Axis-Shield to develop HBP test after Hansa deal
This article was originally published in Clinica
Executive Summary
Axis-Shield is to develop a new test for severe sepsis and septicaemia after gaining exclusive, worldwide access to Hansa Medical’s heparin-binding protein (HBP) diagnostic assay. Axis-Shield will develop the assay and seek commercial partners to incorporate the new technology into high-throughput systems. Lund, Sweden-based Hansa said that it has carried out initial studies that suggest serum levels of HBP are a “promising predictor for severe sepsis compared to inflammation markers [used in tests] presently on the market”. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. According to Axis-Shield, more than 200,000 people die from sepsis or septicaemia each year. The firm claims that “for every hour that severe sepsis onset is identified and properly treated, survival rates increase by 7.5%”.