Fermiscan Limited   Overview Fermiscan is a publicly listed (ASX:FER) biotechnology company developing and commercialising a diagnostic test for breast cancer using synchrotron X-ray diffraction of hair. The test is being trialled in Australia and internationally, and plans are underway to commercialise the test in Australia followed by other countries. One of the key advantages of the Fermiscan test is that it does not exclude any women on the basis of age or breast composition. Once operational, this test could be used as an adjunct to current diagnostic imaging procedures and furthermore has the potential for non-invasive monitoring of staged treatment in breast cancer patients, which is an area of significant unmet need. Fermiscan was named 'Australian Innovator of the Year' at the Austrade sponsored annual 'Innovation Day Shoot Out' competition in New York in January 2008. The 'Innovation Day Shoot Out' is a national showcase promoting Australia's leading research and technology companies to the US market. Business Opportunities (i.e Corporate Alliances/Partnerships) Fermiscan has licensed the test to an agent in six south-east Asian countries (Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Vietnam). A feasibility study has also been completed in Japan. Fermiscan is now seeking partners in other key geographic regions to assist Fermiscan in obtaining regulatory approval, and to market and distribute the test through appropriate healthcare channels. Technology/Products and Services Description The Fermiscan breast cancer test is currently in the developmental phase and is not yet commercially available. The test requires only around 20 hairs to be cut from the scalp. The hairs must be free from treatments such as dyes, perms or straightening for at least four weeks prior to collection. The hairs are placed into a specially designed collection device and then sent to Fermiscan’s office for processing and analysis at a synchrotron. When the test is operational, it is envisaged that the results will be sent to the patient’s healthcare practitioner Competitive Advantages The Fermiscan breast cancer test offers the potential for a non-invasive, low risk (the patient is not exposed to radiation), test for the presence of breast cancer for women of any age. The test is highly convenient as only a few hair fibres are needed. A significant advantage of this test over imaging technologies is that its performance is not affected by different breast types or compositions. The technology therefore potentially provides early detection of breast cancer with benefits for women's health including increased survival and treatment options. In clinical trials to date the test has shown an accuracy rate of around 80 per cent. Website address: www.fermiscan.com.au