DxS launches the K-RAS Mutation Detection Kit

Monday 04th June, 2007

K-RAS Mutation Detection Kit

Launched by DxS – the industry leaders in tumour mutation analysis

Manchester, UK (4th June 2007) DxS are pleased to announce the addition of a K-RAS Mutation Detection Kit to their expanding portfolio of cancer mutation detection products. DxS is a personalised medicine company specialising in molecular diagnostics for detecting mutations in tumours. Understanding cancer mutation status can help select the optimal drug therapy for a patient.

Recent publications suggest that in lung cancer patients the K-RAS mutation status is a strong predictor of resistance to therapy with tyrosine kinase inhibitors, such as IressaT (AstraZeneca) or TarcevaT (Roche /OSI Pharmaceuticals). The DxS K-RAS mutation detection kit can be used to identify these patients. The kit will also be used to provide valuable biomarker information to drug companies with novel therapies in development.

The kit is highly selective and robust, detecting seven key mutations in the K-RAS gene. DxS’ K-RAS assays employ a real-time PCR format combining ScorpionsR and ARMSR (allele specific PCR) technologies. The assays can detect <1% of mutant in a background of wild type genomic DNA and have a limit of detection of 10 copies or below. The un-paralleled sensitivity of the technology means that the kit detects mutations frequently missed by sequencing methods.

Commenting on the product launch, Dr Stephen Little (CEO, DxS Ltd) says “K-RAS mutation status is emerging as an important predictor of drug response. At DxS we are committed to providing the tools that doctors will need to ensure that their patients are given the best choice of therapy. This kit is the latest addition to our portfolio of products for personalised medicine.”

DxS are exhibiting at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting in Chicago, during 1st -5th June. Please visit DxS at exhibition booth 18136 for further information about the K-RAS Mutation kit.

Notes to Editors:

DxS is a personalised medicine company providing molecular diagnostics to aid doctors and drug companies in selecting therapies for patients. TheraScreenT is the range of cancer mutation diagnostic products, which include kits that detect mutations in the EGFR gene. Tumour mutation products are available for research use for EGFR, RAS, RAF and other genes associated with cancer drug responses. DxS also offers a tumour mutation assay service.

DxS’ real-time PCR technology, ScorpionsR utilises its speed and sensitivity and underpins the products and services. This class-leading technology is also available for licence to diagnostic companies, for research, applied and other applications.

DxS is ISO9001:2000 certified for the provision of genetic analysis services and technologies to the healthcare industry. DxS is an established company operating in Manchester’s Technology Quarter within the UK, for further information please visit www.dxsgenotyping.com.

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