PacBio and Berry Genomics announced a collaboration to provide PacBio long read sequencing technology to the Chinese clinical market. Under the new agreement, PacBio will develop its first long read desktop sequencing platform with funding and guidance provided by Berry Genomics. When the agreed product requirements are met, Berry Genomics will purchase at least 50 systems for use and sale throughout China.

The two companies' collaboration includes development, regulatory authorization, manufacturing, and distribution. The desktop long read sequencing instrument will help Berry Genomics expand its footprint in the perinatal and carrier testing market. Berry Genomics will also sell the instrument and consumables in China.

This will enable laboratories across China to access PacBio long read sequencing, in an easy-to-use, small footprint desktop format, at a lower capital investment than prior PacBio systems.