Transgenomic has been licensed on an exclusive US basis intellectual property from IntegraGen which will enable it to develop and commercialize a genetic test designed to assess the risk of autism in children who have older siblings diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder.

Under the terms of agreement, Transgenomic will develop the test in the company’s CAP-accredited and CLIA-certified laboratory, and anticipates launching the new test in the second quarter of 2010.

Craig Tuttle, president and chief executive officer of Transgenomic, said: “We are pleased to have the opportunity to develop and offer a genetic test to clinicians and parents that will assist in the evaluation of children who are thought to be at high risk of being autistic.

“We believe that the use of this test in conjunction with standard diagnostic tools will allow for the earlier diagnosis of autism, and importantly, the more timely initiation of treatment plans for these children. We look forward to adding this proprietary test to our growing commercial offerings.”

Bernard Courtieu, chief executive officer of IntegraGen, said: “IntegraGen is excited about the opportunity for our technology to be commercialized by Transgenomic. We will continue our gene discovery efforts to further our understanding of autism while focusing on other diseases where molecular tests may help with patient diagnosis and disease management.”