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Targeted complete next-generation sequencing for companion diagnostics and personalized treatment of cancer

Project description

Proprietary sequencing technology for cancer detection

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has revolutionised DNA sequencing, allowing the parallel analysis of multiple gene segments across the genome. Its high-throughput nature also facilitates the analysis of multiple samples per run, significantly reducing the cost in comparison to conventional approaches. However, NGS does not cover the entire sequence of a gene and runs the risk of missing clinically relevant genetic variants. The EU-funded SEQURE project wishes to address this limitation by developing an analytical targeted locus amplification procedure that provides the entire sequence of a gene. SEQURE is expected to improve cancer diagnosis and assist personalised treatment.

Objective

Next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based genetic tests are at the forefront of the adoption of personalized medicine in cancer. However, current tests rely on the sequencing of short fragments covering only a fraction of the complete sequence of genes of interest. By missing clinically relevant genetic variants, including structural changes such as gene fusions, genetic diagnostics for personalized medicine is suboptimal and ineffective. There is therefore an unmet need for a cost-effective technology, providing the complete sequence information and enabling detection of all genetic variants relevant for therapeutic decisions.

Dutch biotechnology company Cergentis has developed the proprietary TLA (Targeted Locus Amplification) sequencing technology platform, enabling targeted NGS sequencing of complete genes, across all gene regions (exons and introns) and all types of genetic variants (including structural changes) in a single rapid analytical procedure.

Cergentis seeks to finalize the platform development for the analysis of tumor biopsies and validate customizable companion diagnostic kit, that will be offered to pharmaceutical companies to improve effectiveness of drug development in oncology clinical trials. Company will perform validation of a dedicated in-vitro companion diagnostic BRCA SEQURE kit, markedly improving diagnosis and personalized treatment of breast and ovarian cancer. The project will position Cergentis’ technology for a co-licensing agreement with a global diagnostic/pharmaceutical company to ensure effective large scale clinical implementation of the TLA-based in-vitro companion diagnostic kits.

By closing the gap from lab to market, SEQURE project will accelerate the commercialization of a unique diagnostic technology answering an unmet need in the personalized treatment of oncologic disorders. The project will also realize a strategic move of a high growth potential biotechnology SME to the attractive genetic diagnostic market.

Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)

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Programme(s)

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Topic(s)

Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.

Funding Scheme

Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.

SME-2 - SME instrument phase 2

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Call for proposal

Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.

(opens in new window) H2020-SMEInst-2016-2017

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Coordinator

CERGENTIS BV
Net EU contribution

Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.

€ 1 295 700,00
Address
YALELAAN 62
3584 CM UTRECHT
Netherlands

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SME

The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.

Yes
Region
West-Nederland Utrecht Utrecht
Activity type
Private for-profit entities (excluding Higher or Secondary Education Establishments)
Links
Total cost

The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.

€ 1 851 000,00
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