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VelaDx, Thomas Jefferson Co-developing MDx for Cancer, Infectious Diseases

NEW YORK (GenomeWeb News) – Vela Diagnostics today announced a deal with Thomas Jefferson University and Hospitals to jointly develop molecular diagnostics aimed at cancer and infectious diseases.

The Singapore-based company said the two partners are currently deciding on several projects, including developing next-generation- and PCR-based assays. Using new technologies, Thomas Jefferson will help VelaDx develop and validate the assays. VelaDx will seek regulatory approval for the assays on a global basis.

"Partnering with Jefferson provides Vela Diagnostics with access to world-recognized experts in the molecular diagnostics industry," Michael Tillmann, CEO of VelaDx, said in a statement. "This is essential for the development of high quality molecular diagnostic assays in a dynamic clinical environment."

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

VelaDx develops molecular diagnostics based on its Sentosa workflow system. In October, VelaDx and Life Technologies announced a deal under which VelaDx would develop clinical diagnostic tests on Life Tech's Ion Personal Genome Machine.

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