Helicos BioSciences said this week that it has started manufacturing its HeliScope sequencer, and plans to ship its first instruments to a number of selected users by the end of the year. Following the test-site program, the company plans to roll out its instrument more broadly next year. "We are in the process of collecting our first order, or maybe orders, soon," Steve Lombardi, Helicos' chief operating officer, told In Sequence this week.

While the company is currently focusing on the launch of its research-grade instrument, it has its eyes set on diagnostic applications. "This is going to greatly accelerate both basic research and clinical research, and we think very much accelerate the translational research that's happening," Lombardi said.