Progenity Announces New Patent for Single-Molecule Detection Technology


Progenity, Inc. recently announced a new patent related to its single-molecule detection platform under development. The USPTO has issued U.S. Patent No. 11,186,863 titled Methods, Systems, and Compositions for Counting Nucleic Acid Molecules. The issued claims cover methods for capturing, amplifying, and imaging single copies of target nucleic acid molecules.

“This patent covers critical methods for counting target molecules, obviating the need for sequencing,” said Matthew Cooper, General Manager, Diagnostics. “Our Single-Molecule Detection Platform is designed to enable tests such as noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) or liquid biopsy for cancer to be performed without the need for costly, complex sequencing, which would greatly reduce cost and simplify operational implementation. The platform also has potential applications beyond nucleic acids, such as proteins. As Progenity migrates away from the commercial diagnostics business, we are actively seeking partners to further develop this promising asset.”

Progenity has developed a strong patent portfolio supporting its single-molecule detection platform, including six distinct patent families that cover different aspects of the company’s molecular counting platform and a separate family directed to detecting nucleosomal positioning patterns, which can be useful for determining cell-free DNA tissue-of-origin. These patents are part of Progenity’s corporate portfolio consisting of 96 patent families, including 180 issued patents and more than 220 pending applications. The portfolio includes patents and applications directed to methods and devices for drug delivery, methods and devices for GI sampling and diagnostics, methods and compositions for treating disease, and molecular and protein tools, assays and diagnostics.

Progenity, Inc. is a biotechnology company innovating in the fields of women’s health, gastrointestinal health and oral biotherapeutics. Progenity applies a multi-omics approach, combining genomics, epigenomics, proteomics, and metabolomics to its molecular testing products and to the development of a suite of investigational ingestible devices designed to provide precise diagnostic sampling and drug delivery solutions. Progenity’s vision is to transform healthcare to become more precise and personal by improving diagnoses of disease and improving patient outcomes through localized treatment with targeted therapies. For more information, visit www.progenity.com.