INDUSTRY PARTNERS

  • ALS
  • ALS

    ALS Automated Lab Solutions GmbH develops, manufactures and distributes high-quality automation solutions for life sciences in a broad range of areas including molecular diagnostics, cancer and stem cell research, cell line development and bioprocessing. The ALS CellCelector™ platform allows automated screening and recovery of single cells, clusters, spheroids and colonies for downstream molecular analysis or cell culturing. It combines fast high-resolution fluorescence imaging, sensitive cell detection technology and a patented robotics tool for automated recovery of 100% pure and intact cells. The field of liquid biopsies and namely the isolation of pure circulating tumour cells (CTCs) is one of the key application areas of the CellCelector platform. The CellCelector can be easily combined with a range of upstream processing technologies and is compatible with various downstream single cell characterization methods (e.g. NGS, RNA-Seq). Beyond a range of end-customer products ALS offers OEM development and production of customized systems from design and prototyping to serial manufacturing and quality control. ALS is privately owned and is headquartered in Jena, Germany.

    Dr. Constantin Nelep

    Marketing Director

    Otto-Eppenstein-Str. 30

    07745 Jena

    Germany

    cn@als-jena.com

    Jens Eberhardt

    Managing Director

    Otto-Eppenstein-Str. 30

    07745 Jena

    Germany

    je@als-jena.com

  • Cancer typesSolid tumors (breast, prostate, colorectal, pancreatic, ovarian, lung, brain, melanoma and others)
    Clinical applicationALS has developed and validated workflows (RUO) for identification and isolation of single circulating tumour cells (CTCs) enriched from blood of cancer-diagnosed patients. Isolated single CTCs can be used for downstream molecular analysis applications.
    Liquid Biobsy SourceBlood
    Technologies available for liquid biopsyCellCelector™ for single cell/cluster isolation
    Key publicationsNelep C, Eberhardt J. Automated rare single cell picking with the ALS CellCelector Cytometry Part A, Cytometry A 2018; 93(12):1267-1270

    Lampignano R, Yang L, Neumann M, Franken A, Fehm T, Niederacher D, Neubauer H. A novel workflow to enrich and isolate patient-matched EpCAMhigh and EpCAMlow/negative CTCs enables the comparative characterization of the PIK3CA status in metastatic breast cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18: 1885.

    Neumann M, Schneck H, Decker Y, Schoemer S, Franken A, Endris V, Pfarr N, Weichert W, Niederacher D, Fehm T, et al. Isolation and characterization of circulating tumor cells using a novel workflow combining CellSearch® and CellCelector™. Biotechnol Prog 2016; 33: 125– 132.

    Lohr J, Adalsteinsson V, Cibulskis K, Choudhury A, Rosenberg M, Cruz-Gordillo P, Francis J, Zhang C, Shalek A, Satija R et al. Whole-exome sequencing of circulating tumor cells provides a window into metastatic prostate cancer. Nat Biotechnol 2014; 32: 479– 484.

    Donato C, Szczerba B, Scheidmann M, Castro-Giner F, Aceto N. Micromanipulation of Circulating Tumor Cells for Downstream Molecular Analysis and Metastatic Potential Assessment. J. Vis. Exp. (147), e59677 (2019).
  • Agena Bioscience
  • Agena Bioscience
    Agena Logo_ELBS

    We Empower Precision Medicine

    Agena Bioscience is dedicated to advancing the impact of genomics in healthcare and precision medicine. Our highly sensitive and cost-effective mass spectrometry-based platform, the MassARRAY® System, is used globally in diverse research fields such as cancer profiling for solid tumors and liquid biopsies, inherited genetic disease testing, pharmacogenetics, and clinical research. We are dedicated to enabling clinical laboratories worldwide to deliver affordable targeted genomic testing. Our advanced platform provides timely, accurate, and actionable results, improving clinical decision making and laboratory economics. Agena Bioscience is headquartered in San Diego, CA, and markets its products in over 30 countries worldwide through direct sales offices in Germany, China, and Australia, and through an extensive network of distributors.

    www.agenabio.com

  • Darryl Irwin

    Darry Irwin, PhD

    Vice President – Scientific Affairs

    27 Jeays St

    Bowen Hills, Qld 4006

    Australia

    Darryl.Irwin@agenabio.com

    Caren Vollmert ELBS

    Dr. Caren Vollmert

    Senior Scientist, Applications & Technology

    Gasstr. 18

    22761 Hamburg

    Germany

    Caren.Vollmert@agenabio.com

    Alexander Sartori ELBS

    Dr. Alexander Sartori

    Senior Manager Scientific Affairs

    Gasstr. 18

    22761 Hamburg

    Germany

    Alexander.Sartori@agenabion.com

  • Cancer TypesSolid tumors (Colon, NSCLC, Melanoma, Breast, and others through custom panel design)
    Clinical applicationTumor profiling, disease progression and resistance monitoring by multiplexed targeted detection of 50-100 tumor specific somatic mutations from a single blood draw.
    Liquid biopsy sourcectDNA and CTC; blood and other biological fluids
    Technologies available for liquid biopsyPCR-based proprietary UltraSEEK® biochemistry; target detection with MassARRAY® System (MALDI-TOF MS for analysis of nucleic acids)
    BiobankN/A
    Key PublicationsGiannoudis, A., Sartori, A., Eastoe, L, Zakaria R, Charlton C, Hickson N, Platt‑Higgins·A, Rudland PS, Irwin D, ·Jenkinson MD, Palmieri C. Genomic profiling using the UltraSEEK panel identifies discordancy between paired primary and breast cancer brain metastases and an association with brain metastasis-free survival. Breast Cancer Res Treat 190, 241–253 (2021).

    Belloum, Y.; Janning, M.; Mohme, M.; Simon, R.; Kropidlowski, J.; Sartori, A.; Irwin, D.; Westphal, M.; Lamszus, K.; Loges, S.; Riethdorf, S.; Pantel, K.; Wikman, H. Discovery of Targetable Genetic Alterations in NSCLC Patients with Different Metastatic Patterns Using a MassARRAY-Based Circulating Tumor DNA Assay. Cells 2020, 9, 2337.

    Lamy PJ, Leest PV, Lozano N, Becht C, Duboeuf F, Groen HJM, Hilgers W, Pourel N, Rifaela N, Schuuring E, Alix-Panabières C. Mass Spectrometry as a Highly Sensitive Method for Specific Circulating Tumor DNA Analysis in NSCLC: A Comparison Study. Cancers. 2020 Oct 16; 12, 3002.

    Weber S, Spiegl B, Perakis SO, Ulz CM, Abuja PM, Kashofer K, Leest PV, Azpurua MA, Tamminga M, Brudzewsky D, Rothwell DG, Mohan S, Sartori A, Lampignano R, Konigshofer Y, Sprenger-Haussels M, Wikman H, Bergheim IR, Kloten V, Schuuring E, Speicher MR, Heitzer E. Technical Evaluation of Commercial Mutation Analysis Platforms and Reference Materials for Liquid Biopsy Profiling. Cancers (Basel). 2020 Jun 16;12(6).

    Gray ES, Witkowski T, Pereira M, Calapre L, Herron K, Irwin D, Chapman B, Khattak MA, Raleigh J, Hatzimihalis, Cebon J, Sandhu S, McArthur GA, Millward M, Ziman M, Dobrovic A, Wongk SQ. Genomic Analysis of Circulating Tumor DNA Using a Melanoma-Specific UltraSEEK Oncogene Panel. J Mol Diagn. 2019, 21:418-426.
  • ANGLE
  • ANGLE

    ANGLE is a liquid biopsy company with patent protected platforms include the Parsortix® circulating tumor cell (CTC) enrichment technology and the HyCEADTM Ziplex® platform for cost effective, highly multiplexed analysis of nucleic acids and proteins. The Parsortix® system enables a liquid biopsy (a simple blood draw) to be used to provide the cells of interest to the user in a format suitable for multiple types of downstream analyses. The system is based on a microfluidic device that captures cells based on a combination of their size and compressibility. The system is epitope independent and can capture all types of CTCs as well as CTC clusters in a viable form (alive). FDA clearance is in process for the United States. ANGLE is seeking to be the first ever FDA cleared CTC harvesting system. The HyCEADTM Ziplex® platform is based on a patented flow through array technology. It provides for low cost, highly multiplexed, rapid and sensitive capture of targets from a wide variety of sample types. The system is extremely sensitive and is ideal for measuring gene expression and other markers directly from Parsortix harvests. Using the Parsortix and HyCEAD Ziplex systems, ANGLE has already undertaken two separate 200 subject clinical studies to develop an ovarian cancer pelvic mass triage test, with the results showing best in class accuracy (ROC-AUC) of 95.1%. The assay is currently in the process of a 200 patient clinical verification study.


