Genome research company Illumina Inc (NASDAQ: ILMN) announced on Monday that it has expanded its molecular residual disease (MRD) research portfolio with an early access programme for a new ultrasensitive duplex sequencing workflow designed to detect trace levels of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA).

Combining NovaSeq X sequencing technology with DRAGEN bioinformatics software, the workflow analyses both strands of DNA to improve detection accuracy. Representative studies demonstrated reproducible ctDNA detection at 2.5 parts per million using as little as 10 nanograms of input DNA, with sequencing quality scores above Q65.

The research-use-only solution supports longitudinal, whole-genome MRD studies and complements Illumina's WGS Oncology Prep workflow. Unlike approaches requiring bespoke panels for individual samples, the standardised process supports laboratory implementation and turnaround times of less than five days.

NYU Langone Health is participating in the early access programme, applying the technology to research into disease recurrence. Kits are expected to begin shipping in the first quarter of 2027.