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The German National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg and Protagen AG Investigate Responsiveness to Checkpoint Inhibitors in Melanoma

Protagen AG
18 Jan 2017
Weylan Kiam-Laine
Microbiologist

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The German National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg and Protagen AG have announced a collaboration to utilize Protagen’s SeroTag® technology to identify biomarkers that predict therapy responsiveness and the detection of immune-related adverse events (irAEs) in melanoma patients treated with checkpoint inhibitors.

Checkpoint inhibitors offer great potential for the treatment of many indications, including melanoma. Yet, only a subset of patients respond favorably to such treatment and it is not currently possible to predict who will benefit from the therapy in clinical routine. In addition, checkpoint inhibitors also trigger immune-related Adverse Events (irAEs) and even the onset of autoimmune diseases. Through this collaboration, Protagen and NCT will utilize Protagen's proprietary immune system profiling platform to predict response, monitor patients and detect immune related adverse events.

PD Dr. Jessica Hassel from the DermatoOncologic department of the Department of Dermatology and the NCT commented: “Checkpoint inhibitors offer exciting potential to cure cancer patients. However, at least half of the patients with a metastasized melanoma do not benefit long-term. Response rates can be increased via combination therapies such as a combination of ipilimumab and nivolumab, but such combinations also significantly increase the risk of suffering from sometimes serious irAEs, which have prevalence as high as 60% in these patients. To overcome the challenges posed by irAEs and to better select the appropriate therapy for each patient, we must learn more about the immune system status of these patients in general and their production of specific autoantibodies. Utilizing Protagen’s SeroTag® platform enables this insight and we look forward to this collaboration.”

Dr. Peter Schulz-Knappe, Protagen’s Chief Scientific Officer, added: “Our unique SeroTag® technology has already proven that it can be used to define homogeneous patient subgroups in autoimmune diseases with the potential to predict treatment response. Based on the link between immuno-oncology and autoimmune disease, it is a natural extension to apply our profiling approach to checkpoint inhibitors to address some of the most challenging questions in this field. We feel privileged that Dr. Hassel and the NCT share this view and we are excited about our collaboration.”

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AntibodiesAntibodies are used in techniques such as confocal and fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, ELISA, ELISPOT, immunohistochemistry, western blotting and immunopreciptation. Select specific antigen reactivity, high specific affinity, low non-specific binding, monoclonal or polyclonal, primary or secondary antibodies and associated conjugates such as an enzyme or dye for visualization.ProteomicsProteomics is the systemic bioinformatics study of proteins and amino acids, including their structure, size, function and identification. Tools used in proteomics include chromatography, blotting and gels, protein arrays, mass spectrometry and ELISA and associated analysis software. Analyzers and proteomic systems should be sensitive, high resolution, fast and may be automated for high-throughput.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. :Bioprocessing / FermentationBioprocessing is the use of biological materials to perform commercial, scientific or medical research processes. Biological materials used include cells, enzymes and organisms. Usually bioprocessing requires a batch or continuous bioreactor such as a fermentor or cell culture system. The advantages of using a reactor include high productivity, easy configuration, adjustable values and automation.InhibitorsCollaborationTumorsTumor research focuses on understanding abnormal cell growth that leads to cancer. Identifying biomarkers, studying tumor microenvironments, and developing targeted therapies are critical for advancing cancer treatment. Early detection and personalized treatment options are key to improving outcomes for patients. Browse our peer-reviewed product directory to explore tools for tumor research, diagnostics, and cancer therapies; compare products, read customer reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.MelanomaBiomarker 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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The German National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg and Protagen AG Investigate Responsiveness to Checkpoint Inhibitors in Melanoma