PRECOS Launches Premium Bespoke Collection of Clinically Relevant Lung In Oncology Models for Drug Discovery at AACR Annual Meeting 2012

NOTTINGHAM, UK (2 April 2012) – Preclinical Oncology Services Limited (PRECOS), a leading pre-clinical research and development service provider with a specific focus on oncology, today launches its Lung In ONcology model atlas (LION) at the AACR Annual meeting (Chicago, March 31^st – April 4^th 2012, booth #4306). LION provides a premium bespoke collection of clinically relevant and validated lung oncology models for in vitro and in vivo drug discovery screening. The models are of interest to leading pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies looking to deliver significantly higher research productivity for their portfolio of therapeutic targets.

In collaboration with world-renowned experts, PRECOS is able to provide a unique collection of models from target identification to clinically relevant drug candidates to support effective drug discovery for lung cancers. LION is part of the PRECOS PREdict platform for target discovery, a service that provides unique panels of patient-derived in vitro and in vivo models characterised, validated and ready to run in studies.

By utilising the pharmacological audit trail (PhAT) to provide a rational framework for assessing the risk profile of a new agent,  LION enables the collection of predictive lung models to match each step of the decision making process. LION provides detailed pharmacological mapping of clinically relevant lung models using a proprietary 3D tumour growth assay (TGA). The novel compounds in 3D TGAs are assessed against multiple standards of care and in combination therapies to develop a unique “map” of the lead therapeutic against the landscape of existing treatments.

Treatment decisions have traditionally been empiric and based upon tumour histology. Platinum-based chemotherapy remains the cornerstone of treatment but survival rates remain low. As understanding develops with a continued expansion of the number of molecular compared to conventional therapies, PRECOS is able to provide further advanced and predictive in vitro and in vivo models. The LION collection provides relevant, reproducible in vivo models to support pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic analysis of novel therapeutics and appropriate efficacy studies, including combination studies. Advanced orthotropic and bioluminescent models as well as unique models of resistance enable a comprehensive analysis of potential opportunities for novel therapeutics.

“PRECOS continues to develop deeper, clinically relevant screening methods relevant to the models we hold, to produce a greater understanding of the disease state,” said Dr Martin Page, scientific consultant, PRECOS. “Changes in gene expression and mutational status, allow a greater insight into the relevance of each lung model. Our panels are designed to help our clients address their key needs and challenges by providing cutting-edge clinically relevant models that are ready to run.”

To find out more about LION and other PRECOS’ service offerings at the AACR Annual Meeting, please visit booth #4306. Dr Martin Page, scientific consultant, will be on hand to discuss your strategic needs. Alternatively please call +44 0870 166 6234, e-mail enquires@precos.co.uk or visit www.precos.co.uk to request further information.

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About PRECOS Ltd

PRECOS Ltd. is a flexible pre-clinical research and development service with a specific focus on oncology, with an established track record in providing expert support to direct cancer drug development projects from concept to clinic. PRECOS evaluates the innovative cancer medicines of the future in patient-relevant models to ensure that pre-clinical efficacy assessment is predictive of how the drug is likely to behave in clinical trials with cancer patients. The PRECOS team of expert scientists assist in the selection and execution of appropriate analytical systems by a staged approach of in vitro studies, in vivo model development, subsequent in vivo mechanistic and therapeutic evaluations and post-study analyses, all conveyed with added value through specialist scientific interpretation of the data. PRECOS scientists apply cutting-edge technology and ideas to individual research programmes and delivers a flexible, tailored approach to all research objectives, whether a one-off service or a complete research programme.

