NextGen Sciences introduces multiplex protein assay for oncology biomarker discovery

NextGen Group plc (AIM:NGG) is pleased to announce that its subsidiary NextGen Sciences Inc, a leader in biomarker discovery, measurement and qualification, has launched its first multiple protein (multiplex) assay, plasmadiscovery41, for oncology biomarker discovery and qualification. The assay simultaneously measures 41 human plasma proteins that are thought to have potential as biomarkers in cancer, particularly breast, prostate and lung cancers. The launch of plasmadiscovery41 is part of NextGen Sciences strategy of becoming a leading player in the growing oncology and central nervous system (CNS) biomarker markets.

NextGen's assay is based upon its multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mass spectrometry platform, and generates high quality reproducible data that companies can use in their drug and diagnostic development programmes. In addition to the cancer focus, the assay can be used for early-stage biomarker discovery and qualification in other disease areas. NextGen expects to continue to add proteins to the plasmadiscovery41 assay, in addition to developing other disease-focused assay panels, both as proprietary products and with other companies through partnerships and collaborations.

Klaus Rosenau, Chairman and CEO of NextGen Group, commented, 'The release of plasmadiscovery41 is a defining first step in the development of NextGen Sciences' biomarker business, following its recent reorganization. It demonstrates that we are now delivering on our plans to develop multiplex protein assays and will help to establish the company as a market leader in biomarker discovery and qualification using its MRM technology. Importantly, it enables us to aggressively target increasing market share from the $600m mass spectrometry based biomarker discovery market. We believe that pharmaceutical, biotechnology and diagnostics companies need high-quality assays relevant to their disease areas to inform their decision-making processes, and NextGen Sciences expects to launch more such products in the future.'.