NEW YORK (GenomeWeb) – Italian oncology genetics company Impact Lab Group announced yesterday that it has acquired Toma Advanced Biomedical Assays Services Lab for an undisclosed amount.
Toma — which is headquartered in Busto Arsizio, Italy — specializes in cytogenetics, molecular biology, and prenatal diagnostics, including research on reproductive diseases. Its merger with Milan-based Impact Lab will create the largest research and genetics laboratory in Italy, the companies said.
Through the acquisition, Impact Lab will combine its expertise with Toma's lab services portfolio to provide clinically and scientifically annotated biospecimens, as well as gene sequencing, bioinformatics, and laboratory services to the worldwide diagnostics industries, hospitals, and private clinicians.
Impact Lab Founder and Managing Director Vittorio Grazioli will become Toma's managing director, while Toma Chairman Federico Maggi will continue in his role. Francesca Romana Grati has been named scientific and clinical director.
"Today marks a crucial step forward for the large international project launched by Impact Lab three years ago to create the most important diagnostics center in Europe," Grazioli said in a statement. "Toma is one of the largest global genetic laboratories in the world and its database has been used for many scientific publications, diagnostic products, and process validations. [It is also] an international landmark for all the scientists operating on the pre- and post-natal field. It is our desire to maintain this reputation and continue the scientific research."
Over the next five years, the combined company is expected to significantly increase its presence in the Italian market and to improve its connections in the Mediterranean region.