PRECOS, an acronym of Pre-Clinical Oncology Services, was officially launched as a specialist business unit of the University of Nottingham (UK) in 2004. PRECOS evolved from the research expertise of the Division of Pre-clinical Oncology (formerly Academic Unit of Studies), which had successful collaborations with pharmaceutical and biotech companies in the UK, EU, US and Japan for over a decade. For further information: www.precos.co.uk

For further press information please contact: Sarah Evans - The Scott Partnership, 1 Whiteside, Station Road, Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, CW4 8AA, United Kingdom. Tel: + 44 1477 539 539 Fax: +44 1477 539 540 E-mail: precos@scottpr.com

PRECOS Unveils Innovative Range of Platforms for Drug Discovery and Biomarker Oncology Studies at AACR Annual Meeting 2012

NOTTINGHAM, UK (26 March 2012) – Preclinical Oncology Services Limited (PRECOS), a leading pre-clinical research and development service provider with a specific focus on oncology, is to launch its series of unique platforms for pre-clinical oncology at the AACR Annual Meeting (Chicago, March 31^st – April 4^th 2012, booth #4306). From target validation, through in vitro and in vivo to histological services, the company’s validated platforms are used extensively in collaboration with prominent pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to offer enhanced research productivity for specific targets.

 At the show PRECOS will highlight the following key platforms:

• PREval Platform for Target Validation – a comprehensive service using cutting-edge molecular biology tools for validating the effect of specific genes via knockdown or activation/amplification both in vitro and in vivo. PRECOS provides a customised approach for each target.

• PREpare Platform for PK and PD - a variety of in vitro, in vivo and in silica services to determine the correct closing regimen for a project. This platform provides pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics insights into a therapeutic agent. In order for any potential drug to show the desired effect in vivo, it is necessary to determine potency at the target and to ensure sufficient exposure is achieved.

• PREcise Platform for In Vitro and In Vivo screening - a full repertoire of over 150 cancer cell lines matched with a comprehensive range of cellular assays available to run in 2-D assays, 3-D TGA (tumour growth assays), recapitulation of 3-D models with cancer-associated fibroblasts or mesenchymal stem cells. PRECOS has extensive experience in combination studies both in vitro and in vivo, orthotopic and metastatic models as well as simple subcutaneous xenograft models.

• PREdict Platform for Target Discovery - unique primary tissue panels of patient-derived in vitro and in vivo models, characterised, validated and ready to run in studies.

“PRECOS provides an expert range of research services for pre-clinical oncology, validated through its established track record with its leading clients. Our panels are designed to help our clients address their key needs and challenges by providing cutting-edge clinically relevant models that are ready to run in both in vitro and in vivo,” said Dr Neil Rotherham, chairman of the PRECOS board. “We have an established track record in providing expert support to direct cancer drug development projects and our new platforms are applicable from concept to clinic. We will be launching our first output from the platforms which will be announced at AACR 2012, visit booth #4306 to learn more.”

PRECOS offers innovative science, expert advice and accurate, reproducible models to advance research and support compound development projects. For further information please call +44 (0)870 166 6234, e-mail enquires@precos.co.uk or visit www.precos.co.uk.

About PRECOS Ltd

PRECOS Ltd. is a flexible pre-clinical research and development service with a specific focus on oncology, with an established track record in providing expert support to direct cancer drug development projects from concept to clinic. PRECOS evaluates the innovative cancer medicines of the future in patient-relevant models to ensure that pre-clinical efficacy assessment is predictive of how the drug is likely to behave in clinical trials with cancer patients. The PRECOS team of expert scientists assist in the selection and execution of appropriate analytical systems by a staged approach of in vitro studies, in vivo model development, subsequent in vivo mechanistic and therapeutic evaluations and post-study analyses, all conveyed with added value through specialist scientific interpretation of the data. PRECOS scientists apply cutting-edge technology and ideas to individual research programmes and delivers a flexible, tailored approach to all research objectives, whether a one-off service or a complete research programme.

 PRECOS, an acronym of Pre-Clinical Oncology Services, was officially launched as a specialist business unit of the University of Nottingham (UK) in 2004. PRECOS evolved from the research expertise of the Division of Pre-clinical Oncology (formerly Academic Unit of Studies), which had successful collaborations with pharmaceutical and biotech companies in the UK, EU, US and Japan for over a decade. For further information: www.precos.co.uk

 For further press information please contact: Sarah Evans - The Scott Partnership, 1 Whiteside, Station Road, Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, CW4 8AA, United Kingdom. Tel: + 44 1477 539 539 Fax: +44 1477 539 540 E-mail: precos@scottpr.com

 

PRECOS Appoints Dr Martin Page as Scientific Consultant

NOTTINGHAM, UK, 20th February 2012 - Preclinical Oncology Services Limited (PRECOS), a leading pre-clinical research and development service provider with a specific focus on oncology, announces the appointment of Dr Martin Page as scientific consultant. Dr Page brings over 28 years’ experience of oncology R&D leadership gained from the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors across UK, Europe and USA. His extensive therapeutic experience and industry knowledge will contribute to the company’s expert delivery of innovative patient relevant models for oncology research.

