Labcorp and GeneCentric Therapeutics are collaborating to develop and commercialize new RNA-based gene signatures as diagnostics for people with cancer.
This latest collaboration builds on the organizations’ existing relationship. It involves ribonucleic acid (RNA)-based diagnostics and companion diagnostics development, combining GeneCentric’s pipeline of predictive response gene signatures with Labcorp’s experience bringing new tests to market, GeneCentric said in a news release.
RNA-based gene signatures will be co-developed alongside Labcorp Drug Development, while subsequent tests will be deployed to major academic and community cancer centers through Labcorp Diagnostics.
RNA-based gene signatures and associated diagnostic development will be accomplished through retrospective analysis of Labcorp’s de-identified clinical and genomic data and through GeneCentric’s pharmaceutical and biotechnology partnerships. Under the agreement, GeneCentric stands to earn development milestones in addition to commercialization terms. Additionally, Labcorp has made an upfront investment in the company.
GeneCentric said that RNA-based gene signatures provide deeper insights of the tumor and immune microenvironment when compared to traditional DNA testing. They can be used to identify a broader patient population that may benefit from targeted or immunotherapy.
