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Cambridge Epigenetix Licenses Fundamental DNA Methylation Intellectual Property from Boston Children’s Hospital

Cambridge Epigenetix Ltd
27 Apr 2017
Lois Manton-O'Byrne, PhD
Executive Editor

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Cambridge Epigenetix, a pioneer in the development and application of epigenetic technologies, today announced that it has entered into an exclusive license agreement with Boston Children’s Hospital giving access to leading-edge DNA profiling technologies, which may hold the key to improved diagnoses and treatment of many diseases, including cancer.

The licensed intellectual property (IP) is based upon the early findings of Professor Anjana Rao (pictured right); an expert in immunology and cancer epigenetics, formerly of Boston Children's Hospital and now with the La Jolla Institute, and a member of the Cambridge Epigenetix Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). Professor Rao’s pioneering research group was the first to identify 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) as an important biomarker for cancer diagnosis that cannot be measured by traditional epigenetic sequencing methodologies. She also determined that the ten-eleven translocation (TET) family of enzymes generate 5hmC from 5-methylcytosine (5mC) and are key regulators of cellular differentiation that are frequently mutated in cancer.

The broad IP covers numerous best-in-class epigenetic techniques used in laboratories across the globe for profiling and altering DNA methylation, including the specific and unbiased enrichment of 5mC and 5hmC via enzymatic glucosylation and the use of TETs for targeted epigenetic engineering. Professor Rao’s technologies are sensitive and robustly profile methylation and hydroxymethylation in limited amounts of DNA (< 10ng), ideal for clinical samples. This early IP, which was filed in 2008, predates several patents that have described related methodologies and Cambridge Epigenetix is now in an unmatched position to identify epigenetic biomarkers for non-invasive cancer diagnosis and other clinical applications.

Cambridge Epigenetix pioneered the development of the gold standard in 5mC and 5hmC detection - TrueMethyl® oxidative bisulfite sequencing, and as market leaders recognized the value of holding an exclusive license to these fundamental and widely-applicable technologies. This exclusive license solidifies the company’s position as the partner of choice for epigenetic biomarker discovery.

Dr Jason Mellad, CEO at Cambridge Epigenetix, commented: “This is a tremendous opportunity for Cambridge Epigenetix, enabling the company to utilize and offer our partners the most advanced epigenetic biomarker discovery technologies available in our key focus areas of oncology and liquid biopsy. 5hmC is fundamentally linked to the expression of genes and to the identity of cells and tissue. This makes it a highly important epigenetic marker with the potential to improve patient outcomes through the early diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as cancer. The granting of this exclusive license to Cambridge Epigenetix will drive further innovations in this important area.”

Professor Anjana Rao, Head of the Division of Signalling and Gene Expression at the La Jolla Institute and member of the Cambridge Epigenetix Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) stated: “The continued study of 5hmC and other oxidized methylcytosines is essential to enhance our understanding of human biology and health. I am delighted that Cambridge Epigenetix has chosen to license this technology and, through my role on the SAB, I will continue advising them on maximizing its application.”

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Genome AnalysisGenomics, the study of genomes, includes functional genomics, evolutionary genomics and comparative genomics. There are many genomic technologies such as DNA sequencing of whole genomes, computational biology and bioinformatics. DNA and nucleic acids must be isolated and concentrated from cells for analysis with kits, automated analyzers and software. Other useful technologies for studying genomics include PCR, microarrays and electrophoresis.Gene Expression and Molecular CloningMolecular cloning is a set of techniques that utilizes vectors to transfer recombinant DNA into host cells and is an essential tool for investigating the expression of genes and proteins in bacterial or mammalian cells. A variety of vectors optimized for gene cloning and expression in a range of host organisms are available, alongside competent cells for genetic replication. Here, you can explore a range of molecular tools, high-quality genomic and cDNA libraries, premade clones, transformation and transfection reagents and mutagenesis or gene expression detection assays and expression arrays. Find the best gene expression and molecular cloning products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.BiomarkersBiomarkers are biological markers which can be measured and evaluated to indicate a biological state. The use of biomarkers in research and diagnosis can indicate a normal or disease state or drug response of cells / tissues. Biomarkers include genetic markers, cell surface markers such as antigens, antibodies or receptors and secreted molecules such as cytokines. An assay system is required for identification of biomarkers. :Clinical GeneticsMolecular Genetics covers the analysis of hereditary genetic disease and chromosomal abnormalities. Genetics can be analysed using DNA, RNA, and protein microarrays, PCR, RT PCR and DNA sequencing. Genetic equipment includes genetic workstations, thermal cyclers, cooling blocks and electrophoresis products. Diagnostic kits are used for DNA / RNA extraction and purification.BioinformaticsBioinformatics uses computational models and methodologies to study biological processes and to understand biological data.EpigeneticsEpigenetics refers to heritable changes in gene expression. These changes are not caused by alterations to the DNA sequence. Three of the main systems responsible for the initiation of epigenetic change are DNA methylation, histone modification and non-coding RNA-associated gene silencing.DNA MethylationCancer ResearchCancer research aims to understand the mechanisms of cancer development and progression to improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. From molecular biology to clinical trials, research spans a wide range of disciplines, including immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and drug discovery. Explore the best cancer research products in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Cancer DiagnosticsThere are a wide variety of diagnostic tests for cancer available, and this range continues to expand as our knowledge of cancer improves. Current diagnostic methods include biopsy, imaging and blood tests for known biomarkers. New methods in research development include liquid biopsies and cancer breathalyzers.Liquid BiopsiesLiquid biopsies are non-invasive tests used to detect cancer and other diseases by analyzing blood or other bodily fluids. This technique is gaining popularity for early detection, monitoring treatment response, and detecting minimal residual disease. Explore liquid biopsy solutions in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Biomarker DiscoveryClinical biomarkers refer to substances related to known medical conditions that can be accurately measured <i>in vitro</i>. Biomarkers can be used to diagnose presence of a disease and indicate disease severity. The discovery of new biomarkers is incredibly valuable in the field of diagnostics.

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Cambridge Epigenetix Licenses Fundamental DNA Methylation Intellectual Property from Boston Children’s Hospital