Roche and IBM are developing a nanopore-based sequencer to directly read and decode human DNA quickly and efficiently to accelerate human genome analysis and advance personalised healthcare.
Focused on advancing IBM's recently published DNA Transistor technology, the collaboration will utilise IBM's experience in microelectronics, information technology and computational biology and Roche's medical diagnostics and genome sequencing technology.
The technology, developed by IBM Research, offers true single molecule sequencing by decoding molecules of DNA as they are threaded through a nanometer-sized pore in a silicon chip.
The approach could provide advantages in cost, throughput, scalability and speed compared to other sequencing technologies.
'The challenge of all nanopore-based sequencing technologies is to slow and control the motion of the DNA through the nanopore,' said Ajay Royyuru, senior manager of the Computational Biology Department at IBM Research.
'We are developing the technology to achieve this so that the reader can accurately decode the DNA sequence,' he added.
Having access to an individual's personal genetic code could advance the quality of medical care by identifying persons who will gain the greatest benefit from a particular medicine and those who are at most risk of adverse reaction.
As part of the agreement, Roche will fund continued development of the technology at IBM and provide additional resources and expertise through collaboration with Roche's sequencing subsidiary, 454 Life Sciences.
Roche will develop and market all products based on the technology.