Halo Genomics Acquired by Agilent Technologies

Halo Genomics’ proprietary HaloPlex PCR technology combines the speed and specificity of polymerase chain reaction, or PCR-based systems, with the scalability and capture-size flexibility of solution-based hybridization formats, thus eliminating the need for library preparation.

The technology is currently offered as a customizable product, utilizing a web-based design tool called Web Design Wizard. This is a very intuitive and straightforward tool, which in four simple steps, allows designs to be created in less than 10 minutes, at no charge.

Agilent’s market-leading SureSelect target enrichment platform was the first commercial in-solution target enrichment offering launched in the market.  It has grown to a wide portfolio of products from All Exon kits to custom designs and pre-set panels. With its high performance and flexibility, SureSelect has become the most commonly cited target enrichment tool in the market.  HaloPlex technology complements SureSelect by providing a high-performance solution for small capture sizes, at a speed that specifically addresses the needs of the desktop sequencing market and clinical sequencing space.

“Halo Genomics’ unique technology and talented R&D team will expand Agilent’s solutions for emerging sequencing applications and accelerate our entry into the rapidly-growing next-gen clinical sequencing market,” said Gustavo Salem, vice president and general manager of Agilent’s Biological Systems Division.  “This acquisition further builds upon Agilent’s position as a leader in Genomics.” 

“Joining Agilent is a win-win situation for Halo Genomics' employees and our valued customers," said Olle Ericsson, CEO and founder of Halo Genomics. "With Halo’s innovative technology and Agilent’s market-leading products and long history of quality and service, we look forward to offering our customers an expanded portfolio of solutions to meet their needs.”

Halo Genomics joins the Genomics business within the Biological Systems Division of Agilent’s Life Sciences Group.  Halo Genomics’ 15 employees have now transferred to Agilent. 

Information about Agilent is available on the Web at www.agilent.com.