Illumina launched an early access research-use-only duplex sequencing workflow aimed at molecular residual disease (MRD) and tumor evolution studies, with kit shipments expected in the first quarter of 2027. The approach uses duplex chemistry to confirm base calls on both DNA strands, targeting ultra-low frequency circulating tumor DNA signals. The platform combines NovaSeq X sequencing with DRAGEN bioinformatics to generate duplex consensus reads and interrogate thousands of tumor-specific variants across the genome. Illumina said the workflow supports 5–10 ng of cell-free DNA input and has demonstrated reliable detection at 2.5 parts per million in representative studies. For MRD programs, the main operational value is sensitivity and confidence in detecting trace variants where conventional error profiles can overwhelm signal. NYU Langone Health is among the early access users applying the method to MRD research. The release also broadens Illumina’s MRD research portfolio alongside whole-genome ctDNA monitoring workflows.