The test kits will be used on Illumina's sequencing instruments. The companies will also develop kits to identify and characterize tumor DNA using both tissue and plasma samples.

PGDx CEO Doug Ward said: "PGDx currently offers advanced genomic testing services to researchers, drug developers, and physicians and patients through our CLIA-certified laboratory.

“We now want to apply our expertise to the development of IVD test kits for both tissue and plasma-based samples that will enable other laboratories with next-generation sequencing (NGS) capability to benefit from our broad experience in cancer genomic testing.”

Illumina oncology product marketing and market development vice president John Leite said: "Illumina welcomes the opportunity to work with a diverse set of leading collaborators, such as PGDx, to ensure that patients have access to the IVD tests that best address their needs.”

In June, ArcherDX partnered with Illumina to develop next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based in vitro diagnostic (IVD) tests.

Under the deal, the firms will develop series of diagnostic tests by using its anchored multiplex PCR (AMP) chemistry, which will run on the Illumina MiSeqDx instrument.

PGDx provides a range of cancer genome analysis tools, including exome and targeted approaches for tissue specimens, targeted approaches for plasma samples.

The firm also provides different tissue and plasma-based options to address the specific research needs of cancer researchers and drug developers.