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SignPost Selected for NewChip Accelerator

SignPost was accepted into Newchip’s renowned global accelerator program. Designed to provide all the skills and tools seed-stage founders need to rapidly fund, build and scale their companies, past accelerator cohorts averaged more than 17.5 times the average funding amount.

“Newchip evaluates a vast and diverse number of seed-stage companies from around the globe, selecting only a small percentage to be part of our Seed Accelerator program,” says Brian Lee, Head of Product at Newchip. “This careful vetting process of both the business model and founder makes us an ideal partner for venture capital investors and other key stakeholders in early-stage startup financings who are looking for promising startups that are beginning to generate traction and revenue.  Life Science companies like SignPost can scale quickly with proper funding and guidance. We are excited for SignPost and believe they will be well positioned to take advantage of our fast-expanding global ecosystem at Newchip.”

 

 

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Breast Cancer over takes lung as most common cancer

GENEVA (Reuters) –Breast cancer has overtaken lung cancer as the most common form of the disease, accounting for nearly 12% of new cases each year worldwide, the World Health Organization said on Tuesday.

“For the first time, breast cancer now constitutes the most commonly occurring cancer globally,” Andre Ilbawi, a cancer specialist at the WHO, told a U.N. briefing ahead of World Cancer Day on Thursday.

Lung cancer was the most common type for the last two decades, but is now in second place, ahead of colorectal cancer, which is the third most widespread, Ilbawi said.

An estimated 2.3 million new cases of breast cancer were diagnosed last year, representing 11.7% of all cancer cases, the WHO said in a statement. “Among women, breast cancer is the most commonly-diagnosed cancer and the leading cause of cancer death worldwide,” it said.

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SignPost Selected to Present at the 2021 BioConnect Conference Hosted by H.C. Wainwright

January 7, 2021 – Ontario, Canada – SignPost Cancer Dx Inc. (“SignPost” or “company”), a company developing an advanced molecular diagnostic test to identify invasive breast cancer, announced today that Mr. Peter Blaney, Chief Executive Officer, will present at the 2021 BioConnect Conference hosted by H.C. Wainwright. Registered attendees can access the recorded presentation on-demand (24×7) for the duration of the conference.

Conference Date: January 11-14, 2021 (Monday-Thursday)
Presentation On-Demand:  Starting 6:00am ET – Monday, January 11, 2021
Registration:   https://hcwevents.com/

Mr. Blaney will highlight the company’s lead product, BreastDefense, a molecular diagnostic test to identify invasive breast cancers, from Stage 1-4, with 98.5% accuracy and the company’s strategy going forward.

SignPost will be available for virtual 1:1 meetings both during and after the BioConnect Conference.  Please contact Jennifer K. Zimmons, Ph.D. jzimmons@zimmonsic.com 917.214.3514 for scheduling.

About SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.

SignPost is a company developing an advanced molecular diagnostic test, BreastDefense, to identify invasive breast cancers, from Stage 1-4, with 98.5% accuracy. BreastDefense is being developed in both tissue and liquid biopsy versions.  SignPost was founded and is managed by Induran Ventures, a Venture Philanthropy General Partnership which strives to achieve both outsized returns and massive social impact through its projects.  For more information, please visit www.signpostcancerdx.com.

 

Forward Looking Statements
This press release includes forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, statements related to the development of our technology, our operations and business strategy, our expected financial results, and corporate updates. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to substantial risks, uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed by these expectations due to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, and we undertake no obligation to review or update any forward-looking statement except as may be required by applicable law.

 

SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.

Peter Blaney

Chief Executive Officer

SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.

Tel: +1 613.532.1290

Email: peterblaney@induranventures.com

 

Investor Contact:

Jennifer K. Zimmons, Ph.D.

Investor Relations

Zimmons International Communications
Tel: +1 917.214.3514

Email: jzimmons@zimmonsic.com

 Source: SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.

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Season’s Greetings from SignPost

Dear Friends,

As the holiday season begins, we hope that this update finds you and your family safe and healthy.  With 2020 coming to a close, we wanted to take the time to review several positive milestones, advancements, and achievements as well as highlight new opportunities that are on the horizon for 2021.

The summary below reviews the highlights, turning points, and milestones of 2020.

