Augurex Life Sciences Corp., a leading innovator in autoimmune-based diagnostics, today announced a strategic agreement with MitogenDx, a Canadian specialty laboratory focused on autoimmune and rheumatology diagnostic testing. Under the terms of the agreement, MitogenDx will offer the JOINTstat® blood test, significantly expanding access to advanced diagnostic testing and disease monitoring for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) among clinicians and patients throughout Canada.
“Our partnership with MitogenDx represents a significant step forward in expanding access to JOINTstat® in Alberta and across the country,” said Neil Klompas, Chief Executive Officer of Augurex Life Sciences. “MitogenDx’s leadership and longstanding reputation in autoimmune diagnostics make them an ideal partner to help clinicians not only identify rheumatoid arthritis earlier, but also monitor disease progression more effectively. This, in turn, will improve outcomes for patients managing this chronic and often debilitating disease.”
JOINTstat®: Advancing Precision Diagnostics in RA
JOINTstat® is a Health Canada Class II in vitro diagnostic blood test designed to detect the biomarker 14-3-3eta, which has been clinically validated for diagnosing and monitoring RA. Elevated 14-3-3eta levels are strongly associated with more severe disease and an increased risk of joint damage. By complementing existing biomarkers, 14-3-3eta improves diagnostic sensitivity, particularly in patients with early-stage or seronegative RA, where traditional tests may be less effective.
In addition to aiding diagnosis, JOINTstat® provides clinicians with critical insights into disease progression and patient response to therapy. This enables healthcare providers to make more informed treatment decisions and better tailor long-term management plans for patients, ultimately improving quality of life and clinical outcomes.
MitogenDx: Expertise in Autoimmune and Rheumatology Testing
Founded by Dr. Marvin Fritzler, MD, PhD, a pioneer in rheumatology research and diagnostics, MitogenDx is based in Calgary, Alberta, and is widely recognized for its expertise in autoimmune and connective tissue disease testing. The laboratory is dedicated to providing high-quality, clinically relevant testing that supports precise patient management, making it a natural partner for Augurex in expanding the reach of JOINTstat® across Canada.
The integration of JOINTstat® into MitogenDx’s comprehensive testing portfolio represents an important advancement in precision diagnostics and autoimmune disease care. The test is slated to be available to ordering physicians through MitogenDx’s laboratory network starting January 1, 2026, further reinforcing Augurex’s commitment to expanding access to advanced autoimmune diagnostics both nationally and globally.
Meeting the Evolving Needs of Rheumatology
“We are proud to collaborate with Augurex, one of Canada’s leading diagnostic developers in the field of autoimmunity, to bring JOINTstat® to clinicians and patients across the country,” said Dr. Marvin Fritzler, Founder and Medical Director of MitogenDx. “Rheumatologists increasingly require biomarkers that provide insights beyond simple diagnosis. JOINTstat® offers that next level of clinical information, allowing physicians to monitor disease progression, assess therapeutic response, and make more precise, personalized treatment decisions. This can have a direct and meaningful impact on patient outcomes.”
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, progressive autoimmune disease affecting millions of individuals worldwide, leading to joint inflammation, pain, and functional impairment. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical to slowing disease progression and preventing irreversible joint damage. However, traditional diagnostic methods may be limited, particularly in cases where patients are seronegative or present with atypical disease symptoms. JOINTstat® addresses this unmet need by providing a reliable, scientifically validated biomarker that complements conventional tests and enhances the clinician’s ability to intervene early and effectively.
Supporting Augurex’s Global Vision
The agreement with MitogenDx also aligns with Augurex’s broader strategic goal of expanding access to innovative autoimmune diagnostics worldwide. The company continues to invest in research and development to identify novel biomarkers and diagnostic tools that improve patient care and empower clinicians to make informed decisions in managing complex autoimmune diseases.
“By making JOINTstat® more widely available through MitogenDx, we are not only providing clinicians with a powerful diagnostic tool but also reinforcing our mission to advance autoimmune disease management through innovation,” added Neil Klompas. “This collaboration underscores the importance of partnerships that combine scientific rigor with operational excellence to bring tangible benefits to patients and healthcare providers.”
Looking Ahead
With the expansion of JOINTstat® testing across Canada, Augurex and MitogenDx are poised to enhance the standard of care for rheumatoid arthritis. Clinicians will now have greater access to a biomarker that helps identify disease earlier, monitor progression more effectively, and guide personalized treatment strategies. This represents a significant step forward in autoimmune diagnostics and reaffirms both organizations’ commitment to improving patient outcomes and advancing precision medicine in rheumatology.
