Connect with us

Technology

Illumina advances NovaSeq X Series, delivering single-flow-cell system, software upgrade, and new kits to enable multiomic applications

Published

on

Software upgrade advances complete workflow solutions

New NovaSeq X 25B 100-cycle and 200-cycle kits enhance multiomic capabilities on NovaSeq X, and enable newly released Illumina Single-Cell Prep

SAN DIEGO, Jan. 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Illumina, Inc. (NASDAQ: ILMN), a global leader in DNA sequencing and array-based technologies, today announced a series of updates to its NovaSeq X Series, delivering the NovaSeq X single-flow-cell system alongside a cutting-edge software upgrade and new kits.

Now in the market for the first time, the single-flow-cell NovaSeq X Sequencing System offers the same high-quality flow cells and speed as the NovaSeq X Plus Sequencing System—Illumina’s most rapidly adopted and utilized high-throughput sequencing platform to date—at a more accessible cost for labs with lower volume. The sequencers began shipping in December, and simultaneously the company introduced the software v1.3 upgrade for the NovaSeq X Series to elevate sequencing performance and advance data quality. Additionally, new NovaSeq X 25B 100- and 200-cycle kits began shipping in December, which will be key enablers of multiomic applications, including the Illumina Single-Cell 3′ RNA Prep (Illumina Single Cell Prep), now available under Illumina’s brand following the company’s acquisition of Fluent.

“This is the same instrument the scientific community has come to rely on for next-generation sequencing, now with upgraded software, new kits, and the option for a lower volume,” said Steve Barnard, PhD, chief technology officer of Illumina. “Based on customer input, we’ve invested heavily in innovations to make the platform even stronger and more versatile, supporting total workflows with flexible applications spanning genomics and multiomics. Customers are already raving about the powerful capabilities of the software upgrade.”

Customers affirm the value of the software upgrade 

The newly launched software upgrade delivers key enhancements that optimize sequencing workflows. Version 1.3 provides laboratories with improved sequencing accuracy and higher yields to ensure dependable and precise results, even with challenging, low-diversity samples. The reduction in PhiX dependency also means more usable data per run, helping researchers maximize their throughput and their confidence in their sequencing outputs. 

Génome Québec is a nonprofit organization that provides genomic services for researchers in the academic and industrial fields of 45 countries. In their experience testing the v1.3 software they noted a significant leap in data quality across a broad variety of library types. Geneviève DonPierre, team leader of NGS Sequencing at Génome Québec, stated, “The increased yield, enhanced sequencing accuracy, reduced PhiX dependency, and optimized handling of low-diversity libraries have transformed our operations. This update ensures consistently reliable outputs and empowers us to achieve superior results, reinforcing our confidence in every sequencing run.” 

Broad Clinical Labs also participated in early-access testing. The organization’s director of Laboratory Operations, Tom Howd, said: “We have observed significant high-quality data yield increases in early testing of the version 1.3 update on our NovaSeq X Plus fleet. We are eager to make these yield increases available to all our users to continue to advance their science.”

Bert Groet, laboratory specialist clinical genetics and team leader of the NGS core facility at University Medical Center Utrecht, affirms: “With the release of software version 1.3 on the NovaSeq X Plus, Illumina brings to our genome lab a decisive development to transition from whole-exome-based to whole-genome-based analysis. The significant increase in total sequencing yield, without compromise to high Q30 scores, ensures the promise of high throughput and high-quality whole-genome sequencing we can rely on to deliver answers to those we will be serving.”

Expanding capabilities with the 25B 100-cycle and 200-cycle kits

The new 25B 100-cycle and 200-cycle kits for the NovaSeq X Series, which began shipping in December, are optimized for counting applications and other assays at scale, offering shorter turnaround times and more cost-effective runs. By providing flexibility in run sizes and cycle counts, the 25B kits address the evolving needs of clinical specialty labs, academic core labs, and service providers.

Illumina Single-Cell Prep

Also announced today, Illumina Single-Cell Prep, formerly Fluent PipSeq V, is now available and shipping to customers with broad compatibility across Illumina’s NGS platform portfolio, including NextSeq 1000/2000, NovaSeq 6000, and NovaSeq X. The single-cell sample prep technology removes many of the barriers and limitations of current methods, enabling scalability of experiments from hundreds to millions of cells with the same process and turnaround time. Low equipment cost, lower cost per cell, and high sensitivity allow for customers who are new to single-cell sequencing to adopt the technology quickly and easily, with exceptional performance while providing cost-efficient scaling to large numbers of cells for analysis that is possible only on the NovaSeq X 25B flow cell.

At the annual meeting of the American Society of Human Genetics in November, Shane Liddelow, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Neuroscience and Physiology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, presented early access data and insights on the innovative technology enabling the sequencing of challenging cell types, such as astrocytes and brain tissue, which are notoriously difficult to analyze with microfluidic devices due to issues like clogging and other technical barriers.