1.   Hired US Investor Relations Professional

To increase corporate visibility, SignPost engaged Zimmons International Communications, Inc. (ZIC). Jennifer K. Zimmons, PhD specializes in working with emerging companies and focuses on communications and corporate outreach to family offices, high net-worth investors, and boutique healthcare funds.  Dr. Zimmons is also the Chair of the Program Committee for Women in Bio (New York).  Over the summer and into the fall, ZIC has been involved with: arranging introductions to various types of family offices, boutique investors, and strategic parties; creating various investor materials and press releases; and identifying presentation opportunities for SignPost to highlight the company and its science.

    i.       Featured Speaker and Presenter at Women In Bio’s October  Breast Cancer Awareness Panel

In October, SignPost was featured in Women In Bio’s (WIB) online event entitled “Females Pioneering Accurate Breast Cancer Detection and Innovative Ways of Healing”.  WIB is an international group with over 10,000 members committed to highlighting females in the life sciences and in companies’ instrumental in supporting women’s health.

ii.        Women of Influence and Strategic Introductions

As we round out the year, we remain focused on identifying women of influence in the investment and healthcare areas.  Based on recent outreach efforts, we feel individuals with the aforementioned profile are ideally positioned to be supporters for BreastDefense and for investment and board positions.

 

2.   Filed Provisional Patent

In July 2020, SignPost filed its provisional patent for the company’s lead diagnostic test – BreastDefense.  The patent is for the DNA Methylation Multivariate Biomarkers offering 98.5% specificity and sensitivity (false positives and false negatives).  Having the provisional patent in place is a very significant milestone for SignPost. The provisional patent allows SignPost to more openly share critical information with development partners, investors, and strategic entities.

 

3.   The Cancer Screening Marketplace

The cancer screening marketplace saw some big deals this year.

Earlier in September, the biotech firm, Illumina, announced it will buy back cancer-detection start-up GRAIL, Inc.  in an $8 billion deal.  GRAIL is developing a blood-based cancer test called Galleri™, a medical test that can detect dozens of types of cancer.  While GRAIL is developing a “pan-cancer diagnostic”, from published reports, we believe SignPost has developed a more accurate test specifically for breast cancer where our specificity and sensitivity is better than 98.5%.

In late October 2020, Exact Sciences (Nasdaq: EXAS) announced the intention to buy Thrive Earlier Detection, a private blood-based, multi-cancer screening company.  The transaction was comprised of cash and stock consideration of up to $2.15 billion.

4.   Why Companies Such as SignPost are Critical to Advancing Cancer Treatment Therapies

Dr. Azra Raza talks with Dr. Peter Attia about her new book The Cell in the following podcast.  Take a listen as Dr. Raza discusses the content of her book which takes a critical look at survival rates of cancer for patients (a study of novel cancer treatment outcomes from 2000 to 2016 only increased survival by 2.4 months!)  and why early detection is the way forward. It is a fascinating podcast.  The key times discussing early detection are at 29min-31min and 1hr:24min -1hr:40min.

In closing, we want to thank you for your continued interest in SignPost.  As you can see, there are many opportunities that we look forward to exploring in 2021.  We wish the best in safety and health for you and your family during this holiday season.

Peter Blaney
Chief Executive Officer
SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.
Tel: +1 613.532.1290
E: peterblaney@induranventures.com

Investor and Press Contact:
Jennifer K. Zimmons, Ph.D.
Investor Relations
Zimmons International Communications
Tel: +1 917.214.3514
Email: jzimmons@zimmonsic.com

Source: SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.
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Why Early Detection is Critical to Extending Life for Cancer Patients.

Take a listen to Peter Attias interview with Dr. Raza .

Peter Attia is a Canadian-American physician of Egyptian descent known for his medical practice that focuses on the science of longevity. He is also the first person to make the round-trip swim from Maui and Lanai.

Dr. Azra Raza is a physician, scientist, author, and outspoken advocate for reconfiguring the current model of research in cancer. In this episode, Azra discusses the content of her book, The First Cell, which takes a critical look at the outdated models being used to study cancer resulting in a lack of progress in survival rates for cancer patients. Azra offers a solution which focuses on early detection and prevention, and she concludes with an optimistic outlook for the future of cancer research.

If you have limited time the early detection discussion is at 29min and 1.22min in. However the entire interview is fascinating.

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SignPost Cancer Dx Inc. Featured in Women In Bio’s October Breast Cancer Awareness Panel

Discussion to Cover Current Scientific Advancements and the Importance of Accurate and Early Detection

October 15, 2020 – Ontario, Canada – SignPost Cancer Dx Inc. (“SignPost” or “company”), a company developing an advanced molecular diagnostic test to identify invasive breast cancer is pleased to be participating on the panel for the New York Chapter of Women In Bio.  The event entitled, “Females Pioneering Accurate Breast Cancer Detection and Innovative Ways of Healing”, will be held virtually on Tuesday, October 20, 2020 from 12-1.15pm ET.  Further details can be found on the Women In Bio website under the event’s landing page – click here.

