Qiagen launches new molecular diagnostics testing platform

Qiagen has announced the launch of a new modular testing platform designed to provide flexible functionality to those in the molecular diagnostics sector.

The company's new QIAsymphony RGQ system features modules for sample preparation, assay setup and real-time PCR detection, allowing the entire laboratory workflow to be managed using a single device.

It has been approved by European industry regulators for in-vitro diagnostic use and comes with assays and tests for HIV and hepatitis, while additional products will expand the test portfolio further in the coming months.

Qiagen states that the QIAsymphony RGQ will also run custom laboratory-developed tests, which are estimated to account for around 40 per cent of the global molecular diagnostics market volume.

Peer Schatz, Qiagen's chief executive officer, said: "The launch of our QIAsymphony RGQ is a very important milestone in further expanding our leading position in molecular diagnostics."

Last month, the science company published its financial report for the second quarter of 2010, a period which saw the firm experience double-digit sales growth, with molecular diagnostics highlighted as its "strongest revenue driver".