Osmetech Licenses Pharmacogenetic Marker for P450-CYP2D6 from Epidauros

Epidauros Biotechnologie AG and Osmetech plc have jointly announced that Osmetech has signed an agreement for a non-exclusive commercial license to Epidauros’ patent application on a specific biomarker related to the Cytochrome P450 CYP2D6.

The agreement covers the genetic variant 2988G>A in the CYP2D6 gene. This variant could be used in combinatorial analysis with further genetic variants of CYP2D6 as a predictive marker for impaired enzymatic function putting patients at higher risk for non-responsiveness or adverse drug reactions.

CYP2D6 plays a role in the metabolism of 25% of the most commonly prescribed drugs to date.

James White, CEO of Osmetech added, "This deal marks an important move forward as we look to gain access to the validated content that exists in the important area of pharmacogenomics."

"With the Cystic Fibrosis product already on the market and our earlier license from LGC, we are in a strong position to take our FDA cleared electrochemistry-based eSensor^® array platform into the market with the launch of our first pharmacogenomic products."

Michael Lutz, CEO of Epidauros added, "We are delighted that Osmetech will use Epidauros' intellectual property with respect to the variant 2988G>A of CYP2D6 to develop value-adding diagnostic products."

"This agreement is clearly another milestone in our strategy to fully exploit the commercial potential of our existing patent portfolio."

"We are confident that other companies will require appropriate licenses on this genetic marker shortly."

"We also look forward to exploring additional business opportunities with Osmetech in the near future."