SEATTLE, WA--(Marketwire - February 25, 2010) - Atossa Genetics, Inc., a privately-held healthcare company focused on the development and marketing of novel cellular and molecular diagnostic risk assessment products for breast cancer, including the FDA approved Mammary Aspirate Specimen Cytology Test (MASCT) System, announced today that Edward Sauter, M.D., Ph.D., associate dean for research at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health, has joined Atossa's Scientific Advisory Board.
Dr. Sauter is widely recognized for his research and clinical experience in breast cancer. Among his many accomplishments, Dr. Sauter and a team of researchers pioneered noninvasive and minimally invasive techniques to predict breast cancer risk using nipple aspirate fluid (NAF). Dr. Sauter is the co-author of over 100 peer-reviewed publications on breast cancer, the majority of which pertain to cytology and molecular diagnostic biomarkers in NAF.
"I am delighted to welcome Dr. Sauter to our Scientific Advisory Board," stated Steven C. Quay, M.D., Ph.D., Chairman, President and CEO. "Dr. Sauter is an accomplished surgeon and breast cancer researcher, and he brings a broad expertise in translational research, developing the results of research into real-world solutions for patients. I look forward to the contributions he will make to the advancement of second-generation breast cancer diagnostic products and services in development at Atossa."
"Early detection of premalignant cells and molecular biomarkers in nipple aspirate fluid provides patients and physicians with important information that may be useful in preventing breast cancer through a personalized medicine approach," commented Dr. Sauter. "Atossa's MASCT System holds promise to serve as an important adjunct to mammography for the benefit of patients."
ABOUT THE MASCT SYSTEM
The MASCT System is designed to collect nipple aspirate fluid (NAF), which contains cells from the lining of the milk ducts and the lobules where 85% of all breast cancers originate. Once collected, the NAF sample undergoes laboratory analysis to determine whether the cells are normal, atypical (premalignant), or malignant. The MASCT System uses no radiation, is simple, painless, and inexpensive, and takes less than 10 minutes in a doctor's office or mammography center. The MASCT System is intended as an adjunct to mammography for women ages 40 to 75 and younger women at high risk for breast cancer.
The MASCT System addresses a large and growing worldwide market. In the U.S. alone approximately 37 million mammograms are performed each year. Worldwide, more than 100 million mammograms are performed annually.
The MASCT System, including the collection device and laboratory procedures, is covered by 14 U.S. and foreign patents. Additional patent applications are pending.
For additional information on Atossa Genetics, Inc. and the MASCT System, please visit www.atossagenetics.com.
Contact Information:
Contacts:
Corporate:
Steven C. Quay, M.D., Ph.D.
Chairman, President and CEO
206-325-6086
www.mbsvalue.com