Sari Cross of Induran Ventures – the firm that founded SignPost – will be discussing her perspective on advances in breast cancer detection and why accurate early detection is so critical to women’s health, the healthcare system, and society at large.

“I am honored to be participating in this upcoming Women In Bio event and sharing recent insights with members and guests.  Women’s health, especially through accurate early detection of breast cancer, can have a tremendous impact on the healthcare system and society at large,” stated  Sari Cross. Participating in the panel and interacting with a health-oriented audience will prove to be a lively discussion that will leave attendees more educated about what innovations and options in breast cancer detection are available.”

About Women In Bio (WIB)

Founded in 2002 to support women employed in the field of life sciences from the classroom to the boardroom, Women In Bio (WIB) is a multifaceted organization with 13 chapters across North America and Montreal. It offers an array of professional educational programs, peer to peer learning, mentoring, and networking opportunities, and is the only organization for women that integrates all career levels and life sciences fields. WIB is funded by sponsors and partners dedicated to supporting women of all ages in their lifelong journey in the life sciences and beyond. Please visit http://www.womeninbio.org.

About SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.

SignPost is a company developing an advanced molecular diagnostic test, BreastDefense, to identify invasive breast cancers, from Stage 1 – 4, with 98.5% accuracy. BreastDefense is being developed in both tissue and liquid biopsy versions.  SignPost was founded and is managed by Induran Ventures, a Venture Philanthropy General Partnership which strives to achieve both outsized returns and massive social impact through its projects.  For more information, please visit www.signpostcancerdx.com.

Forward Looking Statements
This press release includes forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, statements related to the development of our technology, our operations and business strategy, our expected financial results, and corporate updates. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to substantial risks, uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed by these expectations due to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, and we undertake no obligation to review or update any forward-looking statement except as may be required by applicable law.

SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.:
Peter Blaney
Chief Executive Officer
SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.
Tel: +1 613.532.1290
Email: peterblaney@induranventures.com

Investor Contact:
Jennifer K. Zimmons, Ph.D.
Investor Relations
Zimmons International Communications
Tel: +1 917.214.3514
Email: jzimmons@zimmonsic.com

Source: SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.

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SignPost Cancer Dx Inc. to Present at the Midwest Venture Capital Consortium

September 14, 2020 – Ontario, Canada – SignPost Cancer Dx Inc. (“SignPost” or “company”), a company developing an advanced molecular diagnostic test to identify invasive breast cancer is pleased to be presenting at the Midwest Venture Capital Consortium.  The event will be held virtually on Monday, September 14, 2020, from 3-4pmCT.

SignPost will be discussing the latest advances in diagnostic testing for breast cancer, upcoming corporate milestones, and the key investment highlights of the company.

“I am honored to have been selected to participate in the Midwest Venture Capital Consortium. Addressing women’s health, especially through early detection of breast cancer, can have a tremendous impact on the healthcare system and society at large,” stated Peter Blaney of SignPost. “Presenting in front of the Midwest Venture Capital Consortium provides SignPost the platform to share its investment opportunity with top-tier professionals who have an eye for early-stage companies.”

About the Midwest Venture Capital Consortium

The Midwest Venture Capital Consortium consists of 33 independent, primarily Midwest-based venture capital firms that have established a consortium to serve Midwest-based start-ups’ funding needs as well as investors seeking the Midwest’s demonstrated exceptional venture capital returns. The consortium, with a combined $2+ billion in cash available for investment, is expected to accelerate Midwest venture capital activity by establishing a virtual one-stop venture capital shop for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Such member firms include: Alumni Ventures Group, Boomerang Catapult, Cultivation Capital, Flyover Capital, Grand Ventures, Illinois Ventures, Loud Capital, Mutual Capital Partners, VCapital, and Wakestream Ventures while most of the Members remain confidential. Consortium members have people on the ground throughout the Midwest plus some representation on the coasts.

About SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.

