Perlegen Sciences obtained an exclusive commercial license from University of Cambridge to certain breast cancer markers. The company plans to commercialize a diagnostic test, either directly or through a sublicense agreement with a third party.
The markers were identified through research conducted by the university, Cancer Research Technology (CRT), and Cancer Research U.K. The study, published in the June issue of Nature, identified novel breast cancer susceptibility markers that are present in approximately 20% of U.K. breast cancer cases.
University of Cambridge and CRT will share in any financial returns from the diagnostic product. In addition, University of Cambridge may provide noncommercial licenses to academic researchers.