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European and USA Patents Secured by Lab21 for HCV Drug Resistance Genotyping

15 May 2012
Sonia Nicholas
Managing Editor and Clinical Lead

Product news

Lab21 Limited has secured new patents in Europe and the USA relating to Hepatitis C (HCV) drug resistance. The patents cover technology which allow the genotypic identification of drug resistant mutations in the 4 major global genotypes of HCV, and represent successful extensions of the original European approval, granted in 2009.

There is significant commercial interest in the development of small molecule HCV therapeutics with two licensed protease (NS3) inhibitors already available today and at least 10 new molecules in clinical trials.

Dr Berwyn Clarke, CSO at Lab21 commented: ‘Lab21 has extensive experience in the area of antiretroviral drug resistance from many years of working in HIV. With the number of new HCV therapeutics in development and the changeable nature of the virus, we expect routine resistance analysis for HCV patients to be introduced into clinical guidelines in the near future. Our IP in this area will be of great importance to the clinical management of these patients and will enable easy drug resistance monitoring during clinical trials.

The patents build on Lab21’s growing intellectual property portfolio, which includes pharmacogenetic markers, disease markers and proprietary assay technology. Lab21 is investing in the development of a number of novel infectious disease and cancer assays which will secure a highly competitive position in diagnostic markets which are undergoing significant change, such as companion diagnostics.

Graham Mullis, Lab21 CEO added ‘The development of an extensive IP portfolio which adds novel content to our offering in the market is an important part of Lab21’s growth strategy. Given the significant market opportunity that HCV drug resistance presents in the future, Lab21 is looking to not only have its own commercially available assay but is actively seeking partners who are interested in developing such products too’.

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Genome AnalysisGenomics, the study of genomes, includes functional genomics, evolutionary genomics and comparative genomics. There are many genomic technologies such as DNA sequencing of whole genomes, computational biology and bioinformatics. DNA and nucleic acids must be isolated and concentrated from cells for analysis with kits, automated analyzers and software. Other useful technologies for studying genomics include PCR, microarrays and electrophoresis.MicrobiologyMicrobiology is the study of microorganisms including protists, prokaryotes, fungi, and, often, viruses. Microorganisms are a useful research tool as genetic vectors and, in immunology, for antibiotic susceptibility testing, cellular biology and genetics. Microorganisms commonly grow readily in incubators with microbial culture media; this can contain chromogenic supplements to differentiate between cell lines. Estimate your culture’s density of microorganisms with colony counters, or screen and select colonies for desirable clones with automated colony pickers. Additionally, equipment is available to monitor environments for the presence of microbes and identify with microbial identification instruments. Find the best microbiology products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.ImmunologyImmunological techniques measure and characterize immune responses. Immunology kits and analysis systems often use techniques such as ELISA, radioimmunoassay (RIA) and immunodiffusion assays, Immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry. Immunologists use equipment such as flow Cytometers, plate readers, plate washers and fluorescent microscopes.Clinical GeneticsMolecular Genetics covers the analysis of hereditary genetic disease and chromosomal abnormalities. Genetics can be analysed using DNA, RNA, and protein microarrays, PCR, RT PCR and DNA sequencing. Genetic equipment includes genetic workstations, thermal cyclers, cooling blocks and electrophoresis products. Diagnostic kits are used for DNA / RNA extraction and purification.Clinical MicrobiologyMicrobiology is the study of microorganisms including protists, prokaryotes, fungi, and, often, viruses. Microorganisms are a useful research tool as genetic vectors and, in immunology, for antibiotic susceptibility testing, cellular biology and genetics. Microorganisms commonly grow readily in incubators with microbial culture media; this can contain chromogenic supplements to differentiate between cell lines. Estimate your culture’s density of microorganisms with colony counters, or screen and select colonies for desirable clones with automated colony pickers. Additionally, equipment is available to monitor environments for the presence of microbes and identify with microbial identification instruments. Find the best microbiology products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.HepatitisGenotypingInfectious DiseasesInfectious diseases are caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Effective detection, prevention, and treatment are crucial to control outbreaks and improve public health. Diagnostic tools, vaccines, and antimicrobial treatments are essential components of managing these diseases. Research into emerging pathogens and resistance patterns continues to evolve. Browse our peer-reviewed product directory to find the best diagnostic tools, prevention solutions, and treatment options; compare products, read customer reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.

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