Epigenomics AG has entered into a research collaboration with Biogen Idec to identify potential biomarkers for use with an oncology programme.

Epigenomics will use its proprietary DNA methylation technology to examine candidate biomarkers that may predict responsiveness to the drug. DNA methylation is a biological process responsible for controlling genetic activity that occurs in distinct patterns in cells. Changes in these patterns can act as a marker for diseases such as cancer and for predicting response to drug treatment. Under the terms of the agreement, Epigenomics will receive R&D funding and has an opportunity to participate in the development of a potential pharmacodiagnostic product.

"A growing number of companies appreciate that some of the new biological drugs in development may benefit from an accompanying test to help identify those patients that will likely respond best to treatment. In recent months, Epigenomics has signed collaborations with several large pharmaceutical/biotech companies such as Biogen Idec to evaluate our DNA methylation tests for oncology applications," said Christian Piepenbrock, CIO of Epigenomics and head of its Pharma Technology Strategic Business Unit.

Methylation is a natural epigenetic process that occurs when a methyl group binds to one of DNA's four bases, cytosine. The presence of methylation is responsible for controlling the activity of genes by turning them off, when not needed. By measuring the differences in the methylation patterns between healthy and diseased tissue, a change in gene activity that could trigger diseases such as cancer is detected. Epigenomics has developed an industrial process that is able to read and interpret these methylation patterns.

Epigenomics is a molecular diagnostic company with a focus on the development of novel products for cancer. By detecting and interpreting DNA methylation patterns, Epigenomics' tests can potentially diagnose disease at an early stage and help guide physicians to select an appropriate therapy. Epigenomics collaborates with Roche Diagnostics on the development of several diagnostic and pharmacodiagnostic products in cancer.