SIRS-Lab pre-announces biomarker based sepsis test

Jena, June 29, 2008 SIRS-Lab introduces a new diagnostic concept for the early prediction and reliable monitoring of sepsis. The molecular diagnostic test “SIQNATURE” delivers the earliest possible information about the potential development of a systemic infection. It further is a unique tool to monitor the progression of sepsis. The concept is introduced to the medical community at the International Shock Congress in Cologne. Clinical multicenter trials will mark the projected scientific launch of the routine test in late 2008.In order to enable a meaningful impact on individual patient outcome, reliable biomarkers for the early observation of the inflammation status of sepsis are urgently needed. SIQNATURE has major potential to improve the treatment of severe sepsis by the early identification of patients at risk.

For the first time in infection research, SIRS-Lab succeeded in identifying transcriptomic biomarkers which indicate sepsis earlier and more reliable than currently possible. In order to translate the biomarker information into clinically meaningful data, SIRS-Lab developed a proprietary biostatistical program. This comprises multiple messages in one score. The test result gives definite information about the existence and severity of a systemic infection.

The first clinical validation was performed by SIRS-Lab's clinical partners in the sepsis-cluster Jena. A large microarray study comprised the data of 600 patients under the supervision of Prof. Konrad Reinhart at the Jena University Hospital.

SIRS-Lab's CEO PD Dr. Stefan Russwurm explains the further actions towards the market launch of the test: "We are proud to present this breakthrough approach in sepsis diagnostics on the occasion of the International Shock Congress in Cologne. After years of research and the successful implementation of the VYOO pathogen detection kit, SIQNATURE is the cornerstone to fulfill SIRS-Lab's holistic diagnostic approach. Under the supervision of an internationally renowned scientific advisory board, prospective multicenter trials are now initiated to further prove the clinical utility of the test. After the trial phase, SIQNATURE will be broadly available for clinical routine."