Illumina Inc.
(
ILMN
), a major developer of life science tools for large-scale genetic
analysis, recently launched its FastTrack Sequencing Services
operation RapidTrack Whole Genome Sequencing Service (RapidTrack
WGS). Based on Illumina's new HiSeq 2500 platform, RapidTrack WGS
is claimed to offer the fastest sample-to-data turnaround time by
delivering a whole human genome in less than 2 weeks' time.
While working jointly with an accelerated sample preparation
protocol and Illumina's new iSAAC genome alignment software,
RapidTrack WGS needs just 5 days of sample-to-data cycle time for a
complete human genome. The San Diego-based company has marketed the
product with service capacity of 5 to 10 whole human genomes per
week. However, the capacity may increase with the demand.
Earlier in 2012, Illumina broadcasted HiSeq 2500's rapid
turn-around sequencing capacities. The company also expects to
authorize the HiSeq 2500 in its CLIA laboratory shortly, which will
enable fast response clinical sequencing.
Illumina introduced HiSeq 2500, a new multi-mode next-generation
sequencer earlier this year and is slated for commercial launch in
the second half of 2012. The DNA sequencing market is getting more
competitive as
Life Technologies Corporation
's (
LIFE
) Benchtop Ion Proton Sequencer is expected to hit the market in
mid-2012. These devices can sequence a human genome in a single day
rather than weeks.
However, with the inclusion of HiSeq 2500 into the Whole Genome
Sequencing Service, Illumina will be able to sequence a human
genome within a day with unsurpassed data quality and the lowest
sample input of any whole-genome sequencing service. Thus the
company claims RapidTrack WGS to improve the quality of life of
patients by saving their time and money.
Going forward, the company expects HiSeq shipments to reflect the
incoming order rate and include standard genome analyzer upgrades,
current customers adding additional instruments, new customers and
competitive displacements. Illumina believes that these four
segments would represent significant opportunities and expects
HiSeq demand to remain robust. In addition, there was significant
growth in methylation arrays as well as in whole-genome genotyping
products.
Additionally, Illumina made significant developments in its MiSeq
platform. The company expects to submit the MiSeq platform to FDA
for 510(k) approval before 2012 end. Earlier in March, the company
launched TruSeq Amplicon, a cancer panel for MiSeq system to aid
researchers to sequence cancer loci. This is significant since this
makes sequencing possible even in difficult samples such as
formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded ("FFPE") tumor samples.
The company also entered into a partnership with Siemens Healthcare
Diagnostics to use the MiSeq platform for Siemens' molecular HIV
tests. In addition, the company expanded its Genome Network with
the inclusion of British Columbia Cancer Agency to its existing
list.
Presently, Illumina retains a short-term Zacks #3 Rank (Hold). Over
the long term, we have a 'Neutral' recommendation on the stock.
ILLUMINA INC (ILMN): Free Stock Analysis Report
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