Shimadzu Corporation, a global leader in the precision instrumentation industry, and Diagnostics Development Hub (DxD Hub), a national platform hosted by Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), are pleased to announce a strategic collaboration to establish the Shimadzu – DxD Hub Diagnomics Centre (SDDC) at Biopolis, Singapore. Officially launched today, the SDDC will drive innovation and accelerate the development of diagnostic products by integrating Shimadzu’s technological expertise with DxD Hub’s productisation platforms.
Developing diagnostic products is a complex process that requires extensive validation, clinical studies, and regulatory approvals—leading to long development times and high costs. Through this collaboration, SDDC aims to accelerate the development of high-quality, cost-effective diagnostic solutions. This includes the productisation of advanced multiplexed polymerase chain reaction (PCR) kits for faster and more accurate disease detection, as well as the use of Shimadzu’s cutting-edge MALDI1 and FTIR2 platforms. These technologies support high-precision diagnostics, enabling rapid identification of bacteria and fungi in clinical samples, as well as biomarker detection, tissue analysis, and quality control of diagnostic products. Together, these efforts aim to improve the speed, accuracy, and affordability of diagnostics to better meet healthcare needs.
SDDC will focus on three key areas—infectious diseases, cancer, and metabolic disorders. In infectious diseases, efforts will focus on developing solutions for the early detection of pathogens with the potential to cause pandemics. In cancer diagnostics, the lab will harness advanced technologies to drive early screening and precision medicine approaches. In metabolic diseases, the research will focus on enhancing diagnostic accuracy to support disease management.
“Today, the world is experiencing a global surge in infectious diseases, with over 40 countries reporting outbreaks at levels ten times higher than pre-pandemic rates. In response to this urgent challenge, we are proud to partner with DxD Hub to make new strides in delivering solutions to infectious disease diagnostics. We are confident in achieving breakthroughs through our integrated Analytical and Medical solutions, uniquely offered by Shimadzu,” said Prem Anand, Managing Director of Shimadzu (Asia Pacific) and Corporate Officer of Shimadzu Corporation. “As we mark Shimadzu’s 150th anniversary this year, we will continue our collaborative efforts with our partners and customers to unlock new possibilities in Advanced Healthcare.”
Dr Weng Ruifen, Chief Executive Officer of DxD Hub added, “Our collaboration with Shimadzu Corporation supports Singapore’s efforts to grow as a global hub for diagnostic innovation. By contributing our productisation expertise and working closely with industry partners, we help commercialise high-value intellectual property and translate scientific discoveries into practical healthcare solutions. Together, we look forward to developing impactful diagnostic tools that enhance healthcare delivery and promote greater health equity.”
About DxD Hub
Diagnostics Development Hub is a national platform hosted by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR). DxD Hub aims to accelerate the transformation of innovations into clinically validated diagnostic devices that are ready for market adoption. Through impactful products, empowering local enterprises and anchoring global companies in Singapore, DxD Hub contributes to the development of an effective diagnostic devices’ ecosystem in Singapore. For ongoing news, visit www.a-star.edu.sg/dxdhub
About Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR)
The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) is Singapore's lead public sector R&D agency. Through open innovation, we collaborate with our partners in both the public and private sectors to benefit the economy and society. As a Science and Technology Organisation, A*STAR bridges the gap between academia and industry. Our research creates economic growth and jobs for Singapore, and enhances lives by improving societal outcomes in healthcare, urban living, and sustainability. A*STAR plays a key role in nurturing scientific talent and leaders for the wider research community and industry. A*STAR’s R&D activities span biomedical sciences to physical sciences and engineering, with research entities primarily located in Biopolis and Fusionopolis. For ongoing news, visit www.a-star.edu.sg
