bioMerieux and Biocartis have entered into a strategic agreement to codevelop assays on Biocartis’ fully integrated molecular diagnostics system, which the two companies will codistribute starting in 2012. Under the agreement, bioMerieux will have worldwide exclusive rights to develop and commercialize microbiology assays on the platform. It will also have access to the platform for certain oncology and theranostics assays. bioMerieux has taken a EUR9 million equity stake in Biocartis.
Biocartis has continued to successfully develop its molecular diagnostics platform, which was acquired from Philips earlier this year. The platform now fully integrates all the steps of a multiplexed molecular assay, from sample-in to data-out, in a sealed disposable cartridge, which avoids any contamination risk. Providing rapid results, the system is able to perform complex tests on a wide variety of samples, including oncology assays on tissue. The Biocartis platform does not require molecular biology experience or infrastructure with highly skilled technicians, and involves only 1-2 minutes hands-on time. Adapted to both small and large labs, the platform is fully scalable and allows random access use.
bioMerieux will enhance the Biocartis platform’s broad menu with an exclusive line of tests for healthcare-associated infections and sepsis. bioMerieux also plans to develop oncology and theranostics assays on the system.
"Our team is developing new diagnostics solutions to bridge the gap between the increasing availability of multiple, clinically validated biomarkers and their actual use and deployment in daily clinical practice. Our system has been designed to provide meaningful results whether care is provided in small or larger hospitals, or in remote or more developed settings," said Dr. Rudi Pauwels, founder and chief executive officer of Biocartis. "This collaborative agreement is a fundamental step in Biocartis’ strategy for the introduction of our molecular diagnostics platform, and we are therefore very pleased to partner with bioMerieux, the global leader in the microbiology field, able to ensure the development of key assays and broad distribution of our system worldwide."
"Molecular biology is an important technology for strengthening our global leadership in microbiology and becoming a key theranostics partner for pharmaceutical companies. By gaining access to such an innovative, fully integrated platform, bioMerieux achieves a significant milestone in our growth strategy for the next decade," said Stephane Bancel, Chief Executive Officer of bioMerieux. "We are extremely pleased to work with such a talented team, headed by a very successful serial entrepreneur, Dr. Rudi Pauwels."
Under the terms of the agreement Biocartis will receive upfront and milestone payments as well as royalties on future sales. In connection with the equity stake, bioMerieux has the right to designate one director for election to the board and as a result, Stephane Bancel will become a Biocartis board member. No further financial details of the transaction were disclosed.
Source: bioMerieux
