VolitionRx Limited (NYSE American: VNRX) has announced the publication of the first peer-reviewed paper detailing its proprietary Capture-Seq liquid biopsy technology. The study, published in a scientific journal, demonstrates the technology's ability to isolate and analyze more than 99% pure circulating tumor-derived DNA (ctDNA), a feat that has long challenged the field of liquid biopsy. By separating cancer-derived DNA from the overwhelming background of healthy cell-free DNA, Capture-Seq creates highly enriched tumor DNA datasets, which can be used for cancer detection and monitoring.
The implications of this breakthrough are significant. Currently, liquid biopsies rely on detecting small amounts of ctDNA in the blood, which is often diluted by DNA from healthy cells. This limitation has hindered the sensitivity and accuracy of such tests. Capture-Seq addresses this by enriching the tumor DNA fraction, potentially enabling earlier cancer detection and more precise monitoring of treatment response. According to Volition, the technology addresses annual market opportunities of approximately $23 billion for multi-cancer early detection and more than $13 billion for minimal residual disease applications, indicating a combined market potential of over $36 billion.
The published research describes a two-step process that combines physical sample enrichment with bioinformatic filtering to achieve greater than 99% pure ctDNA sequencing datasets. In early validation studies, the technology demonstrated strong cancer detection results, including no false positives in initial cohorts and high detection rates for early-stage cancers. Additional blinded studies have also produced encouraging findings, suggesting the technology's robustness and potential clinical utility.
Volition is now advancing larger validation studies, collaborating with oncology key opinion leaders, and expanding its patent protection for the technology. The company is also conducting technical evaluations with potential licensing partners, exploring commercialization pathways. “We are excited about the potential of Capture-Seq to overcome a major hurdle in liquid biopsy,” said a company spokesperson. “This technology could enable earlier detection of cancer, which is critical for improving patient outcomes, and also provide a tool for monitoring minimal residual disease, helping to guide treatment decisions.”
The publication marks a milestone for Volition, which focuses on advancing the science of epigenetics. The company is dedicated to saving lives and improving outcomes for people and animals with life-altering diseases through earlier detection and monitoring. Its research and development activities are centered in Belgium, with an innovation laboratory and office in the U.S., and an office in London. The Capture-Seq technology is part of Volition's broader portfolio of simple, easy-to-use, cost-effective blood tests.
As Volition moves forward with larger studies and potential partnerships, the scientific community and industry watchers will be keenly watching to see if this technology can live up to its early promise. If successful, Capture-Seq could significantly impact the field of liquid biopsy and improve cancer care worldwide.
