Could Genetype’s New University Contract Reshape Breast Cancer Screening Standards?
Rhythm Biosciences’ subsidiary Genetype has landed a pivotal 12-month contract with the University of Melbourne to provide advanced breast cancer risk assessments, marking a significant step in personalised cancer screening.
- Genetype wins 12-month contract with University of Melbourne
- Study targets personalised breast cancer risk screening for women aged 40-59
- Integration of polygenic risk scores and mammographic density in screening
- Partnership accelerates Genetype’s commercial growth trajectory
- Supports broader adoption of risk-stratified screening in Australia
A Strategic Win for Genetype
Rhythm Biosciences Ltd’s subsidiary, Genetype, has secured a 12-month commercial contract with the University of Melbourne to provide its geneType breast cancer risk assessment platform. This collaboration represents a critical milestone for Genetype as it seeks to expand its footprint in personalised cancer diagnostics and accelerate its commercial growth.
The contract underpins a clinical study designed to enhance breast cancer screening for Australian women aged 40 to 59. By integrating a personalised risk assessment approach, the study aims to refine current national screening guidelines and improve early detection outcomes.
Innovating Breast Cancer Screening
The study incorporates multiple risk factors including family history, mammographic breast density (MBD), and a polygenic risk score (PRS), a genetic risk evaluation derived from multiple gene variants. This multi-dimensional approach promises a more tailored screening strategy, potentially identifying high-risk individuals who may benefit from additional imaging such as MRI.
Importantly, the study also addresses financial barriers by ensuring that any supplemental imaging required due to identified risks is covered under the Medicare Benefits Schedule. This removes a significant hurdle for patient acceptance and access to personalised screening pathways.
Commercial and Clinical Implications
Dr Erika Spaeth, Rhythm’s Director of Clinical & Scientific Affairs, highlighted the importance of this partnership, noting that real-world implementation data from the Robin study will bolster the evidence base for risk-stratified screening as a potential new standard of care. The collaboration with leading academics, including Professor Jon Emery, underscores the clinical credibility and scientific rigor supporting Genetype’s technology.
For Rhythm Biosciences, this contract not only diversifies Genetype’s commercial portfolio but also validates its strategic focus on personalised diagnostics. The integration of Genetype’s platform into broader clinical and academic settings could pave the way for expanded adoption and future revenue streams.
Looking Ahead
While the financial terms of the contract remain undisclosed, the partnership signals growing acceptance of polygenic risk scoring in mainstream healthcare. As the Robin study progresses, investors and stakeholders will be keenly watching for outcomes that could influence national screening policies and open further commercial opportunities for Rhythm Biosciences.
Bottom Line?
Genetype’s new contract with the University of Melbourne sets the stage for broader adoption of personalised breast cancer screening in Australia.
Questions in the middle?
- What are the expected financial impacts of the 12-month contract on Rhythm’s revenue?
- How soon could the Robin study’s findings influence national breast cancer screening guidelines?
- Will this partnership lead to further commercial contracts or international expansion for Genetype?