In a significant move to combat the growing threat of colorectal cancer, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE: TMO) has entered into a partnership with Mainz Biomed NV (NASDAQ: MYNZ) to develop and potentially commercialize ColoAlert, a next-generation colorectal cancer screening test. This collaboration comes at a critical time, as colorectal cancer cases have surged by 500% among young people over the past two decades, with a particularly alarming 333% increase in children aged 10 to 14.
The partnership will leverage Thermo Fisher Scientific's advanced technologies, instrumentation, and information translation systems to enhance Mainz Biomed's proprietary assays for mRNA-based colorectal cancer screening tests. This joint effort aims to bring a highly effective, home-based screening tool to market, potentially revolutionizing early detection efforts.
Colorectal cancer remains a significant health concern, claiming approximately 50,000 lives annually in the United States. Despite the high survival rate of 90% when detected early, only about 40% of cases are identified at this crucial stage. ColoAlert, Mainz Biomed's flagship product, has shown promising results in clinical trials, with sensitivity rates exceeding 90% for detecting colorectal cancer and over 80% for advanced adenomas.
The test's non-invasive nature and ease of use could significantly increase screening rates. ColoAlert analyzes stool samples for four tumor markers associated with cancer: KRAS-mutation, BRAF-mutation, total amount of human DNA, and occult blood. This comprehensive approach allows for the detection of both bleeding and non-bleeding tumors, as well as precancerous lesions.
As Mainz Biomed prepares for FDA clinical trials in the United States next year, this collaboration with Thermo Fisher Scientific could accelerate the development and potential commercialization of ColoAlert. If successful, the test could become widely available to millions of Americans at risk of colorectal cancer, potentially saving countless lives through early detection and intervention.
The partnership between Thermo Fisher Scientific and Mainz Biomed represents a significant step forward in the fight against colorectal cancer. By combining Mainz Biomed's innovative screening technology with Thermo Fisher Scientific's industry-leading resources and expertise, this collaboration has the potential to transform colorectal cancer detection and improve patient outcomes on a global scale.
