Cogentech
Pioneering Molecular Oncology Advancements

Cogentech, an innovative and forward-thinking benefit company wholly owned by the IFOM – AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, is at the vanguard of molecular oncology.

“As a benefit corporation, we blend the altruistic goals of non-profit organisations with the strategic and operational efficiencies of a commercial enterprise,” says Dr. Luciano Baielli, CEO of Cogentech.

By reinvesting their revenue into their core mission— advancing molecular diagnostics in oncology—the company ensures a sustainable and self-fueling engine for growth and innovation. In a world where the focus on corporate responsibility and social impact is an increasing priority, Cogentech’s approach is a shining example of how a company can successfully intertwine profit and purpose.

Cogentech’s expert services benefit not only the cancer research community, but also hospitals aiming to leverage the power of cutting-edge diagnostic technologies. It employs advanced techniques such as Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), Sanger Sequencing, and Multiplex Ligation-Dependent Probe Amplification (MLPA) for gene analysis. These methodologies enable Cogentech to provide thorough and precise analyses that effectively tackle the intricacies tied to managing tumours.

A primary focus is on the field of hereditary tumours, a niche area representing approximately 10 percent of all cancers. Although it may seem relatively small, it is of significant importance due to the delicate ethical and psychological nature of dealing with individuals who have inherited cancer-risk genes. Cogentech pushes the boundaries of innovation to provide valuable insights into an individual’s inherent risk of developing cancer through OncoPan, an NGS cancer gene panel that operates within a continuous innovation to enhance its design to meet novel diagnostic needs. OncoPan is specifically designed to detect gene mutations associated with a genetic predisposition to cancer. This groundbreaking advancement enables the precise identification of genetic markers that may indicate an individual’s cancer susceptibility.

Cogentech recently made significant strides by enhancing its OncoPan gene panel to include molecular indicators. This improvement allows for the calculation of a polygenic risk score for breast cancer, a significant advancement in the field.

Unlike conventional mammography screenings, which often depend on age as a broad-based criterion, Cogentech’s advanced tool incorporates genetic risk factors into its assessments.

This facilitates a more individualised screening schedule based on each person’s distinct genetic risk profile. Individuals with lower risk might benefit from less frequent screenings, while those with higher risk would be recommended for more regular check-ups. By incorporating genetic risk factors into the screening process, Cogentech is optimising cancer prevention and early detection strategies, ensuring a more personalised and efficient approach to managing health risks with the perspective to use OncoPan gene panel for population screening.

Its unwavering dedication to patient care is also exemplified by the development of the OncoPed panel, designed specifically for pediatric tumours. Despite the relatively small market, Cogentech recognises the importance of addressing this niche area and is committed to making the OncoPed panel available to hospitals. With a strong presence in the Lombardy region, it conducts approximately 1,500 tests per year, solidifying its position as a prominent player in the field of genetic testing for hereditary tumors.

However, expanding access to genetic testing in Italy is not without its challenges, particularly due to stringent regulations and different local constrains. Cogentech takes a proactive stance to addressing the challenges by planning to develop and distribute its own genetic tests fulfilling the European rules of CE-IVDR certification. This strategy facilitates access to these crucial services in locations that might otherwise struggle with availability, overcoming the constraints posed by the current system.

Cogentech has also leveraged European funding to establish its second Cancer Genetic Test Laboratory (CGT Lab) in Sicily. This strategic initiative serves a dual purpose. Not only does it extend the company’s reach in genetic testing, it also addresses the healthcare disparities between northern and southern Italy. By bridging this gap, Cogentech is demonstrating its dedication to equitable access to healthcare and its commitment to bringing state-of-the-art genetic testing to every corner of the country.

Equally commendable is the company’s pursuit of exploring the potential of liquid biopsy, a non-invasive technique that utilises plasma blood samples to detect tumour signals. Cogentech leverages its expertise and tools in next-generation sequencing and aims to detect tumours at an early stage. It firmly believes that early detection in high-risk individuals, such those with a mutation in genes predisposing to cancer, can have a significant impact on patient outcomes health costs by enabling timely interventions and early detection of relapse.

By extending its reach through collaborations with local communities, academic institutions and patients’ advocacy organizations, Cogentech continues to pioneer advancements in genetic testing and cancer diagnosis.