PacBio has collaborated with Chulalongkorn University in Thailand to integrate its HiFi whole-genome sequencing (WGS) into newborn screening research.
The initiative, the first of its kind in the Asia Pacific, aims to utilise PacBio’s sequencing technology to identify rare and treatable conditions in newborns with greater precision.
The collaboration underscores the potential of genome-wide approaches in modernising newborn screening.
PacBio’s HiFi WGS uses long-read technology to produce highly accurate genomic data, including regions inaccessible to short-read methods.
This technology can identify a broader range of genetic variants, including those linked to early-onset and rare diseases.
PacBio president and CEO Christian Henry said: “Every child deserves the best possible start to life, and that begins with giving families and clinicians access to comprehensive genomic information from the very beginning.
“This collaboration demonstrates how advanced sequencing technologies like HiFi can enable broader insights at birth.
“It’s deeply aligned with our mission at PacBio to make high-quality genomic information accessible where it’s needed most, and we’re proud to support Chulalongkorn University and Thailand as they lead the way in laying the foundation for a new model of care.”
The collaboration positions Thailand as a leader in population-scale genomics, reflecting the Asia Pacific region’s growing influence in global genomics.
With a strong foundation in public health and research, Thailand is well-equipped to explore how WGS can enhance national healthcare strategies.
PacBio’s HiFi sequencing provides a comprehensive genomic view, detecting variants often missed by traditional methods, thus setting a new benchmark for early disease detection.
For Thailand, this project not only advances precision medicine but also establishes a framework for future data-sharing and international research collaborations.
Chulalongkorn University medical genomics professor Vorasuk Shotelersuk said: “Our shared goal is to establish a robust and scalable research model for genomic newborn screening that helps uncover the genetic basis of undiagnosed conditions from birth. We are excited to work with PacBio to bring this vision closer to reality for families in Thailand.”
Last year, PacBio signed a new research collaboration agreement (RCA) with the National Cancer Centre of Singapore (NCCS).
The collaboration aims to advance cancer research by using PacBio’s advanced sequencing technologies to profile the genomic landscape of prevalent cancers in Asia.
