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Seegene Introduces CURECA™: A Breakthrough in Automated PCR Testing

Seegene Inc., a global leader in molecular diagnostics, has recently announced the development of CURECA™, a next-generation fully automated PCR system that aims to revolutionize the way molecular testing is conducted in laboratories. This state-of-the-art system was showcased during the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID Global 2025), which took place from April 11-15 in Vienna, Austria.

The concept video presented by Seegene illustrates how CURECA™ integrates a comprehensive automation workflow for PCR testing—from sample preparation to result analysis. Designed for continuous operation without supervision, CURECA™ reflects Seegene's mission to establish new global standards in diagnostics and promote a vision of a disease-free world.

What is CURECA™?

CURECA™ stands for Continuous Unlimited Random Access Expandable and Customizable full Automation. It addresses the critical need for a fully automated workflow in PCR testing. The system features two key components: a Custom Pre-Processing System (CPS) for sample loading and processing, and a Custom Expandable and Fully Automated System (CEFA) that manages the overall PCR testing process, including nucleic acid extraction, PCR preparation, gene amplification, and result analysis.

One of the significant challenges in molecular diagnostics is handling various sample types like stool, urine, or sputum, along with sorting different container formats. Traditionally, these processes have relied heavily on manual labor from trained laboratory technicians. With CURECA™, Seegene aims to lead the innovation in pre-processing automation for all sample types used in PCR testing.

Key Features and Benefits

The CPS component of CURECA™ automates crucial steps, including:

• - Sample sorting
• - Centrifugation
• - Vortexing
• - Thermal processing

This system can independently operate as part of the broader CURECA™ system or be utilized in other laboratory testing areas such as hematology and immunodiagnostics, expanding its applicability within clinical laboratories. Additionally, CURECA™’s modular design allows laboratories to configure the system based on their operational needs, thus reducing the risk of human error and facilitating uninterrupted PCR testing round-the-clock.

During the ESCMID Global 2025 event, Seegene demonstrated a conceptual video simulating the entire PCR automation workflow, illustrating how samples are loaded and prepared, nucleic acids are extracted, PCR is prepared and amplified, and results are analyzed. The presentation also highlighted the system's adaptability across various laboratory environments and testing capabilities.

A Vision for the Future

Jong-Yoon Chun, the founder and CEO of Seegene, stated, “Until now, there was no system capable of full automation in pre-processing for all types of samples, which has hindered the complete automation of molecular diagnostics.” Chun emphasized that the company aims to set new global standards and contribute to shaping a new future for molecular diagnostics with CURECA™.

Chun also mentioned that CURECA™ supports Seegene’s global initiative to make advanced molecular diagnostics more accessible, integrating it into everyday healthcare worldwide. “CURECA™ is an early step toward achieving Seegene’s vision of a world free from diseases. We aim to remain leaders in innovation and global collaboration to push this vision forward.”

Looking Ahead

As Seegene continues to redefine molecular diagnostics, the unveiling of CURECA™ marks a critical milestone in the evolution of automated testing solutions. The next physical demonstration of the system is scheduled for July 2025, during the Association for Diagnostics and Laboratory Medicine (ADLM 2025) congress in Chicago. With over 20 years of experience in research and development, Seegene has proven itself particularly impactful during the COVID-19 pandemic, delivering over 340 million tests to more than 100 countries.

For more information, visitors can explore Seegene’s website at Seegene.com and follow their updates on LinkedIn. The company is committed to a technology-sharing initiative aimed at global collaboration with local scientists and experts to develop diagnostic tests tailored to community needs, ultimately striving for a future free from infectious and chronic diseases.