Xenomics files patent for new technology to test HPV

* To develop wide range of tests using its technology

* To pursue partners in Japan and Europe

Nov 10 (Reuters) - Xenomics Inc (XNOM.PK) said it filed a patent application for its technology to detect the human papilloma virus.

The company said it plans to develop a wide range of tests using its urine-based transrenal DNA/RNA technology.

"We will pursue a combined collaboration and development strategy which includes identifying corporate partners in Japan and Europe, while Xenomics focuses on development of products for the North American market," Chief Executive Bruce Huebner said.

Currently HPV tests rely on cervical scraping in female patients or swabbing of the penile urethra in males, while Xenomics' TrovaGene HPV DNA test needs urine samples to screen both males and females, the company said.

HPV, which includes about 100 different strains, causes warts as well as mouth, penile, and anal cancer. It is the most common sexually transmitted disease in the world, infecting about 20 million Americans alone, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Currently the market for HPV test is dominated by Qiagen (QGEN.DE) (QGEN.O), Hologics (HOLX.O) and Roche (ROG.VX).

Shares of Xenomics closed up 9 percent at 79 cents Tuesday on the Pink Sheets. (Reporting by Anand Basu in Bangalore; Editing by Deepak Kannan)