> Sequenom ($SQNM) shares jumped on increased demand for its MaterniT21 prenatal blood test for trisomy 21 (Down syndrome). Article
> According to results presented at the annual meeting of the American College of Rheumatology, increased levels of the biomarker BLyS (B-lymphocyte stimulator) predict flares in people with systemic lupus erythematosus. Article
> Arno Therapeutics is developing a clinical biomarker program for a companion diagnostic for its investigational anti-cancer drug onapristone. Cancer cells that express the activated form of the progesterone receptor (APR) are more likely to respond to the drug. Press release
> The biomarker ST2, pinpointed by Critical Diagnostics' Presage ST2 assay, predicts the risk of heart failure and mortality in HIV-positive people and in the general population. Press release | Press release
> Genes predispose some Asian nonsmoking women to lung cancer. Press release
> Microvesicles, tiny cell particles dropped off by cancer cells, could be used as blood biomarkers to diagnose cancer. Article
> Metabolic signatures in glioma, a type of tumor that starts in the brain, may lead to personalized therapy. Press release | Abstract
> The Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) has received a $3 million Strategic Translation Award from the Wellcome Trust to identify new biomarkers for the evaluation of treatment efficacy in Chagas disease, a potentially fatal neglected tropical disease. Press release
> Diazyme has FDA clearance to market its Cystatin C POC Test Kit for early testing of kidney disease on its SMART Point of Care System. Press release
> Telomere length marks mortality. Press release
And Finally… Man tries a pregnancy test as a joke and it comes back positive; Reddit users may have saved his life by telling him to get checked out for testicular cancer. Article