| June
4, 2007--A new kit for detecting K-RAS mutation status was
launched today by DxS, a molecular diagnostics firm that
offers tools and services for cancer mutation analysis.
K-RAS is a predictor of resistance to
tyrosine kinase inhibitors, such as gefitinib
(AstraZeneca’s Iressa) or erlotinib (Roche/OSI
Pharmaceuticals’ Tarceva). The DxS K-RAS mutation
detection kit can be used to identify patients whose
tumors carry these mutations and in biomarker studies for
drugs in development.
The
kit detects seven key mutations in the K-RAS gene, and
employs a real-time PCR format combining DxS’s Scorpions
and ARMSR (allele specific PCR) technologies. The
company reports these assays have “unparalleled
sensitivity” and can detect < 1% of mutant in a
background of wild-type genomic DNA and have a limit of
detection of 10 copies or below.
According to a company release, Stephen Little (CEO, DxS Ltd.)
said "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 personalized medicine."
For
more, see release.
|
