R-Biopharm AG
R-Biopharm AG to collaborate with HMNC Brain Health on complementary diagnostic test for optimization of depression treatment
DGAP-News: R-Biopharm AG / Key word(s): Alliance/Miscellaneous R-Biopharm AG to collaborate with HMNC Brain Health on complementary diagnostic test for optimization of depression treatment Darmstadt, Germany, April 19, 2016 – R-Biopharm AG announced today it has entered into a collaboration agreement with HMNC Brain Health in the field of complementary diagnostics. Under this agreement R-Biopharm AG will develop an in vitro PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) based genetic test. The goal is to identify ABCB1 gene variants in patients who are treated with antidepressants in order to optimize the efficacy of depression therapy. The collaboration includes the development, regulatory approval, manufacturing and commercialization of the ABCB1 test. “Complementary diagnostics play a central role in delivering tools that help identifying those individuals who are most likely to benefit from specific treatments” said Dr. Frank Apostel, Vice President Companion Diagnostics, R-Biopharm AG. “We are delighted about this agreement as it expands our service in the field of personalized healthcare. Our goal is to help patients and their physicians to determine the best treatment option available.” “A laboratory test that supports the physician in his treatment decision to choose the best drug and the appropriate dose for the individual patient represents a major improvement in antidepressant treatment.” states Professor Florian Holsboer, CEO of HMNC Brain Health. “To develop the ABCB1 test together with R-Biopharm is encouraging and an important step to achieve our ambitious goal even faster.” Complementary diagnostics are increasingly in demand with the recognition that personalized medicine provides a way to improve patient care and reduce health care costs by matching specific therapies to individuals most likely to benefit from them, since all patients do not respond in the same way. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
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About ABCB1: The ABCB1 gene encodes the P-glycoprotein, which transports various molecules across extra- and intracellular membranes. It functions as transporter for drugs such as antidepressants in the blood-brain barrier. Variants in the ABCB1 gene influence intracerebral concentration of certain antidepressants (e.g., citalopram, paroxetine, amitriptyline, venlafaxine) and thus their efficacy. The ABCB1 test delivers a decision aid for physicians with respect to the type and dosing of antidepressant medication, leading to faster time to remission and higher overall remission rates. About HMNC Brain Health: HMNC Brain Health GmbH (Munich, Germany) is specialized in the development of innovative drug treatments for depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. The portfolio includes laboratory diagnostics that help to stratify patients according to underlying causal mechanisms and to identify the right drug for the right patient. Early stage projects cover the development of molecules that engage with unprecedented targets and work through novel modes of action. Together with partners from academia and with investors, the company utilizes prominent research results to generate innovative and marketable concepts. About R-Biopharm AG: R-Biopharm AG (Darmstadt, Germany) is a globally active life science company and a leading provider of reliable test systems for clinical diagnostics and for analyzing human food and animal feedstuffs. Since 1988, R-Biopharm has been developing innovative products characterized by top quality, reliability and efficiency. A strong sense of responsibility, long-standing experience and a network more than 20 affiliated companies and subsidiaries in Europe, the US, South America, China and Australia, as well as more than 100 distribution partners, make R-Biopharm a prime partner for clients from retail, industry and public institutions looking for answers and solutions for current analytical challenges.
2016-04-19 Dissemination of a Corporate News, transmitted by DGAP – a service of EQS Group AG. |