First Effort to Integrate PacBio HiFi Whole Genome Sequencing in Newborn Screening Launches in Thailand
Collaboration leverages HiFi's unique ability to reveal hidden variants, bringing a new level of precision to early life genetic screening
MENLO PARK, Calif. and BANGKOK, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PacBio (Nasdaq: PACB) a leading provider of high-quality, highly accurate sequencing platforms, and Chulalongkorn University, a national leader in genomic and translational research, today announced a strategic collaboration to implement PacBio HiFi whole genome sequencing (WGS) as part of a newborn screening research program. This marks the first initiative in Asia Pacific to explore the use of PacBio's HiFi sequencing technology at population scale - an effort designed to evaluate how comprehensive genomic data can support earlier, more accurate identification of rare and treatable conditions in newborns. The collaboration highlights Thailand's growing leadership in precision medicine and offers a potential model for countries seeking to modernize newborn screening with genome-wide approaches.
'Our shared goal is to establish a robust and scalable research model for genomic newborn screening that helps uncover the genetic basis of undiagnosed conditions from birth,' said Professor Vorasuk Shotelersuk from the Center of Excellence for Medical Genomics, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand. 'We are excited to work with PacBio to bring this vision closer to reality for families in Thailand.'
Traditional newborn screening programs have relied on targeted panels that detect a limited subset of conditions based on specific molecular pathologies. Recent advances in genome sequencing now make it possible to take a broader, more comprehensive approach, starting at birth. PacBio's HiFi WGS leverages long-read technology to generate highly accurate, complete genomic data, including regions that are typically inaccessible to short-read methods. In addition to resolving structural variants and repeat expansions, HiFi WGS captures epigenomic information in parallel, giving researchers a multidimensional view of the genome. This level of detail opens the door to identifying a wider range of genetic variants, many of which are implicated in early-onset and rare diseases that previously went undetected.
'Every child deserves the best possible start to life, and that begins with giving families and clinicians access to comprehensive genomic information from the very beginning,' said Christian Henry, President and Chief Executive Officer of PacBio. 'This collaboration demonstrates how advanced sequencing technologies like HiFi can enable broader insights at birth. It's deeply aligned with our mission at PacBio to make high-quality genomic information accessible where it's needed most, and we're proud to support Chulalongkorn University and Thailand as they lead the way in laying the foundation for a new model of care.'
This collaboration positions Thailand as a regional leader in population-scale genomics and reflects Asia Pacific's expanding influence in the global genomics landscape. With an established foundation in public health and translational research, Thailand is uniquely prepared to explore how whole genome sequencing can enhance national healthcare strategies, beginning with newborn screening. By applying PacBio's HiFi long-read sequencing to this early-stage initiative, researchers gain a more comprehensive view of the genome, enabling the detection of variants that are often missed by traditional methods. The ability to capture a wider spectrum of genetic risk at birth sets a new benchmark for the potential of early disease detection, while also contributing to broader goals in carrier screening and public health planning. For Thailand, this project strengthens its role in advancing precision medicine and lays critical groundwork for future data-sharing frameworks and cross-border research collaborations that can inform more equitable and effective genomic healthcare worldwide.
About PacBio
PacBio (NASDAQ: PACB) is a premier life science technology company that designs, develops, and manufactures advanced sequencing solutions to help scientists and clinical researchers resolve genetically complex problems. Our products and technologies stem from two highly differentiated core technologies focused on accuracy, quality and completeness which include our HiFi long-read sequencing and our SBB® short-read sequencing technologies. Our products address solutions across a broad set of research applications including human germline sequencing, plant and animal sciences, infectious disease and microbiology, oncology, and other emerging applications.
For more information, please visit www.pacb.com and follow @PacBio.
PacBio products are provided for Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.
About Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University in Thailand
Chulalongkorn University is the oldest national university in the Kingdom of Thailand. The university has been active in international research activities and is committed to creating knowledge and innovation to transform Thai society into a creative and sustainable future. As part of the university's mission is to contribute the knowledge gained to the sustainable development of the country and society, the Faculty of Medicine is also actively involved in sharing knowledge with society through collaboration between industry, government, and academia.Website：https://www.md.chula.ac.th/en/Facebook：https://www.facebook.com/MDCU.chulalongkornuniversityLinkedin：https://www.linkedin.com/school/chulalongkornuniversity
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, including statements relating to the uses, advantages, quality or performance of, the benefits or expected benefits of using, PacBio products or technologies, including in connection with Thailand's efforts to integrate PacBio products into newborn screening; establishing a research model that may uncover the genetic basis of undiagnosed conditions, improve outcomes, ease uncertainty or offer answers earlier, and other future events. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements because they are subject to assumptions, risks, and uncertainties that could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from currently anticipated results. These risks include, but are not limited to, risks inherent in developing and commercializing new technologies; rapidly changing technologies and extensive competition in genomic sequencing; unanticipated increases in costs or expenses; interruptions or delays in the supply of components or materials for, or manufacturing of, PacBio products and products under development; third-party claims alleging infringement of patents and proprietary rights or seeking to invalidate PacBio's patents or proprietary rights; and other risks associated with general macroeconomic conditions and geopolitical instability. Additional factors that could materially affect actual results can be found in PacBio's most recent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including PacBio's most recent reports on Forms 8-K, 10-K, and 10-Q, and include those listed under the caption 'Risk Factors.' These forward-looking statements, including PacBio's preliminary unaudited financial information and PacBio's financial guidance, are based on current expectations and speak only as of the date hereof; except as required by law, PacBio disclaims any obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances in the future, even if new information becomes available.
Contacts (PacBio)
Investors:
Todd Friedmanir@pacificbiosciences.com
Media:pr@pacificbiosciences.com
Contacts (Chulalongkorn University)
Media:prmdcu@gmail.comSign in to access your portfolio
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Business Wire
5 hours ago
- Business Wire
Tigo Energy and BayWa r.e. Empower High-Wattage C&I Solar in Thailand
CAMPBELL, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Tigo Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: TYGO) ('Tigo' or 'Company'), a leading provider of intelligent solar and energy software solutions, today announced that the Company will share a trade show booth with BayWa r.e. at the annual ASEAN Sustainable Energy Week 2025, from July 2-4, at the QSNCC in Bangkok, Thailand. At the show, Tigo will focus on supporting Commercial and Industrial (C&I) solar installers and engineering, procurement, and construction specialists (EPCs) as enforcement of new rapid shutdown requirements begins, deploying high-wattage modules in high-irradiance regions, and ensuring Total Quality Solar (TQS) through Tigo service programs. For solar projects in hot, humid, and high-irradiance (>1000W/m 2) regions like Southeast Asia, the Tigo TS4-X family of MLPE devices provides the latest in optimization, monitoring, and safety for solar installers deploying high-wattage modules, including supporting the increased backside gains of modern bifacial modules. The TS4-X product line gives installers more freedom to deploy the modules that deliver the power and performance for their customer deployments, reduce labor costs with a no-bolt design and no need for additional ground wiring, and contribute to improving Levelized Cost Of Energy (LCOE) in the large-scale solar sector. Tigo MLPE devices pair with an industry-leading list of third-party solar inverters to deliver design and installation flexibility for solar installers and EPCs. 'Thailand's rooftop solar market is growing rapidly and so is the demand for safer, smarter systems,' said Junrhey Castro, managing director at BayWa r.e. Solar Systems. 'As a regional distributor, we're committed to supporting this growth with reliable solutions that protect both the performance and investment of our customers. Having Tigo in our product portfolio reflects our focus on quality and innovation for solar professionals across Thailand and Southeast Asia.' In Thailand, Tigo will also invite installers to enroll directly in the Tigo Green Glove service program at the BayWa r.e. booth. The Green Glove service program is a premium support experience for installers of commercial and industrial (C&I) systems that enhances the installer experience and drives quality across the solar value chain with a process that includes a set of formalized support engagements for Tigo C&I installers before, during, and after the installation. 