    Lara Stevanato, PhD

    Product Support Lead

    10 Nugent rd, Surrey Research Park

    Guildford

    GU2 7AF

    United Kingdom

    L.Stevanato@angleplc.com


    Michael O’Brien

    Business Development Director

    10 Nugent rd, Surrey Research Park,

    Guildford

    GU2 7AF

    United Kingdom

    M.OBrien@angleplc.com

  • Cancer typesSolid tumor (e.g. breast, ovarian/pelvic mass, lung, prostate, melanoma, colorectal cancer)
    Clinical application“ANGLE has two (currently RUO) applications for:

    1. Harvesting circulating tumour cells (CTCs) from peripheral blood of patients diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer. Harvested CTCs can be used for subsequent downstream
    applications.

    2. Aiding the assessment of the likelihood of ovarian malignancy in women who present with a suspicious pelvic mass, prior to surgical intervention or other patient management decisions.”
    Liquid Biopsy sourceBlood
    Technologies available for Liquid BiopsyParsortix® and HyCEAD Ziplex® systems
    Articles related to the Parsortix® technologyKoch C, Joosse SA, , Schneegans S,y , Wilken OJW, Janning M, Loreth D, Müller V, Prieske K, Banys-Paluchowski M, Horst LJ, Loges S, Peine S, Wikman H, Gorges TM and Pantel K. Pre-Analytical and Analytical Variables of Label-Independent Enrichment and Automated Detection of Circulating Tumor Cells in Cancer Patients. Cancers. 2020; 12: 442.

    Reinhardt F, Franken A, Meier-Stiegen F, Driemel C, Stoecklein NH , Fischer JC, Niederacher D, Ruckhaeberle E, Fehm T, and Neubauer H. Diagnostic Leukapheresis Enables Reliable Transcriptomic Profiling of Single Circulating Tumor Cells to Characterize Inter-Cellular Heterogeneity in Terms of Endocrine Resistance. Cancers. 2019; 11: 903

    Janning M, Kobus F, Babayan A, Wikman H , Velthaus JL, Bergmann S, Schatz S, Falk M, Berger LA, Böttcher LM, Päsler S, Gorges TM, O’Flaherty L, Hille C, Joosse SA , Simon R, Tiemann M, Bokemeyer C, Reck M, Riethdorf S, Pantel K and Loges S. Determination of PD-L1 Expression in Circulating Tumor Cells of NSCLC Patients and Correlation with Response to PD-1/PD-L1 Inhibitor. Cancers. 2019; 11: 835

    Szczerba BM, Castro-Giner F, Vetter M, Krol I, Gkountela S, Landin J, Scheidmann MC, Donato C, Scherrer R, Singer J, Beisel C, Kurzeder C, Heinzelmann-Schwarz V, Rochlitz C, Weber WP, Beerenwinkel N, Aceto N. Neutrophils escort circulating tumour cells to enable cell cycle progression. Nature. 2019; 566; 553–557.

    Miller MG, Robinson PS, Wagner C, O'Shannessy DJ. The Parsortix™ Cell Separation System-A Versatile Liquid Biopsy Platform. Cytometry A. 2018; 93 (12): 1234-1239
  • BAYER AG
  • BAYER AG

    Bayer AG is a Life Science company active in the fields of pharmaceuticals and agriculture. With more than 7,000 employees in R&D, Bayer Pharmaceuticals focuses on the development of innovative therapies in Oncology, Cardiovascular Diseases and Women’s Health Care indications and reached 17.962 billion Euros in 2019. The Oncology branch has a diversified portfolio of drugs targeting oncogenic signaling, immune checkpoints as well as radio pharmaceuticals.

    Following the motto “Science for a better life”, collaboration with academic and industrial partners is at the heart of Bayer’s R&D approach. The company is involved in multiple projects within the European Public-Private-Partnership Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI) and held the EFPIA lead for the liquid biopsy technology evaluation consortium CANCER-ID, which is the predecessor of ELBS. Bayer is also part of the International Liquid Biopsy Alliance (ILBA) established by the FNIH.

  • Dr. Thomas Schlange

    Senior Biomarker Scientist

    Precision Medicine Markers

    Bayer AG, Germany

    thomas.schlange@bayer.com

    Dr. Annette O. Walter

    Oncology Precision Medicine Lead

    Bayer AG, Germany

    annetteolga.walter@bayer.com

    Dr. Emmanuelle di Tomaso

    VP, Global Head Oncology Precision Medicine

    Bayer AG, USA

    Emmanuelle.ditomaso@bayer.com

  • Cancer typesSolid tumors (focus on NSCLC, prostate cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma and tissue agnostic molecularly defined indication)
    Clinical applicationdetection of targetable and resistance mutations
    Liquid Biobsy Sourceplasma ctDNA analysis, CTC count as efficacy and exploratory marker, exosomes
    Technologies available for liquid biopsyNGS, ddPCR, several CTC technologies
    Key publicationsKloten V, Lampignano R, Krahn T, Schlange T. Circulating Tumor Cell PD-L1 Expression as Biomarker for Therapeutic Efficacy of Immune Checkpoint Inhibition in NSCLC. Cells. 2019 Aug 1;8(8):809.

    Lampignano R, Neumann MHD, Weber S, Kloten V, Herdean A, Voss T, Groelz D, Babayan A, Tibbesma M, Schlumpberger M, Chemi F, Rothwell DG, Wikman H, Galizzi JP, Riise Bergheim I, Russnes H, Mussolin B, Bonin S, Voigt C, Musa H, Pinzani P, Lianidou E, Brady G, Speicher MR, Pantel K, Betsou F, Schuuring E, Kubista M, Ammerlaan W, Sprenger-Haussels M, Schlange T, Heitzer E. Multicenter Evaluation of Circulating Cell-Free DNA Extraction and Downstream Analyses for the Development of Standardized (Pre)analytical Work Flows. Clin Chem. 2020 Jan 1;66(1):149-160.

    Lim HY, Merle P, Weiss KH, Yau T, Ross P, Mazzaferro V, Blanc JF, Ma YT, Yen CJ, Kocsis J, Choo SP, Sukeepaisarnjaroen W, Gérolami R, Dufour JF, Gane EJ, Ryoo BY, Peck-Radosavljevic M, Dao T, Yeo W, Lamlertthon W, Thongsawat S, Teufel M, Roth K, Reis D, Childs BH, Krissel H, Llovet JM. Phase II Studies with Refametinib or Refametinib plus Sorafenib in Patients with RAS-Mutated Hepatocellular Carcinoma. Clin Cancer Res. 2018 Oct 1;24(19):4650-4661.

    Brychta N, Krahn T, von Ahsen O. Detection of KRAS Mutations in Circulating Tumor DNA by Digital PCR in Early Stages of Pancreatic Cancer. Clin Chem. 2016 Nov;62(11):1482-1491.
  • Bio-Rad / Celsee
  • Bio-Rad / Celsee

    Bio-Rad is a global leader in developing, manufacturing, and marketing a broad range of innovative products for life science research and clinical diagnostics. With a focus on quality and customer service for over 65 years, its products advance the discovery process and improve healthcare, including several applications in the liquid biopsy space. Further bolstering its presence in the field, Bio-Rad recently acquired Celsee, a pioneer in single cell applications, which has increased an already impressive repertoire for clinical studies and liquid biopsy research.

    For assessing cfDNA and ctDNA in liquid biopsies, Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) offers unrivaled detection, precision, and absolute quantification of target molecules. Digital Droplet technology partitions samples into thousands of microfluidic “droplet” test tubes, providing extremely sensitive and accurate digital answers for liquid biopsy research. ddPCR is regarded as the gold standard for orthogonal validation of variant allele frequencies and facilitates rapid turnaround with lower cost per targeted test.

