Bio-Rad expands European oncology diagnostics through strategic Gencurix partnership
Bio-Rad Laboratories has secured exclusive European distribution rights for Gencurix’s CE-IVD Droplex digital PCR oncology testing kits, marking a significant expansion of the companies’ existing collaboration in molecular diagnostics.
Strategic distribution agreement targets expanded clinical access
Under the newly announced partnership, Bio-Rad will leverage its established European commercial network to distribute Gencurix’s portfolio of droplet digital PCR-based oncology assays throughout the region.The agreement encompasses joint marketing initiatives and collaborative product development provisions, building upon the companies’ prior relationship.
The Droplex kits utilise Bio-Rad’s ddPCR technology and are designed for compatibility with the company’s QXDx ddPCR Systems. These assays enable highly sensitive mutation detection from both formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples and liquid biopsies across multiple cancer types, including melanoma, colorectal cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer.
Clinical laboratory implementation focus
Steve Kulisch, Vice President Product Management, Digital Biology Group at Bio-Rad Laboratories, noted: “This partnership will provide clinical laboratories with access to highly sensitive and reliable molecular tools, supporting compliance whilst ensuring the highest standards of diagnostic accuracy.”
The integration of Gencurix’s Droplex testing kits with Bio-Rad’s QXDx ddPCR platform aims to facilitate biomarker-based treatment decision-making in oncology practice. According to Kulisch, the combination will “enable physicians to make more informed treatment decisions based on biomarker testing, thereby contributing to improved patient outcomes.”
Market expansion strategy
Sang Rae Cho, CEO of Gencurix, commented on the agreement: “Bio-Rad’s extensive European distribution capabilities and deep expertise in digital PCR technology make them the ideal partner to bring our oncology testing solutions to a broader market.”
Bio-Rad operates a global network with approximately 7,700 employees and generated $2.6 billion in revenues in 2024. The California-based company serves customers including universities, research institutions, hospitals, and biopharmaceutical companies.
Gencurix, headquartered in Seoul, focuses on digital PCR-based diagnostic devices and liquid biopsy platforms. The company’s product line includes GenesWell BCT for breast cancer prognosis and the Droplex companion diagnostic series.
