MUKILTEO, Wash., Jan. 26, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- CombiMatrix Corporation (Nasdaq:CBMX) announced today that its wholly owned subsidiary, Combimatrix Molecular Diagnostics (CMDX), has entered into a new partnership with Lenetix, a New York based laboratory, to co-market CMDX's suite of array CGH based tests including the industry leading BAC HD Scan(tm) test, the most comprehensive test for characterizing genomic causes of childhood developmental disorders. The BAC HD Scan test can identify over 290 genomic causes of developmental disorders and is routinely used in postnatal genetic diagnostics. Also included in CMDX's suite of developmental genomic tests is the Prenatal Scan array CGH test, a more customized test specifically designed and validated for use in prenatal genetic diagnostics. Both companies will launch their co-marketing endeavors at the upcoming Society of Maternal-Fetal Medicine 29th Annual Meeting in San Diego (Jan 26-30th, 2009).
"By accurately determining the genomic cause, or etiology, of an unprecedented number of childhood development disorders, and facilitating such diagnosis in as timely a manner as possible, the BAC HD Scan test removes the anxiety associated with undiagnosed cases of developmental delay, provides critical genomic information for the appropriate genetic counseling of parents and provides parents and caregivers the most data-driven expectation of clinical developmental outcome of their child. Our collaboration with Lenetix will help us increase awareness of our tests among primary care physicians including pediatricians, genetic counselors and obstetricians-gynecologists -- key customers of Lenetix," said Dr. Mansoor Mohammed, President and Chief Executive Officer of Combimatrix Molecular Diagnostics.
"Lenetix prides itself on offering our clients and patients the most appropriate and rigorously validated tests in the pre- and postnatal genetic testing genre. CMDX's portfolio of array CGH tests have become routine requisitions in the genetic diagnostic community and exceed our exacting standards," said Leonard Kellner, Lenetix's President and CEO. "I firmly believe that these tests are indispensable additions to our pre- and postnatal product lines and will help us achieve our goal of always providing physicians with the best clinical genetics support services and technologies for optimal patient care."
ABOUT THE BAC HD SCAN TEST
The BAC HD Scan test is the most comprehensive, clinically validated Constitutional Array Genetic Test in the industry. The test utilizes CMDX's Bacterial Artificial Chromosome (BAC) array technology, and is comprised of 2,437 unique validated loci. It is designed to interrogate over 290 specific genes and genomic regions associated with over 260 known genetic disorders while enabling the detection of unexpected abnormalities with an industry-best average resolution of 432 Kb across the entire genome.
The test also provides the most comprehensive genome content for the unique subtelomeric and pericentromeric regions of all chromosomes -- key areas often involved in the etiology of developmental disorders -- making it a powerful tool for challenging cases. The list of 260 disorders can be reviewed at the following link: http://www.cmdiagnostics.com/docs/disordersname.pdf
The array also incorporates the probe content of CMDX's ATScan(tm) for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and simultaneously interrogates all of the known genomic markers currently associated with ASD.
ABOUT COMBIMATRIX CORPORATION
CombiMatrix Corporation is 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 CMDX is available at www.cmdiagnostics.com or by calling 1-800-710-0624.
ABOUT LENETIX
Founded in 2001, Mineola, N.Y.-based Lenetix is a privately owned provider of innovative technologies focused on diagnostic testing, including oncology, prenatal diagnostics, and risk assessment for genetic disease. Lenetix brings more than 29 years experience developing new and innovative tests that are used by clinicians worldwide. The scientific team at Lenetix is well known for its ability to commercialize new technologies. It is recognized for its translational clinical research and integration of high-quality clinical laboratory genetics services within medical centers, universities, and the private sector. For more information, visit www.lenetix.com Or call 516-320-6370.
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.