Epigenomics AG has signed a non-exclusive strategic collaboration and license agreement in molecular diagnostics with Abbott, a global healthcare company. Under the agreement, Abbott and Epigenomics intend to develop an in vitro diagnostic blood test for the early detection of colorectal cancer based on Epigenomics' proprietary DNA methylation biomarker Septin9.

According to a press release issued by Epigenomics, the companies will launch a CE-marked test in Europe in 2009 followed by regulatory filing for US approval in 2010. Under the terms of the agreement, Epigenomics will receive an upfront fee, milestone payments and royalties on product sales.

The agreement also contains provisions for the evaluation by Abbott of some of Epigenomics' other proprietary biomarkers for additional cancer indications.

Medicine Shoppe International, Inc. Expands Presence to Middle East

Dubai - Medicine Shoppe International, Inc. (MSI) is expanding its global presence into the Middle East this fall with five Medicine Shoppe pharmacies in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). The first two stores are scheduled to open in Dubai in September 2007, with the remaining three opening later this year.

"We are excited to continue MSI's global growth through our new master franchise agreement in the Middle East," said Bruce Burnett, vice president, international for MSI. "The Medicine Shoppe brand and retail pharmacy model have been very successful in India and other Asian markets, so the Middle East market is a natural next step for expansion. The UAE and the Gulf are experiencing economic growth, and we are confident that the Medicine Shoppe pharmacy concept, which focuses on providing personalized care and counseling, will perform well in this region."

MSI's expansion into the Middle East is possible through a new master franchise agreement with the Al Zahrawi Group in Dubai.

Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center Hosts Inaugural Biotech Investor Conference-Sept. 19 Event Designed To Boost Tech ...

More than 100 biotechnology investors are expected to meet at the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center Sept. 19 to hear Hopkins experts describe advances in cancer biology and explore new technology licensing opportunities. The conference, the first of its kind hosted by the Cancer Center, is intended to heighten commercial investment interest in its portfolio of emerging cancer treatments.

"Developing new diagnostics and treatments in the laboratory is one thing and we do it in spades, but to get them to patients, science-based institutions need the financial backing and expertise of biotech industry affiliations," says Stephen Baylin, M.D., director of research at Hopkins' Kimmel Cancer Center. The Center ranks third in the nation in research grants from the National Cancer Institute, earning $86.9 million in 2006.