What exactly is proteomics and how does it differ from genomics?
Proteomics involves the study of proteins on a large scale, similar to how genomics studies genes. While genomics has made significant strides thanks to technologies that allow for rapid sequencing of DNA, proteomics has been more challenging due to the complex nature of proteins and the absence of a simple amplification mechanism like DNA replication. However, advances in technology, particularly from companies like Seer, have made it possible to analyze many proteins simultaneously, which is crucial for understanding biological processes and disease mechanisms at a deeper level. This high-throughput approach enables the study of populations, whether human, plant, or viral, providing insights that can lead to breakthroughs in health and disease management.
Why is proteomics particularly important for early disease detection, such as cancer?
Proteomics holds promise for early detection of diseases like cancer, a task where genomics has faced limitations. The concept of liquid biopsy, searching for cancer signals in blood rather than tissue, exemplifies the challenge of detecting early-stage cancers when the tumor is small and could be located anywhere in the body. Multi-omics approaches, which include proteomics, can identify a broader range of biomarkers, including proteins and possibly RNAs, improving the detection of early-stage diseases. By analyzing a wide array of biological markers, PrognomiQ aims to refine these to a manageable number that is both cost-effective and scientifically relevant, enhancing early detection and potentially leading to more effective treatments.
Can you tell us more about PrognomiQ’s value proposition and multi-omics analysis?
PrognomiQ is focused on harnessing the power of multi-omics data to transform the early detection, treatment selection and recurrence monitoring of cancer and other complex diseases.
PrognomiQ's proprietary approach leverages cutting-edge technologies, including Seer's Proteograph Product Suite, which enables collection of deep, unbiased proteomics data. In addition to proteomics, PrognomiQ interrogates the range of data from genotype to phenotype including cell-free DNA, RNA, metabolites, and lipids to identify potential biomarkers of significance. The combination of proteomic data with genomic, metabolomic, epigenomic, and transcriptomic data provides unparalleled levels of novel biological insights which could lead to transformative new approaches to diagnostic and therapy development.
How critical are partnerships to PrognomiQ's operations and success?
Partnerships are fundamental to PrognomiQ's approach, facilitating the collection of samples, technology development, and the application of machine learning through collaborations with clinics, technology companies like Seer and potentially diagnostic and pharmaceutical companies. These relationships not only provide the necessary resources and expertise but also enable the scaling and commercialization of PrognomiQ's tests. The company's ecosystem thrives on collaboration, underscoring the belief that tackling the complexities of biotechnology and healthcare innovation cannot be done in isolation.
What are PrognomiQ's aspirations for the next three to five years?
In the near term, PrognomiQ's primary goal is to make a significant impact on lung cancer diagnosis and treatment, leveraging its test to improve patient outcomes for the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Looking beyond immediate applications, the company aims to advance its pipeline of projects and expand its platform's utility to address other cancers, such as pancreatic cancer as well as diseases outside of cancer, such as Alzheimer's. By fostering more partnerships, PrognomiQ hopes to amplify its capabilities, exploring beyond cancer to potentially transformative applications in early disease detection and management across a range of conditions.
