How will Pfizer and Abbot collaboration aid patient selection?

In a new agreement, Abbott and Pfizer Inc have joined forces to develop a molecular diagnostic test, which is intended to screen non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tumours for the presence of gene rearrangements.

Pfizer has developed a novel investigatory agent which selectively targets cancer-causing genes implicated in the progress of many cancers. In order to be eligible to receive Pfizer's oral therapy, a particular genetic translocation (rearrangement) known to be found in NSCLC tumours and a wide variety of other cancers, but not in normal cells, must be present.

Under terms of the agreement, Abbott will develop a companion diagnostic test that will determine a patient's genetic status and will be used in patient selection for future clinical trials of PF-02341066.

"We are very pleased to partner with Abbott to develop a companion diagnostic test for non-small cell lung cancer and ensure its global availability for patients and physicians who need this information to make the best treatment decisions," said Garry Nicholson, General Manager, Pfizer Oncology Business Unit. "This test will allow us to focus on the patient population most likely to benefit from our NSCLC candidate. Working in close partnership with the experienced Abbott team, we are confident that we will deliver yet another application of personalized medicine to address a currently unmet medical need in NSCLC."

"Pfizer's novel compound for treating non-small cell lung cancer appears to be ideally suited to individualized therapy," said Stafford O'Kelly, head of Abbott's molecular diagnostics business. "Abbott is a leader in the development and commercialization of companion diagnostics and we're delighted to collaborate with Pfizer, a leader in cancer therapeutics, on the development of a test to identify patients who might benefit from this important compound."

Abbott is a global, broad-based health care company devoted to the discovery, development, manufacture and marketing of pharmaceuticals and medical products, including nutritionals, devices and diagnostics.

Pfizer is the world's premier biopharmaceutical company taking new approaches to better health. They discover, develop, manufacture and deliver quality, safe and effective prescription medicines to treat and help prevent disease for both people and animals.

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