CombiMatrix Molecular Diagnostics to Develop Autism Diagnostic Test with The Centre for Applied Genomics

Acacia Research Corporation has announced that its CombiMatrix group’s subsidiary, CombiMatrix Molecular Diagnostics (CMDX), has entered into a partnership with The Centre for Applied Genomics (TCAG) in Toronto, Canada.

An international consortium, which included TCAG scientists, recently completed the study of the genetic causes of autism. CMDX has access to, and plans to use, the published markers in upcoming versions of its Constitutional Genetic Array Test. The test will then screen for the more than 50 disorders currently handled by the array, as well as for these newly discovered genetic indicators of autism susceptibility.

According to CMDX, its first CGAT test was launched last year and has demonstrated significant diagnostic utility. A second, updated version of the CGAT developed with TCAG, is expected later this quarter, with the third version to be released by the end of the year. This third version is expected to incorporate all discovered genetic indicators of autism.

Autism is a spectrum disorder with a variable range of phenotypic presentation. It is believed that an accurate identification of the potential genetic causes could provide better stratification criteria which in turn could translate into better management of the patient, through better counseling or therapy options.