GenoMed files gene patents

GenoMed has filed a patent application on two additional genes linked to common cancers. These genes are the third and fourth identified as a result of GenoMed's research in 2005 to date. They have the potential to improve the outcomes for those individuals afflicted with these cancers.

One of the genes is involved in protein transport within the cell. Although there is no drug yet for this gene, GenoMed believes that testing for the presence of the variant could help by identifying cancer at an earlier stage when treatment is more likely to be effective. The gene can also act as a warning sign so individuals who possess this gene variant could be monitored more closely for the development of the cancer.

The second gene is involved in signaling by a well-known hormone. It is possible that clinical trials of this gene could start in the near future. GenoMed is pursuing collaborative agreements with oncologists and their patients in order to start clinical trials. Since the therapy involves an existing drug, the process of conducting trials will be simpler than if a new drug were involved.

"These two additional genes suggest immediate next steps to be taken," said Dr. David Moskowitz, GenoMed chief executive officer and chief medical officer. "We will be making an effort to replicate the results we've achieved with a larger sample population and beginning to use these genes as early- warning signs. We will identify patients who have this gene and who have some family history of the cancers involved. We believe that they will welcome the opportunity to be monitored for the development of cancers they have a higher- than-normal probability of contracting."

"Our lab continues to identify genes linked to cancer. We soon expect to receive data from testing tens of thousands of genes at a time through our collaboration with Genome Quebec, one of the largest genomics research centers in North America. These data should allow us to identify more genes linked to various diseases over time.

"As we proceed, we believe that greater notice of our work will be taken by both patients and medical professionals. This, in turn should lead to both a greater awareness of our technology and an acceleration of the development of GenoMed as a company. While it is too soon to predict what impact the identification of these and other genes may have in terms of revenues and earnings, a 1999 article in The Wall Street Journal cited Daniel Cohen as estimating the value of a single disease-linked gene at $40-80 million" Moskowitz added.