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Medical equipment industry

Athena Neurosciences and Duke University Collaborate on ApoE Diagnostic Test

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Athena Neurosciences has secured an exclusive worldwide license from Duke University to use technology and patent rights related to the apolipoprotein E (ApoE) gene as a diagnostic test for Alzheimer's disease. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the development of a test that can help diagnose the disease, which affects millions worldwide. The test, which has been validated in over 100 studies, has shown that individuals with the ApoE4 gene are more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease.

Key Takeaways:

  • Athena Neurosciences has acquired an exclusive worldwide license to use Duke University's technology and patent rights related to the ApoE gene for the diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease.
  • The ApoE test has been validated in over 100 studies, showing that individuals with the ApoE4 gene are more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease.
  • A series of studies found that 64% of patients with Alzheimer's disease had at least one copy of the ApoE4 gene, compared to only 31% in normal individuals.
  • Patients who inherited two copies of the ApoE4 gene had an eight-fold increased relative risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
  • The test is not recommended for predictive use until safe and efficacious preventative therapy is available.
  • Athena plans to work with leaders in the Alzheimer's field to reach a consensus on the appropriate application of ApoE testing in clinical practice.

Statistics:

  • 64% of patients with Alzheimer's disease had at least one copy of the ApoE4 gene.
  • 31% of normal individuals did not have the ApoE4 gene.
  • The ApoE4 gene increased the relative risk of developing Alzheimer's disease eight-fold in patients who inherited two copies.
  • Athena has secured an exclusive license to the ApoE patent and technology from Duke University.
  • Over 100 studies worldwide have validated the results of the original Duke study published in 1993.

Sources:

  • "Athena Neurosciences, Inc. and Duke University Announce Agreement on Apolipoprotein E Test," Business Wire, August 15, 1995.
  • Allen D. Roses, et al., "Apolipoprotein E: Relationship to Alzheimer Disease and Cerebral Atherosclerosis," Arch Neurol 1993;50(2):153-156.

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