Beckman Coulter licenses HCV test from Siemens for use on upcoming molecular diagnostic instrument

Published: 2 May 2008

VerusMed - Beckman Coulter Inc. entered into an agreement with Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics to license certain rights to testing for hepatitis C virus.

As per the agreement, Beckman Coulter can develop, manufacture and sell a quantitative viral load HCV blood test for use with the company's molecular diagnostic instrument that is currently in development. Beckman Coulter expects to take a charge of $12 million in the second quarter of this year as a result of the deal.

"Routine molecular testing is the fastest-growing segment in clinical diagnostics and represents an important part of our growth strategy," said Scott Garrett, Beckman Coulter's chief executive officer. "The addition of HCV will enhance our infectious disease test menu while furthering our dedication to improving patient health and reducing the cost of care.