The new 25B kits for the NovaSeq X Series are compatible with Illumina Single-Cell Prep, introducing highly efficient, affordable, and accurate workflows for large scale, single-cell analysis projects. Illumina Single-Cell Prep provides streamlined bioinformatics workflows from NovaSeq X Series sequencers streaming data directly into automated DRAGEN analysis in Illumina’s informatics cloud solutions. Partek Flow enables comprehensive visualization and interpretation of large-scale Illumina Single-Cell Prep data sets for differential expression and biomarker discovery.

Use of forward-looking statements

This release may contain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Among the important factors to which our business is subject that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in any forward-looking statements are: (i) challenges inherent in developing and launching new products and services, including modifying and scaling manufacturing operations, and reliance on third-party suppliers for critical components; (ii) our ability to manufacture robust instrumentation and consumables; and (iii) the acceptance by customers of our newly launched products, which may or may not meet our and their expectations, together with other factors detailed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our most recent filings on Forms 10-K and 10-Q, or in information disclosed in public conference calls, the date and time of which are released beforehand. We undertake no obligation, and do not intend, to update these forward-looking statements, to review or confirm analysts’ expectations, or to provide interim reports or updates on the progress of the current quarter.

About Illumina

Illumina is improving human health by unlocking the power of the genome. Our focus on innovation has established us as a global leader in DNA sequencing and array-based technologies, serving customers in the research, clinical, and applied markets. Our products are used for applications in the life sciences, oncology, reproductive health, agriculture, and other emerging segments. To learn more, visit illumina.com and connect with us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.

Contacts

Investors:
Salli Schwartz
858-291-6421
IR@illumina.com

Media:
Christine Douglass
PR@illumina.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/illumina-advances-novaseq-x-series-delivering-single-flow-cell-system-software-upgrade-and-new-kits-to-enable-multiomic-applications-302344230.html

SOURCE Illumina, Inc.

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Technology

Sky-Futures Partners Ltd., a Global Leader in Remote Inspection Services, Announces New CEO, Frankie Suarez, London, January 21, 2025

Published

on

By

HOUSTON, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sky-Futures Partners Limited, a global leader in drone-based inspection services for 15 years, announces a strategic leadership change.

Steve Phillips, Chair of the Board of Directors of Sky-Futures, said: 
“I am pleased to announce Frankie Suarez as the Chief Executive Officer of Sky-Futures. His 10 years of leadership experience at Sky-Futures and 20+ years in the UAS sphere make him a natural choice to lead Sky-Futures and unlock the full potential of remote inspection services and advanced technology such as AI to deliver high-value solutions to our customers.” 

Founded and led by military veterans, Sky-Futures has built its reputation on precision, operational excellence, pioneering technology, and data analytics.  With the same commitment to excellence, Sky-Futures will continue to serve its global client base in 45 countries while expanding its capabilities in the rapidly evolving UAS market.  

28 Second Video Overview

Frankie Suarez, Chief Executive Officer shared:
“This is a pivotal moment for Sky-Futures. As an independent business, we can respond faster to the needs of our clients, innovate with greater freedom, and explore opportunities in emerging sectors. The values we were founded on; precision, expertise, and an uncompromising commitment to excellence, remain core to everything we do.” He added: “We’re also proud to be part of the global effort to reduce methane emissions and support industries in meeting their climate commitments. By combining advanced sensor technology with deep engineering expertise, we’re helping our clients protect their assets while achieving sustainability goals.”

sky-futures.com

Press contact:
Al Maag
Scottsdale, Az
al.maag@maagcommplus.com
602-363-6038

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sky-futures-partners-ltd-a-global-leader-in-remote-inspection-services-announces-new-ceo-frankie-suarez-london-january-21-2025-302355724.html

SOURCE Sky-Futures Partners Ltd

Continue Reading

Technology

Dubai Police and Crystal collaborate to fight economic crypto crime

Published

on

By

DUBAI, UAE, Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Crystal Intelligence has announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dubai Police, General Department of Criminal Investigation.

This partnership aims to promote collaboration in identifying and predicting future economic crimes, an increasingly important issue as digital threats continue to evolve.

“At Dubai Police, we are committed to strengthening our security infrastructure by collaborating with internal and external partners. Based on global studies, the General Department of Criminal Investigation develops strategic plans that anticipate future security challenges, including economic crimes, which are becoming more sophisticated,” stated Brigadier Al Shamsi. “As countries and individuals increasingly rely on technology in both professional and personal spheres, we must adapt to these trends to ensure that Dubai remains the safest city in the world.”

Navin Gupta, CEO of Crystal Intelligence, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, describing the MoU as a strategic milestone. “This partnership underscores Crystal Intelligence’s commitment to working closely with Dubai Police to share knowledge and expertise across various fields. Together, we aim to develop and implement high-impact initiatives and projects that will strengthen our collaboration,” Gupta added.

