The VIB-UAntwerp group of Jurgen Del Favero developed a proprietary algorithm for designing multiplex PCR reactions. This algorithm enables highly reproducible simultaneous PCR amplification of hundreds of amplicons within a single, standard PCR reaction. PCR multiplexing greatly advanced genetic testing in labs, for example for medical diagnosis.

In 2011, VIB and UAntwerp spun out Multiplicom, based on the PCR multiplex technology. Jurgen del Favero took up the role of Chief Technology Officer. The biotech start-up focuses on the development, manufacturing and commercialization of innovative analysis tools for genetic and genomic research. This enables clinical laboratories to detect DNA variants associated with a genetic predisposition or disease. PCR Multiplexing is their central technology. In 2017, Multiplicom was acquired by Agilent Technologies.

A safe and accurate non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT), is one of the commercial products of Multiplicom, now Agilent Technologies. The test serves to detect birth defects in a foetus early in the pregnancy, for example Down’s syndrome. NIPT is a non-invasive test that only needs a mother’s blood sample. The company’s state-of-the-art technology greatly simplified the NIPT, allowing it to be carried out in more laboratories and making it accessible to a broader public.