Leica Microsystems, CMED Collaborate on FISH Kits

In vitro diagnostic company China Medical Technologies Inc. (CMED) and Leica Biosystems, a division of Leica Microsystems, have established a sales, research and development collaboration to develop and market FISH kits for the Leica Bond system, an automated staining platform.

The two companies will develop automated solutions for tissue sample tests on HER-2, EGFR and TOP2A genes, all three of which play a role in targeted drug therapy for breast, lung and stomach cancer patients.

Both parties have agreed to work together on additional FISH applications during the term, including those relevant to prenatal care and cytology.

In addition, they have agreed that CMED will sell the FISH kits in China, while Leica will have the option to sell them in the rest of the world.

Leica Microsystems develops microscopes and scientific instruments. Its Biosystems Div. offers products for histopathology laboratories.

For more information, visit: www.leica-microsystems.com