Dr Page has led multiple teams discovering novel targeted small molecule and MAb anti-cancer agents which have entered clinical trials. Prior to this new role, he was Vice President, Head of Global Oncology Research for Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceuticals, responsible for laboratories in Belgium and USA.

Dr Neil Rotherham, chairman of the PRECOS board comments, “We are delighted to welcome Martin to our team of visionary scientists. Dr Page’s expertise will be invaluable in PRECOS’ continued success as a trusted and preferred partner for some of the world’s leading oncology research companies.”

Previously Dr Page has held senior positions as Oncology Therapeutic Area Head/Europe for Glaxo-Wellcome and Senior Director positions in the biotechnology companies Oxford GlycoSciences and Oncogene Sciences Inc. He will support PRECOS to continue to advance its world-leading work in the evaluation of potential therapeutic agents, regimens and basic research into deriving the most relevant in vitro and in vivo screening models.

“I am extremely excited to work alongside the PRECOS team of expert scientists who are leading the way in providing robust models to enable testing of the next generation of oncology drug candidates,” said Dr Page. “PRECOS translates its expertise in cancer drug development to enable the development of medicines with real patient benefits and my appointment reinforces the ambition and potential of PRECOS to contribute in a significant way to the growing cancer therapy market.”

Dr Martin Page will be attending the AACR conference, Chicago, March 31st - April 4th 2012, booth #4306, where PRECOS will be showcasing several new platforms for pre-clinical oncology research. To arrange a meeting please contact PRECOS on +44 (0)870 166 6234, email enquiries@precos.co.uk or visit www.precos.co.uk for further information.

About PRECOS Ltd
PRECOS Ltd. is a flexible pre-clinical research and development service with a specific focus on oncology, with an established track record in providing expert support to direct cancer drug development projects from concept to clinic. PRECOS evaluates the innovative cancer medicines of the future in patient-relevant models to ensure that pre-clinical efficacy assessment is predictive of how the drug is likely to behave in clinical trials with cancer patients. The PRECOS team of expert scientists assist in the selection and execution of appropriate analytical systems by a staged approach of in vitro studies, in vivo model development, subsequent in vivo mechanistic and therapeutic evaluations and post-study analyses, all conveyed with added value through specialist scientific interpretation of the data. PRECOS scientists apply cutting-edge technology and ideas to individual research programmes and delivers a flexible, tailored approach to all research objectives, whether a one-off service or a complete research programme.

PRECOS, an acronym of Pre-Clinical Oncology Services, was officially launched as a specialist business unit of the University of Nottingham (UK) in 2004. PRECOS evolved from the research expertise of the Division of Pre-clinical Oncology (formerly Academic Unit of Cancer Studies), which had successful collaborations with pharmaceutical and biotech companies in the UK, EU, US and Japan for over a decade. For further information: www.precos.co.uk

For further press information please contact: Sarah Evans - The Scott Partnership, 1 Whiteside, Station Road, Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, CW4 8AA, United Kingdom. Tel: + 44 1477 539 539 Fax: +44 1477 539 540 E-mail: precos@scottpr.com

PRECOS to Unveil New Pre-clinical Oncology Service Portfolio at the 2012 3rd Cancer Targets & Therapeutics Conference and AACR 2012

NOTTINGHAM, UK, 1st February 2012 - Preclinical Oncology Services Limited (PRECOS), a leading pre-clinical research and development service provider with a specific focus on oncology, will be showcasing several new platforms for pre-clinical oncology research at two leading shows: Cancer Targets & Therapeutics, Las Vegas, February 27th - 28th and AACR, Chicago, March 31st - April 4th 2012.