    For assessing CTC phenotype and discerning overall tumor prognosis, Celselect technology is used on the Genesis system to process liquid biopsies for cell enrichment and enumeration. It has been designed for use in academic, clinical, and pharmaceutical labs that seek to study rare populations of cells within complex heterogeneous samples. It can facilitate retrieval of isolated cells to be used in additional methods of analysis for proteomic and genomic expression or perform immunohistochemical staining. The system is designed around an open platform for user developed assays, markers, and automated microscopy and counting algorithms.

    Together, Bio-Rad’s ddPCR and Celselect Technologies offer a synergistic and unparalleled degree of insight into both cellular heterogeneity of CTCs as well as the ever growing need to understand their unique biomolecular signatures.
    Celselect products are for research use only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

    Adam S Corner, PhD

    Market Development Scientist, Digital Biology Group

    The Junction, Station Rd,

    Watford WD17 1ET

    United Kingdom

    adam_corner@bio-rad.com

    Alexandra Brandt

    MDx Marketing Manager EMEA

    Kapellenstraße 128

    5622 Feldkirchen

    Germany

    alexandra_brandt@bio-rad.com

    Lianne McLean

    Director of Global Marketing, Digital Biology Group

    5731 West Las Positas Blvd.

    Pleasanton, CA 94588

    United States of America

    lianne_mclean@bio-rad.com

  • Cancer typesSolid tumor and haematological cancers
    Clinical applicationClinical research for disease prognosis, therapy prediction, and biomarkers for minimal residual disease
    Liquid Biobsy SourceBlood, pleural effusion, urine, cerebral spinal fluid, saliva, dissociated tissue
    Technologies available for liquid biopsyDroplet Digital PCR: Offers unrivaled detection, precision, and absolute quantification of target molecules. Partitioning samples into thousands of microfluidic “droplet” test tubes, providing extremely sensitive and accurate digital answers for liquid biopsy research.

    Celselect Slide Technology for CTC enumeration: An end-to-end solution for isolating CTCs from whole liquid biopsy samples, fixing their protein structure, and performing immunohistochemical analysis for enumeration of CTC levels.

    Celselect Slide Technology for CTC enrichment: A user centric means of isolating CTCs from whole liquid biopsy samples the retrieving them from the slide with minimal loss and high enrichment purities. CTCs can be used for subsequent downstream analysis like FISH, expansion, xenograft cultures, and biomolecular phenotyping.
    Key publicationsGarcia-Murillas I, Chopra N, Comino-Méndez I, Beaney M, Tovey H, Cutts RJ, Swift C, Kriplani D, Afentakis M, Hrebien S, Walsh-Crestani G, Barry P, Johnston SRD, Ring A, Bliss J, Russell S, Evans A, Skene A, Wheatley D, Dowsett M, Smith IE, Turner NC. Assessment of Molecular Relapse Detection in Early-Stage Breast Cancer. JAMA Oncol. 2019 Oct 1;5(10):1473-1478. doi: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2019.1838. Erratum in: JAMA Oncol. 2020 Jan 1;6(1):162. PMID: 31369045; PMCID: PMC6681568.

    Sacher AG, Paweletz C, Dahlberg SE, Alden RS, O'Connell A, Feeney N, Mach SL, Jänne PA, Oxnard GR. Prospective Validation of Rapid Plasma Genotyping for the Detection of EGFR and KRAS Mutations in Advanced Lung Cancer. JAMA Oncol. 2016 Aug 1;2(8):1014-22. doi: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2016.0173. Erratum in: JAMA Oncol. 2016 Aug 1;2(8):1099. PMID: 27055085; PMCID: PMC4982795.

    Gogoi P, Sepehri S, Zhou Y, Gorin MA, Paolillo C, Capoluongo E, Gleason K, Payne A, Boniface B, Cristofanilli M, Morgan TM, Fortina P, Pienta KJ, Handique K, Wang Y. Development of an Automated and Sensitive Microfluidic Device for Capturing and Characterizing Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs) from Clinical Blood Samples. PLoS One. 2016 Jan 25;11(1):e0147400. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147400. PMID: 26808060; PMCID: PMC4726586.

    Horimoto Y, Tokuda E, Murakami F, Uomori T, Himuro T, Nakai K, Orihata G, Iijima K, Togo S, Shimizu H, Saito M. Analysis of circulating tumour cell and the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT) status during eribulin-based treatment in 22 patients with metastatic breast cancer: a pilot study. J Transl Med. 2018 Oct 20;16(1):287. doi: 10.1186/s12967-018-1663-8. PMID: 30342534; PMCID: PMC6195982.
  • Boehringer Ingelheim
  • Boehringer Ingelheim
    BC R&D

    Making new and better medicines for humans and animals is at the heart of what we do. Our mission is to create breakthrough therapies that change lives. Since its founding in 1885, Boehringer Ingelheim is independent and family-owned. We have the freedom to pursue our long-term vision, looking ahead to identify the health challenges of the future and targeting those areas of need where we can do the most good. As a world-leading, research-driven pharmaceutical company, more than 51,000 employees create value through innovation daily for our three business areas: Human Pharma, Animal Health, and Biopharmaceutical Contract Manufacturing. In 2019, Boehringer Ingelheim achieved net sales of 19 billion euros. Focus on research and development (R&D) Our significant investment of almost 3.5 billion euros in R&D drives innovation, enabling the next generation of medicines that save lives and improve quality of life. R&D investments in the Human Pharma business alone amounted to EUR 3 billion or 21.8% of its net sales. There are some 100 projects across all phases of the research process. The goal is for 75% of these projects to be either the first molecule in their active ingredient class or in a new therapeutic area. The focus of R&D in Human Pharma lies on cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, oncology, respiratory, immunology, diseases of the central nervous system and retinal health. The global research network for human pharmaceuticals includes facilities in Germany (Biberach), the US (Ridgefield), Austria (Vienna) and Japan (Kobe). We realize more scientific opportunities by embracing the power of partnership and diversity of experts across the life-science community. By working together, we accelerate the delivery of the next medical breakthrough that will transform the lives of patients now, and in generations to come.

  • Dr. Jürgen Braunger

    Head of Cellular and Protein Biomarkers

    Translational Medicine & Clinical Pharmacology

    Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG

    juergen.braunger@boehringer-ingelheim.com



    Dr. Yarúa Jaimes

    Biomarker Lead Expert in Cellular and Protein Biomarkers

    Translational Medicine & Clinical Pharmacology

    Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma GmbH & Co. KG

    yarua.jaimes@boehringer-ingelheim.com

  • Cancer typessolid tumors (mainly NSCLC, CRC)
    Clinical applicationcharacterization of mutations, underlying disease and resistance mechanisms
    Liquid Biopsy sourceplasma for cfDNA analyses, CTCs in collaboration with UKE
    Technologies available for Liquid BiopsyNGS, ddPCR
    Key publicationsJanning M, Kobus F, Babayan A, Wikman H, Velthaus JL, Bergmann S, Schatz S, Falk M, Berger LA, Böttcher LM, Päsler S, Gorges TM, O'Flaherty L, Hille C, Joosse SA, Simon R, Tiemann M, Bokemeyer C, Reck M, Riethdorf S, Pantel K, Loges S. Determination of PD-L1 Expression in Circulating Tumor Cells of NSCLC Patients and Correlation with Response to PD-1/PD-L1 Inhibitors. Cancers (Basel). 2019 Jun 17;11(6).

    Riethdorf S, O'Flaherty L, Hille C, Pantel K. Clinical applications of the CellSearch platform in cancer patients. Adv Drug Deliv Rev. 2018 Feb 125:102-121

    O’Flaherty L, Wikman H, Pantel K. Biology and clinical significance of circulating tumor cell subpopulations in lung cancer. Tansl. Lung Canc. Res., 2017 Aug
  • Bristol Myers Squibb
  • Bristol Myers Squibb
    BMS

    Bristol-Myers Squibb is a global biopharmaceutical company whose mission is to discover, develop and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases. For more information about Bristol-Myers Squibb, visit us at bms.com/de or follow us on Twitter. Celgene and Juno Therapeutics are wholly owned subsidiaries of Bristol-Myers Squibb Company. In certain countries outside the U.S., due to local laws, Celgene and Juno Therapeutics are referred to as, Celgene, a Bristol-Myers Squibb company and Juno Therapeutics, a Bristol-Myers Squibb company.

