QuidelOrtho Completes Acquisition of LEX Diagnostics and Molecular Testing Platform

The $100 million deal brings an ultra-fast system for respiratory viruses to QuidelOrtho’s point-of-care portfolio.

QuidelOrtho Corp has completed its acquisition of LEX Diagnostics for approximately $100 million in cash, the company announced. The transaction centers on the LEX VELO System, a molecular diagnostics platform that received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 510(k) clearance and a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) waiver in February 2026.

The LEX VELO System is designed to deliver multiplex reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction testing for Influenza A, Influenza B, and COVID-19 directly from a swab sample. According to the company, the platform provides results in approximately six to 10 minutes. The system uses a cartridge-based design intended for decentralized care environments, eliminating the need for external liquid handling.

“The FDA clearance of the LEX VELO System and the completion of our acquisition of LEX mark a pivotal moment for QuidelOrtho and for our customers,” says Brian J Blaser, president and chief executive officer of QuidelOrtho, in a release. “This ultra-fast PCR platform is designed to deliver lab-quality results in minutes and fits seamlessly into point-of-care workflows. It empowers providers to act faster, make better-informed decisions, and ultimately improve patient outcomes.”

Strategic Focus on Point-of-Care Growth

The acquisition is intended to accelerate QuidelOrtho’s growth in the point-of-care molecular diagnostics market. The new system complements the company’s existing positions in clinical chemistry, immunoassay, and transfusion medicine.

“LEX achieved an extraordinary milestone with FDA clearance and CLIA waiver of the LEX VELO System,” says Ed Farrell, chief executive officer of LEX, in a release. “We are proud to join QuidelOrtho and to bring this technology to customers worldwide. We believe we can redefine what is possible in point-of-care molecular diagnostics.”

QuidelOrtho expects to initiate the US commercial launch of the LEX VELO System later this year. Following the domestic launch, the company plans to pursue global expansion subject to local regulatory approvals.

The integration of the LEX VELO System reflects a long-term commitment to bringing advanced diagnostics closer to the patient, according to the company. The platform is designed to support rapid clinical decision-making by providing speed, reliability, and ease of use in diverse healthcare settings.

Photo caption: LEX VELO System

Photo credit: QuidelOrtho Corp

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