Sequenom Acquires SensiGen and Expands Molecular Diagnostics Portfolio

(San Diego, CA, USA) will acquire the complete AttoSense portfolio of tests along with other assets from the biotechnology company SensiGen LLC (Ann Arbor, MI, USA). SensiGen has been developing advanced gene-based molecular tests with diagnostic potential under a partnership agreement with Sequenom since June 2007.

Under the terms of the agreement, Sequenom will acquire all of SensiGen's currently developed assays as well as certain other assets and intellectual property rights, in a stock and cash-based transaction. The total transaction purchase price of U.S. $8.7 million includes future earn-out milestone payments

The acquisition includes SensiGen's analytically validated, ultrasensitive, and ultraspecific tests for detection and monitoring of human papillomavirus (HPV), systemic lupus erythematosus (Lupus), chronic kidney disease (CKD), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as well as other tests, all of which utilize Sequenom's MassArray platform. These assays complement Sequenom's noninvasive test portfolio.

SensiGen's AttoSense assays can accurately identify minute quantities of the biomarkers that signal the onset of major diseases or the pathogens that cause them. The MassArray system combines the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with mass spectrometry (MS). Because the mass of a biological substance is highly specific, MS is suitable for identifying nucleic acid targets that are difficult to detect accurately by current hybridization methods, and/or are found in extremely small quantities.

Sequenom is committed to providing the best genetic analysis products that translate the results of genomic science into solutions for noninvasive prenatal diagnostics, biomedical research, translational research, and molecular medicine applications, especially in women's health. The MassArray system is a high-performance (in speed, accuracy, and cost efficiency) nucleic-acid analysis platform that quantitatively and precisely measures genetic target material and variations.

SensiGen is a private biotechnology company focused on gene-based molecular diagnostics. The company develops advanced high value diagnostic tests to enable early detection of diseases, aimed at improving standards of care and reducing overall health care costs.

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