Singapore, 11 November 2024 – Mirxes and Canhelp Genomics today announced a partnership to introduce the first PCR-based solid tumour origin identification testing service to Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Through this collaboration, Canhelp Genomics will provide its innovative Gene Expression Test System for Human Tumour Origin Identification (Canhelp-Origin) technology to Mirxes. Mirxes will leverage this technology to establish, promote, and deliver tumour origin identification testing service for metastatic cancer patients using a thin slice of solid tumour tissue. The test will be conducted by M Diagnostics, a wholly owned subsidiary laboratory of Mirxes.

Addressing the Challenge of Cancer of Unknown Primary

In Singapore, approximately 3% of metastatic cancer cases are diagnosed as cancer of unknown primary (CUP), a condition where the original site of the cancer cannot be determined. Traditional cancer diagnostic methods, such as immunohistochemistry (IHC) tests, often rely on the pathologist’s experience and may not provide definitive answers. As a result, CUPs may be treated by a general set of chemotherapy regimen, and response to treatment will be lower than chemotherapy regimens for specific cancers.

Canhelp-Origin offers a more precise approach, guiding oncologists towards the likely primary cancer and enabling a more targeted treatment strategy. This innovative multi-gene expression assay utilises real-time quantitative RT-PCR technology, which Mirxes has a proven track record in leveraging for various diagnostic tests, from COVID-19 to cancer early detection. Studies and trials have shown that Canhelp-Origin can identify the origin of over 95% of global tumour types with an accuracy exceeding 90%. It is also the first and only tumour origin identification test approved by both China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) and CE in Europe. A recent Phase III clinical study published in The Lancet Oncology demonstrated that site-specific treatments guided by Canhelp-Origin significantly improve therapeutic outcomes for CUP patients.

A Strategic Partnership for Enhanced Cancer Care

“At Mirxes, our mission is to increase the access to innovative cancer diagnostic tests in Singapore and the rest of Southeast Asia,” said Mr Jeffrey Koh, Mirxes’ 2 Director of Product and Business Development. “We are proud to partner with Canhelp Genomics to introduce Canhelp-Origin to medical practitioners and patients in our region. The test helps to address the unmet clinical need in diagnosing CUP in the region, and complements our existing portfolio of precision oncology offerings.”

“A strong and like-minded local partner is crucial for promoting the development of precision cancer diagnosis technology internationally,” added Mr Wu Yan, Vice President of Canhelp Genomics. “Canhelp Genomics and Mirxes share the same business focus on providing innovative solutions in oncological diagnosis, and have complementary technological routes and market coverage. We’re delighted to collaborate with Mirxes to bring our innovative solution to Southeast Asia. We believe this partnership will help bring benefits to more cancer patients across the region.”

Mirxes and Canhelp Genomics are currently validating Canhelp-Origin locally at M Diagnostic using clinical samples. The test is expected to be available in Singapore and the region in 1Q 2025.

For media enquiries, please contact:
David Yeo
Vice-President
Public Affairs
Mirxes Pte Ltd
Email: davidyeo@mirxes.com
Mobile: +65 90301422