Roche has launched AXELIOS 1, a next-generation single-molecule sequencing platform powered by its proprietary Sequencing by Expansion (SBX) technology, aimed at accelerating genomic research through enhanced speed, accuracy, scalability and cost efficiency.

The company said the new platform is designed to address key challenges in genomics research by enabling laboratories to conduct projects ranging from small-scale studies to large population-level genomic programmes using a single sequencing system. AXELIOS 1 is intended for research use and is not approved for diagnostic applications.

According to Roche, AXELIOS 1 combines high sequencing accuracy with ultra-fast processing, flexible workflows and high-throughput capabilities, allowing researchers to generate whole-genome sequencing results on the same day while supporting near real-time data analysis.

The platform is built on Roche's proprietary SBX technology, which converts DNA and RNA molecules into enlarged surrogate polymers known as ‘Xpandomers.’ These molecules generate stronger signal-to-noise ratios when analysed through nanopore-based Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS) sensors, enabling more accurate and efficient single-molecule sequencing.

Roche said the technology is suitable for a wide range of genomic applications, including whole-genome sequencing, whole-exome sequencing, RNA sequencing, single-cell analysis, spatial biology and methylation studies. Since the technology was introduced in early 2025, early-access users have demonstrated its application across oncology, genetics and infectious disease research, including achieving a world record for the fastest DNA sequencing technique.

The company also announced collaborations with organisations including Hartwig Medical Foundation and Broad Clinical Labs, which validated the platform's performance in real-world research settings. Additional partnerships include 10x Genomics for single-cell and spatial biology applications, while the platform also supports Google's DeepVariant software and Roche's open-source XOOS bioinformatics analysis suite.

To support researchers, Roche will offer dedicated library preparation kits alongside the free XOOS bioinformatics platform, while maintaining compatibility with third-party life sciences tools to provide greater workflow flexibility.

Matt Sause, Chief Executive Officer of Roche Diagnostics, said AXELIOS 1 combines unprecedented speed, scalability and accuracy with improved cost efficiency, enabling research applications that were previously difficult to achieve. He added that the platform also has the potential to support future clinical applications and advance personalised healthcare.

The global sequencing market, currently valued at approximately USD 7.3 billion, continues to expand across research and clinical settings, with demand expected to grow at double-digit rates over the coming years. Roche believes AXELIOS 1 positions the company to play a significant role in the evolving genomics landscape by supporting faster scientific discoveries and future precision medicine innovations.