Mainz Biomed has secured an exclusive license agreement with Liquid Biosciences for a portfolio of mRNA biomarkers aimed at developing a blood test for pancreatic cancer. The companies plan to refine the test and pursue FDA approval. This agreement centers around promising biomarkers that have demonstrated 95% sensitivity and 98% specificity in detecting pancreatic cancer in blood samples.
This development holds substantial potential for advancing pancreatic cancer diagnostics. Pancreatic cancer is notoriously difficult to detect early, often presenting with symptoms only after it has reached advanced stages. A highly sensitive and specific blood test could dramatically improve early detection rates, leading to earlier intervention and significantly improved patient outcomes. This could be a critical step towards transforming pancreatic cancer from a frequently fatal diagnosis to a more manageable disease.
The agreement grants Mainz Biomed exclusive rights to develop a test using Liquid Biosciences’ mRNA biomarkers, with the option to acquire full global rights. The biomarkers were identified using Liquid Biosciences’ EMERGE platform and validated across multiple independent study cohorts totaling 285 subjects, including 35 pancreatic cancer patients. The resulting algorithm achieved impressive sensitivity and specificity metrics. While these results require further validation through integration into a new product, the initial data suggest the potential for a market-leading pancreatic cancer screening test. The agreement involves a license fee and royalties on future revenues if Mainz Biomed exercises its option to acquire the biomarker rights.
This collaboration positions Mainz Biomed at the forefront of pancreatic cancer diagnostics. The development and potential FDA approval of this blood-based test could significantly alter the landscape of pancreatic cancer screening and offer a much-needed tool for early detection and improved patient care. The successful development and commercialization of this test would not only benefit patients but also establish Mainz Biomed as a key player in the early cancer detection market.
Jon Napitupulu is Director of Media Relations at The Clinical Trial Vanguard. Jon, a computer data scientist, focuses on the latest clinical trial industry news and trends.
