Qiagen, Pfizer to develop companion diagnostic

Qiagen N.V. (Xetra:QIA; NASDAQ:QGEN) partnered with Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE) to develop a companion diagnostic for Pfizer's dacomitinib ( PF-00299804), which is in Phase III testing to treat non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The compound is an inhibitor of human epidermal growth factor receptor 1 ( HER1), HER2 and HER4. The diagnostic will use Qiagen's KRAS assay technology to select for patients without K-Ras (KRAS) mutations, the population for which the partners said EGFR inhibitors are generally effective. Pfizer and Qiagen will collaborate on clinical trials and regulatory approval, including submitting a PMA in the U.S. and applying for CE Mark approval in Europe. Details were not disclosed. ...