Gemini gains US patent for cardiovascular risk gene:
This article was originally published in Clinica
Executive Summary
Gemini Genomics has gained a US patent for a gene that can identify a individuals with a predisposition to developing elevated levels of serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The patent is based on research conducted by scientists from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden, who found that specific polymorphisms in the microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) affect serum levels of LDL-cholesterol. Cambridge, UK-based Gemini has exclusive commercial rights to the gene and intends to license it to pharmaceutical and healthcare companies for the development of diagnostic and therapeutic products.