QIAGEN and Incyte Partner to Develop Companion Diagnostics for CALR-Mutant MPNs

VENLO, Netherlands & WILMINGTON, Del.—QIAGEN N.V. and Incyte have announced a collaborative effort to create a new diagnostic tool aimed at enhancing the treatment of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), a rare category of blood cancers. This partnership focuses on developing a diagnostic panel that will aid Incyte’s extensive research into therapies for MPNs, notably the monoclonal antibody INCA033989, which targets mutant calreticulin (mutCALR) in conditions such as myelofibrosis (MF) and essential thrombocythemia (ET).

As part of the agreement, QIAGEN will employ next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology to develop this multimodal panel. The panel aims to identify significant genetic changes associated with hematological cancers. QIAGEN plans to validate this technology using the Illumina NextSeq 550Dx platform, leveraging its collaboration with Illumina to maximize the diagnostic capabilities available worldwide.

Myeloproliferative neoplasms, accounting for about 40% of blood-related cancers, are characterized by the chronic build-up of various mature blood cell types. Understanding genetic anomalies in biomarkers such as CALR is critical, particularly for MPNs. Incyte is leading the way in developing novel treatments like INCA033989, which targets malignant cells while sparing healthy ones. Companion diagnostics are essential in guiding physicians to adopt treatment strategies that improve patient outcomes.

Pablo J. Cagnoni, M.D., overseeing research and development at Incyte, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with QIAGEN, emphasizing its role in facilitating global CALR testing for MPN patients. The collaboration aims to develop companion diagnostics for mutCALR, which could significantly alter the treatment landscape for ET and MF patients.

Jonathan Arnold from QIAGEN highlighted the importance of their partnership with Incyte, focusing on the creation of an advanced companion diagnostic tool using NGS technology. This venture underscores QIAGEN’s commitment to providing diagnostics for emerging biomarkers in cancer treatment, enhancing clinical utility for patients and healthcare providers alike.

Calreticulin (CALR) is a protein that manages cellular calcium levels and normal protein synthesis. Mutations in the CALR gene, known as mutCALR, can lead to dysfunctional protein activity and result in myeloproliferative neoplasms, a group of related blood cancers where bone marrow produces excessive blood cells. MutCALR mutations are responsible for 25-35% of all cases of essential thrombocythemia (ET) and myelofibrosis (MF).

QIAGEN, headquartered in the Netherlands, is a leading global provider of solutions that convert samples into valuable molecular insights. Their technologies facilitate the isolation and processing of DNA, RNA, and proteins from various biological materials. QIAGEN serves over half a million customers worldwide across life sciences and molecular diagnostics sectors. The company is a pioneer in precision medicine, working with pharmaceutical and biotech firms to develop companion diagnostics.

Incyte, based in Wilmington, Delaware, is a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to finding solutions for unmet medical needs through scientific research. They have developed a portfolio of innovative medicines and maintain a strong pipeline in oncology and autoimmune diseases. Incyte operates globally, focusing on North America, Europe, and Asia.

Both QIAGEN and Incyte are making significant strides in transforming treatment approaches for patients with CALR-mutant MPNs, aiming to improve outcomes through innovative diagnostic and therapeutic solutions.