Singapore (October 14, 2014) – Vela Diagnostics announced today the availability of its combined PCR and NGS workflow. Vela Diagnostics offers a broad range of PCR tests. There is a total of 33 PCR tests¹ across 9 different disease areas; 27 are CE-IVD and 23 are TGA approved. In addition to the PCR portfolio, Vela recently launched its NGS workflow for diagnostic testing. Both NGS and PCR workflows utilize the Sentosa^® SX101, a liquid handling platform that performs DNA extraction, PCR set-up and library preparation. The capability to share the components between the PCR and NGS workflows increases the flexibility and efficiency of the workflow. The goal of a combined workflow and complementary tests is to provide the appropriate technologies for today’s growing complex diagnostic needs with improved efficiency.

Michael Tillmann, Vela Diagnostics’ CEO said, “Vela Diagnostics’ comprehensive product portfolio addresses the increasing needs of clinicians requiring a quick turn-around time at a low cost from laboratory diagnostics testing services. Today, our PCR product portfolio is the largest available in the market to be performed on a single platform thus obviating the need to purchase and maintain separate instruments for different tests. Our NGS portfolio provides an extension to the laboratory value chain for our customers.”

The PCR portfolio covers disease areas in immunosuppression, gastroenteritis, microbiology, respiratory infections, sexually transmitted diseases, tropical infections, blood borne infections, oncology and leukemia. All available tests can be performed on the Sentosa^® PCR workflow. The workflow is fully automated, including automated data analysis and interpretation, which frees up valuable resources and reduces turn-around time for lab operators. Standardization of result interpretation ensures reproducible and reliable diagnosis, integrating seamlessly with laboratory procedures. A total of 14 different clinically relevant human sample types have been validated for use on the IVD workflow. The workflow also allows for open-channel use for other custom applications.

Following the recent launch of the CE-IVD Sentosa^® SQ Melanoma Panel Vela Diagnostics’ next NGS product, the Sentosa^® SQ HCV Genotyping Assay, is currently undergoing clinical validation and will be available in the coming weeks. Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) and Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Panels will also be launched by the end of this year. The company has a HIV Genotyping Assay as well as Thyroid Cancer and Leukemia Panels in the pipeline.

¹Availability status subject to country regulatory approvals. See website for details.