R-Biopharm has entered into a collaboration agreement with HMNC Brain Health for complementary diagnostics.
As part of the agreement R-Biopharm AG will develop an in-vitro polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based genetic test.
The aim is to identify ABCB1 gene variants in patients who are treated with antidepressants in order to optimise the efficacy of depression therapy.
This collaboration includes the development, regulatory approval, manufacturing and commercialisation of the ABCB1 test.
R-Biopharm AG companion diagnostics Dr. Frank Apostel said: "Complementary diagnostics play a central role in delivering tools that help identifying those individuals who are most likely to benefit from specific treatments.
"We are delighted about this agreement as it expands our service in the field of personalised healthcare.
"Our goal is to help patients and their physicians to determine the best treatment option available."
HMNC Brain Health CEO Professor Florian Holsboer said: "A laboratory test that supports the physician in his treatment decision to choose the best drug and the appropriate dose for the individual patient represents a major improvement in antidepressant treatment.
"To develop the ABCB1 test together with R-Biopharm is encouraging and an important step to achieve our ambitious goal even faster."
Complementary diagnostics are increasing in demand as personalised medicine offers a way to bolster patient care and reduce health care costs by matching specific therapies to individuals most likely to benefit from them, as all patients do not respond in the same way.
Financial terms of the agreement have not been not disclosed.
