In the July 31 issue, IBO reported on Agilent Technologies’ acquisition of Population Genetics Technologies’ sequencing IP related to NGS molecular and sample barcoding (see IBO 7/31/17). The IP is already used as part of Agilent’s target enrichment product portfolio for NGS sample preparation. Asked about additional product introductions based on the IP, an Agilent spokesperson told IBO, “Agilent will continue to launch new products in both the SureSelect and HaloPlex NGS target enrichment portfolios including the patented technology in 2018. Agilent is also investigating the incorporation of capabilities brought with this portfolio into additional technologies currently under development.”

A number of NGS barcoding technologies are currently available. Discussing how the newly acquired IP compares to other barcoding technologies, Agilent commented, “Through product developments made possible by an earlier license agreement with Population Genetics, Agilent became one of the first companies to commercialize a high-sensitivity target enrichment solution incorporating molecular barcodes. This enabled Agilent users to accurately and reproducibly detect down to very low allele frequencies (below 0.1%).” She added,  “We are confident that the greater scope of IP obtained through this acquisition will enable Agilent to enhance our offerings to meet increasing NGS market demands for greater sequencing efficiency and accuracy.”