Thermo Fisher Scientific and Boehringer Ingelheim Partner to Advance Precision Cancer Therapies
Thermo Fisher Scientific has unveiled a new companion diagnostic (CDx) partnership with Boehringer Ingelheim. The strategic collaboration is set to develop CDx tests designed to identify specific genomic mutations in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. Every year in the United States there are approximately 180,000 new cases of NSCLC. The alliance between Thermo Fisher and Boehringer Ingelheim will harness the Oncomine Dx Express Test on the Ion Torrent Genexus Dx System, as well as the Oncomine Dx Target Test.
The Ion Torrent Genexus System is a next-generation sequencing (NGS) system that streamlines the entire NGS workflow, automating sample and library preparation, sequencing, analysis, and reporting. It’s designed to provide an integrated and efficient solution for laboratories and research facilities. Thermo Fisher Scientific also offers the Genexus Dx Integrated Sequencer, designed specifically for regulated laboratory environments and in vitro diagnostic (IVD) applications.
The Ion Torrent Oncomine Dx Target Test is a diagnostic test designed to streamline treatment selection decisions for specific cancer types. Notably, it is the first targeted Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)-based in vitro diagnostic test capable of simultaneously analyzing multiple cancer types, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), cholangiocarcinoma (CC), medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), and thyroid cancer (TC). The test can deliver comprehensive biomarker results for multiple targeted therapies from a single patient sample in four days. For NSCLC the test looks at mutations associated with BRAF, EGFR, ERBB2/HER2, RET, and ROS1.
Garret Hampton, President of Clinical Next-Generation Sequencing and Oncology at Thermo Fisher Scientific, highlighted the importance of this partnership by stating, “Our proven track record of co-developing CDx tests reinforces our commitment to working with leading pharma companies to ensure patients may have immediate access to these targeted therapies once approved. Boehringer Ingelheim has made a generational commitment to transforming cancer care, and we’re excited to be supporting their pipeline as they work to ensure the appropriate tests are available to match eligible patients with emerging targeted therapies.”