Singapore-based company Vela Diagnostics has announced a research collaboration with SRL Inc, a Japanese healthcare service company. This partnership aims to facilitate the distribution of Vela Diagnostics' cutting-edge molecular diagnostic solutions in Japan.

Established in 1970, SRL Inc (a subsidiary of H.U Group Holdings Inc.), is a renowned clinical laboratory testing company in Japan with over 80 nationwide business bases, SRL Inc specialises in complex testing and serving prestigious customers, providing diagnostic solutions for diseases, treatment planning, monitoring post-treatment prognosis, and health checkups.

The research collaboration agreement (RCA) between Vela Diagnostics and SRL Inc marked a significant milestone in their shared commitments to advancing healthcare solutions in Japan. Vela Diagnostics aims to capitalise on SRL Inc's comprehensive distribution network and market understanding, enabling the company to introduce its Sentosa SQ HIV-1 Genotyping Assay Kit to Japanese healthcare and diagnostic institutions.

Dr Tony Zhang, Head of Research and Development at Vela Diagnostics, states that SRL Inc has begun feasibility studies for the Sentosa SQ HIV-1 Genotyping Assay Kit. "The Sentosa SQ HIV-1 Genotyping Assay is VELA's premier solution for automated Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) of HIV-1, granted FDA DeNovo designation in 2019," explained Dr Zhang. "With its lower hands-on time and improved turnaround time compared to other kits on the market, the assay combines efficiency of NGS techniques with a unique sensitivity to mutations in three key drug targets. It provides critical insights into the virus's drug resistance profile, potentially revolutionizing HIV testing in Japan."