Qiagen and Genome Diagnostics to develop new tests

Qiagen has entered into a new collaboration with molecular diagnostic component supplier Genome Diagnostics, in order to create a new range of molecular tests.

The six new tests will utilise Qiagen’s Pyrosequencing technology and will detect genetic variations in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) complex.

Qiagen states that the biomarkers detected by these tests will help to identify susceptibility to diseases such as Morbus Bechterew, as well as to gauge the likelihood of adverse reactions to various drugs.

Bob Barrett, vice-president of global marketing for molecular diagnostics at Qiagen, has identified sequence-based HLA typing as a “fast-growing market with significant potential”.

He added: “The tests we develop as a result of this collaboration make a perfect addition to our molecular diagnostics portfolio for applications in prevention and personalised healthcare.”

Earlier this month, the company announced that it is donating 26,000 human papillomavirus tests to the Nargis Dutt Memorial Cancer Hospital in India as part of its ongoing efforts to combat cervical cancer.