NEW YORK, April 26 – Luminex and Lifecodes, a provider of DNA testing services, have agreed to collaborate on the development of pre-transplant tests using Luminex’s LabMap instrumentation, the companies said Thursday.
The multi-year partnership allows Lifecodes to develop DNA and antibody-based tissue typing tests based on compatibility with HLA, or human leukocyte antigen. Lifecodes will have worldwide non-exclusive rights to develop and distribute the tests; in return, Luminex will receive royalties from tests that are commercialized and use its microfluidics-based LabMap technology.
Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.
Lifecodes will offer both catalog and custom testing kits, as well as technology licensing, research services, large-scale production, and life science consulting. The products will utilize the multi-analyte profiling capabilities of the LabM ap technology, according to a company statement.
“This technology allows us to develop multiplex HLA DNA assays and antibody detection assays for use on a single automated platform,” Robert Linke, director of products for Lifecodes, said in a statement. “Previously, these two tests were performed with different methodologies and on different platforms. We can now offer the lab a system which can generate savings in consumables, labor and time."
The first HLA products using the LabMap technology will be available in early May.