Shenzhen, China, 15 November 2022 – The 24th China Hi-Tech Fair (CHTF) opened in Shenzhen on 15 November. Held under the theme “Sci-Tech Reform Drives Innovation, Sci-Tech Innovation Empowers Development”, the event highlighted strategic emerging and next-generation industries, showcasing cutting-edge technologies, innovative products, and advanced equipment developed with Chinese intellectual property.
At the fair, MGI, a global provider of core tools and technologies for life science, presented several of its latest technological advances. These included the DNBSEQ-G99 mid-to-low-throughput gene sequencer, the DNBSEQ-E25 miniaturised gene sequencer, the MGISTP-7000 automated sample transfer processing system, and the DNBelab-D4 digital sample preparation system.
Genes lie at the foundation of life, and gene sequencers play a critical role in decoding biological information. As one of the fastest mid-to-low-throughput sequencers globally, the DNBSEQ-G99 has played a key role in public health applications. In September, it supported the China CDC in whole-genome sequencing of viral strains, contributing to the identification and tracing of China’s first imported case of monkeypox.
In response to public health demands such as whole-genome, targeted, and metagenomic sequencing for pathogen detection, MGI remains focused on developing efficient and automated platforms for disease monitoring and early warning. Built on its proprietary DNBSEQ technology, MGI has established a comprehensive portfolio spanning low-, medium-, and high-throughput sequencing systems. Within this range, the E-series sequencers are designed for rapid response to urgent sequencing needs across diverse application scenarios.
The DNBSEQ-E25, the flagship model of the E-series, is a portable and user-friendly sequencer delivering data throughput up to five times higher than comparable systems. Based on a newly designed self-luminous biochemical system, it features upgraded sequencing workflows, flow cells, and reagent kits, making operation faster, simpler, and more flexible. MGI’s broader product portfolio also covers the full workflow, including sample pre-processing, automated nucleic acid extraction, and automated liquid handling.
Beyond sequencing platforms, MGI showcased the MGISTP-7000 automated sample transfer processing system, designed to address a critical gap in high-throughput testing workflows. The system supports automated decapping, recapping, and liquid transfer across a wide range of sample tubes, including viral transport, blood collection, lyophilisation, and faecal collection tubes. MGISTP-7000 has previously been deployed at major international events, including the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.
Also on display was the DNBelab-D4 digital sample preparation system, which enables sample preparation from DNA to DNB on a single card. The system integrates automatic quantification, eliminating the need for manual measurement after DNB preparation. DNBelab-D4 is primarily used in high-throughput library preparation, including metagenomic sequencing of unknown pathogens and COVID-19 traceability studies.
As a flagship platform for scientific and technological exchange, the China Hi-Tech Fair not only showcases innovation but also signals future directions for science and technology development. Today, MGI provides sequencers and automated instruments to users in more than 80 countries and regions worldwide. Looking ahead, the company will continue to leverage its technological strengths to support advances in life science and global health.
