BD has non-exclusively licensed its patented stochastic labeling technology to Roche. This technology incorporates molecular indexes known as unique molecular identifiers or molecular bar codes that enable the precise counting of individual biological molecules, including DNA or RNA, in heterogeneous and often volume-limited samples. BD is already developing a suite of products using this technology to measure mRNA targets from single cells, and is also working with partners in addition to Roche to license this technology for the development of novel tools and assays. “Stochastic labeling with molecular indexes is a simple, yet powerful, approach for the accurate quantification of target molecules in complex biological samples,” said Stephen Gunstream, vice president of genomics at BD. “This technology enables a range of future products that will broadly benefit many areas of research and future clinical applications.”