Ultima Genomics and Quest Diagnostics have joined forces to advance genomic sequencing technologies in the fields of oncology and clinical applications. This collaborative effort involves the integration of Ultima's innovative ultra-high throughput sequencing architecture into Quest Diagnostics' diagnostic information services. The primary focus is on enhancing patient accessibility, affordability, and outcomes through the widespread application of highly accurate, cost-effective, and high-volume whole genome sequencing.

The partnership specifically aims to utilize Ultima's next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology for lab-developed tests, with a primary emphasis on solid-tumor minimal residual disease (MRD) testing, an area of rapid growth. Quest Diagnostics plans to incorporate Ultima's technology into the development of lab-developed tests, including its proprietary Haystack solid-tumor MRD™ technology. This technology is intended for both clinical and biopharmaceutical MRD applications, offering improvements over current whole exome sequencing methods.

The collaboration underscores the potential application of Ultima's sequencing technology in clinical and biopharmaceutical settings, supplementing existing approaches. Additionally, Quest Diagnostics aims to leverage Ultima's technology for specific whole genome testing applications, such as rare disease detection in pediatric patients.

Drawing on Quest Diagnostics' extensive expertise and scale in oncology, genomics, and pathology, as well as its national reach in tumor biopsy and blood specimen collection, the collaboration positions itself as a strategic move in comprehensive oncology services. It addresses the prevalent challenge of cancer recurrence, particularly in solid-tumor cancers like colorectal, breast, skin, and lung cancer. The focus is on detecting residual cancer molecules that may persist after traditional treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy.

In essence, the Ultima Genomics and Quest Diagnostics collaboration aims to propel genomic sequencing technologies forward, offering more accurate, cost-effective, and scalable solutions for solid-tumor MRD testing and whole genome testing in the realm of oncology and clinical applications.

Source: businesswire.com

 

 

 

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