ZS Genetics

ZS Genetics, Inc., established in 2003 and based in Wakefield, Massachusetts, was a biotechnology firm focused on the research, development, and commercialization of a novel single-molecule DNA sequencing technology. The company was founded by William Glover, who also served as its president.

The core of the company's work was its proprietary third-generation sequencing platform, which utilized a transmission electron microscope (TEM). This approach was developed to address significant challenges in genomics research related to study limitations, data comprehension speed, and discovery costs. The technology functioned by directly imaging DNA strands. To make the DNA visible to the electron microscope, which it normally isn't, the process involved using heavy atoms to label individual bases. These labeled bases would then appear as distinct dots of varying sizes in the electron micrograph, allowing the DNA sequence to be read directly from the digital images.

The business model centered on providing a comprehensive system to laboratories. This included a modified TEM, which could cost between $1 million and $3 million, sample preparation equipment, software for base calling, and reagents. While the initial capital expenditure for clients was high, ZS Genetics projected that the ongoing consumable costs would be very low, aiming to reduce the total expense of sequencing. The company planned to generate revenue from initial system sales, consumables, and digital camera upgrades. Over its lifetime, the firm raised approximately $4.51 million in funding from investors including Northeast Angels Investment Group and InnoVentures Lab. In March 2017, ZS Genetics announced a collaboration with Hitachi High Technologies America to further develop and commercialize the electron microscopy-based sequencing platform. The company was ultimately acquired by Genetics Research on January 1, 2017.

Keywords: DNA sequencing, genomics, biotechnology, electron microscopy sequencing, single-molecule sequencing, third-generation sequencing, molecular diagnostics, genomics research, transmission electron microscope, genetic analysis, DNA imaging, heavy atom labeling, long-read sequencing, life sciences, personalized medicine, William Glover, Hitachi High Technologies, Genetics Research, Wakefield MA, sequencing platform