    Dr. Martin Broekmans

    Project Manager Precision Medicine

    Arnulfstr. 29

    80636 München

    Germany

    Martin.broekmans@bms.com

    BMS

    Stefan Reininghaus

    Team Lead Precision Medicine

    Arnulfstr. 29

    80636 München

    Germany

    Stefan.reininghaus@bms.com

  • Clinomics Europe
  • Clinomics Europe

    Clinomics Europe has been established in Budapest in 2021 as the first EU subsidiary of Clinomics Inc, Korea. Our innovative, multiomics-based medical biotech company places its main focus on precision medicine and oncology. We develop novel molecular diagnostic tools based on cutting-edge technologies such as liquid biopsy, NGS (next-generation sequencing), real-time qPCR, dPCR, and more.

    Minimally invasive and repeatable techniques such as liquid biopsy have significant advantages compared to gold-standard methods in oncology, enabling early diagnosis, real-time prognosis, and longitudinal therapy monitoring. Blood-based biomarkers such as circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and cell-free DNA and RNA are gaining attention as more sensitive and specific alternatives to traditional biomarkers. Our proprietary technology, the CD-Prime Lab-on-a-Disc platform enables the enrichment of intact, unlabelled CTCs, as well as the plasma fraction containing ctDNA (circulating tumor DNA) and exosomes, maximizing the potential of liquid biopsy applications in oncology. By combining liquid biopsy with state-of-the-art molecular technologies, such as NGS, qPCR, and dPCR, we aim to take precision medicine to the next level.

    Besides our core technology, we also provide a wide range of R&D services in our well-equipped laboratories, offering customized liquid biopsy-based solutions for specific research projects. We also offer a broad selection of laboratory instruments and reagents. Read more about the full range of our activities at our website.

  • Cancer typesSolid tumors.
    Clinical applicationEarly diagnosis, real-time prognosis, and longitudinal therapy monitoring based on CTC and cfDNA molecular profiling.
    Liquid Biopsy SourceBlood.
    Technologies available for liquid biopsyCTC enrichment device, Automated cfDNA extraction system, qPCR, dPCR, NGS.
    BiobankSerial plasma and CTC samples collected from ovarian cancer patients.
    Key publicationsBiró O. Liquid biopsy in the clinical management of cancer patients. Mol Cell Probes. 2023 Feb;67:101892. doi: 10.1016/j.mcp.2023.101892. Epub 2023 Jan 4. PMID: 36608835.

    Kim YJ, Jeon H, Jeon S, Lee SH, Kim C, Ahn JH, Um H, Woo YJ, Jeong SH, Kim Y, Park HY, Oh HJ, Cho HJ, Bae JH, Kim JH, An S, Kang SB, Jho S, Biro O, Kis D, Kim BC, Kim Y, Kim JH, Kim BC, Bhak J, Oh IJ. A method for early diagnosis of lung cancer from tumor originated DNA fragments using plasma cfDNA methylome and fragmentome profiles. Mol Cell Probes. 2022 Dec;66:101873. doi: 10.1016/j.mcp.2022.101873. Epub 2022 Nov 12. PMID: 36379302.

    Balla A, Bhak J, Biró O. The application of circulating tumor cell and cell-free DNA liquid biopsies in ovarian cancer. Mol Cell Probes. 2022 Dec;66:101871. doi: 10.1016/j.mcp.2022.101871. Epub 2022 Oct 23. PMID: 36283501.

    Lee SY, Chae DK, An J, Yoo S, Jung S, Chae CH, Bhak J, Kim BC, Cho DH. Combinatory Analysis of Cell-free and Circulating Tumor Cell DNAs Provides More Variants for Cancer Treatment. Anticancer Res. 2019 Dec;39(12):6595-6602. doi: 10.21873/anticanres.13875. PMID: 31810925.

    Kim TH, Lim M, Park J, Oh JM, Kim H, Jeong H, Lee SJ, Park HC, Jung S, Kim BC, Lee K, Kim MH, Park DY, Kim GH, Cho YK. FAST: Size-Selective, Clog-Free Isolation of Rare Cancer Cells from Whole Blood at a Liquid-Liquid Interface. Anal Chem. 2017 Jan 17;89(2):1155-1162. doi: 10.1021/acs.analchem.6b03534. Epub 2016 Dec 13. PMID: 27958721.
  • Exact Sciences
  • Exact Sciences
    Exact Siences HQ

    Exact Sciences has been a global pioneer in detecting cancer earlier and guiding treatment decisions. Today we are a leading, global cancer diagnostics company with over 5.500 employees worldwide. Our common aim is to eradicate cancer -- and the suffering it causes -- with tests that help in preventing cancer, detecting it earlier, and guiding treatment to provide life-changing value to patients.

    Building on the success of the Oncotype DX® and the Cologuard® tests, Exact Sciences is investing in its product pipeline to enable personalised care at all stages of the disease.

    We serve patients in more than 90 countries and are rapidly building an even stronger international presence to bring our tests to patients around the world.

    For more information on Exact Sciences, please visit the company’s website and follow us on Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn

  • in process

  • Illumina
  • Illumina

    At Illumina, our mission is to improve human health by unlocking the power of the genome. An expanding next-generation sequencing (NGS) oncology portfolio is helping Illumina drive the revolution in cancer genomics. Our NGS and microarray technologies are among the most trusted in the world. Our sample-to-data solutions deliver high-quality, reproducible results to speed the discovery and analysis of cancer-related variants – and potentially transform the cancer care cycle.

    Comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) is a NGS approach that uses a single assay to assess hundreds of genes including relevant cancer biomarkers, as established in guidelines and clinical trials, for therapy guidance. CGP testing started from minimal amounts of FFPE tissue and is now leveraging liquid biopsy to facilitate sample collection while decreasing the need for invasive tissue biopsy procedures.

    We’re committed to advancing and individualizing the way cancer will be identified and treated. We want to partner with you in helping propel progress in personalized oncology. Together we can work toward achieving our ultimate goal: to make discoveries that will make a life-changing difference to cancer patients and their loved ones.

  • Invitek
  • Invitek
    Invitek

    InviGenius PlUS 2
    InviGenius Plus 2

    Invitek Molecular develops and commercializes tailor-made nucleic acid purification solutions that enable manual and automated DNA/RNA extraction from virtually any sample material. We provide customized development and contract manufacturing services to in-vitro diagnostics companies all over the world. With more than 20 years of experience, our solutions cover all challenges from the idea up to the realization of a marketable product according to CE-IVD. Invitek Molecular is committed to developing products for state-of-the-art nucleic acid extraction used in oncology applications. Our extraction kits for liquid biopsy and pathology enable a reliable and reproducible application of cell-free circulating DNA and genomic DNA used in NGS detection systems. With our fully automated solutions, you can automate your workflows with just short hands-on time.

  • Thomas Matthes

    CEO

    Invitek Molecular GmbH
    Robert-Rössle-Str. 10
    13125 Berlin
    Germany

    thomas.matthes@invitek-molecular.com


    Preeti Panda

    Project Manager

    Invitek Molecular GmbH
    Robert-Rössle-Str. 10
    13125 Berlin
    Germany

    preeti.panda@invitek-molecular.com

  • Cancer typessolid tumors
    Clinical applicationcirculating cell-free DNA extraction for NGS applications
    Liquid Biopsy sourceplasma, serum, urine
    Technologies available for Liquid Biopsyfully automated cell-free DNA extraction using magnetic beads on the InviGenius® PLUS platform
  • LGC SeraCare
  • LGC SeraCare
    Gaithersburg, MD
    Milford

    LGC SeraCare Life Sciences is a leading in vitro diagnostic (IVD) manufacturer of clinical diagnostic quality solutions to the extended life science industry. We are committed to improving patient healthcare by offering products and services that support accurate and reliable diagnostic testing results. These include:

    • Quality Controls (IQC), Linearity & Calibration Verification Kits
    • Oncology and Reproductive Health Reference Materials
    • Proficiency Testing (EQA) Schemes
    • Biological Materials, Reagents
    • IVD Assay Development
    • Quality Assurance Programs
    Our 200+ employees and our FDA-registered and ISO 13485-accredited facilities in Maine, Massachusetts and Maryland support diagnostic professionals in laboratories across the globe. We partner with IVD developers, pharmaceutical, CRO and academic institutions to share our expertise and resources in clinical genomics, clinical chemistry, immunochemistry, serology, and molecular diagnostics. LGC SeraCare’s portfolio of Oncology and Reproductive Health -focused reference materials are designed and manufactured to meet the precision challenges of many NGS assays. Our industry reputation and credibility are founded on the high quality ground-truth RNA, ctDNA and genomic DNA-based reference materials which are NGS platform agnostic and used as positive sample controls in tumor profiling, immuno-oncology, liquid biopsy, NIPT and germline cancer assay workflows. We are passionately committed to go beyond. In collaboration with our customers, our people and with absolute quality, we make the exploration of science our mission to create a safer world.

