[Licensing negotiation in progress]
[Invitation for Expression of Interest- Deadline 6 June 2021]
We are inviting expressions of interest (EoI) for commercializing “Genomic Markers of Hepatitis B Virus in Hepatocellular Carcinoma” technology. The innovation is developed by Professor Stephen Kwok Wing TSUI, Professor of the School of Biomedical Sciences of The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK Reference: 04/MED/167).
The Technology
Despite strong epidemiological evidence correlating hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), no viral marker(s) has been identified to predict development of liver cancer. We have established a database of viral genome and clinical data based on a cohort of HBV-infected patients who developed HCC and an age-matched control cohort who had chronic hepatitis B without HCC. Complete genomic sequencing of HBV has been performed in all patients. The genomic information has been analyzed by compute data mining methods. Our findings show that HBV can be classified into different genotypes and subtypes. Each HBV subtype with several genomic markers of HCC development have been identified. An algorithm using the serum genomic markers of HBV to predict HCC has been developed with an overall accuracy of over 75%.
Commercialization
The technology is now available for licensing on an exclusive basis. In order to fully realize the benefit of the technology, we expect substantial investment is necessary to enable further research and development. In addition to the financial commitment, the licensee is expected to have the appropriate expertise as well as plans in marketing and strategizing the end product to ensure successful transfer of the technology to the society. Previous or existing business involvement and experience in this area is a plus.
This invitation of expression of interest is without prejudice. We also stress that this invitation is not a tender, and the University is not bound to accept any offer, or to accept the highest monetary offer, as there are additional considerations (such as the widest possible benefit to the community) that we, as a public institution, will need to take into consideration.