Roche, Broad Labs partner to speed SBX sequencing adoption

Roche, Broad Labs partner to speed SBX sequencing adoption

By, Admin 24 May 2025

Roche has announced a strategic collaboration with Broad Clinical Labs to develop and pilot innovative applications of its newly launched Sequencing By Expansion (SBX) next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology. The partnership aims to revolutionize clinical genomics and biomedical discovery by integrating SBX into routine sequencing practices.

Key Objectives of the Collaboration

  • Deploy SBX technology for fast, scalable sequencing across Broad Clinical Lab’s research community
  • Transform clinical genomics through routine adoption of SBX
  • Accelerate diagnostic and translational research using high-throughput sequencing

First Project: Advancing Neonatal Genetic Diagnosis

The initial focus of the collaboration will be on:

  • Trio-based whole genome sequencing of critically ill newborns and their biological parents
  • Application in NICUs (neonatal intensive care units) to enable timely genetic diagnoses
  • Supporting clinical decisions for infants with suspected genetic conditions

Executive Insights

Matt Sause, CEO of Roche Diagnostics, emphasized:

“The SBX technology was designed with both clinical impact and scientific discovery in mind.”

Niall Lennon, Chair and CSO at Broad Clinical Labs, added:

“Together with Roche, we’re aiming to demonstrate how fast, scalable, and high-quality sequencing can support both routine clinical care and drive biomedical innovation.”

Highlights of SBX Technology

SBX offers significant advantages over traditional sequencing platforms:

  • Ultra-fast turnaround times for time-sensitive clinical settings
  • Exceptional scalability from small research studies to large-scale population sequencing
  • Cost efficiency for broad accessibility
  • Flexible workflow tailored for routine and discovery applications

Applications Beyond Genomics

The collaboration will also explore:

  • RNA sequencing, including:
  • Bulk RNA-seq
  • Single-cell RNA-seq
  • Use of longer reads for deeper molecular insights
  • Enhanced understanding of disease mechanisms
  • Identification of new therapeutic targets

Technology and Development

  • SBX chemistry invented by Mark Kokoris and Robert McRuer
  • Originally developed by Stratos Genomics, acquired by Roche in 2020
  • Powered by advanced CMOS sensor modules for real-time sequencing
  • Suitable for:
  • Whole genome sequencing (WGS)
  • Whole exome sequencing (WES)
  • RNA sequencing

Broad Clinical Labs at the Forefront

Broad Clinical Labs, a subsidiary of the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, brings:

  • Expertise in high-throughput whole genome sequencing
  • Over 750,000 genomes sequenced to date
  • Leadership in applying single-cell and -omics technologies across biomedical research

Roche’s Vision in Genomics

Founded in 1896, Roche is now the world's largest biotech company and a global leader in diagnostics. The company is committed to:

  • Delivering flexible, high-speed genomic tools
  • Supporting both research and clinical applications
  • Driving precision medicine forward on a global scale

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