Biodesix, Inc. (NASDAQ:BDSX) reported progress in two collaborative Molecular Residual Disease (MRD) monitoring programs designed to detect circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in blood following cancer treatment.
The programs use two different approaches: a tumor-informed solution being developed with Bio-Rad Laboratories (NYSE:BIO) and a tumor-naïve solution being developed through a newly launched program with Thermo Fisher Scientific (NYSE:TMO).
Both programs are intended to support the detection and monitoring of residual or recurrent disease, according to Biodesix. The solutions remain under development and validation.
Bio-Rad Collaboration Uses Tumor-Informed Approach
Biodesix’s tumor-informed solution has been developed through a multi-year collaboration with Bio-Rad.
The approach uses Biodesix’s Diagnostic Cortex bioinformatics platform to identify genomic alterations specific to an individual patient’s tumor. Bio-Rad’s Droplet Digital PCR technology is then used to monitor those alterations in blood samples.
According to Biodesix, the technology can detect ctDNA at levels below one part per million of total DNA in a blood sample.
The reported detection capability relates to the technology under development and does not by itself establish clinical effectiveness or patient outcomes.
Thermo Fisher Program Does Not Require Tumor Tissue
The second program, recently launched with Thermo Fisher Scientific, uses a tumor-naïve approach.
The solution is designed to detect methylated ctDNA using next-generation sequencing on Thermo Fisher’s Genexus platform. Unlike the tumor-informed approach, it does not require tumor tissue.
Biodesix said this could potentially allow MRD testing to be used in cases where archived tumor tissue is unavailable or insufficient. This remains a potential application of the technology rather than an established clinical outcome.
Both solutions are undergoing validation in collaboration with investigators at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. MSK holds institutional financial interests in Biodesix, according to the information provided.
The two solutions are also being designed to operate on their respective partners’ laboratory platforms, which are already installed in laboratories internationally.
Biodesix Plans MRD Data Presentations
Biodesix Chief Scientific Officer Gary Pestano, Ph.D., is scheduled to participate in a panel discussion on MRD monitoring at the 5th Annual Roth Healthcare Opportunities Conference in New York on September 29, 2026.
The company also plans to present data supporting the two programs at the AMP 2026 Annual Meeting in Seattle in November and at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium in December.
According to Biodesix, the two development programs expand its activities beyond its existing focus on lung diagnostics.
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