DNA METHYLATION BIOMARKERS

[BIZ: Madison, Wis. and Liège, Belgium, July 27]
Exact Sciences Corp. and OncoMethylome Sciences S.A. have announced that they have entered into a license agreement under which Exact Sciences has obtained exclusive, worldwide rights to up to two OncoMethylome Sciences' DNA methylation biomarkers for use in stool-based detection of colorectal cancer. Exact Sciences has also gained non-exclusive access to part of OncoMethylome's platform technology. In return, OncoMethylome Sciences will receive milestone payments and royalties on net sales.

DNA methylation regulates gene expression, and multiple scientific studies have shown that methylation markers are clinically relevant markers for colorectal cancer. In cancers and pre-cancers, methylation biomarkers are typically present more frequently than individual DNA mutation biomarkers, and as a result, fewer methylation markers are required to detect most cancers and pre-cancers.

http://www.oncomethylome.com/