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QIAGEN Introduces New RNA-seq Library Preparation Solutions

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QIAGEN N.V. (QGEN - Free Report) recently launched a technology for faster and simpler library preparation of ribonucleic acid, or RNA sequencing for next-generation sequencing (NGS).An integral component of this offering is the QIAseq FastSelect RNA Removal Kit.

According to the company, RNA is gaining importance as a subject for NGS research and it also controls many genetic processes at the cellular level. However, the presence of some RNA types which are not required for the specific research slowdown the library preparation process. In this situation, the QIAseq FastSelect RNA Removal kit thoroughly simplifies and speeds up RNA removal. 

Per management, this kit also complements QIAGEN’s expanding portfolio of RNA-seq solutions.

Furthermore, QIAGEN is set to present more than 15 studies on QIAseq solutions, the GeneReader NGS System and other QIAGEN Sample to Insight products at the American Society of Human Genetics 2018 scientific sessions.

Market Potential

According to QIAGEN, the global library preparation kits market for RNA-seq is worth $400 million. Moreover, per a report by MarketsandMarkets, the global NGS market is expected to reach a worth of $16.35 billion, at a CAGR of 19.2% between 2018 and 2024.

We believe the latest development will help QIAGEN cash in on the bountiful opportunities in this niche space.

Solid NGS Platform Projections

QIAGEN has highlighted certain strategies to boost top-line contributions from the NGS portfolio to $140 million in 2018 from more than $115 million in 2017. Notably, this platform has been witnessing double-digit revenue growth over the past few quarters.

The company recently collaborated with NeuMoDx Molecular, Inc. to market two new fully integrated systems for automation of PCR (polymerase chain reaction) testing. Furthermore, the companies are partnering to apply certain QIAGEN chemistries on the NeuMoDx systems.

Management also aims to expand the NGS platform by rapidly scaling-up the new Enterprise Genomics Services. It also plans to introduce the proprietary, new third-generation chemistry and a range of proprietary Digital NGS technology-based new gene panels within the GeneReader system. Per management, innovative GeneReader NGS chemistry is prepared for a launch and is based on proprietary formulations.

Furthermore, upgraded versions of the GeneRead QIAact BRCA 1/2 gene panel and QIAact Actionable Insights Tumor Panel FPPE gene panel are in the cards. The upgrade will involve making complete use of QIAGEN’s proprietary Digital NGS technology with the addition of other relevant genes.

Share Price Performance

QIAGEN has been gaining investor confidence on consistently encouraging results. Over the past year, the company’s share price has outperformed its industry. The stock has lost 0.5% compared to the industry’s 23.6% fall.

 

Zacks Rank and Key Picks

QIAGEN currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).

Some better-ranked stocks in the broader medical space are Intuitive Surgical (ISRG - Free Report) , Amedisys, Inc. (AMED - Free Report) and Masimo Corporation (MASI - Free Report) .

Intuitive Surgical’s long-term expected earnings growth rate is 14.7%. The stock currently carries a Zacks Rank of 2 (Buy).

Amedisys’ long-term expected earnings growth rate is 19.4%. The stock holds a Zacks Rank #2 at the moment. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Masimo’s long-term expected earnings growth rate is 14.8%. The stock has a Zacks Rank #2 at present.

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