Proteome Systems Ltd and US-based Egenix Inc to develop semen-based test for prost...( nd colon cancers. Because the prostate'...),Health

nd colon cancers. Because the prostate's function is to secrete fluid into semen, HCA is found in much larger concentrations in semen produced by cancerous prostates and is therefore expected to be a highly specific marker for prostate cancer. Further programmes utilising HCA for detection of other cancers are envisaged upon the completion of the initial prostate cancer test.

Stephen Porges, CEO of Proteome Systems said "HCA is a very big protein covered with sugars and few companies have the ability to work with such complex molecules. We have acknowledged world-class expertise in analysing this type of glycoprotein and in turning protein antigens into diagnostic tests. Combining this expertise with the research and clinical knowledge that Egenix brings gives us an exciting opportunity to produce an improved and potentially revolutionary diagnostic test for prostate cancer. We also believe there is further potential for this HCA molecule once defined, as a drug target for treatment of prostate cancer"

Dr. Jedd Levine, President of Egenix Inc. said "We initially wondered if there would be social or cultural objections to a test that requires the patient to provide an ejaculate specimen. But it's common to look in organ secretions for signs of cancer in that organ and most men would willingly provide a semen specimen to potentially avoid a painful needle biopsy"

Dr Donald Fresne, CEO and Chairman of Egenix, stated "Our company has produced excellent research in collaboration with the University of Rochester on the use of HCA as a cancer diagnostic and therapeutic target and we are delighted to be working with a company such as PXL whom we have identified as global leaders with a proven record in the discovery and characterisation of protein and glycoprotein biomarkers for use in their patented diagnostic platform."

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Contact: Susan Fitzpatrick
Susan.fitzpatrick@DatelineMedia.com
650-279-7771
Research Australia
7-Mar-2006

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