Novel laboratory-developed tests, powered by Molecular Instruments, Inc HCR Pro RNA in situ hybridization (RNA-ISH) technology, can differentiate between and sub-classify psoriasis and atopic dermatitis skin biopsies and guide treatment selection, the Company reports.
The test development was led by William Damsky, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Dermatology and Pathology, in the Department of Dermatology at Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, CT. The tests are designed to work within existing clinical workflows to evaluate key immunologic signals in skin biopsy specimens and provide clear, reproducible data to allow for more personalized treatment approaches. They comprise a unique four-biomarker panel to help make the differential diagnosis.
“These novel biomarker-based LDTs are bringing molecular precision into routine clinical practice with the aim of improving diagnosis and treatment accuracy,” says Dr. Damsky in a news release. “In cases where clinical and histological findings are ambiguous, these tests reveal the molecular pathways driving patients’ disease. The LDTs also provide information on where molecules are expressed within the tissue, enabling us to understand both the level of expression and its precise location. The technology has great potential, and we look forward to expanding our testing to include additional biomarkers and dermatologic conditions.”
The clinical-grade, protease-free HCR Pro RNA-ISH technology enables the highest sensitivity for detecting target RNA molecules while preserving tissue integrity. HCR Pro seamlessly integrates with automated staining platforms and enables streamlined, reproducible results suitable for a wide range of clinical applications.
“The successful implementation of HCR Pro technology in a clinical setting marks a significant technical milestone for Molecular Instruments,” shares Aneesh Acharya, PhD, Chief Commercial Officer of Molecular Instruments. “This advancement demonstrates the potential for molecular diagnostic approaches to enhance precision medicine across not just dermatology but various medical specialties where tissue biopsies guide treatment decisions. We look forward to enabling a new wave of diagnostics through collaboration with top medical centers, laboratories, and medical and research teams.”
Dr. Damsky will be presenting his work on tissue-based biomarkers in psoriasis and eczema at the 28th Joint Meeting of the International Society of Dermatopathology (ISDP) and the 2025 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting in Orlando, FL.
