MUKILTEO, Wash., July 22, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- CombiMatrix Corporation (Nasdaq:CBMX) announced today that it has launched an updated version of its ATScan(tm) test for pre-disposition screening for autism, through its wholly owned subsidiary CombiMatrix Molecular Diagnostics (CMDX). The ATScan test has been updated to encompass recent discoveries published in the journal, Science, which confirm the role of several new genomic imbalances in the etiology of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) (Morrow et al., Science, 11 July 2008, Vol 321).
Together with these most recent discoveries, a mounting collection of independent peer-reviewed studies have revealed a substantial causative role for genomic imbalances or genome copy number variations (CNVs) in autism (Christian et al., 2007, Human Molecular Genetics; Daly et al., 2008, New England Journal of Medicine). The detection of CNVs comprises the very basis of the pioneering ATScan test and is developed on CMDX's rigorously clinically validated array CGH platform and is available upon physician request at CMDX's California licensed and CLIA certified headquarters in Irvine, CA. The ATScan test is designed to detect all of the known genomic copy-number variations (CNVs), including these most recent discoveries associated with ASD.
In the recent Science publication (Morrow et al.), researchers studied the occurrence and recurrence of ASD in families with a high incidence of intermarriage. The data presented in this study elucidate and confirm the role of several genomic imbalances in ASD, and also highlight the possible co-existence of ASD with other developmental disorders such as Angelman syndrome. The latter finding validates the approach and design of the ATScan test, in which over 125 developmental disorders, such as Angelman syndrome and others, are simultaneously tested for alongside all known ASD-related CNVs. With an occurrence as high as 1 in 150 children and a likelihood of recurrence of greater than 15 percent in families with an already affected child, the clinical impact of ASD is likely greater than any other single developmental disorder, including disorders such as Down syndrome
Dr. Richard E. Frye, M.D., Ph.D., F.A.A.P., Assistant Professor of Pediatrics and Neurology at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston-Hermann Memorial Hospital and Children's Learning Institute noted that, "CMDX's ATScan has been an indispensible tool in the evaluation of my autistic patients and I am excited to see that they continue to lead in their innovativeness and expediency in responding to new diagnostically pertinent discoveries. Their customer support, medical, and research staff have been incredibly helpful with expedient responses to almost every request. Their reports provide the most detailed information and pertinent interpretations of any Chromosomal MicroArray I have used."
Michelle N. Strecker, MS, CGC, Genetic Counselor at the University of California, San Francisco's, General and Metabolic Genetics Clinics added, "CMDX has once again proven their dedication to staying ahead of the curve by providing the latest in clinical diagnostic testing. CMDX's dedication to continual research and development of their diagnostic test offerings coupled with their nimbleness as a company to incorporate new clinical research findings into their designer Chromosomal MicroArray platforms makes them an ideal choice for evaluation of even our most complicated patients. The high level of clinical service and result interpretation along with their exceedingly helpful customer care staff make them a pleasure to work with."
Dr. Angela Scheuerle, M.D., of Tesserae Genetics and Medical Director of the Texas Birth Defects Research Center noted that, "The testing and customer service of CMDX has made it a pleasure to work with them. I appreciate their ability to stay ahead of the curve in autism testing as discoveries and recommendations change so rapidly. The test timeliness and communication are excellent. CMDX's willingness to work directly with insurance companies is very helpful."
Dr. Mansoor Mohammed, President and CEO of CMDX noted that, "Our ability to convert high caliber clinical research into high caliber clinical diagnostics is unrivaled in the industry, as noted by the incorporation of the latest discoveries related to ASD within two weeks of their publication. The endorsement of our tests by a continually expanding network of physicians and healthcare providers validates our business and execution plan toward becoming the premiere provider of diagnostic services in the rapidly emerging personal diagnostic space."
ABOUT COMBIMATRIX CORPORATION
We are a diversified biotechnology business, through the development of proprietary technologies, products and services in the areas of drug development, genetic analysis, molecular diagnostics, nanotechnology research, defense and homeland security markets, as well as other potential markets where our products and services could be utilized. The technologies we have developed include a platform technology to rapidly produce customizable, in-situ synthesized, oligonucleotide arrays for use in identifying and determining the roles of genes, gene mutations and proteins. This technology has a wide range of potential applications in the areas of genomics, proteomics, biosensors, drug discovery, drug development, diagnostics, combinatorial chemistry, material sciences and nanotechnology. We have also developed the capabilities of producing arrays that utilize bacterial artificial chromosomes on our arrays, also enabling genetic analysis. Other technologies include proprietary molecular synthesis and screening methods for the discovery of potential new drugs. CombiMatrix Molecular Diagnostics, Inc. ("CMDX"), our wholly owned subsidiary located in Irvine, California, has developed capabilities of producing arrays that utilize bacterial artificial chromosomes, which also enable genetic analysis.
Additional information about CombiMatrix Corporation is available at www.combimatrix.com or by calling 1-800-985 CBMX (2269). Additional information about our laboratory, CombiMatrix Molecular Diagnostics, is available at www.cmdiagnostics.com or by calling 1-800-710-0624.
Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995
This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based upon our current expectations and speak only as of the date hereof. Our actual results may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors and uncertainties, including the recent economic slowdown affecting technology companies, our ability to successfully develop products, rapid technological change in our markets, changes in demand for our future products, legislative, regulatory, and competitive developments, and general economic conditions. Our Annual Report on Form 10-K, recent and forthcoming Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, recent Current Reports on Forms 8-K and 8-K/A, and other SEC filings discuss some of the important risk factors that may affect our business, results of operations, and financial condition. We undertake no obligation to revise or update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reason.