QIAGEN N.V. enters into agreement to distribute Celera molecular multiplex assay

QIAGEN N.V. (NASDAQ:QGEN; Frankfurt Prime Standard:QIA) and Celera Corporation (NASDAQ:CRA) today announced an agreement under which QIAGEN will distribute a Celera molecular multiplex assay. The assay is the next generation version of QIAGEN’s ResPlex II assay for detection of respiratory pathogens. Multiplex assays allow testing for a multiple number of different pathogens in a single run. Financial details were not disclosed.

“We are pleased to have entered into this agreement with QIAGEN as we look toward the development and marketing of a molecular diagnostic solution to address certain infectious respiratory diseases and provide our customers with a product of the highest quality”

Under the terms of the agreement, QIAGEN has the exclusive worldwide rights to distribute this multiplex test kit, which will be manufactured by Celera. The new ResPlex assay detects 19 different pathogens associated with respiratory infections and is designed for use with LiquiChip (Luminex) 100 and 200 instrument platforms.

“Celera’s significant experience in the development and manufacturing of molecular diagnostic products is a very valuable resource and this relationship can accelerate our effort to further expand our molecular diagnostic solution portfolio,” said Peer Schatz, CEO of QIAGEN. “We believe that this new product has the potential to provide significant value for laboratories, healthcare professionals and patients worldwide.”

“We are pleased to have entered into this agreement with QIAGEN as we look toward the development and marketing of a molecular diagnostic solution to address certain infectious respiratory diseases and provide our customers with a product of the highest quality,” said Kathy Ordoñez, CEO of Celera.

The new ResPlex kits will be available through QIAGEN’s existing sales channels. The new test will be submitted for regulatory approval in the United States and Europe.