Diagnostic Biomarkers for Ectopic Pregnancy
No viable test currently exists to distinguish an ectopic from a healthy pregnancy
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LICENSING OPPORTUNITY:
Scientists at the University of Edinburgh have identified novel biomarkers, present in the first trimester of pregnancy, for rapid identification of an ectopic or extra-uterine pregnancy. A serum-based test is estimated to generate savings of up to £1 million per year in Scotland alone.
Early accurate diagnosis would reduce the number of visits the patient has to make before treatment (cost saving to medical providers) and avoid unnecessary invasive procedures and their inherent dangers (better outcomes for patients). Naturally physicians are keen to conserve fallopian tubal integrity, to facilitate less invasive medical management and to prevent potentially life-threatening abdominal bleeding.
The Edinburgh biomarkers have been clinically validated (p<0.0005) in a study comparing three patient groups - women undergoing (a) surgical termination of pregnancy, (b) uterine clearance after miscarriage or (c) surgery for tubal ectopic pregnancy (n = 25). A 150 patient study is currently underway.Key Benefits
- Potential for rapid diagnosis of non-viable extra uterine pregnancies
- Reduces the risk of physiological and psychological damage to the patient
- Could be carried out in the form of a serum / blood test
- Savings of 1 million per year in Scotland
- Present in the first trimester of pregnancy
Applications
- GP surgeries
- Hospital laboratories
IP Status
A PCT patent application has been filed (Reference No. PCT/GB2008/002282) claiming priority from 2nd July 2007.
The University of Edinburgh is now looking for an industrial partner to license this technology to develop a diagnostic kit.
If you would like further information about
this opportunity please fill out the form below. Your enquiry will
be passed on to the relevant University who will respond to you directly.
