Biocad: A test system for detecting a mutation in the EGFR gene

The main articles are:

• Cancer (cancer)
• Lung cancer
• Cancer diagnosis

2022: Obtaining a patent

Researchers at the Russian biotechnological company Biocad have patented a test system that helps identify mutations in the EGFR gene. With the help of a patented method at the intersection of biotechnology, molecular biology and medicine, it is possible to formulate an effective therapeutic treatment for non-small cell lung cancer.

About 2 million patients with lung cancer are detected in the world every year. It is the most common form of cancer. And the most deadly: every year 1.6-1.7 million people die from it. 85% of cases of all detected diseases are the so-called non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which, depending on the structure of cells and the location of the tumor, is divided into subtypes - large cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcenoma.

All NSCLC subtypes require fundamentally different treatments, otherwise either relapse or death. The role of diagnosis and prediction of the development of the disease becomes decisive, and targeted, precisely defined, treatment of the patient is one of the most important factors in the effectiveness of therapy.

Biocad researchers have patented a test system with which mutations or deletion, loss of a section of the gene, can be detected in the EGFR gene, signaling the likely development of a certain type of NSCLC. The system allows not only to detect cancer at an early stage, but also to predict its possible development in a particular subtype. Accordingly, the doctor can choose a personalized, i.e., patient-oriented, treatment program to achieve maximum effect and significantly reduce the likelihood of recurrence. The detailed formula and principle of operation of the test system are set forth in the patent.

The patent portfolio of Biocad continues to actively expand and as of June 2022 has more than 100 patents received in various jurisdictions. The current patents are an intangible asset that shows high innovative activity in the company, and also increases its value and importance in the market, said Danila Streltsov, Deputy General Director for Legal Affairs of Biocad JSC.