'Strong collaboration between global companies like BayWa r.e. and Tigo is part of what makes the solar ecosystem work for more installers and EPCs around the world,' said Jing Tian, chief growth and revenue officer at Tigo Energy. 'As with many of the pro-solar nations in Asia, we believe that products like the TS4-X and programs like Green Glove make great strides in further driving LCOE down, and Total Quality Solar up, respectively. In regions with higher-than-normal irradiance values in particular, these dynamics benefit the entire industry, from equipment manufacturer to installer, and on to the operators and asset owners.' ASEAN Sustainable Energy Week 2025 attendees are invited to visit BayWa r.e. and Tigo at booth F11 from July 2-4, at the QSNCC in Bangkok, Thailand. To book an appointment with a Tigo specialist at the show, please register your interest here. About Tigo Energy Founded in 2007, Tigo Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: TYGO) is a worldwide leader in the development and provider of smart hardware and software solutions that enhance safety, increase energy yield, and lower operating costs of residential, commercial, and utility-scale solar systems. Tigo combines its Flex MLPE (Module Level Power Electronics) and solar optimizer technology with intelligent, cloud-based software capabilities for advanced energy monitoring and control. Tigo MLPE products maximize performance, enable real-time energy monitoring, and provide code-required rapid shutdown at the module level. The company also develops and provides products such as inverters and battery storage systems for the residential solar-plus-storage market. For more information, please visit
Business Insider
5 hours ago
- Business Insider
Upcoming Stock Splits This Week (June 23 to June 27)
These are the upcoming stock splits for the week of June 23 to June 27, based on TipRanks' Stock Splits Calendar. A stock split takes place when a company increases its number of outstanding shares by issuing more to existing shareholders, effectively reducing the price per share without altering the firm's overall market capitalization. While the underlying value remains the same, the lower share price makes the stock more accessible to everyday investors and may help boost market interest. Confident Investing Starts Here: Meanwhile, a reverse stock split does the opposite, shrinking the share count by consolidating existing shares into fewer units. This pushes the stock price higher while keeping the total valuation the same. It's a common move for companies trying to meet exchange listing requirements, especially if their share price is flirting with minimum thresholds like those set by the Nasdaq. Whether it's about attracting more investors or holding onto a listing, these corporate actions can offer valuable clues about a company's strategy and where it sees itself heading next. Let's take a look at the upcoming stock splits for the week. Pegasystems (PEGA) – Pegasystems is a leading provider of enterprise AI-powered decisioning and workflow automation software. On June 17, the company announced a 2-for-1 forward stock split, aimed at improving share accessibility for retail investors. PEGA stock is expected to begin trading on a split-adjusted basis on June 23. TruGolf Holdings (TRUG) – Specializing in high-end golf simulator technology, TruGolf aims to bring the driving range indoors. On June 18, the company announced a 1-for-50 reverse stock split to help maintain compliance with Nasdaq's listing requirements. The split is set to take effect on June 23. Maase (MAAS) – China-based Maase, a digital platform company, is switching from trading American Depositary Shares (ADSs) to listing its regular shares directly on the Nasdaq. To prepare for this transition, the company announced a 1-for-90 reverse stock split on June 18, meaning every 90 ADSs will be converted into one regular share. The split takes effect when the market opens on June 23, 2025. Super League Enterprise (SLE) – Super League builds immersive experiences across gaming and metaverse platforms. On June 18, the company announced a 1-for-40 reverse stock split, designed to boost the share price and extend its Nasdaq listing runway. The stock will begin trading on a split-adjusted basis on June 23. KULR Technology Group (KULR) – Focused on thermal management and battery safety for aerospace and EV markets, KULR announced a 1-for-8 reverse stock split on June 13 to regain compliance with Nasdaq's minimum bid price rule. The stock will begin trading on a split-adjusted basis on June 23. Stem, Inc. (STEM) – Leveraging AI to boost grid-scale energy efficiency, Stem announced a 1-for-20 reverse stock split on June 11 to comply with the NYSE's minimum bid price requirement. The stock will begin trading on a split-adjusted basis on June 23. Cellectar Biosciences (CLRB) – Cellectar is a clinical-stage biotech developing phospholipid drug conjugates for targeted cancer treatment. On June 18, the company announced a 1-for-30 reverse stock split, following shareholder approval the prior week. The move is aimed at regaining compliance with Nasdaq's minimum bid price requirement. The split is slated to go into effect on June 24. Jiade Limited (JDZG) – China-based Jiade Limited, which focuses on adult education and logistics services, announced on June 20 that it would implement a 1-for-8 reverse stock split, effective June 24, consolidating its shares and updating its CUSIP to regain compliance with Nasdaq's minimum bid price requirement.
