Agilent Technologies Inc (A) Achieves European IVDR Certification for PD-L1 IHC 22C3 pharmDx Assay | A stock news

Agilent's Diagnostic Tool Gains Approval for Broader Cancer Treatment Applications in Europe

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Apr 17, 2025

Summary

Agilent Technologies Inc (A, Financial) announced that its PD-L1 IHC 22C3 pharmDx (Code SK006) assay has received European IVDR certification as a Companion Diagnostic (CDx) for identifying gastric or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma patients eligible for treatment with KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab). This assay, developed in partnership with Merck, is now approved for use with the Agilent Autostainer Link 48 advanced staining solution. The announcement was made on [insert date if available].

Positive Aspects

  • PD-L1 IHC 22C3 pharmDx is now IVDR certified for seven cancer indications, expanding its utility in clinical diagnostics.
  • The assay is the only IVDR-certified CDx for identifying gastric and GEJ adenocarcinoma patients for KEYTRUDA treatment.
  • Agilent's partnership with Merck enhances the credibility and reach of the diagnostic tool.

Negative Aspects

  • The press release does not specify the timeline for the rollout of the assay across European markets.
  • There is no mention of the potential cost implications for healthcare providers or patients.

Financial Analyst Perspective

From a financial standpoint, Agilent's achievement of IVDR certification for its PD-L1 IHC 22C3 pharmDx assay is a significant milestone that could potentially drive revenue growth. The expansion into multiple cancer indications increases the assay's marketability and could lead to higher sales volumes. This development aligns with Agilent's strategic focus on expanding its clinical diagnostics portfolio, which is crucial for maintaining its competitive edge in the healthcare sector.

Market Research Analyst Perspective

The European IVDR certification for Agilent's PD-L1 IHC 22C3 pharmDx assay positions the company favorably in the growing market for cancer diagnostics. With gastric cancer being a leading cause of cancer-related mortality, the demand for effective diagnostic tools is high. Agilent's assay, now certified for multiple cancer types, meets a critical need in the market, potentially increasing its adoption among healthcare providers across Europe.

FAQ

What is the PD-L1 IHC 22C3 pharmDx assay used for?

The assay is used as a Companion Diagnostic to identify patients with certain types of cancer who may be eligible for treatment with KEYTRUDA.

Which cancers is the assay certified for?

The assay is certified for gastric or GEJ adenocarcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, urothelial carcinoma, esophageal cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, triple-negative breast cancer, and cervical cancer.

Who developed the PD-L1 IHC 22C3 pharmDx assay?

The assay was developed by Agilent Technologies in partnership with Merck.

Read the original press release here.

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