Gene Sequencing Empowers Assisted Reproduction: Jiabao Renhe and Illumina Forge Strategic Partnership
Data show that the average prevalence of infertility in China ranges from 12.5% to 15%. As the most effective solution for infertile couples, in vitro fertilization (IVF) saw more than 400,000 treatment cycles completed across reproductive centers in mainland China in 2015. With continuous technological advancements, the number of IVF cycles is projected to grow at an annual rate of 20%. Meanwhile, the introduction of the national “universal two-child” policy in 2016, coupled with a significant rise in the average childbearing age, has further propelled assisted reproductive technology into the spotlight.
VCBeat (WeChat ID: vcbeat) has learned that Beijing Jiabao Renhe Medical Technology Co., Ltd. and U.S.-based Illumina, Inc. recently held a signing ceremony in Beijing. The two parties have entered into a strategic partnership to jointly develop and promote diagnostic methods and solutions based on next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology for the field of assisted reproduction. This collaboration further underscores the increasingly important role that genomics technology will play in assisted reproduction. Also attending the signing ceremony were Jiabao Renhe’s investors, JF Capital and Morningside Venture Capital.
Headquartered in Beijing, Jiabao Renhe has been dedicated to the fields of assisted reproduction and genetics since its establishment in 2011. As a pioneer and leader in providing next-generation sequencing (NGS) integrated solutions for assisted reproduction and genetics, it is also the only company in this field offering multi-platform solutions.
Currently, Jiabao Renhe’s PGS/PGD testing technologies, sequencing platforms, and analysis systems have covered more than 70% of the reproductive medicine centers in mainland China that are nationally approved to conduct PGD. Meanwhile, leveraging next-generation sequencing technology, Jiabao Renhe also provides solutions such as AZF deletion detection, genetic testing for male oligoasthenozoospermia, genetic testing for female premature ovarian failure, and carrier screening for monogenic disorders.
In this collaboration, Jiabao Renhe and Illumina will focus on the MiSeq/MiSeqDx platform—the world’s first and only next-generation sequencing (NGS) platform to have received both U.S. FDA clearance and European CE marking. By leveraging Jiabao Renhe’s independently developed reagents and analytical software for preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) and preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD), the partnership aims to create a clinical testing platform and clinical solutions that are more suitable, accurate, and efficient.
As core components of third-generation in vitro fertilization (IVF) technology, Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS) and Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) have garnered significant attention. In recent years, next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology, driving a technological revolution in healthcare, has been increasingly integrated into various clinical departments. The strategic partnership between Jiabao Renhe, the market leader in China’s PGS/PGD sector, and Illumina, the global leader in genomics technology, will help advance the development of assisted reproductive technologies and benefit more patients with infertility.
“Jiabao Renhe was the first company to apply next-generation sequencing technology to the fields of PGS and PGD, earning recognition from many industry experts. In particular, we chose to assist reproductive centers in building their platforms and jointly exploring new technologies. This open model has not only enabled Jiabao Renhe to achieve rapid development but also allowed clinicians to gain a deeper understanding of the platform and technology, thereby better applying the technical platform to serve a broad patient base. This is truly what we aim to accomplish,” stated Fei Jia, Founder, Chairman, and General Manager of Jiabao Renhe. “The reason we have always maintained a low profile is our desire to ensure the stability of each product and resolve every minor issue, letting the market determine our future. The core clinical need is not innovation, but rather the stability, accuracy, and simplicity of testing. As a company, we are dedicated to providing an integrated service platform for the assisted reproductive technology sector. Our collaboration with Illumina, a global leader in sequencing, will undoubtedly further enhance the performance and efficiency of Jiabao Renhe’s solutions, enabling us to better serve our customers. Furthermore, this signing reaffirms that by focusing diligently on our work, our team will earn the recognition of customers, partners, and investors.”
“Jiahui Renhe’s dedication and efficient work style have earned our admiration,” said Jeff Hawkins, Senior Vice President of Illumina’s Reproductive and Genetic Health Division, in an interview following the signing. “Illumina is pleased to partner with Jiahui Renhe to better provide clinical solutions based on next-generation sequencing—including PGS/PGD—to China’s assisted reproductive technology sector. Our vision is to improve human health by interpreting the genome, and we remain committed to collaborating with Chinese companies that share this vision.”