  • Mark Rogers

    Business Development Manager, EMEA

    Clinical Diagnostics Division

    Mobile: +44 7818 028348

    mark.rogers@lgcgroup.com

    Krystyna Nahlik, PhD

    Field Application Scientist EMEA

    Clinical Diagnostics Division

    Mobile: +44 7818 028348

    Krystyna.Nahlik@LGCGroup.com

  • Cancer typessolid tumors (e.g. NSCLC, breast, melanoma, CRC) and myeloid tumors
    Clinical applicationLiquid biopsy reference materials for any type of ctDNA analysis, including early detection, monitoring response and resistance, blood tumor mutational burden assessment and MRD
    Liquid Biobsy SourcecfDNA encapsulated in synthetic plasma buffer
    Technologies available for liquid biopsyN/A (compatible with all cell-free DNA analysis methods from blood and plasma)
    Key publicationsKonigshofer, Y. Methods for Preparing ctDNA Reference Material and Controls. United States; WO 2018/094183 Al, 2018 https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/patent/US2018142299

    Ruminski-Lowe, D., et. al., New technology to generate commutable and comprehensive circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) reference materials for next generation sequencing, Poster#: TT034. 2018 AMP Meeting, San Antonio, TX, USA.

    Hua-Jun He, Erica V. Stein, Yves Konigshofer, Thomas Forbes, Farol L. Tomson, Russell Garlick, Emiko Yamada, Tony Godfrey, Toshiya Abe, Koji Tamura, Michael Borges, Michael Goggins, Sandra Elmore, Margaret L. Gulley, Jessica L. Larson, Lando Ringel, Brian C. Haynes, Chris Karvolich, P. Mickey Williams, Aaron Garnett, Anders Stahlberg, Stefan Filges, Lynn Sorbara, Mathew R. Young, Sudhir Srivastava, and Kenneth D. Cole. Multi Laboratory Assessment of a New Reference Material for Quality Assurance of Cell Free Tumor DNA Measurements. J.Mol.Diag., 2019, Vol21, No4, 658-676 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31055023/

    Sabrina Weber, Benjamin Spiegl, Samantha O. Perakis, Christine M. Ulz, Peter M. Abuja, Karl Kashofer, Paul van der Leest, Maria Aguirre Azpurua, Menno Tamminga, Dan Brudzewsky, Dominic G. Rothwell, Sumitra Mohan, Alexander Sartori, Rita Lampignano, Yves Konigshofer, Markus Sprenger-Haussels, Harriet Wikman, Inger R. Bergheim, Vera Kloten, Ed Schuuring, Michael R. Speicher and Ellen Heitzer Technical Evaluations of Commercial Mutation Analysis Platforms and Reference Materials for Liquid Biopsy Profiling, Cancers, 2020, 12, 1588

    Eun-Ang Raiber-Moreau, et. al., Development and Validation of Blood Tumor Mutational Burden Reference Standards”, Poster #60, 2020 SITC, Dec 2020.
  • NONACUS
  • NONACUS
    NONACUS Logo

    In 2015 Nonacus was founded with a singular purpose: to offer high quality, non-invasive, genetic testing. Based off the Latin term ‘non acus’ meaning ‘no needle’, Nonacus accurately symbolises the company’s mission- to move away from intrusive and sometimes risky diagnostic procedures, like tissue biopsies or amniocentesis, towards less invasive testing.

    Formed by a dedicated group of biotechnology professionals, we understand the need for laboratories to continually deliver progress. This understanding forms the basis of all our products and drives our innovation, and we work closely with Hospitals, Research Institutes and Universities across the world to ensure that our products always keep the end-user at the forefront.

    Today Nonacus offers non-invasive solutions for prenatal, oncology and constitutional genetics applications. In the oncology space, we have created a full liquid biopsy workflow: from robust pre-analytical products that maximise cfDNA yield, to targeted NGS panels underpinned by our novel and sensitive Cell3 Target technology. Our ultimate goal is to enable seamless, cost effective, cutting-edge cancer genomics and democratise cancer monitoring globally.

    Chris Sale

    CEO

    Nonacus Limited
    Birmingham Research Park
    Vincent Drive
    Birmingham, B15 2SQ, U.K.

    chris.sale@nonacus.com

    Gregory Maes

    Business Development and Innovation Manager

    Nonacus Limited
    Birmingham Research Park
    Vincent Drive
    Birmingham, B15 2SQ, U.K.

    gregory.maes@nonacus.com

    Johan Vanderhoeven

    Commercial Director

    Nonacus Limited
    Birmingham Research Park
    Vincent Drive
    Birmingham, B15 2SQ, U.K.

    johan.vanderhoeven@nonacus.com

  • Cancer typesSolid tumors (e.g breast, lung, bladder, colorectal) and blood cancers.
    Clinical applicationEarly detection of relapse, (MRD): longitudinal monitoring and surveillance, patient stratification and treatment response.
    Liquid Biopsy SourceBlood, plasma, urine, CSF.
    Technologies available for liquid biopsyPre-analytical products: whole blood preservation tubes (up to 21 days), cfDNA extraction kits (manual and automated and low, medium and high throughput options).

    Targeted NGS panels: Off-the-shelf and custom NGS panels for both somatic and germline mutations. Based on proprietary Cell3 Target technology: a novel target enrichment system, developed by Nonacus, for converting any type of DNA (cfDNA, gDNA, FFPE DNA) into libraries for NGS. Cell3™ Target also incorporates error suppression technology including unique molecular indexes (UMIs) and unique dual indexes (UDI’s) which remove both PCR and sequencing errors and index hopping events.
    BiobankCurrently no Biobank.
    Key publicationsCirculating tumour DNA sequencing to determine therapeutic response and identify tumour heterogeneity in patients with paediatric solid tumours
    R. Stankunaite et al. (2022) European Journal of Cancer, 162, pp. 209-220.

    Development of methylation-based biomarkers for breast cancer detection by model training and validation in synthetic cell-free DNA
    S. M. de Procé et al. (2022) bioRxiv, 480085.

    Highly Sensitive and Specific Detection of Bladder Cancer via Targeted Ultra-deep Sequencing of Urinary DNA
    D. G. Ward et al. (2022) European Urology Oncology, pp.1-9.

    Utility of circulating tumor DNA for detection and monitoring of endometrial cancer recurrence and progression
    E. L. Moss et al. (2020) Cancers, 12(8), p. 2231.

    Circulating Cell-Free DNA Captures the Intratumor Heterogeneity in Multinodular Hepatocellular Carcinoma
    M. Coto-Llerena et al. (2022) Journal of Clinical Oncology (6).
  • nRichDX
  • nRichDX

    nRichDX® based in Irvine, California, is an emerging leader in preanalytical sample prep solutions for isolation of cfDNA, ctDNA, and other rare analytes. The patented Revolution™ Sample Prep System was engineered specifically for liquid biopsy applications. It is the first and only high-yield, IVD-labeled sample prep platform that can process a wide range of total sample volumes from 1 mL - 50 mL in a single magnetic bead-based extraction from blood, plasma, and urine samples in the company’s unique nRicher™ Cartridge. Unlike other methods, Revolution sample prep doesn’t require sample transfer steps or inefficient sample pooling. nRichDX helps solve one of precision medicine’s greatest problems – – inaccurate or incomplete diagnostic results for liquid biopsy-based molecular diagnostic tests, like NGS and ddPCR, due to insufficient analyte.


