Exagen Diagnostics, a molecular diagnostics laboratory that discovers, develops and markets genomic tests, has enetered into an exclusive sales and marketing agreement with EndoChoice, to promote its diagnostic services to gastroenterologists throughout the US.

Under the terms of agreement, EndoChoice’s gastroenterology-focused sales force will introduce Exagen’s gene expression tests for the diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Exagen developed these molecular tests through its discovery engine, Coperna, which identified ‘gene activity signatures’ associated with IBD and IBS.

Using Coperna, Exagen’s algorithm-driven computational tool and search engine that runs on high-performance computational clusters combines the ability to process massive amounts of data contained in genomic datasets with intelligent, rapid search methods.

Exagen claimed that Coperna’s targeted and precise discovery model has no conventional equivalent in the molecular diagnostics industry as it can identify relevant marker sets with superior sensitivity and specificity relative to markers identified via traditional analytical methods.

Scott Glenn, CEO of Exagen, said: “We are excited about the opportunity of partnering with EndoChoice to accelerate the adoption of our technology by gastroenterologists. Our eXaIBD and eXaIBS tests have both high sensitivity and accuracy, helping to identify IBD and IBS from other diseases, avoiding an extensive series of exclusionary testing.”

Mark Gilreath, CEO of EndoChoice, said: “EndoChoice is focused on satisfying the unmet needs of GI professionals by delivering innovative, best-in-class products and services. We are pleased to offer Exagen’s proprietary eXaIBD and eXaIBS tests because they provide a superior diagnostic tool to assist gastroenterologists and improve patient care.”