Response Genetics Inc. (Nasdaq: RGDX), a company focused on the
development and sale of molecular diagnostic tests for cancer, and
Genetic Technologies Ltd. (ASX: GTG; NASDAQ: GENE), the leading private
genetic testing laboratory in Australia, today announced an exclusive
distribution and services agreement. Under terms of the agreement,
Genetic Technologies will become the exclusive distributor in Australia,
Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand for
Response Genetics’ ResponseDX: Colon™, ResponseDX: Lung™ and ResponseDX:
Gastric™ genetic test panels. Financial terms were not disclosed.
“Cancer is a global problem and requires a global solution”
ResponseDX™ tests are proprietary PCR-based tests used to analyze the
expression of genes that correlate with response to commonly used
chemotherapy agents. Since launching in September 2008, more than 4,700
ResponseDX™ tests have been sold, with a reorder rate of approximately
90 percent. In the U.S., the current run rate is approximately 1,800
tests per quarter with a reimbursement of approximately $1,400 per test.
By personalizing care based on a tumor’s genetic makeup, ResponseDX™
tests can help physicians to better tailor treatment for their patients
with cancer.
“Cancer is a global problem and requires a global solution,” said
Kathleen Danenberg, CEO and president of Response Genetics. “Based on
encouraging sales and rapid adoption here in the Unites States, we have
embarked on a growth strategy focused on expanding the availability of
our tests in additional markets. We are pleased to partner with Genetic
Technolgies, the leader in genetic testing in Australia, to make our
ResponseDX™ tests available there, as well as in certain Asian
countries. Together we hope to reduce the significant social and
economic burdens of this devastating disease as more people have an
opportunity to experience the benefits of our personalized medicine
approach.”