    William Curtis

    CEO

    15339 Barranca Parkway
    Irvine, CA 92618

    wcurtis@nrichdx.com

    Richard Creager, PhD

    CTO

    15339 Barranca Parkway
    Irvine, CA 92618

    Tom Curtis

    Sr. Marketing and Sales

    15339 Barranca Parkway
    Irvine, CA 92618

    tcurtis@nrichdx.com

  • QIAGEN
  • QIAGEN

    QIAGEN N.V., a Netherlands-based holding company, is the leading global provider of Sample to Insight solutions that enable customers to gain valuable molecular insights from samples containing the building blocks of life. The application field of liquid biopsies is one of the key focus areas driving QIAGENs product development initiatives to provide new innovative Sample to insight solutions. Our sample technologies isolate and process DNA, RNA and proteins from blood, tissue and other materials. Assay technologies make these biomolecules visible and ready for analysis. Bioinformatics software and knowledge bases interpret data to report relevant, actionable insights. Automation solutions tie these together in seamless and cost-effective workflows. QIAGEN provides solutions to more than 500,000 customers around the world in Molecular Diagnostics (human healthcare), Applied Testing (forensics, veterinary testing and food safety), Pharma (pharma and biotech companies) and Academia (life sciences research). As of September 30, 2019, QIAGEN employed approximately 5,200 people in over 35 locations worldwide.

    Thorsten Singer, PhD

    Senior Director Scientific Affairs LS

    QIAGEN Strasse 1

    40724 Hilden

    Germany

    thorsten.singer@qiagen.com

    Siegfried Hauch, PhD

    Senior Director and Head of Scientific Affairs LS

    QIAGEN Strasse 1

    40724 Hilden

    Germany

    siegfried.hauch@qiagen.com

  • Cancer typesSolid tumors (e.g. breast, prostate, colon, lung cancer) and leukemia
    Tumor stem cells and tumor cells in epithelial-mesenchymal transition
    Clinical applicationResearch studies in the field of prediction of therapy stratification and success; determination of (prognostic) biomarkers
    Liquid Biobsy Sourceblood, plasma, serum, urine, CSF
    Technologies available for liquid biopsyCTC enrichment and characterization: AdnaTest product line

    Exosomes and extracellular vesicles, isolation and RNA extraction: ExoEasy / ExoRNeasy product line

    Circulating cell free nucleic acids including ctDNA and miRNA (automated and manual): QIAamp and QIAsymphony / EZ1 products; miRNeasy

    Stabilization of biospecimens (blood, tissue, saliva): PAX and RNAprotect product lines Technologies for reference material analysis (e.g. FFPE, frozen tissue)

    Comprehensive range of nucleic acid analysis technologies: digital PCR, qPCR, NGS, bioinformatics, customization (e.g. panels)

    Service: all technologies listed above
    Key publicationsWeber S, Spiegl B, Perakis SO, Ulz CM, Abuja PM, Kashofer K, Leest PV, Azpurua MA, Tamminga M, Brudzewsky D, Rothwell DG, Mohan S, Sartori A, Lampignano R, Konigshofer Y, Sprenger-Haussels M, Wikman H, Bergheim IR, Kloten V, Schuuring E, Speicher MR, Heitzer E.Technical Evaluation of Commercial Mutation Analysis Platforms and Reference Materials for Liquid Biopsy Profiling.Cancers (Basel). 2020 Jun 16;12(6):E1588

    Babayan A, Neumann MHD, Herdean A, Shaffer JM, Janning M, Kobus F, Loges S, Di Pasquale F, Kubista M, Schlumpberger M, Lampignano R, Krahn T, Schlange T, Sprenger-Haussels M, Pantel K, Kloten V.Multicenter Evaluation of Independent High-Throughput and RT-qPCR Technologies for the Development of Analytical Workflows for Circulating miRNA Analysis.Cancers (Basel). 2020 May 5;12(5):1166.

    Keup C, Storbeck M, Hauch S, Hahn P, Sprenger-Haussels M, Hoffmann O, Kimmig R, Kasimir-Bauer S. Multimodal Targeted Deep Sequencing of Circulating Tumor Cells and Matched Cell-Free DNA Provides a More Comprehensive Tool to Identify Therapeutic Targets in Metastatic BreastCancer Patients. Cancers (Basel). 2020 Apr 27;12(5):1084

    Schneegans S, Lück L, Besler K, Bluhm L, Stadler JC, Staub J, Greinert R, Volkmer B, Kubista M, Gebhardt C, Sartori A, Irwin D, Serkkola E, Af Hällström T, Lianidou E, Sprenger-Haussels M, Hussong M, Mohr P, Schneider SW, Shaffer J, Pantel K, Wikman H. Pre-analytical factors affecting the establishment of a single tube assay for multiparameter liquid biopsy detection in melanoma patients.Mol Oncol. 2020 May;14(5):1001-1015

    Lampignano R, Neumann MHD, Weber S, Kloten V, Herdean A, Voss T, Groelz D, Babayan A, Tibbesma M, Schlumpberger M, Chemi F, Rothwell DG, Wikman H, Galizzi JP, Riise Bergheim I, Russnes H, Mussolin B, Bonin S, Voigt C, Musa H, Pinzani P, Lianidou E, Brady G, Speicher MR, Pantel K, Betsou F, Schuuring E, Kubista M, Ammerlaan W, Sprenger-Haussels M, Schlange T, Heitzer E. Multicenter Evaluation of Circulating Cell-Free DNA Extraction and Downstream Analyses for the Development of Standardized (Pre)analytical Work Flows. Clin Chem. 2020: 10.1373
  • SAGA DIAGNOSTICS
  • SAGA DIAGNOSTICS
    SAGA DIAGNOSTIC LOGO

    SAGA Diagnostics is a is a cancer genomics company focused on precision oncology and ultrasensitive liquid biopsy monitoring of cancer patients. The company is commercializing unique technology platforms which are ultrasensitive and can measure circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) to ~0.001% MAF, which is 100-1000-fold more sensitive and specific than competing methods. Our ultrasensitive technologies are also applicable to conventional tissue biopsies.

    SAGAsafe® is a technology platform with patented chemistry which can be run on most dPCR instrument systems. It has its prime utility in detecting and measuring point mutations and indels and can be used to stratify patients, find patients eligible for therapy, monitoring therapy response and MRD, and detection of resistance mutations. The ultrasensitivity means finding more patients earlier. SAGAsafe is currently in a CE-IVD marking process, with the aim of having a menu of clinically relevant assays available for clinical use during 2020-21.

    SAGAsign® is a method combining WGS on tumor tissue followed by monitoring ctDNA by personalized dPCR. In an automated fashion, a “fingerprint” of chromosomal rearrangements is selected and a SAGAsign fingerprint assay developed using our proprietary bioinformatics pipeline. We and others have shown chromosomal rearrangements are very stable over time. SAGAsign is ideal for determining tumor burden, monitoring therapy response, detecting MRD, and recurrence monitoring. Research programs and clinical trials benefit from the cost-effectiveness and short turnaround time and SAGAsign’s ultrasensitivity. SAGA is working with academia, hospitals, and biopharma in R&D projects and sells RUO and CE-IVD kits to laboratories.

    Lao Saal, MD PhD

    CEO

    Scheelevägen 2, MV-406

    SE-22381 Lund

    Sweden

    Lao.Saal@sagadiagnostics.com

    Åke Nilsson, MSc

    Director, Corporate and Business Development

    Scheelevägen 2, MV-406

    SE-22381 Lund

    Sweden

    Ake.Nilsson@sagadiagnostics.com

    Annina Hube, PhD

    Director, Market Access

    Scheelevägen 2, MV-406

    SE-22381 Lund

    Sweden

    Annina.Hube@sagadiagnostics.com

  • Cancer typesAll cancer types (work frequently with breast, lung, GI-tract, prostate, ovarian, melanoma, leukemia, lymphoma, etc.)
    Clinical applicationPatient stratification and companion diagnostics, therapy response monitoring, MRD, recurrence monitoring, identification of resistance mechanisms
    Liquid Biobsy SourceBlood, plasma, serum, CSF, saliva, urine or any other bodily fluid (and tissues)
    Technologies available for liquid biopsyNGS, dPCR, SAGAsafe, SAGAsign, SAGAseq (in development)
    BiobankVia collaborations (tissues, plasma, serum, buffy coat, platelets)
    Key publicationsOlsson E, Winter C, George A, Chen Y, Howlin J, Tang MH, Dahlgren M, Schulz R, Grabau D, van Westen D, Fernö M, Ingvar C, Rose C, Bendahl PO, Rydén L, Borg Å, Gruvberger-Saal SK, Jernström H, Saal LH. Serial monitoring of circulating tumor DNA in patients with primary breast cancer for detection of occult metastatic disease. EMBO Mol Med. 2015 Aug;7(8):1034-47.

