Partnership announced for the development of an oral cancer liquid biopsy test

MDxHealth and QUT bluebox (the commercialisation arm of the Queensland University of Technology) have signed a strategic agreement for the development of a liquid biopsy epigenetic assay for the early detection of oral cancer.

“Our test is expected to facilitate much earlier detection of oral cancer and potentially precancerous lesions by a variety of specialities, including general practitioners, oncologists and dentists,” confirmed Dr Chamindie Punyadeera, associate professor from QUT’s School of Biomedical Sciences and Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation (IHBI), and lead investigator on this project. “After collecting a saliva swab, samples will be sent to a lab or tested on site to determine if a patient requires clinical follow up.”

The test works by evaluating abnormal DNA methylation changes, which is seen in early tumour progression. DNA methylation is a way that cells regulate gene activity, when these changes are abnormal in nature it indicates that the patient has a higher risk of developing cancer.

“A simple and fast point of care test could help dentists to rule out oral cancer while you have your dental check-up,” added Dr Jan Groen, CEO of MDxHealth. “This scientific collaboration is an opportunity for both MDxHealth and QUT to leverage existing know-how to develop a ground-breaking oral cancer test that will improve overall survival for thousands of patients.”