Proteomics International Laboratories Ltd (ASX: PIQ), a global leader in predictive diagnostics, has announced that it has been granted its first patent in Japan for Pro marker Endo—a world-first, non-invasive blood test developed to diagnose endometriosis. This strategic patent grant represents a major milestone in the company’s global intellectual property (IP) rollout and sets the stage for accelerated commercialization across key markets.
Groundbreaking Diagnostic Solution
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting roughly 1 in 9 women of reproductive age, characterized by the growth of tissue similar to the uterine lining outside the uterus. It causes severe pelvic pain, infertility, and impacts mental and physical well-being. Current diagnostic methods—mainly laparoscopic surgery—are invasive, expensive, and result in diagnostic delays of 7 to 10 years on average.
PromarkerEndo offers a revolutionary alternative. Using a simple blood sample, the test applies a biomarker-based algorithm to detect the presence of endometriosis and deliver results in the form of a “traffic light” system:
Green: Low likelihood of endometriosis
Amber: Moderate likelihood
Red: High likelihood
This intuitive format provides clinicians with actionable insights, greatly improving early-stage detection and treatment planning.
Strong Clinical Results
The PromarkerEndo test has demonstrated outstanding clinical performance in both research and real-world settings. Results from a landmark clinical study involving 704 participants—recently presented at the 16th World Congress on Endometriosis (May 2025)—highlighted the test’s exceptional diagnostic accuracy. The area under the curve (AUC), a measure of diagnostic performance, ranged from 0.89 to 0.94, particularly excelling in early-stage (I-II) detection.
These outcomes surpass many traditional diagnostic approaches and emphasize the test’s utility as a first-line screening tool in both primary and specialist care.
Strategic Importance of the Japanese Patent
The patent granted by the Japan Patent Office significantly enhances Proteomics International’s global IP portfolio. Japan, with a population of over 125 million and an advanced healthcare system, represents a high-value market for women’s health diagnostics. The new patent strengthens the company’s freedom to operate in Asia and supports upcoming commercial launches.
Proteomics International now holds patents or patent applications for PromarkerEndo in Australia, China, Europe, and the United States, with the Japanese grant adding further momentum to its global rollout.
Managing Director Dr. Richard Lipscombe commented:
“The Japanese patent is a critical milestone in protecting our proprietary technology in one of the world’s most sophisticated healthcare markets. It reinforces the strength of our innovation and supports our mission to bring non-invasive, accessible diagnostics to women suffering from endometriosis worldwide.”
Path to Commercialization
Proteomics International is actively working towards the initial commercial launch of PromarkerEndo in Australia by Q3 2025, with other markets such as Japan, the EU, and the U.S. expected to follow. The company is in discussions with diagnostic partners and health providers to integrate PromarkerEndo into standard clinical pathways.
The potential market for the test is vast. With endometriosis affecting over 190 million women globally, and with growing public and clinical awareness, demand for improved diagnostics is surging.
Broader Implications
Beyond offering a non-invasive alternative to laparoscopy, PromarkerEndo has the potential to reshape how healthcare systems approach chronic women’s health conditions. By enabling earlier diagnosis:
Patient outcomes can improve dramatically
Healthcare costs associated with delayed diagnosis and invasive procedures may be reduced
Physicians gain a powerful tool for faster triage and referral
Additionally, this development aligns with global policy shifts focused on addressing historical gaps in women’s health research and diagnostics.
Conclusion
The Japanese patent marks a crucial step forward for Proteomics International and its pioneering PromarkerEndo test. With clinical validation, global IP protection, and a clear path to market, the company is well-positioned to transform endometriosis diagnosis—bringing hope to millions of women who have long faced delays, misdiagnosis, and inadequate care
🔖 Disclaimer:
This article is based on publicly available information provided by Proteomics International Laboratories and related sources.