At AGBT, researchers reveal new findings from studies leveraging Illumina's multiomics solutions
SAN DIEGO, Feb. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Illumina, Inc. (NASDAQ: ILMN) announced new customer breakthroughs in oncology powered by Illumina's spatial transcriptomics, 5-base sequencing, and proteomics technologies. The ability to combine more than one omic insight reveals unprecedented biological depth and knowledge, all of which is streamlined by Illumina Connected Multiomics for multimodal data analysis. The combined portfolio delivers new insights for precision diagnostics, targeted therapeutics development, and understanding of tumor microenvironments.
"Unlocking the human genome has changed the face of cancer care and opened up demand for the next wave of biological insights," said Jacob Thaysen, chief executive officer at Illumina. "Researchers are rapidly adopting multiomics and informatics technologies that expand our understanding of biology at scale. Illumina's streamlined multiomics workflows are enabling customers to achieve game-changing breakthroughs in oncology, pharmacogenomics, and more."
Illumina Spatial Technology decodes complex tissues with ease
The human lymphatic system is notoriously difficult to map due to its size and variability among individuals. Spatial technology holds promise to probe biomolecular signatures that can improve the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer and even explain how it metastasizes in the body.
Dr. Ioannis Vlachos, PhD, director of the Spatial Technologies Unit within Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), leveraged Illumina Spatial Technology and visualization software to investigate human lymph nodes and lymphatic channels.
"Our research as an NIH HuBMAP Tissue Mapping Center aims to shed light on the complex function of lymphatic vessels, which are exceptionally challenging samples due to their low adhesion, surrounding adipose tissue, and small size. Illumina Spatial Technology generated high-quality data from samples ranging from very small to quite sizable, producing the first ever whole transcriptome spatial datasets for human lymphatic collector vessels," said Vlachos. "The large capture area and serial sections helped us resolve single‑cell‑thick layers and reconstruct three‑dimensional representations of tissue organization with whole transcriptome capture at 1um resolution. Our institution and the broader research community can use these datasets to answer many possible research questions."
In another study conducted by Illumina researchers, Illumina Spatial Technology outperformed other competing technologies for improved sensitivity, higher resolution, and higher throughput at a lower cost.
The study mapped breast cancer progression across a range of precancerous to high-grade ductal carcinomas. Whole-transcriptome profiling revealed unexpected nuances of tumor microenvironments, including identification of a novel set of cancer-associated fibroblasts. Researchers found more than 2000 unique transcripts in each cell, showing an unprecedented level of sensitivity.
"Each tumor is unique and its gene expression is never uniform," said Cande Rogert, vice president and global head of advanced sciences at Illumina. "By interrogating a large surface area of tissue at high resolution, we were able to analyze the tumor genetics within their real context and identify new cell subtypes. The resulting multiomic insights provide additional information and have the potential to drive more precise therapeutic development."
Illumina 5-base solution delivers epigenetic context for cancer diagnostics
A team of researchers from Broad Clinical Labs, working with hospital research partners in Boston and Europe, recently explored the application of Illumina's 5-base solution to support clinical research for pediatric kidney cancer. This type of cancer typically requires invasive surgical procedures to diagnose, monitor, and treat that are not always feasible.
The researchers are seeking genomic alternative approaches. Existing translational research ctDNA assays can miss disease signals in very rare tumors such as Wilms and rhabdoid. Illumina's 5-base solution enabled simultaneous genomic and methylation profiling to add additional epigenomics signals that identify cases missed by conventional approaches.
Illumina 5-base whole genomes from renal cancer patients were tested in methylation-based classifiers and were able to predict the presence of rhabdoid tumors missed by genomics-only methods. Future work will expand 5-base profiling to additional FFPE and cfDNA samples, with the goal of training advanced machine learning models. These efforts may ultimately provide clinicians with more accurate diagnostic insights and improve outcomes for patients.
"Combining these molecular signals in a single, scalable process can help us develop non-invasive diagnostics for cancers," said Carrie Cibulskis, director of cancer genomics at Broad Clinical Labs. "We're working toward a minimally invasive methylation-aware assay for cancer diagnosis and treatment selection."
Integrated multiomics improves understanding of advanced ovarian cancer
Nearly 80% of ovarian cancers are diagnosed at advanced stages, where survival drops to about 30%. When caught early, survival exceeds 90%. For women presenting with an adnexal mass, accurately distinguishing between benign and malignant disease is critical to guiding appropriate referral and surgical care, yet current diagnostic tools lack sufficient accuracy to reliably support these decisions.
Bodour Salhia, PhD, a professor of cancer biology at the University of Southern California's Keck School of Medicine applied Illumina's 5-base solution, Illumina Protein Prep, and Illumina Spatial Technology to adnexal masses. The method enabled them to more easily differentiate between cancerous and benign tumor types using cell-free DNA and explore more sensitive ways to gain deeper biological context for ovarian cancer. Results included the first reported spatial analyses of adnexal masses and revealed localized tumor biology not previously reported.