Business Wire
6 hours ago
- Business Wire
Exelixis Announces Zanzalintinib in Combination with an Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Improved Overall Survival in STELLAR-303 Phase 3 Pivotal Trial in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
BUSINESS WIRE)-- Exelixis, Inc. (Nasdaq: EXEL) today announced positive topline results from the STELLAR-303 phase 3 pivotal trial in which zanzalintinib in combination with atezolizumab (Tecentriq ®) demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in overall survival (OS) versus regorafenib in the intent-to-treat (ITT) population of patients with previously treated non-microsatellite instability (MSI)-high metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC). These topline findings are from the final analysis conducted by the Independent Data Monitoring Committee of one of the dual primary endpoints of the STELLAR-303 phase 3 trial. The trial will proceed to the planned final analysis for the other dual primary endpoint of OS in patients without liver metastases (non-liver metastases, NLM). The safety profiles of zanzalintinib in combination with atezolizumab and of regorafenib were generally consistent with what has been previously observed, and no new safety signals were identified. The ITT population consisted of all randomized patients, regardless of the presence of liver metastases. The NLM subgroup consisted of patients who did not have active liver metastases at baseline as determined by investigator assessment. 'The STELLAR-303 results, which showed a survival benefit with the combination of zanzalintinib and atezolizumab versus regorafenib across all randomized patients with previously treated metastatic colorectal cancer, marks an important first milestone for our zanzalintinib pivotal development program,' said Amy Peterson, M.D., Executive Vice President, Product Development & Medical Affairs, and Chief Medical Officer, Exelixis. 'We look forward to discussing the findings with regulatory authorities and presenting the detailed results at an upcoming medical conference.' Secondary endpoints of STELLAR-303 include progression-free survival, objective response rate and duration of response in the ITT population and in the NLM subgroup of patients. Exelixis plans to submit detailed results of STELLAR-303 for presentation at an upcoming medical conference. About STELLAR-303 STELLAR-303 (NCT05425940) is a global, multicenter, randomized, phase 3, open-label study that randomized 901 patients 1:1 to either zanzalintinib (100 mg) in combination with atezolizumab or regorafenib. The study includes patients with previously treated non-MSI-high metastatic CRC. The dual primary endpoints of the study are OS in the ITT population and in the NLM subgroup of patients. Presence of liver metastases at baseline for all enrolled patients was determined by investigator assessment. Secondary endpoints include progression-free survival, objective response rate and duration of response in the ITT population and in the NLM subgroup of patients. More information about the trial is available at About Zanzalintinib Zanzalintinib is a third-generation oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor that inhibits the activity of receptor tyrosine kinases implicated in cancer growth and spread, including VEGF receptors, MET, AXL and MER. These receptor tyrosine kinases are involved in both normal cellular function and in pathologic processes such as oncogenesis, metastasis, tumor angiogenesis and resistance to multiple therapies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors. With zanzalintinib, Exelixis sought to build upon its extensive experience with the target profile of cabozantinib, the company's flagship medicine, while improving key characteristics, including pharmacokinetic half-life. Zanzalintinib is currently being developed for the treatment of advanced solid tumors, including colorectal cancer, kidney cancer, head and neck cancer and neuroendocrine tumors. Zanzalintinib is an investigational agent that is not approved for any use and is the subject of ongoing clinical trials. About CRC CRC is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. 