Biotech Values

[oc631]

LabCorp launches IL-28B gene test:

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/LabCorp-Enhances-HCV-Testing-bw-3886123465.html?x=0&.v=1

IL-28B variants have been found to be correlated to patient response to HCV drugs. Most, if not all, new efficacy trials of HCV drugs will likely have to stratify trial arms according to IL-28B variants.

LabCorp licensed IP from MRK in order to commercialize the IL-28B test (#msg-52716245).

Do you think the FDA will consider the IL-28B variant when reviewing the NDA for boceprevir and telaprevir? Could they require testing of prior test subjects for IL-28B? Diversifying the race of the subjects seems to address this issue indirectly without testing.