Related to Gen-Probe Invests $50M in PacBio to Fortify Single-Molecule Sequencing Platform

• Clinical Trial Failures Further Signal Pancreatic Cancer’s Intractable Nature
  Researchers need to step out of the gemcitabine box and also take on the development of diagnostics for early detection.
  
• Jumping On Genetic Testing—The War of the SNPs
  Molecular diagnostics still have a long way to go before they can properly deliver on all their promises.
  
• Human Genome Redux: Just a Numbers Game?
  Success of sequencing capabilities is dependent on tools to analyze the data.
  
• Getting Personal: Multigene Testing for Individual Cancer Evaluation
  Scientists find comfort in numbers, using molecular patterns as prognostic markers.
  
• 2010 in Review: Biotechnology Highlights
  Gene patenting and ESCs were back in the headlines along with breakthroughs in sequencing, syn bio, and other fields.
  
• Beckman Coulter on the Chopping Block?
  Some analysts believe it is not a question of who will buy the firm but if the firm will be bought.
  
• Tumor Cells Back in Circulation for Monitoring Cancer
  With one test on the market, researchers are developing tools that leverage CTCs as biomarkers.
  
• Biotechs Nail Down Sequence of Elusive E. coli
  A new hybrid strain is responsible for the European outbreak that’s been all over the news.
  
• Diagnostic Market Stakeholders Take Aim at FDA’s RUO/IUO Draft Guidance
  Among potential changes is that manufacturers will have to anticipate customers’ intended use of their IVD products.
  
• Prometheus and Myriad Case Outcomes Will Help Shape the Future for MDx Businesses
  Courts’ current decisions suggest that special attention will need to be paid to performing and claiming transformative steps in biomarker-based tests.
  
• Product and Service Firms Challenged by Uncertain NIH Funding, Polarization of Sequencing
  Analysts and vendors are preparing for low to no growth in 2012 and 2013.
  
• Exome Sequencing Finds Sweet Spot Between Whole-Genome and Targeted Sequencing
  Technique provides a cost-effective tool for dissecting diseases that have been intractable to conventional gene discovery.
  
• Amicus Filings in Prometheus v. Mayo Reflect Divide Over Diagnostic Method Patentability
  Supreme Court has to decide whether to reverse previous stance upholding two of Prometheus’ method patents.
  
• USPTO Tasked with Evaluating Impact of Gene Patents on Second-Opinion Testing
  Diagnostic firms argue IP protection is key to innovation, while their opponents say it hurts medical practice.
  
• R&D Direction in 2012 for Sequencing Technologies Is Aimed at Clinical Medicine
  Companies are focused on making these platforms smaller and easier to use.
  
• Sequencing Firms Set Up Centers to Advance Genomics Research and Instrument Sales
  Strategy provides a feedback loop to improve instrumentation and develop new applications.
  
• Academic Sequencing Centers May Feel the Pinch of Budgetary Constraints and Data Deluge
  NHGRI renewed $416 million over four years in funding for three centers but warned of lower funds in the future.