Qiagen has introduced two tools designed to advance microbial analysis by allowing researchers to customise their assays and panels.

These tools are compatible with QIAcuity digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) systems and third-party next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms.

The new offerings build on an existing portfolio of more than 700 digital PCR assays available through the GeneGlobe platform, expanding the utility of nanoplate digital PCR (dPCR) across various applications, including wastewater testing and human pathogen analysis.

The first tool, the 'Design tool for Custom dPCR Microbial Assays', is a solution enabling the creation of tailored primers and probes for bacterial, fungal, and viral targets.

The tool software leverages sophisticated algorithms developed for microbial applications. The tool aids researchers in obtaining custom assays with ‘optimal’ sensitivity and specificity.

The second tool, 'QIAseq xHYB Custom Microbial Panels', allows for the design of customised next-generation sequencing (NGS) panels that provide comprehensive coverage by targeting multiple whole genomes simultaneously.

The advanced algorithm of the QIAseq xHYB Custom Microbial Panels allows researchers to design assays targeting multiple whole genomes simultaneously, enabling them to achieve the highest resolution in applications such as microbial detection.

QIAGEN life sciences business area head and senior vice president Nitin Sood said: “The demands for microbial detection, tracking and scientific research can be extremely specialised. Reliable and accurate tools that can be customised give scientists the flexibility they need to outpace pathogens and accelerate the tempo of discovery.

“With the launch of our design tool for Custom dPCR Microbial Assays and the new QIAseq xHXB panels, we are addressing the demands of our customers. QIAGEN will continue to expand our offering of accurate, reliable and easy-to-use solutions.”

In September, QIAGEN launched more than 100 validated QIAcuity digital PCR assays for various research applications, including cancer and infectious disease surveillance.

And in the same month of this year, the company received the CE mark for its QIAstat-Dx syndromic testing systems and associated assays.