MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY INNOVATORS: SIENNA CANCER DIAGNOSTICS
The Australian medical technologies sector has a reputation for innovation and quality. The Australian
companies in this industry are at the forefront of developing ground-breaking products to improve the
health and well-being of global communities. With significant investment in research and development
and high-value manufacturing – the industry is situated perfectly to take advantage of Australia’s
competitive strengths to export niche products to the global market.
Sienna Cancer Diagnostics is a Melbourne based
biotechnology company which specialises in the
development and commercialisation of novel cancer
diagnostic tests. In addition to diagnostic test
development, Sienna manufactures products for research
institutions and pathology laboratories.
Using a unique biomarker to diagnose cancer
With the rising prevalence of cancer across the globe, early diagnosis is vital. Sienna is dedicated to
researching enzymes (biomarkers) which indicate the presence of cancer and developing novel cancer
diagnostic technologies. Sienna’s technology platform is based on the biomarker telomerase, and the
hTERT protein by which it can be detected.
Telomerase is present in cancer cells and is recognised as a remarkable marker for cancer. It was the
subject of the 2009 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for a group of scientists, including Elizabeth
Blackburn.
Harnessing this important and unique biomarker for the purpose of cancer diagnosis is a world first. A
urine test using this biomarker will be used by pathology laboratories, initially to test for bladder cancer,
with other cancer types added in the future. A urine-based diagnostic test with strong performance
characteristics is expected to not only reduce the number of cystoscopies per year, but also provide an
earlier indication of cancer.
Benefits of collaboration
Sienna has highlighted two key factors which have contributed to its success.
Utilising expert partners and end-users to develop technology and improve functionality:
Development of a product for clinical diagnostic use must be done in close collaboration with technicians
who will perform the test, and clinicians who will analyse and use the test. Royal Melbourne Hospital,
Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Western Health were instrumental in Sienna's development of a
clinically useful test. These partners sourced clinical sample materials, and provided Sienna with clinical
pathology expertise and advice to assess and improve the clinical performance of the test. Not only did
these partnerships ensure proper form-for-function of the end product, they also helped Sienna create a
product that fills a well-defined market need.
Utilising invaluable resources and connections:
Sustaining a company for the long periods of time required in biotechnology requires commitment on the
part of investors, company management and the board.
Sienna has learned the importance of a well-researched
business case, to never give up, ask questions and hire
the best people and partners.
This case study is based on information from Sienna Cancer
Diagnostics and was developed with the assistance of AusBiotech.
For further information visit www.siennadiagnostics.com.au.