Proteomics International Secures US Patent for Breakthrough Esophageal Cancer Test

A Landmark Patent in the US Healthcare Market

Proteomics International Laboratories Ltd (ASX – PIQ) has achieved a significant milestone with the US Patent Office granting protection for its PromarkerEso blood test, designed to detect esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) at an early stage. This patent, valid until 2036, complements existing intellectual property rights in Australia, China, Hong Kong, and Europe, positioning the company strongly within the world’s largest and most advanced healthcare market.

Addressing a Critical Unmet Medical Need

Esophageal adenocarcinoma is a deadly form of cancer often linked to chronic acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which affects roughly 20% of the US population. The disease is notoriously difficult to detect early, with up to 90% of cases diagnosed only at advanced stages, resulting in a median survival time of less than one year. Current screening methods rely on invasive and costly endoscopies, which are uncomfortable and not widely accessible.

PromarkerEso offers a non-invasive blood test alternative that utilises a proprietary algorithm analysing four key serum glycoproteins alongside patient clinical factors such as age, sex, and BMI. This generates a simple risk score categorising patients into low, moderate, or high risk, enabling earlier intervention and potentially improving survival outcomes.

Commercial and Strategic Implications

Securing US patent protection is a pivotal step in Proteomics International’s commercialisation strategy. Managing Director Dr Richard Lipscombe emphasised the importance of this achievement, highlighting that it lays a strong foundation for future partnerships, licensing deals, and regulatory progress in the US market. Given the rising incidence of EAC, potentially linked to western dietary patterns, the demand for efficient and patient-friendly diagnostic tools is expected to grow.

With patents spanning multiple jurisdictions, Proteomics International is well-positioned to capitalise on global market opportunities. The PromarkerEso test’s clinical validation and intellectual property protection enhance its attractiveness to healthcare providers and potential collaborators.

Looking Ahead

While the patent secures the company’s technology, the path to widespread adoption will depend on regulatory approvals and successful market penetration. The announcement signals a promising future for early EAC detection, which could transform patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs associated with late-stage diagnosis.