    Loman N, Saal LH. The state of the art in prediction of breast cancer relapse using cell-free circulating tumor DNA liquid biopsies. Ann Transl Med. 2016 Oct;4(Suppl 1):S68.

    Chen Y, George AM, Olsson E, Saal LH. Identification and Use of Personalized Genomic Markers for Monitoring Circulating Tumor DNA. Methods Mol Biol. 2018;1768:303-322.

    Isaksson S, George AM, Jönsson M, Cirenajwis H, Jönsson P, Bendahl PO, Brunnström H, Staaf J, Saal LH, Planck M. Pre-operative plasma cell-free circulating tumor DNA and serum protein tumor markers as predictors of lung adenocarcinoma recurrence. Acta Oncol. 2019 Aug;58(8):1079-1086.

    Förnvik D, Aaltonen KE, Chen Y, George AM, Brueffer C, Rigo R, Loman N, Saal LH, Rydén L. Detection of circulating tumor cells and circulating tumor DNA before and after mammographic breast compression in a cohort of breast cancer patients scheduled for neoadjuvant treatment. Breast Cancer Res Treat. 2019 Sep;177(2):447-455.

    Staaf J, Glodzik D, Bosch A, Vallon-Christersson J, Reuterswärd C, Häkkinen J, Degasperi A, Amarante TD, Saal LH, Hegardt C, Stobart H, Ehinger A, Larsson C, Rydén L, Loman N, Malmberg M, Kvist A, Ehrencrona H, Davies HR, Borg Å, Nik-Zainal S. Whole-genome sequencing of triple-negative breast cancers in a population-based clinical study. Nat Med. 2019 Oct;25(10):1526-1533.
  • Sysmex Inostics
  • Sysmex Inostics
    Sysmex
    Sysmex

    Sysmex Inostics, a subsidiary of Sysmex Corporation, is a pioneer in liquid biopsy diagnostics, having birthed the field of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) testing over a decade ago. Starting with OncoBEAM™ enhanced digital PCR, today we focus on our innovative ultra-high sensitivity SafeSEQ next-generation sequencing solutions. SafeSEQ technology enables ultra-high sensitive ctDNA analysis at a threshold of 0.05% mutant allelic fraction with 95% confidence. This allows the identification and selection of “low mutant” patients and enables earlier intervention in the management of cancer patients by detecting and tracking residual disease, treatment resistance, and disease recurrence. Our well-designed tests and customizable assays support pharma partners as well as oncologists with individual solutions for their routine clinical practice and clinical trials. We have a global presence with Sysmex Inostics GmbH, in Hamburg, Germany (GCP laboratory and R&D), and Sysmex Inostics Inc., our sister CLIA Service Laboratory, located in Baltimore, MD, US, to support our main focus areas of clinical development testing services and CDx/IVD kit development as well as clinical testing in China and Japan. We are a trusted partner for leading pharmaceutical companies, advancing their efforts to bring the most effective personalized cancer therapies and solutions to global markets.

  • Dr. med. Bhuwnesh Agrawal

    President & CEO

    Falkenried 88

    20251 Hamburg

    Germany

    agrawal.bhuwnesh@sysmex-inostics.com

    Dr. Frank Holtrup

    Chief Scientific Officer

    Falkenried 88

    20251 Hamburg

    Germany

    holtrup.frank@sysmex-inostics.com

  • Cancer typesBreast, Colorectal, Lung, Melanoma, Pancreatic, Prostate, AML, Glioma and others
    Clinical applicationClinical development testing services and research testing services for: screening, prognosis, monitoring, Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) detection, therapy decision and identification of therapy relevant biomarkers
    Liquid Biopsy sourceBlood, plasma, blood cells (PBMCs, Neutrophiles etc.), other materials like urine, saliva etc. upon request
    Technologies available for Liquid BiopsySafeSEQ (high sensitive NGS), OncoBEAM (gold standard digital PCR)
    Key publicationsHunter, N.; Parsons, H.; Sherry, A.; Shinn, D.; Shin, D. H.; Cole, A.; Cragnotti, G.; Groginski, T.; Leathers, M.; Richardson, A. L.; et al. Abstract P6-10-05: TBCRC 040: Pathologic Response Evaluation and Detection in Circulating Tumor DNA (PREDICT DNA): Initial Results Piloting a Tissue-Biopsy Independent Method of Identifying and Monitoring Tumor-Specific Mutations in Early Stage Breast Cancer. Cancer Res 2020, 80 (4 Supplement), P6-10–05. https://doi.org/10.1158/1538-7445.SABCS19-P6-10-05.

    Wang, Y.; Li, L.; Cohen, J. D.; Kinde, I.; Ptak, J.; Popoli, M.; Schaefer, J.; Silliman, N.; Dobbyn, L.; Tie, J.; et al. Prognostic Potential of Circulating Tumor DNA Measurement in Postoperative Surveillance of Nonmetastatic Colorectal Cancer. JAMA Oncol 2019, 5 (8), 1118. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamaoncol.2019.0512.

    Tie, J.; Cohen, J. D.; Wang, Y.; Christie, M.; Simons, K.; Lee, M.; Wong, R.; Kosmider, S.; Ananda, S.; McKendrick, J.; et al. Circulating Tumor DNA Analyses as Markers of Recurrence Risk and Benefit of Adjuvant Therapy for Stage III Colon Cancer. JAMA Oncology 2019, 5 (12), 1710–1717. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamaoncol.2019.3616.

    Rugo, H.; Mayer, E.; Storniolo, A.; Isaacs, C.; Mayer, I.; Stearns, V.; Nanda, R.; Nangia, J.; Wabl, C.; Deluca, A.; et al. Abstract PD2-12: Palbociclib in Combination with Fulvestrant or Tamoxifen as Treatment for Hormone Receptor Positive (HR+) Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) with Prior Chemotherapy for Advanced Disease (TBCRC 035) A Phase II Study with Pharmacodynamics Markers. Cancer Res 2019, 79 (4 Supplement), PD2-12. https://doi.org/10.1158/1538-7445.SABCS18-PD2-12.

    Rodriguez; Córdoba; Aranda; Álvarez; Vicioso; Pérez; Hernando; Bermejo; Parreño; Lluch; et al. Detection of TP53 and PIK3CA Mutations in Circulating Tumor DNA Using Next-Generation Sequencing in the Screening Process for Early Breast Cancer Diagnosis. JCM 2019, 8 (8), 1183. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm8081183.
  • Tethis S.p.A
  • Tethis S.p.A
    Tethis Logo Angepasst

    Tethis S.p.A., a diagnostic company based in Milan, aims to enable the exploitation of liquid biopsy multi-biomarkers analysis in clinical practice for precise cancer management by leveraging on its expertise in sample preparation and processing.

    Introducing automation and standardization in the critical pre-analytical phase, Tethis provides the highest quality and integrity of liquid biopsy specimens (plasma and cellular fraction). Processing fresh blood in EDTA at the point of blood collection, it ensures the preservation of all clinically relevant information.

    The company’s proprietary slides – Smart Bio Surface (SBS), thanks to their functionalized nanocoated surface, allow the spontaneous, immediate, and gentle adhesion of normally non-adherent cells, such as white blood cells (WBCs), with no chemicals, no special temperatures, no other treatment. WBCs adhere to SBS slides as a monolayer distributed on their whole active area. SBS slides, combined with the proprietary automated pre-analytical instrument See.d, allow to identify and characterize rare cells in blood, like CTCs, with unprecedented sensitivity, also in early-stage settings.

    See.d prepares in a completely automated and gentle manner SBS slides with fixed WBCs as well as tubes with stabilized plasma without specialized operators nor preservatives: both contents are stable and can be easily stored for efficient logistics (i.e. internal analysis or shipment to central lab). Tethis technology makes both CTCs and cell-free content available for biomarkers detection from the same blood draw, enabling multi-omics applications.

