The biotech bi-weekly: advancing spectral flow cytometry, spatial biology, small-molecule therapeutics and whole-genome sequencing

Over the last two weeks, companies have unveiled enhanced panel design capabilities for spectral flow cytometry and same-cell RNA and protein analysis for the advancement of spatial biology. We’ve also seen partnerships form to discover RNA-targeting small molecules for neurodegenerative disorders and to develop viral contamination tests. Products Enhanced panel design capabilities for spectral flow cytometry Bio-Rad Laboratories (CA, USA) recently announced the introduction of a new range of StarBright Dyes, providing greater choice and flexibility for spectral flow cytometry in immunology research. The first dye in the series, StarBright UltraViolet700 (SBUV700), is now available, marking the start of a broader rollout over the coming months. Read the full release here >>> Spatial biology advances with same-cell RNA and protein analysis 10x Genomics (CA, USA) announced the launch of Xenium Protein, a powerful new addition to its Xenium Spatial platform that enables simultaneous RNA and protein detection in the same cell, on the same tissue section, all in a single automated run. As the first fully integrated spatial multiomic workflow for the Xenium platform from 10x Genomics, Xenium Protein empowers researchers to generate deeper biological insights with high confidence and without the need to stitch together data from multiple technologies. Read the full release here >>> A research revolution: multiomic and spatial techniques in cancer biology In this article, we reveal how researchers who attended AACR 2025 use mulitomic and spatial techniques to understand the tumor microenvironment, predict drug responses and personalize future care, and also share their tips and tricks for working with these technologies. Partnerships A partnership to discover novel RNA-targeting small molecules for neurological disorders Skyhawk Therapeutics (MA, USA), who are involved in the discovery and development of small molecules that modulate RNA expression, announced a strategic research collaboration with Merck (Darmstadt, Germany). The collaboration will focus on the discovery of novel RNA-targeting small molecules in select neurological indications with high unmet medical need. Read the full release here >>> Pioneering viral contamination test for biopharmaceuticals using Oxford Nanopore technology ViruSure (Vienna, Austria), which tests pathogen safety for biopharmaceuticals, and Oxford Nanopore Technologies (Oxford, UK), the company behind a new generation of molecular-sensing technologies based on nanopores, have announced the launch of the industry's first Good Laboratory Practice (GLP)-validated adventitious viral agent (AVA)-detection test using nanopore-based sequencing technology. Read the full release here >>> Key cellular complex plays unexpected role in gene expression Research has uncovered a previously unknown, widespread role of ORC in regulating human cell gene expression. People, publications & projections New publication: bioinformatics-guided stool mRNA markers for CRC A peer-reviewed study published in Scientific Reports, part of the Nature Portfolio, demonstrates a novel bioinformatic method for identifying messenger RNA biomarkers in stool samples that show high potential for the non-invasive detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) and advanced adenomas, its most common precancerous lesion. Read the full release here >>> SK bioscience discusses further collaboration with the Gates Foundation to advance global health SK bioscience (Seongnam, Republic of Korea), a global innovative vaccine and biotech company committed to promoting human health from prevention to cure, announced that the company held an exclusive meeting with the Gates Foundation (WA, USA) in line with the visit of Bill Gates, Founder and Chair of the Foundation, to Korea to discuss ways to advance global health collaboration. During the meeting, both organizations reaffirmed their long-standing partnership and commitment to working together on vaccine development and global public health projects. They also explored expanded cooperation in next-generation preventive medicines, with an emphasis on R&D for pandemic preparedness. Read the full release here >>> Whole-genome sequencing market to reach new heights by 2030 According to the latest study from BCC Research (MA, USA), ‘Whole Genome Sequencing: Global Markets’ is projected to grow from US$3 billion in 2025 to US$6.1 billion by the end of 2030, at a compound annual growth rate of 15.1% from 2025 to 2030. This report provides insights into the current and future market potential of whole-genome sequencing, with global and regional projections through 2030. It includes market estimates by product and service type, covering instruments, consumables and services. The workflow is segmented into pre-sequencing, sequencing and data analysis. End users include research institutes, hospitals and clinics, pharmaceutical companies and others. Applications span infectious diseases, cancer research, rare genetic diseases and pharmacogenomics. Read the full release here >>> The post The biotech bi-weekly: advancing spectral flow cytometry, spatial biology, small-molecule therapeutics and whole-genome sequencing appeared first on BioTechniques.