The Molecular Profiling Institute Launches Mammostrat(TM) A Novel, Molecular Targeted, Prognostic Test For Breast Cancer Patients

Main Category: Breast Cancer
Also Included In: Women's Health / Gynecology;  IT / Internet / E-mail
Article Date: 06 Sep 2007 - 0:00 PDT

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The Molecular Profiling Institute, Inc. (Molecular Profiling) announced that they are now providing Mammostrat, a new molecular-targeted breast prognostic test, to breast cancer patients, nationwide. The Mammostrat prognostic test utilizes five immunohistochemical (IHC) biomarkers to classify patients into high, moderate, or low-risk categories for disease recurrence.

Robert Penny, M.D., Ph.D., the Chairman and CEO of the Molecular Profiling Institute stated, "Mammostrat will benefit the care of breast cancer patients nationwide by allowing their cancer to be quickly analyzed for prognosis by a direct light-microscopic evaluation of the cancer cells by a pathologist. This new test, which is performed on tissue preserved according to standard practice, streamlines the process for patients while providing the accuracy of direct visualization."

The test was developed by Applied Genomics, Inc. who rigorously translated recent genomic insights in cancer into a novel immunohistochemistry test. Mammostrat test results have been validated using over a thousand patient samples in North America from clinics/organizations such as the Cleveland Clinic Foundation and the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project -- generating results with clear cut conclusions from multiple independent studies supporting the prognostic value of the test.

"We are excited to have partnered with the Molecular Profiling Institute, says Doug Ross, MD, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer of Applied Genomics. "Their expertise in advanced genomic and proteomic testing will provide a rigorous reference lab-based introduction of the test and broad reach in order to offer quality testing to patients nationwide."

Because Mammostrat uses traditional immunohistochemistry technology, the test is expected to be significantly less expensive than existing molecular-based, prognostic tests for breast cancer and is typically covered by insurance. Todd Maney, Ph.D., Vice President of New Product Development, MPI, stated, "Mammostrat's cost-effective, molecular-targeted analysis enables MPI to provide the test at a significant discount compared to our competitors. Moreover, test results will be available quickly -- an average of seven business days -- versus two weeks for alternative, comparable tests."

Physicians may order the Mammostrat test direct from the Molecular Profiling Institute or through their distribution partner AmeriPath by visiting http://www.molecularprofiling.com.

About the Molecular Profiling Institute, Inc. -- Molecular Profiling is a CLIA-certified specialty reference laboratory that helps patients, worldwide, by applying the discoveries of the Human Genome Project to personalized medicine. Molecular Profiling provides cutting-edge testing facilities, products, and resources for genomic and proteomic profiling and treatment of complex diseases, and pharmaceutical services to identify populations that may respond to targeted therapies. Molecular Profiling leverages strategic relationships with a number of organizations, including AmeriPath, Inc., the International Genomics Consortium (IGC), and the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen). Molecular Profiling's Web site address is http://www.molecularprofiling.com.

About Applied Genomics -- Applied Genomics, Inc. develops targeted diagnostics to improve treatment for cancer patients. Translating insights from genomic analyses of cancer, AGI creates antibody-based diagnostic tests for classifying cancer facilitating rational patient care decisions and improving quality of life for all patients. AGI has ongoing product development programs in breast, lung, ovarian, head and neck, and colon cancer. Additional company information is available at: http://www.applied-genomics.com.

The Molecular Profiling Institute, Inc.
http://www.molecularprofiling.com