SignPost Cancer Dx Inc. (“SignPost”) is a company which has developed an advanced molecular diagnostic test, BreastDefense, to identify invasive breast cancer. BreastDefense is a lab-developed molecular test (LDT) that does not require FDA approval.  SignPost is working with Dynacare, a wholly-owned  subsidiary of LabCorp, to complete validation of BreastDefense.  SignPost was founded and is managed by Induran Ventures, a Venture Philanthropy General Partnership which strives to achieve both outsized returns and massive social impact through their projects.  For more information, please visit www.signpostcancerdx.com.

Forward Looking Statements
This press release includes forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, statements related to the development of our technology, our operations and business strategy, our expected financial results, and corporate updates. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to substantial risks, uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed by these expectations due to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, and we undertake no obligation to review or update any forward-looking statement except as may be required by applicable law.

SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.:
Peter Blaney
Chief Executive Officer
SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.
Tel: +1 613.532.1290
Email: peterblaney@induranventures.com

Investor Contact:
Jennifer K. Zimmons, Ph.D.
Investor Relations
Zimmons International Communications
Tel: +1 917.214.3514
Email: jzimmons@zimmonsic.com

Source: SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.

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SignPost Cancer Dx Inc. Files Provisional Patent

DNA Methylation Multivariate Biomarkers Offers 98% Specificity and Sensitivity

July 28, 2020 – Ontario, Canada – SignPost Cancer Dx Inc. (“SignPost” or “company”), a company developing an advanced molecular diagnostic test to identify invasive breast cancer, is pleased to announce the filing of a provisional patent for the company’s lead diagnostic test – BreastDefense.

SignPost’s goal is to create the world’s most accurate screening test for breast cancer utilizing BreastDefense.  BreastDefense is designed to detect all major subtypes of invasive breast cancers from stages 1 to 4.  The test has accuracy rates of 98% or higher – almost eliminating false positives (sensitivity) and false negatives (specificity).  BreastDefense is based upon proprietary algorithms and search strategies.

Currently, BreastDefense is designed as a lab developed test (LDT) to speed the path to market, making the test available as soon as possible.  Furthermore, SignPost is the first company in the world to achieve both high sensitivity and high specificity in one test – distinguishing BreastDefense from other molecular diagnostic tests.

SignPost intends to develop BreastDefense in both a tissue biopsy and a liquid biopsy format.  The liquid biopsy will help breast cancer survivors monitor remission and can also be used to assist mammographers to greatly improve accuracy with annual breast cancer screening.  The tissue biopsy will assist pathologists by improving accuracy in ambiguous cases and help prevent potential misdiagnosis.  The design of BreastDefense positions it for high potential uptake by doctors and patients.

“Having a provisional patent is a very significant milestone for SignPost.  This will allow SignPost to speed up development.  We can now openly share critical information with our development partner, Dynacare (a wholly-owned subsidiary of LabCorp), as we work together to complete clinical validation for the test.  It should greatly enhance our ability to attract capital to complete scale up. It will also position SignPost to patent the technology in the global market to fully amplify the promise and  opportunity” stated Peter Blaney, Chief Executive Officer.

About SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.

SignPost a company which has developed an advanced molecular diagnostic test, BreastDefense, to identify invasive breast cancer. BreastDefense will be a lab developed test.  In Canada, SignPost is working with Dynacare, a wholly owned subsidiary of LabCorp, to complete test validation.  SignPost was founded and is managed by Induran Ventures, a Venture Philanthropy General Partnership which strives to achieve both outsized returns and massive social impact through our projects.  For more information, please visit www.signpostcancerdx.com.

Forward Looking Statements
This press release includes forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, statements related to the development of our technology, our operations and business strategy, our expected financial results, and corporate updates. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to substantial risks, uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed by these expectations due to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, and we undertake no obligation to review or update any forward-looking statement except as may be required by applicable law.

SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.:
Peter Blaney
Chief Executive Officer
SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.
Tel: +1 613.532.1290
Email: peterblaney@induranventures.com

Investor Contact:
Jennifer K. Zimmons, Ph.D.
Investor Relations
Zimmons International Communications
Tel: +1 917.214.3514
Email: jzimmons@zimmonsic.com

Source: SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.

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SignPost Cancer Dx Inc. Retains Zimmons International Communications, Inc. for Investor Relations Activities

Photo of Jennifer K. Zimmons, Ph.D.

July 8, 2020 – Ontario, Canada – SignPost Cancer Dx Inc. (“SignPost” or “company”), a company developing an advanced diagnostic test to identify invasive breast cancer has retained Zimmons International Communications, Inc. (“Zimmons International”), based in New York City, as the company’s financial communications counselor and investor relations firm.

