Roche Unveils Next-gen qPCR System To Advance Clinical Needs

Roche announced the debut of the LightCycler PRO System, which is based on the established gold standard technology of previous LightCycler Systems. This innovative technology improves performance and usability while bridging the gap between translational research and in vitro diagnostics.The LightCycler PRO System further complements Roche's molecular PCR testing portfolio, which includes solutions for a variety of healthcare professionals- from those performing research, to those testing patients for cancer, infectious diseases, and other public health challenges, as per pharmabiz.“Roche has made significant contributions in establishing and advancing PCR technology to address the needs of healthcare systems,” said Josh Lauer, head of molecular labs at Roche Diagnostics.  “We have listened to laboratories and hospitals, and implemented their feedback, which has driven important design improvements. Healthcare systems have experienced significant resource constraints and rapidly shifting dynamics post-pandemic. The LightCycler PRO addresses those dynamics by offering the flexibility to switch seamlessly between research and clinical applications.”The system will allow customers to create their own tests, as well as access to a catalog of more than 200 LightMix Modular research assays and more than 60 LightMix CE-IVD assays from Roche subsidiary TIB Molbiol.The system will be available in a limited number of nations by the end of 2023, with plans to expand into more countries in the near future. It will be CE-marked and 510(k) exempt from the FDA.Roche has continued to create and enhance qPCR systems for both laboratories and patients since unveiling the first LightCycler real-time PCR System in 1998.  qPCR stands for real-time PCR or quantitative PCR, which enables for real-time amplification and detection of DNA.