Roche Diagnostics Korea said it launched its first digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) device, Digital LightCycler Analyzer, to help better detect cancer and genetic diseases.

The Digital LightCycler Analyzer uses chip-based digital PCR technology, which offers a more streamlined workflow compared to droplet-based digital PCR methods. This simplifies the testing process by eliminating the need for droplet generation, enabling clinicians and researchers to better understand cancer diagnoses, genetic disorders, and infections.

The analyzer allows for the division of DNA or RNA extracted from samples into 20,000 to 100,000 micro-reaction units using three different nanowell plates, which facilitates highly precise genetic analysis.

The samples are partitioned into nanowell plates, undergo PCR testing, and are then automatically imaged and data-processed to provide rapid and accurate results. 

From a results management perspective, the Digital LightCycler Analyzer enables direct extraction of analysis results into excel files, streamlining result management. This feature allows researchers to easily organize and track samples, facilitating efficient analysis of test outcomes.

“Digital PCR technology offers exceptional sensitivity, allowing for early diagnosis of genetic cancer diseases and detection of residual cancer cells post-treatment,” Roche Diagnostic CEO Kit Tang said. “This capability provides new opportunities for predicting treatment efficacy and recurrence risks.”