About us
Our tests detect characteristic epigenetic changes, i.e., DNA methylations, in cancer cells. These highly informative biomarkers, identified and patented by us, form the core of our products and are the foundation of our company.
Our corporate strategy for IVD test development, i.e., after test validation and initial preclinical studies, aims at collaborating with international partners. After product approval, marketing will be carried out directly through licensing to our partners.
History
Epitype GmbH is a spin-off of the University Women’s Hospital in Jena.
Epitype was initially founded as oncgnostics GmbH in early 2012 as a spin-off from the Department of Gynecology at Jena University Hospital. The foundation for the company’s establishment was laid within the framework of an EU collaborative project (INCA – Infections and Cancer) during research on epigenetic markers in the development of cervical cancer in the Department of Gynecological Molecular Biology (Prof. Dürst). A successful EXIST research transfer project enabled the preparation for founding the company. From the goal of improving early cervical cancer detection, the product GynTect®, a molecular biological test for cervical cancer, emerged and has been on the market since 2015. The developed cancer tests are used in early cancer detection and diagnosis. Since 2025, Epitype GmbH has been further advancing the widespread application of its innovations.
Since May 2021, our company is located in Gewerbepark Nord in Jena. Previously, we were located at the BioInstrumentation Center on Beutenberg Campus in Jena.
Epigenetic markers patented by us for reliable and rapid cervical cancer diagnostics – applicable in early detection, therapy decision, and follow-up care – form the basis for the development of GynTect and ScreenYU Gyn, our diagnostic tests. For further fields of activity, epigenetic markers are validated and their application in diagnostics is patented.
The research- development and manufacturing department and Epitype’s management have been ISO 13485 certified since early 2013.
Awards and Recognitions
Since our spin-off, we have received numerous awards and recognitions for our innovative work in future cancer diagnostics. Examples include 1st place at the Thuringian Elevator Pitch, the Thuringian Founder and Researcher Award, the IQ Innovation Award Central Germany in the Life Science Cluster, and our award at the European Venture Summit.