Immunodiagnostic Systems Holdings has acquired the share capital of the Norway-based company MGP Diagnostics.

Immunodiagnostic Systems Holdings has acquired the share capital of the Norway-based company MGP Diagnostics (MGPD).

The acquired concern is a non-trading company owning a portfolio of patents relating to the determination of a biomarker called Matrix GLA protein (mGLA), which may be a controlling factor in the inappropriate calcification of soft tissues which plays a significant role in the development of cardiovascular disease.

Roger Duggan, CEO of IDS, which provides diagnostic testing kits for the clinical and research markets, says: ‘This acquisition provides IDS with an IP-protected entry into an adjacent, highly complementary area of potential clinical importance. Calcification of bones and teeth is highly desirable, but in soft tissues such as arteries and heart valves is potentially lethal. The future availability of a serum biomarker for early diagnosis and the monitoring of therapy will provide a valuable tool to cardiovascular and renal physicians throughout the world.’

IDS has also entered into a research agreement with VitaK of Maastricht in the Netherlands. VitaK is the leading research establishment in mGLA biology in the world, having filed the original patents now acquired by IDS from MGPD. IDS and VitaK will work closely to accelerate the proof of concept studies needed to establish the clinical utility of mGLA.