Asuragen Obtains Rights to BRAF Mutation for Molecular Diagnostics

Asuragen obtained a nonexclusive license from Johns Hopkins University to incorporate the BRAF V600E mutation sequence into its molecular diagnostics. The BRAF V600E mutation may be used in diagnostic kits as well as the firm’s CLIA laboratory for clinical research and patient testing.

Asuragen has integrated the BRAF mutation into its Luminex®-based Signature® KRAS mutation assays to expand coverage of the EGFR/MAPK signaling pathway. Asuragen will also offer BRAF mutation testing in its services laboratory for clinical trials and companion diagnostics studies.

The V600E mutation in the BRAF oncogene results in a constitutively active BRAF protein. BRAF is a component of the EGFR/MAPK signaling pathway that is a target of several approved drugs as well as numerous drugs in clinical and preclinical development. The presence of this mutation has been shown to impact prognosis and the prediction of therapeutic response in colorectal cancer, Asuragen says. BRAF mutation also predicts a poorer prognosis in thyroid cancer. The mutation can be detected by testing DNA from tumor biopsies and resected tumor tissues.

“This agreement with Johns Hopkins University will enable Asuragen to expand its mutation testing for a range of cancers,” notes Rollie Carlson, president of Asuragen. “The integration of BRAF into our existing multiplex tests on the Luminex platform allows us to provide rapid and streamlined tests for a number of clinical and research applications.”