QIAGEN launches long-read sequencing panels for complex genomic regions

VENLO, Netherlands - QIAGEN (NYSE:QGEN) announced Tuesday the introduction of its QIAseq xHYB Long Read Panels, a new suite of target enrichment solutions designed for analyzing complex genomic regions using long-read sequencing technologies.

The new panels are optimized for native long-read platforms, including those from PacBio (NASDAQ:PACB), a company currently valued at $480 million, and aim to address limitations of short-read sequencing in areas such as HLA typing, repeat expansion analysis, and structural variant detection. According to InvestingPro data, PacBio has shown strong momentum recently, with notable returns over the past three months despite ongoing profitability challenges.

Built on QIAGEN’s hybrid-capture chemistry, the panels offer high target completeness and uniformity, flexible formats including fixed panels for hereditary cancers and HLA typing, and compatibility with high-molecular-weight DNA extraction kits.

"This launch is a major milestone in our genomics strategy and reflects our long-term commitment to enabling cutting-edge science," said Nitin Sood, Senior Vice President and Head of Product Portfolio & Innovation at QIAGEN, according to the company’s press release.

David Miller, Vice President of Global Marketing at PacBio, noted the timing aligns with adoption of their Vega benchtop sequencer, which leverages HiFi sequencing technology.

The expansion strengthens QIAGEN’s position as a provider of solutions for both short- and long-read next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms. The company’s portfolio now allows researchers to choose between sequencing approaches based on sample type and research objectives. With PacBio’s current valuation showing potential upside according to InvestingPro’s Fair Value analysis, investors looking for deeper insights can access comprehensive research reports and additional ProTips through the platform.

QIAGEN’s NGS solutions integrate extraction kits, target enrichment panels, library preparation tools, and bioinformatics software to support applications in academic research, pharmaceutical development, and oncology.

The announcement comes as long-read sequencing gains momentum in translational and clinical research, offering improved accuracy in haplotype phasing, repeat detection, and variant resolution compared to short-read technologies. With PacBio’s next earnings report scheduled for August 7, 2025, investors can access detailed financial analysis and expert insights through InvestingPro’s comprehensive research reports, available for over 1,400 US stocks.

In other recent news, Pacific Biosciences of California reported its first-quarter 2025 earnings, which exceeded analysts’ expectations. The company achieved an earnings per share (EPS) of -0.15, outperforming the anticipated -0.19. Additionally, PacBio’s revenue reached $37.2 million, surpassing the forecast of $33.5 million, although it was lower than the previous year’s figures. In other developments, an independent investigation conducted by a Special Committee found no evidence of improper employment practices or inaccuracies in the company’s cybersecurity disclosures. This inquiry was initiated due to allegations from a lawyer representing an employee affected by recent layoffs. The investigation concluded that there were no material inaccuracies or omissions in PacBio’s 2024 Form 10-K report. These developments provide investors with insights into the company’s recent performance and internal affairs.

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