Epistem, GSK collaborate over fibrosis biomarkers; Uni develops ALL theranostic;

> Epistem and GSK have signed a three-year collaboration to develop fibrosis biomarkers using Epistem's RNA-Amp technology. Press release

> Case Western Reserve University researchers target a biomarker to create a theranostic non-nucleoside for diagnosis and treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Press release | Abstract

> Everolimus study results were disappointing in Phase III, but investigators are looking at biomarkers to see if there are responses in a patient subgroup. Article

> Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is used as a biomarker to measure diabetics' average blood glucose concentration long-term. Researchers have connected the biomarker with the ulcer bug Helicobacter pylori, and that that infection may lead to type 2 diabetes. Press release | Paper

> A five-biomarker panel was more effective at diagnosing borderline and malignant ovarian cancer than CA125. Abstract

> Innovative clinical trial designs could help address the issues associated with developing and validating biomarker-based personalized therapies. Abstract

> Circulating microRNA miR-323-3p shows promise as a biomarker in ectopic pregnancies. Abstract

> Urinary vanin-1 shows promise as a biomarker for early detection of drug-induced acute kidney injury. Abstract

> Fertility diagnostics company Celamatix has received $1.5 million further funding to find genetic and phenotypic biomarkers of female fertility. Press release

> Genesys BioLabs has launched PAULA's test, a blood-based biomarker test for the early diagnosis of lung cancer. Press release

> In older people, higher levels of tea and vegetable consumption (but not coffee and fruit) is linked with lower levels of ADMA, a cardiovascular disease biomarker. Abstract

> AmberGen has licensed two novel autoantigen biomarkers for the autoimmune liver disease primary biliary cirrhosis to INOVA Diagnostics. Press release

> Prostate-specific antigen is a biomarker for semen exposure and could be used as an objective measure of female condom failure. Abstract

And Finally… The Alzheimer's Drug Discovery Foundation (ADDF) and the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD) have awarded $300,000 to three academic scientists developing biomarkers. Press release