Out-licensing

Our novel RNA biomarker has complete specificity for colorectal cancer (CRC) compared to normal colonic mucosa and can be used either alone or as part of a RNA biomarker panel for diagnostic use.

The Opportunity

Through analysis of highest differential expression on the exon level for cancers it was shown that the relative expression of exon 4B in SLC3A914 was increased in CRCs thereby opening the opportunity for transcript variants of SLC3A914 as a novel biomarker. Later, it has been published that differential splicing of SLC39A14 is a biomarker in colorectal cancer with complete specificity and sensitivity (adenomas and carcinomas). Current data suggest that the selectivity of the biomarker is confined to colorectal cancer. Proof of concept is established by data in normal, IBD and CRC patients.

Technology/Advantage

The product will be a tissue based RT-PCR test for diagnosing colorectal cancer, adenomas and detecting dysplasia in inflammatory disease patients.

IPR

Patent application WO2011/073402, “TRANSCRIPT VARIANTS OF VNN1 AND SLC39A14”;

Claim 1:

A method for the detection of abnormal gene expression of SLC39A14, said method comprising

a) identifying an expression level of at least one RNA transcript variant of SLC39A14 in a sample    obtained from a test subject,

b) comparing the expression level of said at least one RNA transcript variant of SLC39A14 with a reference obtained from a reference subject,

c) selecting a desired sensitivity,

d) selecting a desired specificity,

e) indicating the test subject as likely to have an abnormal gene expression…

Development plans

Inven2 foresees that further development will be done by the licensing partner.

The Offer

The technology is open for licensing.