Horizon Diagnostics (HorizonDx) has signed a strategic partnership agreement with UK NEQAS following HorizonDx’s launch of a suite of genetically-defined formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) cell line standards in September 2011. The partnership will focus on the development of genetically defined reference standards for new lung cancer biomarkers. HorizonDx is the first company to provide human genomic reference standards containing defined allelic ratios, offering an unprecedented level of control to the diagnostics industry.
The reference materials will be used to minimise variability involved in fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) diagnostic testing, to guide prescription of targeted cancer therapies.
UK NEQAS ICC is a leader in diagnostic proficiency assessment. Under the terms of the agreement, it will receive an exclusive licence to distribute reference standards related to certain lung cancer biomarkers in the UK and in Europe for the sole purpose of proficiency testing within its quality assessment programme.
Dr Paul Morrill, HorizonDx commercial director, commented: “Newly discovered mutations are rapidly shaping how and when new cancer therapies are prescribed, and quality assurance for diagnostics is a key factor in the prescription of these therapies. Through this partnership with UK NEQAS, we look forward to seeing our genetically defined reference standards adopted in proficiency schemes and as batch controls, ultimately helping to improve the accuracy of diagnostic testing for patients.”
Keith Miller, UK NEQAS ICC director, commented: “Horizon’s application of its gene editing technology in development of reference standards is ideally suited to diagnostics proficiency testing. We look forward to working with them as the field of cancer therapeutics moves increasingly toward a more personalised approach.”
www.horizondx.com
www.ukneqas.org.uk