  • Roberta Carbone

    Chief Scientific Officer

    Via Francesco Olgiati 5,

    20143 Milano (MI),

    Italy

    roberta.carbone@tethis-lab.com

  • Cancer typesBreast, Prostate, Lung, Pancreas
    Clinical applicationBiopsy replacement, monitoring, and early detection
    Liquid Biopsy SourceBlood
    Technologies available for liquid biopsySee.d platform as CE RUO and SBS slides
    BiobankWBCs on SBS slides, Plasma
    5 Key publicationsKrol, Ilona et al. “Detection of clustered circulating tumour cells in early breast cancer.” BJC, vol. 125,1 (2021): 23-27.

    Carbone, Roberta et al. “Biocompatibility of cluster-assembled nanostructured TiO2 with primary and cancer cells.” Biomaterials vol. 27,17 (2006): 3221-9. doi: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2006.01.056.
  • Volition
  • Volition
    Volition Logo
    Volition Lab

    Volition is a leading epigenetics company and aims to revolutionize the diagnosis and monitoring of life-altering diseases, through low-cost routine blood tests.

    Our Nucleosomics™ technology isolates any abnormal circulating nucleosomes from the blood bloodstream or other bodily fluid for quantification and analysis.

    Our technology detects characteristic epigenetic changes in nucleosomes that occur from the earliest stages of cancer and other diseases. These epigenetic changes can be detected before diseased cells become abnormal enough to show up in traditional biopsies, and long before the first symptoms are felt.

    So how will our Nucleosomics™ technology make a difference?

    It can be used for population screening, risk stratification, as a diagnostic aid, and for disease and treatment monitoring.

    We aim to replace unpleasant, invasive, and often expensive screening and diagnostic tests with Nu.Q® blood tests, helping to save lives and to reduce overall health care costs.

    You can use our assays to answer your clinical questions, such as measuring treatment efficacy, or on-target and off-target effects in drug development. Applications include biomarker discovery in oncology, inflammatory conditions, diabetes, and more.

    Volition's research and development activities are centred in Belgium, with a small laboratory in California and additional offices in Texas, London and Singapore, as the company focuses on bringing its diagnostic and disease monitoring products to market.

  • Mark Ecclestone, PhD, MBA

    Chief Technology Officer and one of the founding scientists of Volition

    Belgian Volition SRL

    22 Rue Phocas Lejeune

    Parc Scientifique Crealys

    5032 Isnes

    m.ecclestone@volition.com

    Frédéric Wuilque

    Product Life Cycle Manager Oncology at Volition Rx

    Belgian Volition SRL

    22 Rue Phocas Lejeune

    Parc Scientifique Crealys

    5032 Isnes

    f.wuilque@volition.com

    Dr. Beate Gramsch

    Business Development Manager, Volition Rx

    Belgian Volition SRL

    22 Rue Phocas Lejeune

    Parc Scientifique Crealys

    5032 Isnes

    b.gramsch@volition.com

  • Cancer typesSolid tumors, blood cancer NHL, NEtosis
    Clinical applicationearly detection, diagnosis, MRD treatment response, monitoring
    Liquid Biopsy SourcePlasma
    Technologies available for liquid biopsyNucleosomics™ technology, Nu.Q® Discover
    Biobankn/a
    Key publicationsCavalier E, Guiot J, Lechner K, Dutsch A, Eccleston M, Herzog M, Bygott T, Schomburg A, Kelly T, Holdenrieder S. Circulating Nucleosomes as Potential Markers to Monitor COVID-19 Disease Progression. Front Mol Biosci. 2021 Mar 18;8:600881. doi: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.600881. PMID: 33816549; PMCID: PMC8012533.

    Bouvier S, Fortier M, Vincent L, Demattei C, Mousty E, Herzog M, Rommelaere G, Nouvellon E, Mercier E, Letouzey V, Gris JC. NETosis Markers in Pregnancy: Effects Differ According to Histone Subtypes. Thromb Haemost. 2021 Jul;121(7):877-890. doi: 10.1055/s-0040-1722225. Epub 2021 Jan 10. PMID: 33423243.

    Verhoeven JGHP, Baan CC, Peeters AMA, Clahsen-van Groningen MC, Nieboer D, Herzog M, Eccleston M, Hesselink DA, Boer K. Circulating cell-free nucleosomes as biomarker for kidney transplant rejection: a pilot study. Clin Epigenetics. 2021 Feb 11;13(1):32. doi: 10.1186/s13148-020-00969-4. PMID: 33573704; PMCID: PMC7879674.

    Guiot J, Struman I, Chavez V, Henket M, Herzog M, Scoubeau K, Hardat N, Bondue B, Corhay JL, Moermans C, Louis R. Altered epigenetic features in circulating nucleosomes in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Clin Epigenetics. 2017 Aug 15;9:84. doi: 10.1186/s13148-017-0383-x. PMID: 28824731; PMCID: PMC5558769.

    Kang N, Eccleston M, Clermont PL, Latarani M, Male DK, Wang Y, Crea F. EZH2 inhibition: a promising strategy to prevent cancer immune editing. Epigenomics. 2020 Aug;12(16):1457-1476. doi: 10.2217/epi-2020-0186. Epub 2020 Sep 17. PMID: 32938196; PMCID: PMC7607396.
  • VORTEX
  • VORTEX

    Vortex Biosciences has developed a “no touch” microfluidic chip technology which captures intact, label-free and pure circulating tumour cells (CTCs) from blood, with high yields. These CTCs can then be analysed using a range of downstream workflows that help characterise them. This will provide researchers and clinicians with access to critical insights from whole cancer cells that underpin one of the main causes of metastasis, treatment resistance and disease recurrence.

    Vortex aims to transform cancer care through using circulating tumour cells (CTCs) to inform personalised therapy development, guide therapy selection and monitor cancer – ultimately enabling the use of CTCs in everyday clinical practice. We are building a CTC sample to answer service proposition targeted at biopharma to support the development of biomarker-driven personalised medicines.

    Originally a spin-out from University of California, Los Angeles, Vortex is now headquartered in the UK, with operations in London and the Bay Area, US. Vortex has opened a new CTC Centre of Excellence at The London Cancer Hub’s Innovation Gateway, on the same site as the Institute of Cancer Research and the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust. The new laboratory is in addition to Vortex’s existing facility in San Francisco, California.

    Vortex is a portfolio company of EMVC. EMVC is a wholly owned subsidiary and the corporate finance and venture capital arm of NetScientific Plc (AIM:NSCI).

  • Cancer typesBlood samples patients and cell lines (e,g. lung, breast, colorectal, prostate, melanoma, pancreas, ovarian).
    Clinical applicationA “no touch” microfluidic chip technology which captures intact, label-free and pure circulating tumour cells (CTCs) from blood.
    Liquid Biopsy SourceWhole blood samples.
    Technologies available for liquid biopsyVortex Biosciences’ VTX-1.
    BiobankWhole blood samples (CTCs), and plasma.
    Key publicationsE. Sollier-Christen et al., Cytometry Part A (2018). VTX‐1 Liquid Biopsy System for Fully-Automated and Label‐Free Isolation of Circulating Tumor Cells with Automated Enumeration by BioView Platform. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/cyto.a.23592 .
    = Describes the VTX1 instrument, key features and performances. + Workflow for enumeration.

    A. Martel et al., Int. J. Mol. Sci. (2023). Assessment of Different Circulating Tumor Cell Platforms for Uveal Melanoma: Potential Impact for Future Routine Clinical Practice. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241311075
    = Benchmarking versus CellSearch, Biolidics and ISET.

    K. N. Thompson et al., Breast Cancer Research (2022). Microtubule disruption reduces metastasis more effectively than primary tumor growth. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13058-022-01506-2
    = Highlight of isolated cell intactness for live cell assays. + Benchmarking versus Parsortix from Angle. CellSearch, Biolidics and ISET.

    H. E. Liu et al., Frontiers Oncology (2020). Detection of EGFR Mutations in cfDNA and CTCs, and comparison to Tumor Tissue in Non-Small-Cell-Lung-Cancer (NSCLC) Patients. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fonc.2020.572895
    = Combination of CTCs and cfDNA from lung cancer patients for a complete liquid biopsy profile. Example of EGFR.

    V. C. Ramani et al., Breast Cancer Res. (2019). Investigating circulating tumor cells and distant metastases in patient-derived orthotopic xenograft models of triple-negative breast cancer. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13058-019-1182-4 .
    = Validation of VTX1 for CTC isolation from mice models.