"These findings create a multiomic framework for ovarian cancer research and lay the groundwork for an effective liquid biopsy in particularly challenging ovarian cancers with the potential to transform diagnostic practices and outcomes," said Salhia. "Layering the omics gave us a winning combination, providing more context for earlier cancer identification."
Illumina's 5-base solution allowed for sensitive, integrated genetic and methylation analysis of tumor samples without compromising specificity. The methylation signals separated malignant and benign samples better than traditional approaches, which can often fail to separate cell types.
Illumina Protein Prep allowed the researchers to identify novel gene sets, proteins, and pathways in ovarian cancer, creating new lines of inquiry in cancer biology research, biomarker and drug development. Layering Protein Prep and 5-base data through a custom pipeline in Illumina Connected Multiomics quickly resolved a false positive case.
The layered approach helped researchers establish parameters for targeted exploration of gene expression in spatial data. Using Illumina Spatial Technology, transcriptomic data helped to resolve signals driving false positive results.
Illumina Connected Multiomics accelerates sample-to-answer pipeline
Multimodal analytics from Illumina Connected Multiomics provides deeper insights and overcomes the fragmented, siloed views produced by isolated assays, empowering researchers with a new understanding of cancer mechanisms, tumor heterogeneity, and potential therapeutic targets.
"Multiomics is advancing our understanding of disease from a single dimension to a more complete biological landscape," said Jenny Zheng, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Greater China at Illumina. "Illumina is committed to deeply integrating multiomics innovation with bioinformatics and AI capabilities to build an integrated multiomics ecosystem that accelerates the journey from sample to insight. We will continue to collaborate with local partners, as well as clinical and research experts, to accelerate the localization and adoption of innovative multiomics solutions. By driving synergistic development between research and transformation, we aim to ensure that technological innovation delivers meaningful value to patients, healthcare systems, and drug discovery and development, faster."
Illumina unveiled new product updates and customer data during the Gold Sponsor Workshop at the Advances in Genome Biology and Technology (AGBT) annual meeting in Orlando. Learn more about Illumina's activity at AGBT here.
Use of forward-looking statements
This release may contain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Among the important factors to which our business is subject that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in any forward-looking statements are: (i) challenges inherent in researching, developing and launching new technologies, including modifying and scaling manufacturing operations, and reliance on third-party suppliers for critical components; (ii) our ability to manufacture robust instrumentation and consumables and develop reliable software solutions; (iii) our ability to deploy new products, services, and applications, and to expand the markets for genomics-related products and services, and (iv) the acceptance and adoption by customers of our newly launched or updated products, which may or may not meet our and their expectations, together with other factors detailed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our most recent filings on Forms 10-K and 10-Q, or in information disclosed in public conference calls, the date and time of which are released beforehand. We undertake no obligation, and do not intend, to update these forward-looking statements, to review or confirm analysts' expectations, or to provide interim reports or updates on the progress of the current quarter.
About Illumina
Illumina is improving human health by unlocking the power of the genome. Our focus on innovation has established us as a global leader in DNA sequencing and array-based technologies, serving customers in the research, clinical, and applied markets. Our products are used for applications in the life sciences, oncology, reproductive health, agriculture, and other emerging segments. To learn more, visit illumina.com and connect with us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
Illumina partners go beyond the genome, driving cancer breakthroughs using spatial transcriptomics, epigenomics, and proteomics
Illumina partners go beyond the genome, driving cancer breakthroughs using spatial transcriptomics, epigenomics, and proteomics
Resort guests can enjoy new exclusive experiences and excitement during the yearlong birthday celebration
SHANGHAI, Feb. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, on the 10th day of the Chinese New Year, Shanghai Disney Resort unveiled a new wave of magic with the announcement of its upcoming 10th Birthday Celebration, "With You, It's Magic+". Commemorating the resort's extraordinary milestone as the first Disney Resort in the Chinese mainland, the immersive calendar of magic will kick off on March 20, 2026, International Happiness Day, elevating ten years of enchantment and joy into a new chapter. Starting this spring, a fun-filled grand celebration will unfold throughout the year across Shanghai Disneyland, the resort's two themed hotels, Disneytown and beyond, inviting guests from near and far to join a milestone moment in the making.
"For nearly a decade since its grand opening, Shanghai Disney Resort has continued to push the boundaries of imagination, delivering enchanting experiences that bring Disney storytelling and creativity into every moment and spread the magic to guests of all ages worldwide. This overwhelming success would not have been possible without our incredible cast members, our wonderful partners, and of course—the guests who not only inspire us to keep innovating but are an essential part of that very magic," said Andrew Bolstein, President and General Manager of Shanghai Disney Resort. "To celebrate this 10-year milestone, our amazing cast members have spent the past two years pouring their hearts and energy into preparing a spectacular celebration, and we can't wait to create even more magic alongside our guests in the year ahead."
