First Effort To Integrate PacBio HiFi Whole Genome Sequencing in Newborn Screening Launches in Thailand

PacBio (Nasdaq: PACB) and Chulalongkorn University, announced a strategic collaboration to implement PacBio HiFi whole genome sequencing (WGS) as part of a newborn screening research program. This marks the first initiative in Asia Pacific to explore the use of PacBio’s HiFi sequencing technology at population scale – an effort designed to evaluate how comprehensive genomic data can support earlier, more accurate identification of rare and treatable conditions in newborns. The collaboration highlights Thailand’s growing leadership in precision medicine and offers a potential model for countries seeking to modernize newborn screening with genome-wide approaches.

“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,” said Professor Vorasuk Shotelersuk from the Center of Excellence for Medical Genomics, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand. “We are excited to work with PacBio to bring this vision closer to reality for families in Thailand.”

Traditional newborn screening programs have relied on targeted panels that detect a limited subset of conditions based on specific molecular pathologies. Recent advances in genome sequencing now make it possible to take a broader, more comprehensive approach, starting at birth. PacBio’s HiFi WGS leverages long-read technology to generate highly accurate, complete genomic data, including regions that are typically inaccessible to short-read methods. In addition to resolving structural variants and repeat expansions, HiFi WGS captures epigenomic information in parallel, giving researchers a multidimensional view of the genome. This level of detail opens the door to identifying a wider range of genetic variants, many of which are implicated in early-onset and rare diseases that previously went undetected.

“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,” said Christian Henry, President and Chief Executive Officer of PacBio. “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.”

This collaboration positions Thailand as a regional leader in population-scale genomics and reflects Asia Pacific’s expanding influence in the global genomics landscape. With an established foundation in public health and translational research, Thailand is uniquely prepared to explore how whole genome sequencing can enhance national healthcare strategies, beginning with newborn screening. By applying PacBio’s HiFi long-read sequencing to this early-stage initiative, researchers gain a more comprehensive view of the genome, enabling the detection of variants that are often missed by traditional methods. The ability to capture a wider spectrum of genetic risk at birth sets a new benchmark for the potential of early disease detection, while also contributing to broader goals in carrier screening and public health planning. For Thailand, this project strengthens its role in advancing precision medicine and lays critical groundwork for future data-sharing frameworks and cross-border research collaborations that can inform more equitable and effective genomic healthcare worldwide.