Qiagen (QGEN”>QGEN), a major provider of innovative technologies and products for pre-analytical sample preparation and molecular diagnostics solutions, recently introduced its QIAensemble Decapper automation system.
This is an open platform system with which laboratories can eliminate many manual steps needed for the management of liquid-based cytology and other liquid vials. The rollout of QIAensemble Decapper is underway in Europe and other parts of the world.
The QIAensemble Decapper automation system, operated by an improved graphical user interface (GUI), is path-breaking as it will support downstream molecular testing while minimizing the chances of injuries to laboratory staff from repetitive motions. This system is compatible with sample racks on the QIAsymphony SP automation system.
Further, it regulates the processing with digital data collection and is flexible in regard to output tube types, such as conical tubes, u-shaped tubes, BD Vacutainer tubes and Greiner's Vacuette tubes.
Companion diagnostics are currently gaining significant traction and peers of Qiagen like Myriad Genetics (MYGN”>MYGN) are establishing themselves as strong players in this market. However, Qiagen’s long-term strategy involves technological advancement and new product introduction that can hugely increase its competitive advantage.
The company is constantly endeavoring for timely development and launch of products that address growing market needs. Currently, other than its next generation high throughput molecular testing QIAensemble product platform, Qiagen has several products underway like molecular medium-throughput QIAsymphony platform and related sample and assay technologies.
Moreover, Qiagen has historically expanded its reach and technological portfolio through acquisitions and is looking to ramp up investment in the future. The company’s recent acquisitions of Australia-based Cellestis and France-based Ipsogen are expected to strengthen Qiagen’s leadership in molecular diagnostics, significantly expanding its profiling and personalized healthcare portfolios.
Additionally, we are also encouraged by Qiagen’s efforts on partnering with the pharmaceutical industry. In September 2011, Qiagen entered into a partnership with Eli Lilly (LLY”>LLY) to jointly develop, manufacture and commercialize a molecular companion diagnostic for an early-stage investigational compound, which is currently being developed by Lilly. We strongly believe that Qiagen’s aggressive acquisition and collaboration strategies will help drive growth in fiscal 2012 and beyond.
Currently, Qiagen retains a Zacks #3 Rank (short-term Hold). Over the long term, we remain Neutral on the stock.
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