News
01-Oct-2008 - LGC and FALCO conclude CYP2D6*4 gene patent
licensing agreement in Japan
LGC has agreed to sub-license its patent for CYP2D6*4 (Genetic
Assay for Cytochrome P450) to FALCO biosystems to market genetic
analysis services in Japan
LGC, an international
science-based service company and international leader in genetic
testing services, has concluded a licensing agreement with
FALCO biosystems, a medical
supplier, that gives FALCO rights to the CYP2D6*4 genetic
polymorphism patent (Patent No. 3272353) in Japan. LGC is the
exclusive licensor of this gene variation on behalf of Dundee
University and Cancer Research UK.
The analysis of Cytochrome
P450 genetic polymorphisms plays an important role in
pharmacogenetics where it can be used to predict drug metabolism
and adverse drug reactions. Variations in genes such as CYP2D6 gene
can affect an individual’s ability to metabolise many common drugs
including painkillers, anti-depressants and cardiovascular drugs
with implications in both drug development and therapy. FALCO
formed a business alliance with Gentris Corporation (Morrisville,
North Carolina US) in August 2006 and will provide pharmacogenetic
services to the Japanese pharmaceutical market based on their
know-how.
“The analysis of DNA
markers associated with drug metabolism and medication efficacy is
becoming increasingly valued around the world” said Dr Paul Debenham, Director of Innovation
and Development at LGC. “We are delighted to see a
leading company like FALCO seeking to further the potential health
benefits of this genetic insight within the Japanese pharmaceutical
market”.
The licensing agreement with
LGC is a key milestone for FALCO and demonstrates the company’s
commitment to improving the safety and utility of drug therapies
through the provision of a comprehensive pharmacogenetic testing
portfolio.
Notes to Editors