Innovative Microbial Diagnostics Developer Acquired by Biomedical Giant

A biotech company noted for its development of innovative products in the field of molecular microbiology diagnostics has been acquired by one of the world's largest biomedical corporations.

GeneWEAVE BioSciences, Inc.(Los Gatos, CA, USA) and Roche (Basel, Switzerland) have announced that Roche will be purchasing the privately held developer of clinical microbiology diagnostics solutions for an upfront payment of 190 million USD and up to 235 million USD in contingent product related milestones. Under the terms of the agreement, GeneWEAVE will be integrated into Roche Molecular Diagnostics.

GeneWeave's major innovations are based on its proprietary Smarticles technology. Smarticles are DNA-delivery bio-particles combined with GeneWEAVE-designed DNA molecules that cause live bacteria to produce light. Smarticles are engineered to specifically target a species, genus, or family of bacteria. They bind to their target and deliver a DNA molecule designed by GeneWEAVE that causes the bacteria to express luciferase - a molecule that produces light. In the presence of antibiotics, susceptible bacteria targeted by Smarticles will remain dark, while drug-resistant bacteria quickly and efficiently produce a light signal. Smarticles are the key to GeneWEAVE’s vivoDx instrument, a fully automated, random-access system for microbial diagnostics.

“With GeneWEAVE, we further strengthen our microbiology diagnostics offerings with cutting-edge technology that will aid in the fight against drug-resistant bacteria. This technology has the potential to provide healthcare professionals access to quick and accurate diagnoses that can lead to rapid, informed treatment decisions,” said Roland Diggelmann, COO of Roche Diagnostics. “We welcome GeneWEAVE’s employees, who will continue to focus on the development and manufacturing of diagnostics solutions based on the Smarticles technology.”

“We are very excited to continue developing innovative microbiologic diagnostics solutions as part of the Roche Molecular Diagnostics team,” said Steve Tablak, CEO of GeneWEAVE. “Roche is the ideal company to deliver on the promise of our Smarticles technology. We are fully committed to the continued success of GeneWEAVE’s employees, products, and pipeline.”

Related Links:
GeneWEAVE BioSciences, Inc.
Roche