Halcyon has discovered a novel biomarker that is responsible for cancer initiation, progression, and invasion. This biomarker is called GASP-1. GASP-1 regulates the availability of G protein coupled receptor-associated (GPCRs), which are integral in various cellular responses by binding to a vast array of signaling molecules.

 

However, when there is overexpression of GASP-1, the GPCR is not properly recycled, thereby enabling unwanted cell growth. As normal cells transition to cancer cells, the overproduced GASP-1 starts aggregating to form granules, which are then attached to the cancer cell membrane.

 

GASP-1 overexpression increases substantially as cancer progresses from hyperplasia, to dysplasia, in situ cancer and different stages of invasive cancers. During this progression, GASP-1 granules may facilitate the dissociation of cancer cells. This would trigger single cells, clusters of cells, and cell membrane fragments to break off and circulate in the bloodstream, each containing detectable quantities of GASP-1.

 

With highly specific antibodies to GASP-1, there is significant potential for us to create groundbreaking products in early diagnostics and therapeutics across all major cancers.