About Crystal Intelligence

Crystal is a leading blockchain intelligence firm empowering financial institutions, law enforcement and regulators with real-time blockchain analysis, investigative and compliance solutions. Our solution helps financial institutions comply with global anti-money laundering regulations efficiently. Investigators and government agencies use Crystal’s cutting-edge technology and unique real-time intelligence to solve crypto investigations. Available as a free blockchain explorer, SaaS, or API.

www.crystalintelligence.com

Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2581920/Crystal_Intelligence_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/dubai-police-and-crystal-collaborate-to-fight-economic-crypto-crime-302355379.html

Continue Reading

Technology

Cognizant and CrowdStrike Partner to Drive Enterprise Cybersecurity Transformation

Published

on

By

Strategic alliance will drive platform consolidation to help improve the security posture for global enterprises across industries

TEANECK, N.J., Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Cognizant (NASDAQ: CTSH) and CrowdStrike (NASDAQ: CRWD) today announced a strategic partnership to drive enterprise security transformation by delivering cybersecurity services, powered by the AI-native CrowdStrike Falcon® cybersecurity platform. Cognizant will work to enable organizations to streamline security operations and threat mitigation, consolidate fragmented legacy point products, reduce the complexity of managing cybersecurity programs, and strengthen cybersecurity posture, leveraging Falcon® Next-Gen SIEM and Falcon® Cloud Security.

Organizations are continuously evolving their IT landscapes by adopting a variety of cloud services, including IaaS, SaaS, PaaS and CaaS1, which can expose them to a wider range of increasingly sophisticated cyber threats. With a growing cybersecurity skills gap and an increasingly complex threat landscape, organizations need solutions that not only transform security operations but also consolidate point products to simplify their cybersecurity environments.

“Cognizant is committed to staying at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation,” said Ravi Kumar S, CEO, Cognizant. “As the enterprise digital landscape evolves, it is crucial to leverage AI for cybersecurity and cloud-native security technologies to help stay ahead of threats and ensure the resilience of our clients’ infrastructure. Our partnership with CrowdStrike is another important step we are taking to continue providing our clients with some of the most advanced and effective market-leading security solutions available.”

Over the past year, cloud exploitation cases have surged by 110%, while the speed and sophistication of cyberattacks continue to accelerate, with breakout times now measured in minutes. The collaboration between Cognizant and CrowdStrike combines the power of the Falcon platform with Cognizant’s Neuro® Cybersecurity platform, along with threat and vulnerability management and cloud infrastructure security offerings. This approach is designed to help customers create a flexible operations framework for new technology and threats, powered by an AI-native platform rather than separate legacy tools.

“Our partnership with Cognizant delivers cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions that tackle the evolving challenges enterprises face today and tomorrow,” said George Kurtz, CEO and founder, CrowdStrike. “CrowdStrike’s AI-native Falcon platform with Cognizant’s extensive expertise in technology transformation offers customers best-in-class protection, performance, and efficiency. Together, we will drive positive customer outcomes and enhance the security posture of organizations globally.”

For more information about Cognizant’s cybersecurity offerings, visit here.

About Cognizant
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) engineers modern businesses. We help our clients modernize technology, reimagine processes and transform experiences so they can stay ahead in our fast-changing world. Together, we’re improving everyday life. See how at www.cognizant.com or @cognizant.

About CrowdStrike
CrowdStrike (NASDAQ: CRWD), a global cybersecurity leader, has redefined modern security with the world’s most advanced cloud-native platform for protecting critical areas of enterprise risk – endpoints and cloud workloads, identity and data.

Powered by the CrowdStrike Security Cloud and world-class AI, the CrowdStrike Falcon® platform leverages real-time indicators of attack, threat intelligence, evolving adversary tradecraft and enriched telemetry from across the enterprise to deliver hyper-accurate detections, automated protection and remediation, elite threat hunting and prioritized observability of vulnerabilities.

Purpose-built in the cloud with a single lightweight-agent architecture, the Falcon platform delivers rapid and scalable deployment, superior protection and performance, reduced complexity and immediate time-to-value.

CrowdStrike: We stop breaches.

Learn more: https://www.crowdstrike.com/
Follow us: Blog | X | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram
Start a free trial today: https://www.crowdstrike.com/free-trial-guide/

© 2025 CrowdStrike, Inc. All rights reserved. CrowdStrike and CrowdStrike Falcon are marks owned by CrowdStrike, Inc. and are registered in the United States and other countries. CrowdStrike owns other trademarks and service marks and may use the brands of third parties to identify their products and services.

For more information, contact:

U.S.

Name Ben Gorelick

Email benjamin.gorelick@cognizant.com 

Europe / APAC

Name Christina Schneider

Email christina.schneider@cognizant.com

India

Name Rashmi Vasisht

Email rashmi.vasisht@cognizant.com 

1 Infrastructure as a Service, Software as a Service, Platform as a Service, and Containers as a Service, respectively.

 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cognizant-and-crowdstrike-partner-to-drive-enterprise-cybersecurity-transformation-302355002.html

SOURCE Cognizant Technology Solutions

Continue Reading

Trending