Roche Diagnostics Introduces First Large-Scale DNA Sequencer in Spain
The new technology, installed at CNAG in Barcelona, can analyze a complete human genome in just four hours, accelerating genetic research.
By Núria Font Casas
••3 min read
AI
Image of a high-tech DNA sequencer in a laboratory setting.
Roche Diagnostics has introduced its first large-scale DNA sequencer in Spain, installed at the CNAG in Barcelona. This technology can analyze a complete human genome in just four hours, significantly reducing sequencing times.
The new instrument, located at the National Centre for Genomic Analysis (CNAG), will increase the centre's sequencing capacity and accelerate research into cancer, rare diseases, and other genetic conditions. The instrument enables biological samples to be sequenced at greater speed and scale while maintaining high accuracy, improving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of the process.
The system's innovative technology uses "Xpandomers" to replicate the original genetic code and create a larger molecule, approximately 50 times larger than the reference DNA, making it easier to read the millions of base pairs in the human genome. This technology, along with reusable sensors and an advanced analysis module, enables ultra-fast analysis with high-quality results.
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"Bringing our first large-scale sequencer to Spain is an extraordinary milestone for precision medicine in our country and a clear reflection of our corporate mission to innovate to improve people’s lives. By making technology capable of decoding the complete genome in just four hours available, we are bringing unprecedented speed and accuracy to the genetic analysis ecosystem."
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"We are very proud that the National Centre for Genomic Analysis (CNAG) is the first institution to host this platform. Collaborating with a leading centre in the field of genetics gives us the confidence to enter the Spanish large-scale sequencing landscape knowing that our technology can make a valuable contribution to the field."
Adriana Rubio, General Manager of Roche Diagnostics Spain, highlights that the availability of this technology brings unprecedented speed and accuracy to genetic analysis and that collaboration with the CNAG is key to its contribution to the field.
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"At CNAG, we are committed to continuously renewing our genomic technology platform with the latest technologies available, helping us fulfill our mission to improve people’s health and quality of life. With Roche’s new large-scale sequencer, we will be able to reduce analysis times, providing hospitals and research centres with results much more quickly and accurately. Ultimately, our goal is to work together towards a greater understanding of our biology, uncovering the mechanisms underlying the onset and progression of disease."
For his part, Ivo Gut, Director of the CNAG, states that the new technology will allow for reduced analysis times and improved understanding of biology and diseases. The installation represents an investment of nearly €660,000.
