ArcherDX Acquires CLIA- and CAP-Certified Genetic Testing Lab Baby Genes to Expand Personalized Medicine Capabilities
VCBeat (WeChat Official Account: vcbeat) has learned that ArcherDX, a molecular technology company based in Boulder, Colorado, announced the acquisition of Baby Genes on January 30, 2019.
ArcherDX is a molecular technology company dedicated to developing breakthrough medical solutions and advancing the application of personalized genomics in medicine. Its acquired entity, Baby Genes, is a private laboratory holding both CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments) certification and CAP accreditation, committed to helping individuals take control of their health through genetic sequencing. It is reported that Baby Genes will operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary and continue to market its existing newborn and carrier screening genetic test service kits under the Baby Genes™ brand.
The acquisition of Baby Genes added new assets to ArcherDX, including a CLIA-certified and CAP-accredited genetics laboratory in Golden, Colorado. The laboratory’s test menu includes a newborn screening panel that reviews over 100 genes, covering more than 72 clinically actionable genetic conditions, as well as predefined carrier screening tests featuring full-gene sequencing for cystic fibrosis (CF), spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), and fragile X syndrome. Additionally, the laboratory provides physicians with customized confirmatory and reflex genetic testing services.
“We have established a long-term partnership with Baby Genes. From day one, we have seen a shared commitment between the two parties to accelerating applications in personalized health,” said Jason Myers, Co-founder and CEO of ArcherDX. “Archer’s mission is to make personalized medicine universally accessible. After all, the decentralization of sequencing is critical to the success of personalized medicine. Laboratories with CLIA and CAP accreditation can help us realize this vision. We do not intend to expand our capabilities in the gene sequencing market through centralized testing. Instead, through our collaboration with Baby Genes, we aim to improve the accuracy of understanding and predicting customer needs, while enhancing our research capabilities in the biopharmaceutical sector.”
Following the acquisition, ArcherDX will consolidate its existing operations in Boulder, Colorado, and all commercial analytical services from its two subsidiaries into Baby Genes’ large laboratory located in Golden, Colorado. Additionally, Richard Sjogren, Co-founder and CEO of Baby Genes, will join ArcherDX’s senior management team as Vice President of Operations.
“Partnering with the ArcherDX team will expand the scope of our genetic health testing business and accelerate its availability,” said Richard Sjogren. “As we continue to collaborate with innovative scientists, healthcare professionals, and volunteers, there remain significant growth opportunities in the genetic testing market.”
ArcherDX is a molecular diagnostics company focused on cancer research. Currently, ArcherDX is advancing the field of molecular pathology with its robust technology platform for detecting gene mutations via first-generation sequencing. In addition, ArcherDX offers oncology-focused research products and is seeking regulatory approval for multiple companion diagnostic assays.
Baby Genes is a private laboratory holding both CLIA and CAP certifications, dedicated to empowering individuals to manage their health through genetic testing. The company’s newborn gene panel tests for 100 abnormal genes associated with 171 genetic disorders.
(Compiled by Ning Chen)