Roche has unveiled a groundbreaking next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology that promises to transform genomic research and clinical applications. The proprietary Sequencing by Expansion (SBX) technology establishes a new category in the NGS landscape, offering unprecedented speed and accuracy in genetic analysis.
Revolutionary Sequencing Approach
The core of SBX technology lies in its innovative biochemical process that converts target DNA or RNA sequences into expanded synthetic molecules called Xpandomers. These molecules, stretching fifty times longer than the original genetic material, incorporate high signal-to-noise reporters that significantly enhance detection accuracy. The technology pairs this chemical innovation with a sophisticated Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS)-based sensor module, enabling parallel processing capabilities that surpass current sequencing methods.
"The science behind SBX technology represents a significant breakthrough that addresses the limitations of existing sequencing solutions," explains Matt Sause, CEO of Roche Diagnostics. "The speed and accuracy of SBX has the potential to revolutionize the use of sequencing in research and healthcare."
Technical Advantages and Applications
The SBX platform's ability to reduce sequencing time from days to hours marks a significant advancement in genomic research efficiency. Mark Kokoris, Head of Roche's SBX Technology, emphasizes the technology's versatility: "Solving the signal-to-noise challenge is a key efficiency driver for the technology. With this capability we can flexibly operate across a range of throughput scales using the same sequencing system, which provides a significant advantage to users."
The technology demonstrates particular promise in decoding complex diseases where multiple genes influence disease progression. Its applications span whole genome sequencing, whole exome sequencing, and RNA sequencing, making it valuable for both research laboratories and potential clinical settings.
Impact on Disease Research
SBX technology's enhanced capabilities are expected to accelerate research into various complex conditions, including:
- Cancer genomics
- Immune disorder mechanisms
- Neurodegenerative disease pathways
The platform's scalability and flexibility allow researchers to efficiently handle projects ranging from small-scale studies to large initiatives involving thousands of samples, potentially accelerating the pace of genomic research and discovery.
Development Background
The SBX chemistry was originally invented by Mark Kokoris and Robert McRuer, co-founders of Stratos Genomics, which Roche acquired in 2020. This technology now forms a crucial part of Roche's expanding sequencing portfolio, complementing their existing KAPA sample preparation products and AVENIO assays for oncology applications.