PRECOS leads the way in providing robust models, validated against today’s Standard Of Care agents to enable pre-clinical in vitro and in vivo testing of the next generation of oncology candidate drugs. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) forecasts that by 2030 there will be over 26 million new cases and 17 million deaths per year from cancer. PRECOS will be launching several new cutting-edge services at the North American shows which support target validation and drug screening early in the research process for anti-cancer activity. The company provides expertise, specialism and innovation to small to medium biotechnology companies and the new platforms will support new and existing projects going forward.

At the shows PRECOS will highlight how it can deliver a customised screening platform either in 2-D or 3-D in vitro and/or in vivo that can far more closely model the development of cancer and therefore more accurately reflect the effect of potential candidate entities. Cell lines created from patient primary tissue that “never see plastic” are selected based their true characteristics as cancer cells, instead of their ability to survive in vitro.

Dr Neil Rotherham, chairman of PRECOS comments, “The new service lines demonstrate our commitment to offer a world-class service and the platforms provide significant benefits to clients. We are excited to talk to existing and potential clients from around the world at these leading events to demonstrate the breadth of solutions we can offer them for their oncology research and development needs.”

The 2012 3rd Cancer Targets & Therapeutics Conference examines new and emerging targets and therapeutics in the area of cancer research. Speakers at the event provide case studies of emerging targets in order to address some of the issues surrounding target-based drug discovery and development. The AACR Annual Meeting will highlight the best and latest findings in all major areas of cancer research. PRECOS’ full service offering will be highlighted at Cancer Targets & Therapeutics 2012 and on booth #4306 at AACR 2012. For further information please call +44 (0)870 166 6234, email enquiries@precos.co.uk or visit www.precos.co.uk

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About PRECOS Ltd
PRECOS Ltd. is a flexible pre-clinical research and development service with a specific focus on oncology, with an established track record in providing expert support to direct cancer drug development projects from concept to clinic. PRECOS evaluates the innovative cancer medicines of the future in patient-relevant models to ensure that pre-clinical efficacy assessment is predictive of how the drug is likely to behave in clinical trials with cancer patients. The PRECOS team of expert scientists assist in the selection and execution of appropriate analytical systems by a staged approach of in vitro studies, in vivo model development, subsequent in vivo mechanistic and therapeutic evaluations and post-study analyses, all conveyed with added value through specialist scientific interpretation of the data. PRECOS scientists apply cutting-edge technology and ideas to individual research programmes and delivers a flexible, tailored approach to all research objectives, whether a one-off service or a complete research programme.

PRECOS, an acronym of Pre-Clinical Oncology Services, was officially launched as a specialist business unit of the University of Nottingham (UK) in 2004. PRECOS evolved from the research expertise of the Division of Pre-clinical Oncology (formerly Academic Unit of Cancer Studies), which had successful collaborations with pharmaceutical and biotech companies in the UK, EU, US and Japan for over a decade. For further information: www.precos.co.uk

For further press information please contact: Sarah Evans - The Scott Partnership, 1 Whiteside, Station Road, Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, CW4 8AA, United Kingdom. Tel: + 44 1477 539 539 Fax: +44 1477 539 540 E-mail: precos@scottpr.com

PRECOS Enjoys Successful First Year with Significant Client Growth

NOTTINGHAM, UK, 13 September 2011 - Preclinical Oncology Services Limited (PRECOS), a leading pre-clinical research and development service provider with a specific focus on oncology, announces that it has more than doubled the number of new clients using its strategic services during the first six months of 2011.

Since its spin-out from the University of Nottingham in August 2010, the company has enjoyed increasing success. Additionally, PRECOS has added a new senior member of staff to its rapidly growing team in order to accommodate this growth and the significant expansion envisaged for 2012.

Dr. Aaron Cranston joins PRECOS as head of in vivo services with 15 years’ extensive experience in oncology research. His expertise has been honed in both academia and practice, more recently in drug discovery and translational medicine for KuDOS Pharmaceuticals as Head of Pharmacology.