1. VolitionRx announces significant advancements in cancer detection technology. 2. Capture-Seq technology shows 100% sensitivity and specificity for early cancer detection. 3. Volition aims for partnerships to commercialize this promising low-cost cancer test. 4. The technology could tap into a $23 billion annual market opportunity. 5. Background DNA interference in tests is effectively addressed, enhancing accuracy.
FAQ
Why Very Bullish?
The breakthrough technology increases the potential for revenue growth and investor interest, similar to historical biotech advancements that spiked stock prices.
How important is it?
This article highlights critical technological advancements that could drive future revenue and market presence.
Why Long Term?
The commercial potential of the new technology could lead to substantial long-term revenue growth and market expansion.
VolitionRx Achieves Significant Breakthrough in Liquid Biopsy Technology
VolitionRx Limited (NYSE AMERICAN: VNRX) has recently announced the preprint availability of a groundbreaking manuscript titled "Direct analysis of transcription factor protected cfDNA in plasma by ChIP-seq: Measurement of altered CTCF binding in cancer is a novel biomarker for liquid biopsy." This publication highlights a pioneering approach, Capture-Seq™, that aims to enhance the detection of cancer biomarkers, paving the way for affordable and precise cancer testing across various types.
Key Innovations in Cancer Detection
The study introduces the physical enrichment of ultrashort DNA fragments bound to specific transcription factors. This advancement enables the quantification of numerous binding sites linked to cancer, representing a novel class of ultrashort DNA biomarkers that previous DNA analysis techniques have not been able to identify.
- 180-fold enrichment (18,000%) in the ability to isolate critical DNA fragments.
- Focus on chromosome-bound DNA, maintaining the context lost in standard chemical extraction methods.
Expert Insights on the Breakthrough
Dr. Jake Micallef, Chief Scientific Officer at Volition, emphasized the significance of this discovery, stating: "This is, I believe, a world-first breakthrough – it is the first time that transcription factor-bound DNA has been physically separated from the massive amounts of background DNA in the blood." He believes this could represent one of the most substantial advancements in cancer testing in recent years.
Addressing Challenges in Liquid Biopsy Testing
Conventional liquid biopsy techniques suffer from the challenge of background DNA, which is primarily non-cancerous. Volition's innovative approach effectively removes about 99% of background DNA during the testing process, thereby enhancing the accuracy of early-stage cancer detection. This is accomplished by isolating ultrashort DNA fragments that carry crucial epigenetic information.
The ability to reduce the amount of DNA sequenced by approximately 99% also suggests a potential for significantly lower testing costs.
Promising Initial Results
In a preliminary study involving 70 participants, including 49 patients with various cancer types such as breast, prostate, lung, or colorectal cancer, Volition's analysis of ultrashort transcription factor-bound DNA demonstrated:
- 100% sensitivity in detecting cancer, including early-stage cases.
- No false positives were observed, indicating 100% specificity.
These results are promising, although further independent validation studies are required.
Commercialization and Future Prospects
Mr. Gael Forterre, Chief Commercial Officer of Volition, indicated that this scientific breakthrough has sparked substantial interest among potential licensing partners. The advancements expand the existing Nu.Q® portfolio, which currently includes tests for canine cancer screening and human lung cancer management.
Looking ahead, Volition aims to partner with commercial entities to expedite the integration and launch of its new technology, which they project could tap into a Total Addressable Market of approximately $23 billion annually.
About Volition
Volition is a multi-national company committed to revolutionizing the field of epigenetics. Their mission focuses on improving the lives of individuals and animals affected by serious diseases through early detection and continuous monitoring.
With research and development centers located in Belgium and the U.S., along with a dedicated office in London, Volition is positioned at the forefront of innovation in blood-based diagnostic testing.