NGS Target Enrichment Panels Optimized for Its DNBSEQ Sequencing Platforms in All Territories Outside the U.S.

Paragon Genomics Will Distribute MGI's Automated Sample Preparation Systems in the U.S. and  Canada with Optimized CleanPlex Chemistries Providing a Complete Automated Solution--

HAYWARD, CA - January 6, 2019 –Paragon Genomics, Inc., a leader in amplicon-based target enrichment and library preparation solutions for next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays, today announced a global partnership with MGI Tech Co., Ltd., (MGI) . MGI will distribute Paragon Genomics’ CleanPlex NGS Panels for use with MGI's sequencing platforms in all territories worldwide except the U.S. As part of the agreement, Paragon Genomics will also distribute MGI's automated sample preparation workstation systems in the U.S. and Canada.

Under the terms of the agreement, MGI will distribute CleanPlex Custom and Ready-to-Use NGS Panels for MGI's sequencing platforms, including MGI's new ultra-high throughput MGISEQ-T7 sequencer, and on future sequencing platforms from MGI. CleanPlex MGI NGS panels will be available for oncology, reproductive health and infectious disease testing, as well as future genomic applications.

As part of the agreement, Paragon Genomics will also distribute MGI's MGISP-100RS, MGISP-960RS and future automated sample preparation systems for the genomics market in the U.S. and Canada. Its CleanPlex chemistry will be automated and validated on these systems, providing a complete automated solution to customers who process a large number of samples, such as molecular pathology and genetic testing laboratories. Paragon Genomics is also joining the MGI Compatible Partner Program as a compatible/certified partner, and the two companies will collaborate on marketing and promotional activities in support of the programs being pursued under the agreement.

Tao Chen, co-founder and CEO of Paragon Genomics, said, "This partnership is a win-win. The exceptional performance of MGI's powerful sequencers is driving wide acceptance and use, while our best-in-class CleanPlex NGS Panels will enable many new applications for MGI customers, such as clinical assessments of known biomarkers. We also welcome the opportunity to distribute MGI's sample prep systems using our accurate and sensitive CleanPlex chemistries, providing a complete automated integrated solution to the many customers who have large testing volumes."

Duncan Yu, President of MGI, commented, "This partnership with Paragon Genomics exemplifies our strategy of joining with leading technology partners to enhance and extend the capabilities of our growing portfolio of genomics solutions. With such a non-exclusive partnership, MGI enables its partners and customers to expand a wide range of NGS applications with its open DNBSEQ platforms. Paragon Genomics’ chemistries provide exceptional accuracy and sensitivity in a simplified workflow format. We look forward to a long and mutually fruitful relationship."

Further details of the non-exclusive agreement were not disclosed.

Paragon Genomics' CleanPlex is a proprietary, ultra-high multiplexed NGS target enrichment technology that allows a large number of targets to be interrogated rapidly and accurately using a streamlined workflow with superior analytical performance. The CleanPlex technology is provided as Ready-to-Use and Custom NGS panels and is currently available for use with Illumina or Ion Torrent platforms. CleanPlex NGS Panels provide a comprehensive and standardized solution for accurate genomic detection and characterization of all types of tumor alterations in a single test.

Paragon Genomics' CleanPlexproducts are for Research Use Only.

About Paragon Genomics

Paragon Genomics (www.paragongenomics.com) is a leader in amplicon-based target enrichment and library preparation solutions to accelerate the development of next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based assays for research and clinical testing. The company designs high performance and ultra-high multiplexed amplicon NGS panels and develops NGS library preparation chemistries for analyzing difficult, clinically-relevant samples. It strives to make the design of custom NGS assays easily available to a broad range of users, with expert counsel and rapid turnaround. Privately-held Paragon Genomics is located in Hayward, California.

About MGI

MGI Tech Co., Ltd. (MGI) is committed to enabling effective and affordable healthcare packages for all. Based on its proprietary technology, MGI produces sequencing devices, equipment, consumables and reagents to support life science research, medicine and healthcare. MGI’s multi-omics platforms include genetic sequencing, mass spectrometry and medical imaging. Providing real-time, comprehensive, life-long packages, its mission is to develop and promote advanced life science tools for future healthcare. For more information, visit en.mgitech.cn/.