Adaptive, Microsoft to develop universal TCR-antigen map
Adaptive Biotechnologies Corp. (Seattle, Wash.) and Microsoft Corp.(NASDAQ:MSFT) partnered to develop a universal map of T cell receptors (TCRs) and their antigens using Adaptive's immunosequencing platform and Microsoft's research, machine-learning and cloud computing technologies. The project's goal is to develop a universal blood-based test that can read a person's immune system to detect a variety of diseases, including infections, cancers and autoimmune disorders in their earliest stage.
Microsoft made an undisclosed investment in Adaptive, and the companies together "intend to commit a few hundred million dollars" to the project, according to Adaptive's President, CEO and co-Founder Chad Robins. Robins said Adaptive will own rights to the diagnostic tests...