Novogene, a provider of genomic services and solutions, has signed an agreement with Illumina to jointly develop next-generation sequencing (NGS) system for reproductive health and oncology applications.
Under the terms of the deal, Illumina sequencers technology will be combined with Novogene’s advanced clinical application development capabilities.
In particular, Novogene will provide its nucleic acid extraction, library preparation, and data analysis software whereas Illumina will provide NGS instrument components and related reagents.
Illumina Asia Pacific Region general manager Tim Orpin said: "Illumina is very excited to collaborate with Novogene to increase access to genetic sequencing solutions in the fields of reproductive health and oncology testing in China.
"We are committed to partnering with Chinese companies who share our vision of improving human health by unlocking the power of the genome."
Novogene said that the collaboration with Illumina will focus on providing the most advanced and integrated sequencing solutions to the clinical market.
The two firms intend to develop a user-friendly diagnostic system for clinical prenatal DNA and oncology testing in the Chinese market.
Novogene founder and CEO Dr Ruiqiang Li said: "As the first company in China to purchase Illumina’s HiSeq X Ten System and the largest provider of Illumina-based sequencing capacity in China, Novogene welcomes this opportunity to improve the quality of care enjoyed by the Chinese people."
In 2014, Novogene purchased one Illumina’s HiSeq X Ten, expanding its capacity with Illumina’s next-generation sequencing systems, which also includes HiSeqs and MiSeqs.
Novogene said that the HiSeq X Ten will enhance its capability for cancer genomics and for mapping human disease genes.