US-based advanced sequencing solutions provider PacBio has signed a new research collaboration agreement (RCA) with the National Cancer Centre of Singapore (NCCS).
The collaboration aims to advance cancer research by using PacBio’s advanced sequencing technologies to profile the genomic landscape of prevalent cancers in Asia.
It will use PacBio’s Onso short-read sequencing system and Kinnex long-read sequencing kit will be used to profile common cancers in Asia, focusing on single-cell RNA sequencing.
PacBio said its Onso platform is designed to deliver superior accuracy in short-read sequencing and comes with a unique ability to deliver highly accurate data at scale.
The system will allow researchers to detect clinically relevant mutations across various cancer types, such as gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST).
Onso is ideal for exploring genomic variants in cancer samples, ensuring robust analysis that could ultimately provide better cancer diagnostics and therapeutics, said PacBio.
PacBio APAC general manager and vice president Jason Kang said: “At PacBio, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of cancer research with our cutting-edge sequencing platforms.
“With the installation of the Onso platform, enabled by our trusted partner DKSH, we are bringing our advanced sequencing solutions closer to the research community, empowering researchers to unlock new insights into cancer biology.”
Under the collaboration, PacBio’s partner in Asia, DKSH (DiethelmKellerSiberHegner), has installed the Onso system at the Cancer Discovery Hub in NCCS.
PacBio said the collaboration with DKSH strengthens its commitment to supporting local researchers in advancing cancer genomics in the region.
Together with PacBio Revio’s long-read sequencing capabilities, the collaboration would enable multi-omics studies analysing transcript isoforms and genetic variants at the single-cell level.
The integration of Onso for short reads and Revio for long reads ensures a complete and in-depth analysis of the cancer genome, said PacBio.
NCCS cancer discovery hub director, assistant professor Jason Chan said: “We are excited to collaborate with PacBio on this initiative which combines the power of short-read and long-read sequencing, allowing us to delve deeper into the genomic complexities of cancers prevalent in Asia. The ultimate aim is to improve tailored diagnostic and treatment options for our patients.”
