDx are trademarks or
registered trademarks of MDxHealth SA. All other trademarks and service marks
are the property of their respective owners.
PLOS ENG:
hugin.info/137314/R/1686176/552651.pdf
This announcement is distributed by Thomson Reuters on behalf of
Thomson Reuters clients. The owner of this announcement warrants that:
(i) the releases contained herein are protected by copyright and
other applicable laws; and
(ii) they are solely responsible for the content, accuracy and
originality of the information contained therein.
Source: MdxHealth (TM) via Thomson Reuters ONE
[HUG#1686176]
