Bio-Rad Acquires GnuBIO and Fast Integrated DNA Sequencing Platform

Global life science and clinical diagnostics company Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. (Hercules, CA, USA) has purchased GnuBIO, Inc. (Cambridge, MA. USA), a privately-held company that has developed a novel droplet-based DNA sequencing technology and a system that incorporates all DNA sequencing functions into a single, integrated workflow for medical diagnostics as well as research markets.

While other sequencing technologies require separate workflows for target selection, DNA amplification, DNA sequencing, and analysis, GnuBIO's technology integrates the entire workflow into a single, low-cost solution that produces results within hours, versus days.

GnuBIO's innovative system utilizes microfluidic and emulsion technology to perform complex, multiplexed reactions in droplets. The platform integrates the entire sample preparation workflow on a chip, from sample capture, PCR, and sequencing, to informatics. This capability offers a “Sample In, Answer Out” solution for performing more complete workflows whereby a clinical lab technician or a researcher simply loads genomic DNA into the cartridge and presses a button to start the run, with results delivered within hours.

“Bio-Rad’s leading positions in the clinical IVD market as well as the Droplet Digital PCR space make Bio-Rad the ideal acquisition partner for us,” said John Boyce, president, CEO, and founder of GnuBIO. “Bio-Rad’s reputation as well as its presence in both the clinical and research markets will be essential elements to the success of the GnuBIO platform. We are very excited to join the Bio-Rad family,” Mr. Boyce added. With this acquisition, Bio-Rad will expand its Digital Biology Center and establish a research and development site in Cambridge (MA, USA).

"We are pleased to have GnuBIO join Bio-Rad," said Norman Schwartz, Bio-Rad President and CEO; "We believe GnuBIO's innovative DNA workflow is well-suited for the clinical diagnostics sequencing market and will leverage Bio-Rad's leadership role in the area of droplet digital PCR."

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