Meta-analysis published in renowned journal “Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology”
Berlin (Germany) and Germantown, MD (U.S.A.), January 30, 2017 - Epigenomics AG (Frankfurt Prime Standard: ECX, OTCQX: EPGNY), announced that the scientific results of a recent systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical studies with Epi proColon were published in “Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology”, a journal of the Nature Publishing Group.
After analyzing results from 25 independent studies from different geographical areas, the authors conclude that methylated Septin 9 detected by the Epi proColon test “is a reliable blood-based marker in colorectal cancer detection”. The second generation Epi proColon test received U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval in April 2016 and as reported in the FDA trials, has a sensitivity of 68% at specificity of 80% in the average risk U.S. population.
Greg Hamilton, Chief Executive Officer of Epigenomics AG, said: “This comprehensive scientific review provides further evidence of Epi proColon’s robust performance as measured in different clinical studies. A patient accepted, convenient blood-test like Epi proColon has the potential to increase participation in colorectal cancer screening programs as it lowers existing preparation and sampling barriers for patients.”
The full study of Jiayun Nian, MD et al. “Diagnostic Accuracy of Methylated
SEPT9 for Blood-based Colorectal Cancer Detection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis” can be accessed on the following website: http:// www.nature.com/ctg/journal/v8/n1/full/ctg201666a.html
According to the study results, the test shows high pooled sensitivity and specificity of 71% and 92%, respectively.
* Sensitivity: the percentage of cancer cases correctly identified;
Specificity: the percentage of healthy individuals correctly identified as negative
About Epi proColon
For patients, the test only requires a blood sample drawn as part of routine healthcare provider visits. There are no dietary restrictions or alterations in medication required for the test. The sample will be analyzed at a national or regional diagnostic laboratory.
Epi proColon and Epi proColon 2.0 CE are in-vitro PCR (polymerase chain
reaction) assays for the qualitative detection of Septin 9 gene methylation in DNA isolated from the patient’s plasma.
Cytosine residues of the Septin
9 gene are methylated in colorectal cancer tissue, but not in normal colon mucosa. This tumor-specific methylation pattern can be used to detect cell- free DNA shed into the blood stream by tumor cells. Detection of colorectal cancer-derived DNA in blood plasma using the Septin 9 methylation biomarker was demonstrated in multiple clinical studies, to be a reliable indicator of the presence of colorectal cancer.
For more information, visit www.epiprocolon.com.
About Epigenomics
Epigenomics is a molecular diagnostics company focused on blood-based detection of cancers using its proprietary DNA methylation biomarker technology. The company develops and commercializes diagnostic products across multiple cancer indications with high medical need. Epigenomics’
leading products, Epi proColon and Epi proColon 2.0 CE, are blood-based screening tests for the detection of colorectal cancer. Epi proColon has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is currently marketed in the United States, Europe, and China and selected other countries. Epigenomics’ second product, Epi proLung(R), is in development as a blood-based test for lung cancer detection.
For more information, visit www.epigenomics.com.
