NEW YORK (GenomeWeb) – Thermo Fisher Scientific and Biocept have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding to collaborate commercially, Biocept said today.
The companies initially plan to validate Thermo Fisher's Oncomine next-generation sequencing liquid biopsy panels in Biocept's CLIA-certified laboratory.
Following that and other requirements, Thermo Fisher intends to designate Biocept as a Center of Excellence for oncology liquid biopsy initiatives and to pursue commercial opportunities with the company.
The firms will initially target the pharmaceutical industry, providing diagnostic testing services for drug development, companion diagnostic initiatives, and to support clinical trials.
In addition, the companies may develop new products that integrate Biocept's Target Selector technology with Thermo Fisher's Ion Torrent NGS platforms and Oncomine liquid biopsy panels.
"We have enjoyed a strong working relationship with Thermo Fisher from the time we launched our Target Selector liquid biopsy molecular platform, and look forward to bringing additional best-in-class liquid biopsy tests to both pharmaceutical and clinical clients from this collaboration," said Michael Nall, Biocept's president and CEO, in a statement.
Earlier this year, Biocept raised $14.8 million in a public stock offering, in part to expand its liquid biopsy business.
Last October, the San Diego-based company signed a marketing agreement with Miraca Life Sciences, which is marketing its Target Selector liquid biopsy tests and services to community-based oncologists and hematologists in the US.