This article has been updated to reflect that Orig3n did not acquire Interleukin's heart health test, which was previously sold. A press release announcing the acquisition inaccurately mentioned the test, according to an Orig3n spokesperson
NEW YORK (GenomeWeb) – Orig3n announced today that it has acquired Interleukin Genetics' CLIA-certified laboratory and its remaining assets.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Interleukin said in July that it would liquidate its assets three weeks after it announced it was laying off 63 percent of its workforce and suspending sales of Ilustra, its controversial genetic test for severe gum disease and elevated systemic inflammation. At the time, company management said that it believed its principal assets were its lab and intellectual property related to its Ilustra program, cardiovascular disease test, osteoarthritis test, and Inherent Health tests.
Orig3n said Interleukin's technology will now become a core component of its own DNA test business, and that the automated genotyping lab is fully licensed for testing in all 50 states and is capable of processing more than 1 million samples each year. Further, Orig3n added it will also make use of Interleukin's Ilustra Inflammation Management Program and its Inherent Health genetic tests for nutritional needs, weight management, and bone health. All personalized genetic tests will be consolidated under the Orig3n brand. (Interleukin's heart health test was not included in this deal because it was previously sold.)
"Once we met with Interleukin Genetics, we saw a natural alignment between the two organizations regarding our shared commitment to a future of personalized health," Orig3n CEO Robin Smith said in a statement. "With our trajectory of accelerated growth, we couldn't imagine a better fit for acquisition. We are very pleased to be welcoming Interleukin Genetics to Orig3n."
Rene Oda, previously the director of technology at Interleukin, will join Orig3n as director of product management. Lynn Doucette-Stamm, previously Interleukin's senior vice president of development and clinical operations, will continue in that role at Orig3n.