Axis-shield (LON:ASD), the in-vitro diagnostics specialist, has launched an automated anti-CCP test for the early detection of rheumatoid arthritis on the new Zenit RA analyser system. The assay is based on Axis-Shield's proprietary technology and measures antibodies against cyclic citrullinated peptides (anti-CCP), a novel marker that has been shown to have superior specificity in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis. The assay and system are being launched by Technogenetics of Italy, which is part of the Bouty Healthcare Group, through an exclusive European distribution agreement with Menarini, and will be available for sale outside the US. Anti-CCP testing is one of the fastest growing markets in laboratory diagnostics as its utility in the diagnosis of early rheumatoid disease becomes increasingly recognised.
Ian Gilham, Axis-Shield’s chief executive, said: “This is another important milestone in the commercial development of our anti-CCP test. We await final confirmation that the measurement of these antibodies will be included by the American College of Rheumatology as a key parameter in the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis, after which we anticipate further expansion of this important market.”
Axis-Shield saw its share price tumble in May after admitting that the mild flu season and heightened public awareness over the spread of swine flu had badly affected revenues. Reporting on its performance since the start of January, Axis-Shield said the relatively mild 2009/2010 season had particularly impacted on the sales of NycoCard, its single biggest revenue generator. In March, Axis-Shield revealed that reported revenues in the year to December 31, 2009, had risen by 13.4% to £96.7m, with Point-of-Care sales up 24.2% to £42.6m and Afinion sales up 72.1% to £14.8m. Underlying pre-tax profits were up 80% to £8.1m. Shares in the company dipped by 2.4% today to 262.5p.
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