1 Approximately 154,000 new cases will be diagnosed in the U.S. with around 53,000 expected deaths from the disease in 2025. 1 CRC is most frequently diagnosed among people aged 65-74 and is more common in men and in people of non-Hispanic American Indian/Alaska Native descent. 2 Nearly a quarter of CRC cases are diagnosed at the metastatic stage, at which point the five-year survival rate is just 16.2%. 2 The liver is the most common site for CRC metastasis. Liver metastases significantly impact survival, with a median five-year survival rate of less than 14% when treated with palliative chemotherapy. 3 About Exelixis Exelixis is a globally ambitious oncology company innovating next-generation medicines and regimens at the forefront of cancer care. Powered by drug discovery and development excellence, we are rapidly evolving our product portfolio to target an expanding range of tumor types and indications with our clinically differentiated pipeline of small molecules, antibody-drug conjugates and other biotherapeutics. This comprehensive approach harnesses decades of robust investment in our science and partnerships to advance our investigational programs and extend the impact of our flagship commercial product, CABOMETYX ® (cabozantinib). Exelixis is driven by a bold scientific pursuit to create transformational treatments that give more patients hope for the future. For information about the company and its mission to help cancer patients recover stronger and live longer, visit follow @ExelixisInc on X (Twitter), like Exelixis, Inc. on Facebook and follow Exelixis on LinkedIn. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements related to: the therapeutic potential of the combination of zanzalintinib in combination with atezolizumab to improve overall survival in patients with metastatic CRC; Exelixis' plans to discuss the trial data from STELLAR-303 with regulatory authorities and to present detailed findings at an upcoming medical conference; and Exelixis' scientific pursuit to create transformational treatments that give more patients hope for the future. Any statements that refer to expectations, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances are forward-looking statements and are based upon Exelixis' current plans, assumptions, beliefs, expectations, estimates and projections. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results and the timing of events could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements as a result of these risks and uncertainties, which include, without limitation: the availability of data at the referenced times; complexities and the unpredictability of the regulatory review and approval processes in the U.S. and elsewhere; Exelixis' continuing compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements; unexpected concerns that may arise as a result of the occurrence of adverse safety events or additional data analyses of clinical trials evaluating zanzalintinib; Exelixis' dependence on third-party vendors for the development, manufacture and supply of zanzalintinib; Exelixis' ability to protect its intellectual property rights; market competition; changes in economic and business conditions; and other factors affecting Exelixis and its development programs detailed from time to time under the caption 'Risk Factors' in Exelixis' most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and in Exelixis' future filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements in this press release are based on information available to Exelixis as of the date of this press release, and Exelixis undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements contained herein, except as required by law. Exelixis, the Exelixis logo and CABOMETYX are registered U.S. trademarks of Exelixis. TECENTRIQ is a registered U.S. trademark of Genentech, a member of the Roche Group. ___________________________ 1 Key Statistics for Colorectal Cancer. ACS website. Available at: Accessed June 2025. 2 Cancer Stat Facts: Colorectal Cancer. SEER website. Available at: Accessed June 2025. 3 Ros J, Salva F, Dopazo C, et al. Liver transplantation in metastatic colorectal cancer: are we ready for it? Br J Cancer. May 2023;128(10):1797-1806.
