CellCentric expands its epigenetic discovery network

New IP agreement with The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center

CAMBRIDGE, UK, 29th January 2007 - CellCentric, the biotechnology company unlocking epigenetic control mechanisms, has increased further its network of intellectual property arrangements with world-leading scientists. From its unique knowledge position, CellCentric is prioritising the best opportunities for translation into novel targets, screens and epigenetic modulatory factors in this highly important field.

The agreement with The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center covers discoveries coming from Professors Jean-Pierre Issa, Sharon Dent and Michelle Barton, recognised pioneers in epigenetic understanding and utility. Based in Houston, USA, MD Anderson is the largest research and treatment centre in the world for cancer – the leading therapeutic application for epigenetics.

Since the sequencing of the human genome it has become increasingly clear that in order to understand and treat disease, it is critical to understand how genes are regulated within cells - it is not enough just to know the gene sequences themselves. The field that covers heritable gene regulation is called epigenetics. It concerns the molecules that sit on top of DNA and its associated proteins and guide the cell on which genes to use. When epigenetic processes go awry, disease occurs.

The scientific understanding of epigenetics is highly fragmented and covers many different and partially understood mechanisms. CellCentric, by building a unique hub and spoke network of leaders in this space, is uniquely placed to assimilate new epigenetic information and to prioritise it and translate it into new product opportunities.

John Mendelsohn, President of The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center commented “We are delighted to have entered this agreement with CellCentric. This is a young company with an innovative business model which seeks to commercialise new findings in the field of epigenetics”.

Jean-Pierre Issa added “It is clear that epigenetics will yield many additional approaches to therapy including for cancer over the next few years. CellCentric is establishing itself as a pioneer in the field”.

CellCentric’s Chief Executive Officer, Will West said “Good agreements are dependent on strong relationships. The team understands this and ensures that the needs of the scientists are met, as well as the company’s commercial objectives.”