FDA expanded the use of Agilent's PD-L1 IHC 22C3 pharmDx on the Dako Omnis platform to four additional indications, enabling labs to streamline testing for pembrolizumab eligibility. The expansion, supported by inter-platform concordance data, could lift demand for Agilent's automation and strengthen Merck's KEYTRUDA patient access in the near term.
Regulatory validation and cross-platform concordance reduce adoption risk, likely lifting instrument placements and related services for Agilent; potential uplift in PD-L1 test volumes supports near-term revenue and margin prospects.
Near-term bullish: expect increased Dako Omnis adoption and higher instrument demand over the next 6–12 months.
Industry News: regulatory approval expanding a diagnostic platform, with implications for Agilent's automation business and Merck's immunotherapy pipeline.