19 June 2013 - 19 June 2013 - French Nicox (EPA:COX) said on Wednesday it had inked an exclusive deal with US autoimmune diagnostic products specialist Immco Diagnostics Inc adding the latter's lab test for early detection and diagnosis of Sjogren's Syndrome to its North American offering.

Under the agreement, Immco will grant Nicox the exclusive rights to promote the lab test to eye care specialists in North America, including the US, Canada, Puerto Rico, Mexico. Nicox will be responsible for all marketing activities, while Immco will perform the test in its CLIA-approved laboratory in Buffalo, NY, and be responsible for regulatory activities and reimbursement.

Nicox will get a majority share of revenue generated from eye care practitioners and will pay no upfront or milestones payments. The company also has a nine-month option to negotiate an agreement to promote the test in the rest of the world. During this period, the parties will assess the feasibility and implementation steps for the test in other markets, including Europe.