ABL Texcell Launches OpenChek NGS Automation System
The platform uses AI-driven scripting to lower workflow complexity and costs for microbiology laboratories.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Biotech
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ABL Texcell Diagnostics has commercially launched OpenChek, a new laboratory automation system powered by the Opentrons Flex platform. The system is designed to streamline molecular biology workflows, including NGS library preparation and PCR setup.
Why it matters
By integrating AI-driven script development, the platform aims to lower the technical and financial barriers to NGS adoption. This move addresses the rising demand for automation in microbiology labs, particularly in Europe.
The OpenChek platform provides hardware configurations ranging from €50,000 to €90,000 depending on throughput needs. It utilizes open liquid-handling technology and OpentronsAI to reduce the manual programming resources required for automation.
The players
ABL Texcell Diagnostics
A life sciences firm focused on molecular biology tools and laboratory automation systems.
Opentrons
A developer of open-source lab automation robotics and the provider of the Flex platform stack.
The details
The system automates complex laboratory tasks including reagent dispensing and library preparation for next-generation sequencing (NGS) — a method for determining the precise order of nucleotides in DNA. It leverages OpentronsAI to automatically generate and optimize scripts that control liquid-handling hardware. By removing the need for specialized programming expertise, the platform seeks to minimize workflow complexity for molecular biology applications.
Timeline
October 26, 2026: Commercial launch of the OpenChek system.
2025: Global NGS automation market reached $750 million in total value.
2026-2029: ABL Texcell Diagnostics target window to reach several hundred European laboratory customers.
The Tech Race
The launch of OpenChek aligns with the projected double-digit annual growth of the global NGS automation market. It competes to lower the cost barrier in a European NGS landscape currently estimated at over $4 billion.
Microbiology laboratories can now procure the OpenChek system to automate library preparation and PCR setup tasks. The platform is designed to lower capital and programming requirements for labs operating within European and EMEA markets.
The takeaway
This platform aims to accelerate the transition from manual to automated library preparation in molecular diagnostics. Observers should track deployment figures across European microbiology labs through 2029 to determine the impact on overall adoption rates.
Further reading
For broader trends in molecular tools, explore our Biotech section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Scientist Live.
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