BD Licenses Molecular Indexing Technology to Roche

BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company) has non-exclusively licensed its patented stochastic labelling technology to Roche for multiple commercial applications.
 
BD’s patented stochastic labelling technology incorporating molecular indexes (known also as UMIs or molecular barcodes), enables the precise counting of individual biological molecules, including DNA or RNA, in complex and often volume-limited samples. BD is developing a suite of products utilizing this technology for accurate quantitative measurements of mRNA targets from single cells, enabling researchers to gain greater insights into the biology of complex and heterogeneous samples.
 
BD is also working with additional partners to license this technology and enable the development of novel tools and assays for the scientific community.
 
“Stochastic labelling with molecular indexes is a simple, yet powerful, approach for the accurate quantification of target molecules in complex biological samples,” said Stephen Gunstream, vice president of Genomics at BD. “This technology enables a range of future products that will broadly benefit many areas of research and future clinical applications.”
 
Specific financial terms of the agreement have not been disclosed.
 
BD is a global medical technology company that is advancing the world of health by improving medical discovery, diagnostics and the delivery of care. The company provides innovative solutions that help advance medical research and genomics, enhance the diagnosis of infectious disease and cancer, improve medication management, promote infection prevention, equip surgical and interventional procedures, and support the management of diabetes. The Franklin Lakes, N.J.-based company partners with organizations around the world to address some of the most challenging global health issues. BD has nearly 50,000 associates across 50 countries who work in close collaboration with customers and partners to help enhance outcomes, lower health care delivery costs, increase efficiencies, improve health care safety and expand access to health.