Molecular diagnostics assay developer Predictive Biosciences (Lexington, Mass.) has acquired OncoDiagnostic Laboratory (ODL; Cleveland), a CLIA-certified molecular diagnostics and anatomic pathology laboratory that serves urologists, gastroenterologists, dermatologists, gynecologists, and other subspecialty physicians nationwide. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Launched in 2006 and funded by a consortium of venture capital firms, Predictive Biosciences develops biomarker-based tests for cancer diagnosis. Its first tests are intended to monitor bladder cancer recurrence through the detection of proprietary urinary biomarkers, including matrix metalloproteinases and a disintegrin and metalloproteinases.

Acquiring ODL gives Predictive Biosciences a fully integrated pathology laboratory through which it can commercialize its assays. "We look forward to leveraging ODL's urology-focused sales organization to introduce our proprietary bladder cancer assay later this year," said Peter Klemm, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of Predictive Biosciences.

Privately held ODL, which was founded in 1985 by a group of pathologists, will continue to operate from its Cleveland headquarters. The company currently employs approximately 40 professionals, including a national sales force that is supported by company pathologists, laboratory staff, and customer service.

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