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
