Nabsys Partners with European Institutions to Advance Genetic Disorder Detection Technology
Nabsys 2.0, LLC, a pioneering force in electronic genome mapping (EGM) technology, has recently announced a significant collaboration with the prestigious Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC) in Europe. This partnership aims to leverage Nabsys' innovative OhmX Platform and EGM-based assays in the research of facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD).
FSHD, a rare genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle weakness, has been notoriously difficult to study with conventional molecular techniques. The announcement was made at the European Society of Human Genetics (ESHG) 2026 Annual Meeting, where Nabsys presented compelling data showcasing the capabilities of the OhmX Platform in detecting repeat expansion assays using advanced CRISPR/Cas9 technology.
Nabsys is developing a specific EGM-based assay that can analyze genomic data related to FSHD, focusing on the D4Z4 repeat region. This complex area demands precise counting and detailed examination, which often exceeds the capabilities of standard short-read sequencing (SRS). Under the guidance of LUMC, recognized as a leading authority on FSHD research, Nabsys aims to refine this assay with a focus on accelerating its evaluation through well-characterized reference samples.
In a statement about the collaboration, Justin Bingham, Chief Commercial Officer at Nabsys, expressed enthusiasm for working with such a respected institution, emphasizing their belief that the OhmX Platform represents a path forward for accessibility and insight in FSHD research. Bingham highlighted the potential of EGM as a more reliable, user-friendly tool compared to existing methodologies.
“We are excited to be collaborating with Nabsys in investigating EGM technology to further FSHD research,” stated Prof. dr. ir. Silvère van der Maarel from LUMC. He noted the limitations of existing diagnostic techniques like Southern blotting, which while historically standard, require substantial technical expertise and can be burdensome due to safety concerns related to radioactivity. The OhmX Platform offers a promising alternative that could simplify and modernize diagnostic methods for this condition, potentially transforming FSHD research and beyond.
Moreover, Nabsys' Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Barrett Bready, underlined the company's mission to democratize access to EGM technology globally. By fostering collaborations such as this with LUMC, Nabsys aims to extend the reach and utility of the OhmX Platform to researchers around the world. This initiative reflects a broader ambition to facilitate best-in-class genomic interrogation, allowing more scientists to explore genomic anomalies with ease and accuracy.
The data presented at ESHG showcased the integration of CRISPR/Cas9 within the OhmX Platform, demonstrating its effectiveness in detecting repeat expansions tied to significant genetic disorders such as Fragile X syndrome and Friedreich's ataxia. Nabsys utilized advanced bioinformatics tools like the Human Chromosome Explorer® and RepX™ to gather evidence supporting the platform's reliability when analyzing genetically challenging samples.
The future looks promising for Nabsys and its collaboration with LUMC. With its focus on EGM, the OhmX Platform appears poised to contribute significantly to an evolving landscape in genetic research and diagnostic practices, offering solutions that prioritize precision and efficacy. By offering a more scalable and practical approach to genomic research, Nabsys is likely to drive significant advancements in understanding genetic disorders moving forward.
For more detailed insights into the research and technology, visit Nabsys' website. The full poster presented at the ESHG 2026 Annual Meeting is available for those interested in examining the findings.
Nabsys has established itself at the forefront of genomic innovation since its founding in 2005 and remains dedicated to enhancing the understanding of genetic diseases through cutting-edge technology.