Genoptix and HistoRx have entered into a multi-year licensing agreement for Aqua technology and several diagnostic assays based on it. Aqua technology quantifies and compartmentalises tumor markers.

Genoptix has obtained exclusive commercial laboratory rights in the US to develop and perform three solid tumor assays using HistoRx’s proprietary technology for analysis of fluorescent immunohistochemistry (fIHC), enabling quantitative assessment of specific biomarkers for patients with certain solid tumors.

Additionally, Genoptix has also obtained non-exclusive rights to use Aqua technology for the measurement of two additional biomarkers associated with many cancers. The agreement also enables Genoptix and HistoRx to collaborate on the development of additional assays which Genoptix would then have the right to commercialise.

Mike Nerenberg, senior vice president and chief technical officer of Genoptix, said: “We are delighted to be working with HistoRx and look forward to developing and validating clinical diagnostics for key biomarkers using Aqua technology, and to offering them to our oncologist customers and their patients.

“Standard immunohistochemistry assays have their value when detection of biomarkers is sufficient, but clinicians are increasingly discovering that true quantitation of protein in tumors enables more powerful insights. Aqua technology is noted for its reproducible quantitation of protein biomarkers in tissue and the agreement we announce today will enhance Genoptix’s ability to address market needs.”

Rana Gupta, CEO of HistoRx, said: “Genoptix has gained the trust of community oncologists and their patients by offering high quality laboratory testing, and HistoRx is delighted to license these assays to them, extending their leadership beyond the realm of hematopathology into the solid tumor market. Our company has been developing cancer diagnostics based on Aqua technology for five years, and we couldn’t think of a more appropriate inaugural partner for its commercialisation.”