Oxford Biodynamics in licencing deal with Singapor’s EpiFit

Oxford BioDynamics (OBD) has entered into a pilot development agreement with EpiFit PTE. LTD., (EpiFit), a new Singapore based company, to identify epigenetic biomarkers to evaluate predispositions, variations and responses in healthy volunteers undergoing fitness programmes conducted by EpiFit.

According to the agreement, OBD’s will use it’s EpiSwitch platform to help identify and monitor those healthy fitness volunteers and trainees who may benefit from EpiFit strength or endurance training programmes. EpiFit will evaluate an individual’s epigenetic state to identify those biomarkers that indicate an individual’s suitability to aerobic and/or anaerobic training.

Furthermore, after finishing the initial project, OBD will grant EpiFit the option of a multi-year global licence. Such screening will initially be aimed at determining the right blend of aerobic and anaerobic training, to design customised training programmes that help maximise fitness and health benefits.

Christian Hoyer Millar, Chief Executive Officer of Oxford BioDynamics, said: “We are delighted to be working with EpiFit to help analyse and monitor the effects of different fitness programmes on individuals using our propriety EpiSwitch platform.

EpiFit’s CEO, Scott Callender, said: “We have become increasingly excited about Episwitch, and the huge role epigenetic science is likely to have in society in the years to come. We are involved in businesses in the “patient engagement” space, plus fitness training technology platforms, which have helped us to identify the value of Episwitch not only in identifying disease, but in keeping people healthy. By understanding what sort of exercise an individual will respond best to, we can design programmes that better avoid injury, and that maximise the health benefits to be derived. We believe “exercise is medicine”, and that preventing people from getting sick in the first place, as being true healthcare.”