Zimmons International will assist SignPost in developing and managing investor relations initiatives and activities aimed at raising SignPost’s corporate profile.  Specific emphasis will be on broadening the awareness of SignPost among family offices, impact investors, and targeted healthcare publications.

“As SignPost advances BreastDefense to identify invasive breast cancer, we believe that retaining an investor relations and communications expert is a strong strategic move.  Zimmons International is currently introducing SignPost to a variety of family offices and impact investors.  Additionally, Zimmons International is refining our various marketing materials, raising our profile through high-quality media placements, and arranging for SignPost to be featured in various healthcare events.  We feel that these efforts will establish a name for both SignPost and BreastDefense as BreastDefense moves towards regulatory approval,” stated Peter Blaney, Chief Executive Officer of SignPost.

“It is a pleasure to be working with SignPost, especially during this significant period in the company’s development.  Properly diagnosing invasive breast cancer is a major issue for patients, doctors, and the healthcare system.  Supporting SignPost with its investor awareness and media campaigns will help SignPost achieve its goal of offering a solution that can help millions of women,” stated Jennifer K. Zimmons, Ph.D., President of Zimmons International.

About SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.

SignPost Cancer Dx Inc. (“SignPost”) is developing an advanced diagnostic breast cancer test, BreastDefense, to identify invasive breast cancer. BreastDefense is a lab developed molecular test (LDT) that does not require FDA approval. SignPost will work with both Dynacare and LabCorp to build this product.  SignPost was founded and is managed by Induran Ventures, a Venture Philanthropy General Partnership which strives to achieve both outsized returns and massive social impact through our projects.  For more information, please visit www.signpostcancerdx.com.

About Zimmons International Communications, Inc.

Zimmons International Communications, Inc. (“ZIC”) is a boutique investor relations firm based in New York founded by Jennifer K. Zimmons, Ph.D.  ZIC specializes in working with international companies as well as with portfolio companies of family offices and private equity firms.  Clients include both public and private entities. ZIC’s client base is composed of emerging healthcare opportunities as well as technology, resources, and consumer health companies.  Dr. Zimmons also serves as the Program Committee Chair for Women in BIO (New York Chapter) as well as board member for a family office focusing on emerging and frontier markets. For more information, please visit www.zimmonsic.com.

Forward Looking Statements
This press release includes forward-looking statements including, but not limited to, statements related to the development of our technology, our operations and business strategy, our expected financial results, and corporate updates. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to substantial risks, uncertainty and changes in circumstances. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed by these expectations due to risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, and we undertake no obligation to review or update any forward-looking statement except as may be required by applicable law.

SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.:

Peter Blaney
Chief Executive Officer
SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.
Tel: +1 613.532.1290
Email: peterblaney@induranventures.com

Investor Contact:

Jennifer K. Zimmons, Ph.D.
Investor Relations
Zimmons International Communications
Tel: +1 917.214.3514
Email: jzimmons@zimmonsic.com

Source: SignPost Cancer Dx Inc.

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The Conspiracy of Hope

Renée Pellerin is a former CBC health journalist and the author of Conspiracy of Hope, The Truth About Breast Cancer Screening, published by Goose Lane Editions. Below is an except from her article in the Globe and Mail responding to the new  guidelines published by the Canadian Task Force on Preventative Health Care for breast cancer screening.

“Every woman over 40 should be aware of new Canadian breast screening guidelines. Every family physician should be prepared to discuss those guidelines with their patients. Every provincial breast screening program should take a good, hard look at what it is telling women.

One of the main harms of screening is false positive results, which can lead to unnecessary further tests including biopsies and the anxiety resulting from being labelled as having cancer. The task force analysis is that false positive results occur in between 20 and 30 per cent of all women screened over seven years.

The other main harm is over-diagnosis, not to be confused with a false positive. It’s when a mammogram detects real cancer, but it’s one that does not grow, one that a woman will never feel, will never cause a problem. There is no way to know which screen-detected lesion will behave this way, thus it is always involves surgery and possible additional treatment.

A Canadian screening trial estimated that up to 50 per cent of screen-detected breast cancers in women under 50 were over diagnosed. The number of cases in older women were fewer, but still high. So while screening may discover early cancers that are more easily treated, it may also discover cancers that may be treated unnecessarily.

Yet, how many women and their doctors understand that the benefits of screening are limited, while the risk of over-diagnosis resulting in over treatment is significant?”

Here is the link to the full text from the Globe and Mail on December 11, 2018.
Here is the link to the book Conspiracy of Hope.