Ilico Genetics, a Spin Off of Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, is developing the first methylated DNA-based molecular test specifically designed for the early detection of gastric cancer, detecting cancer years before the industry gold standard, Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD).

With only a blood sample, our test detects a tumor in the stomach or lesions that could evolve into gastric cancer even without symptoms present. The results are dynamic and show the cumulative presence of tumors over time. The test reduces treatment costs by ~ 90%, compared to advanced-stage treatments; provides timely results to prioritize patients at risk (“fast track”); has screening potential due to its low cost and ease of implementation; and has monitoring capacity for the dynamic follow-up of premalignant lesions (i.e., gastric intestinal metaplasia or “GIM”).