Singapore, January 30, 2013 – Vela Diagnostics signs an agreement with Thomas Jefferson University and Hospitals to jointly develop next-generation molecular diagnostic assays for oncology and virology.

Following the recent announcement of Vela Diagnostics agreement with Life Technologies to develop IVD tests on the Ion PGM Sequencer, Vela Diagnostics announces a Molecular Diagnostic Affiliation Agreement with Thomas Jefferson University and Hospitals (Jefferson). This agreement provides the framework for the parties to jointly develop, evaluate, and deploy molecular diagnostic assays for improved patient care.

The parties are formulating approaches for several projects including but not limited to, the development of both Next-Generation Sequencing and quantitative PCR assays for oncological and infectious diseases. Jefferson will assist Vela Diagnostics in the development and validation of a new generation of molecular diagnostic assays using cutting edge technologies. Vela Diagnostics will seek regulatory approval around the world for the resulting assays.

“Partnering with Jefferson provides Vela Diagnostics with access to world-recognized experts in the molecular diagnostics industry. This is essential for the development of high quality molecular diagnostic assays in a dynamic clinical environment.” said Vela Diagnostics CEO Michael Tillmann.

“We are enthusiastic that this collaboration will develop highly innovative diagnostic studies that provide optimal sensitivity and work flow for clinical testing. This field is at an inflection point and I anticipate that Vela Diagnostics will be among the leaders in unleashing the diagnostic power of Next-Generation Sequencing,” said Stephen Peiper, MD, Peter A Herbut Professor and Chair, Department of Pathology, Anatomy & Cell Biology, Thomas Jefferson University.