TMCnet News
Contextual Genomics and the Personalized Medicine Initiative Add ArcherDX, the Sixth Consortium Partner, to its National Access ProjectContextual Genomics, developers of genomics-based cancer tests, and the Personalized Medicine Initiative (PMI), an organization bringing molecular-based medicine to Canadians, are pleased to welcome its sixth consortium partner, ArcherDX, to the National Access Project. ArcherDX develops best-in-class next generation sequencing (NGS) applications. The goal of the National Access Project is to make genomics testing a standard practice in cancer care and to help inform treatment decisions and drive a change towards personalized medicine. This individualized approach will result in improved quality of life, better health outcomes and major cost savings to health care systems. ArcherDX is the sixth partner to join the National Access Project, which also includes AstraZeneca, Illumina, LifeLabs, Pfizer, and Sanofi. "ArcherDX is a leading developer of gene fusion assays and we are very pleased to utilize their products in identifying lung cancer gene mutations," commented Chris Wagner, President and CEO of Contextual Genomics. "The National Access Project's genomics cancer tests identify the gene mutations contributing to the cancers. In lung cancer in particular, an abnormal EML4-ALK gene fusion can occur, and Archer's FusionPlex™ technology will enhance our cancer panel tests to identify this mutated gene fusion in lung cancer patients." "We believe the National Access Project is leading the way in the shift towards personalized cancer care," stated Jason Myers, CEO of ArcherDX. "Lung cancer is the most lethal type of cancer, and the EML4-ALK gene fusion mutation is linked almost exclusively to non-smokers. Through the National Access Project, we hope to further our understanding of the potential causes of this mutation and improve the health outcomes for people with lung cancer," Myers added.
About The National Access Project The first phase of the project is currently underway and is retrospectively mapping tumours to identify the mutations for approximately 500 patients. The results of the genetic mapping and corresponding therapies will be shared with oncologists. This second phase will involve broadening the patient base to approximately 1,500 patients across the country to prospectively evaluate and match specific tumor types with approximately 40 therapy options. It is hoped that by understanding a patient's personal genomic profile, both healthcare professional and patients will be better equipped to diagnose and treat cancer. The goal of personalized medicine is to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs and adverse drug reactions.
About Contextual Genomics: www.contextualgenomics.com Led by global leaders in molecular diagnostics, genomics and bioinformatics who have unparalleled expertise in genomic assay development, Contextual Genomics aims to bring patients a gold standard in molecular diagnostics that will lead to advanced services in personalized cancer care.
About Personalized Medicine Initiative: http://personalizedmedicineinitiative.ca
About ArcherDX: www.archerdx.com This release contains forward-looking statements that are not based on historical fact. These forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, events or developments to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements.
View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20150803005023/en/ |