MUKILTEO, Wash., Aug. 12, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- CombiMatrix Corporation (Nasdaq:CBMX) announced today that a retrospective, clinical validation study of its test for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) is to be published in the September issue of the Journal of Molecular Diagnostics (J Mol Diagn 2008, 10:442-451). This publication augments an earlier publication in the Expert Opinions in Molecular Diagnostics ((2008) 2(6): 1-10). Dr. Shelly Gunn, M.D., Ph.D. Medical Director of CombiMatrix Molecular Diagnostics (CMDX), was the lead author of both publications.
The subject of both publications is the clinical evaluation and prognosis of CLL patients with CombiMatrix's HemeScan(tm) test, compared to conventional testing. The conclusions indicate that the HemeScan test is a superior test for such evaluation and management of individual patients.
Dr. Shelly Gunn, M.D., Ph.D. Medical Director of CMDX, noted, "These studies we have now published were retrospective in nature. Additionally, more recent data with the HemeScan test on currently diagnosed patients have demonstrated even greater superiority of the HemeScan test relative to traditional testing." Dr. Gunn further added, "These data will be published soon, and we hope it will provide enough clinical evidence to help drive the adoption of the HemeScan test as a new standard for the evaluation and management of CLL patients.
Dr. Ryan Robetorye, M.D., Ph.D., Director of the Molecular Diagnostics and Clinical Genomics Laboratories at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio noted, "As a hematopathologist I am acutely aware of the limitations involved in applying traditional methodologies for the analysis of heterogeneous and complex malignancies and then attempting to use this limited information for subsequent patient management. CombiMatrix's HemeScan test has demonstrated its superiority to conventional testing methods and has benefited many patients. I firmly believe that the suite of oncology tests offered by CombiMatrix will set a new standard for the analysis and risk-stratification of human malignancies. This will ultimately allow the most appropriate therapeutic regimens to be provided to patients."
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 oligonucleotide arrays for use in identifying and determining the roles of genes, gene mutations and proteins. We make the arrays using our patented in situ electrochemical synthesis process, which provides the ability to easily change array content to stay current with new developments and to meet the evolving needs of our customers. 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. CMDX functions primarily as a diagnostics reference laboratory.
Additional information about CombiMatrix Corporation is available at www.combimatrix.com or by calling 1-800-985-CBMX (2269). Additional information about CMDX is available at www.cmdiagnostics.com or by calling 1-800-710-0624.
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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.