CAP TODAY Pathology/Laboratory Medicine/Laboratory Management
Feb. 20, 2018—Qiagen has entered into an agreement to acquire Stat-Dx, a developer of molecular diagnostics systems, for $147 million. Once the transaction is completed, which is expected later this year, Qiagen will launch the QIAstat-Dx system, a next-generation, fully integrated multiplex platform for syndromic disease testing.
QIAstat-Dx enables scalable sample-to-insight processing of up to 48 molecular targets simultaneously and can provide qualitative and quantitative insights in about one hour. The system, which is based on DiagCore technology, uses single-use cartridges with built-in sample processing, and all reagents are onboard. The cartridges are loaded with Qiagen sample and assay technologies. The cartridges are processed in a scalable platform, which can be configured from one to eight modules, independently running cartridges with predefined assay protocols.
QIAstat-Dx is planned to be further developed with the aim of becoming the first analyzer that combines capabilities to run the highest multiplexing molecular diagnostic assays with the ability to quantitate and also process immunoassays.
“QIAstat-Dx represents the next generation of innovation for multiplex syndromic testing, using powerful Qiagen technologies and a real-time PCR technology that will allow for a much broader range of applications and drive the dissemination of molecular testing. The system is designed for significantly more cost-efficient test processing as required by the current reimbursement environment. Additional application areas for this system include companion diagnostics, quantitative analysis, and immunoassay tests, offering customers a new level of flexibility and accurate diagnosis designed to support better outcomes for patients and health care systems,” Peer M. Schatz, CEO of Qiagen, said in a statement. “We look forward to adding QIAstat-Dx to our portfolio of sample-to-insight solutions. This is further confirmation as to how we are leveraging our advantages in sample and assay technologies, our leadership in providing solutions for infectious disease testing and the global reach of our commercial teams.”
The first two tests—extensive respiratory and gastrointestinal panels—will launch in Europe later this year and in the U.S. in 2019, following regulatory clearance.