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Foundation Medicine Partners with South Dakota Hospital on Cancer Genomics

NEW YORK (GenomeWeb) – Avera McKennan Hospital today announced it has signed an agreement with Foundation Medicine to partner on cancer genomics.

The hospital's Sioux Falls, S.D.-based Avera Cancer Institute is conducting studies with the molecular diagnostics firm that focus on personalized medicine in oncology and fundamental cancer biology.

Other areas of potential future collaboration include joint research, data sharing and database development, education, and patient support programs.

"Foundation Medicine specializes in genomic sequencing that is instrumental to our program, as we tailor cancer treatment based on the specific genetic changes that drive tumors," Brian Leyland-Jones, VP of molecular and experimental medicine at Avera Cancer Institute, said in a statement.  

"Our tests have the potential to open up new treatment options for patients with cancer by matching them with a targeted therapy or clinical trial," Foundation Medicine Medical Director Jeff Ross said.

Financial and other details of the agreement were not disclosed.

On Monday, Foundation Medicine announced an R&D collaboration worth at least $150 million with Roche, as part of a $1.2 billion deal giving Roche a majority stake in the firm.

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