Irish medical diagnostics company OncoAssure Ltd has achieved a significant milestone in prostate cancer diagnostics with the clinical validation of their novel biopsy test, OncoAssure Prostate. The validation results, published in the British Journal of Urology International Compass (BJUI Compass), demonstrate the test's capability to provide improved risk assessment for prostate cancer recurrence and guide treatment selection.
The validation study, conducted collaboratively by researchers from OncoAssure, University College Dublin, and Lund University, Sweden, revealed that the test significantly enhances clinicians' ability to predict aggressive cancer compared to conventional clinical and pathological parameters.
Clinical Impact and Market Significance
The development addresses a crucial clinical challenge in prostate cancer management. Currently, approximately 70% of prostate cancer patients have slow-growing tumors suitable for active surveillance, while 30% present with aggressive cancer requiring immediate intervention. Existing diagnostic approaches often fall short in accurately distinguishing between these groups, leading to potential overtreatment.
"Our findings show that the OncoAssure Prostate test is a powerful tool that adds significant value to traditional clinical and pathological risk stratifiers," stated Professor William Gallagher, Chief Scientific Officer and co-founder of OncoAssure. "This enables better-informed decisions for prostate cancer treatment, potentially reducing overtreatment and optimizing outcomes."
Commercial Launch and Market Entry
OncoAssure has announced plans to launch the test in the United States during Q1 2025, partnering with DiaCarta Inc. The test will be available through DiaCarta's ISO and CAP/CLIA Certified laboratory in Pleasanton, California. This strategic move targets the US market for prognostic cancer tests, currently valued at over $1 billion for prostate cancer alone.
Technical Capabilities and Clinical Applications
The test's validation demonstrated its effectiveness at two critical decision points in the prostate cancer care pathway: post-biopsy and post-radical prostatectomy. By integrating OncoAssure Prostate results with standard clinical and pathological information, healthcare providers can more accurately identify patients at higher risk of cancer recurrence and those suitable for active surveillance.
Des O'Leary, CEO and co-founder of OncoAssure, emphasized the test's practical implications: "By accurately identifying patients at higher risk of aggressive disease, our test equips clinicians to tailor treatment plans that can improve patient outcomes."
Future Development and Investment Plans
Beyond prostate cancer, OncoAssure is expanding its diagnostic portfolio. The company has made substantial progress in developing a test for cutaneous melanoma and has identified opportunities for biomarker development in bladder, esophageal, and squamous cell carcinoma. To support these initiatives and the commercialization of OncoAssure Prostate, the company plans to conduct an investment round during 2025.
The validation study received funding support from Research Ireland, OncoAssure Ltd, Swedish Cancer Society, and Swedish Scientific Council, demonstrating broad institutional backing for this innovative diagnostic approach.
