Roche Diagnostics acquires Constitution Medical

Roche Diagnostics has announced the acquisition of the Boston-based life science technology firm Constitution Medical in a deal worth an initial $220 million (144.98 million pounds).

The acquired company is the developer of a highly innovative haematology testing system, which has been designed to provide faster and more accurate diagnosis of blood-related diseases.

Its Bloodhound technology forms the core of a fully-automated system that is being developed to replace several workstations with a single, compact unit, thereby increasing efficiency and saving laboratory space.

The new haematology capabilities will support Roche's growth strategy by strengthening its competitive position in the laboratory haematology testing business.

Roland Diggelmann, chief operating officer of Roche Diagnostics, said: "We will further strengthen our commitment to haematology and drive towards integrated laboratory solutions with innovative products which deliver medical value to our customers and patients."

In May 2013, the firm expanded its range of diagnostic products with the launch of Cobas 8100, an automated system that improves the efficiency and speed of blood sample testing in medical labs.