NorDiag And Manipal Acunova To Offer New Biopsy Test In India For Colorectal Cancer

EHM News Bureau

Manipal AcuNova has entered into an agreement with NorDiag ASA of Norway for marketing and distribution of NorDiag's new GenOpsy (genetic biopsy) test to detect genetic mutations in biopsy tissue in India. The introduction of GenOpsy follows in the heels of the recently-introduced GeneFec test for faecal analysis, which allows for early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) using a similar technology.

The new GenOpsy test will provide gastrointestinal specialists with the significant advantage of improved understanding of the causes underlying the presence of polyps or early cancer. GenOpsy detects the presence of mutations in two key genes — ki-ras and p53 — and will soon include other key genetic markers known to play an important role in the onset of various cancers, including CRC.

"GenOpsy will permit the clinician to know that their patient has developed cancer associated with certain mutations, and this will allow timely follow up with the non-invasive GeneFec test. The advantage to the patient is future reassurance against CRC recurrence through ongoing non-invasive monitoring. The benefit to the clinician is that this gives them the opportunity to provide excellent patient management with two cutting-edge diagnostic tests, one for mutational detection in biopsy tissue and another for follow-up through faecal testing. It's a win-win situation,” says Christian Horn, CEO of NorDiag.

According to the agreement in India, the samples collected through Manipal AcuNova will be shipped for analysis at NorDiag's laboratory in Bergen, with results being electronically transmitted back to Manipal AcuNova. However, the establishment of a regional testing centre will be considered as volumes increase. Earlier this year, Manipal AcuNova received its ISO 9001:2000 certification and has recently been NABL (ISO 15189:2003) accredited.

"We offer esoteric, high-end tests in India, which provide additional insight to physicians who manage diseases. Early disease detection and early diagnosis lowers the cost of treatment, which is a key goal that we pursue in cancer diagnosis. NorDiag has achieved clinical acceptance in the international marketplace with GeneFec. Now we collaborate on the introduction of the GenOpsy test in India. We endeavour bringing new cancer diagnostic tests in the market with innovation and speed,” says DA Prasanna, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Manipal AcuNova.

The venture was set up by NorDiag's Indian partner PAC Med Biotech, which specialises in establishing partnerships between foreign and Indian companies for the introduction of high-end pharmaceutical and diagnostic products in India.

"Indians are increasingly demanding access to the very best and latest developments in cutting-edge healthcare products and services. The introduction of GenOpsy adds significantly to the utility of the GeneFec test and brings a new era in high-end diagnostic testing and management of colorectal cancer," says Amala Charan Chaudhuri, President and CEO of PAC Med.

NorDiag will also explore the market opportunity for GenOpsy in its current European markets.