OpGen, Inc., a leading genetic analysis company, and Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation, a global technology leader, have entered into an agreement to develop a comprehensive human chromosome mapping analytical service for clinical research applications by a combination of OpGen’s market-leading Whole Genome Mapping technology and Hitachi High-Technologies’ and Hitachi group’s cloud-based systems. This service will include bioinformatics tools to complete human genome sequence, and detect and analyze structural variations in human chromosomes.

“Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation, and we are pleased to partner with them to create an integrated solution for human genome analysis that captures important structural variation information,” said Douglas White, chief executive officer of OpGen, Inc. “The resulting human chromosome mapping service will enable OpGen to continue its expansion into clinical research with the potential to develop diagnostic applications for diseases based on a patient’s genetic information.”

Under the terms of this agreement, Hitachi High-Technologies will fund development, and the companies will work together to combine the strengths of their proprietary technologies. OpGen’s Whole Genome Mapping provides a unique view into structural variation in human chromosomes and offers a more accurate and complete analysis of the human genome than next generation sequencing data alone can provide. Many structural variations are associated with cancer, autism, Alzheimer’s disease and many other cognitive disorders. This type of genetic information will enable development of new therapies, and eventually will empower the broader healthcare community to diagnose and guide treatment decisions based on a patient’s genetic profile.

Hitachi High-Technologies, with recognized experience and achievements through DNA sequencer business in the life science and translational research markets, has been developing the cloud platform for human genome data analysis with Hitachi Solutions, in Foster City, California. The human genome cloud platform will enable secure entry portals for researchers, clinicians, and eventually patients to access Whole Genome Mapping data, human chromosome analytical tools and ultimately, clinically actionable data. As part of the service, Hitachi High-Technologies also will add human DNA sequence analytical tools, which complement Whole Genome Mapping, to provide complete genetic evaluation of human chromosomes.

“This partnership leverages our development of the cloud-based informatics platform and provides enabling and proven technology for human genetic analysis,” said Takashi Matsuzaka, senior vice president and executive officer, CTO of Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation. “This is a great example of how Hitachi High-Technologies is continuously enhancing our healthcare informatics offerings for customers worldwide by partnering our technologies with other innovative companies, such as OpGen.”

Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is engaged in activities in a broad range of fields, including electronic device systems, fine technology systems, science & medical systems, industrial & IT systems, and advanced industrial products.

OpGen, Inc. is a leading innovator in rapid, accurate genomic and DNA analysis systems and services. The company is building on the success of its Whole Genome Mapping applications in the public health and life sciences sectors to expand its capabilities into clinical diagnostics for the growing healthcare market.