Unveiled on December 31, 2025, the resort's official new logo and theme set the stage for the yearlong celebration, "With You, It's Magic+", which encapsulates everything the resort aspires to share with guests and fans alike. The celebration is a heartfelt tribute to everyone who has created and continues to share the magic alongside the resort. This spirit comes vividly to life, symbolizing a place where millions of dreams have come true and cherished memories linger from the past decade. Throughout the celebration, "With You, It's Magic+" will weave through every touchpoint across the resort, from grand entertainment to delightful details, extending a warm invitation for all to share the magic together.
Three new breathtaking and reimagined entertainment experiences bring guests even closer to the magic
Beloved by guests and cherished for creating unforgettable memories, iconic Disney entertainment experiences are being taken to new heights for the 10th Birthday: grander in scale, more dazzling in spectacle, and filled with even more ways for guests to step closer into the story. Among the incredible program of shows and entertainment, three new breathtaking and reimagined experiences will take center stage, surrounding guests with fantastic sights, enchanting sounds and more magical moments together.
- All-new epic entertainment show The Heart of Magic debuts on an enhanced Castle Stage area, featuring new Disney characters, exclusive looks, and classic Disney melodies
Created especially for the 10th Birthday Celebration, The Heart of Magic makes its spectacular debut on the enhanced Enchanted Storybook Castle stage, which now includes three brand-new satellite stages and connecting bridges that bring guests closer to the magic for a fully immersive experience. The four-chapter production begins with Mickey and Friends setting off on a quest to restore the Heart of Magic in a magical realm hidden beneath the Enchanted Storybook Castle. Along the way, they are joined by a line-up of beloved Disney characters from nine fan-favorite Walt Disney Animation Studios' and Pixar Animation Studios' films—Cinderella, Winnie the Pooh, Tangled, Mulan, Hercules, Frozen, Toy Story, Coco, and Turning Red—each taking the stage to bring their stories vividly to life. Among them, Hercules will make his Shanghai Disneyland debut in the show, while rarely-seen Miguel will step out into his first major park role. With dazzling couture designed exclusively for the show, visually stunning sets, timeless Disney tunes, and compelling storytelling, The Heart of Magic invites guests of all ages to immerse themselves in the extraordinary entertainment experience and discover the true heart of magic at Disney together. - Delightful FriendSHIP! The Duffy and Friends' Special Pre-Parade and wild Zootopia parade unit ignite Mickey's Storybook Express
As the home to a world of magical experiences from the beloved Duffy and Friends and the wild Zootopia series, Shanghai Disney Resort has become a must-visit destination for fans to experience their favorite stories and characters like never before. Now, the resort is giving guests even more to look forward to in newly upgraded segments of Mickey's Storybook Express that are set to ignite the parade with even more magic. Sailing through the parade route ahead of the iconic Mickey's Storybook Express is the adorable new FriendSHIP! The Duffy and Friends' Special Pre-Parade. Featuring a sparkling golden ship-like design adorned with playful waves and charming details like a mounted telescope, the all-new float sets the tone for the parade with the joy, warmth, and togetherness that define the friends and their stories. All seven friends will ride aboard in colorful new celebratory attire, and selected guests will join and follow the parade to become a key part of the magic themselves.
An all-new Zootopia unit will join Mickey's Storybook Express, inviting everyone to get aboard superstar Gazelle's concert bus for an epic party! Led by the dynamic duo Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, the party shifts into high gear with a squad of wild Zootopia dancers and a cast of Zootopia residents bouncing and twirling to the infectious beats played by Zootopia resident DJ, Officer Clawhauser. All around the bus, a vibrant troupe of Zootopia residents will cheer wildly: Gary De'Snake twists in knots, new Zootopia mayor Brian Winddancer is leaning confidently out of the bus, and the cute Mr. Big family, plus many more, join the fun as energy soars with infectious performances of "Try Everything" from Zootopia, and "Zoo" from Zootopia 2.
- Dazzling nighttime spectacular Illuminate! A Nighttime Celebration lights up the castle with a magical finale and brand-new Wish segment
Presented on the world's largest and tallest Disney castle, the iconic nighttime spectacular—Illuminate! A Nighttime Celebration—has been reimagined with a new birthday-exclusive grand finale, "Magic Together: A Special 10th Birthday Celebration." Seamlessly weaving together classic Disney stories with jaw-dropping visuals and stunning sound, the enhanced show honors the milestone with even more magic and wonder. Mickey will appear in a flash of sparkles in front of the castle, wearing his majestic 10th Birthday magician ensemble, to greet guests and invite everyone to celebrate Shanghai Disneyland's 10th Birthday together. With a musical flourish, Mickey casts magic over the castle and across the Gardens of Imagination, transforming the space into a festive look as fountains dance, lasers play and fireworks ignite the sky. Through additional effects in the Gardens of Imagination and on the castle, guests are immersed in moments of Disney magic like never before and invited to relive the joy, the wonder, and the heart that a visit to Shanghai Disneyland evokes. Adding to the enchantment, the updated show will also introduce a new segment inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios' Wish featuring Star, Asha and the inspirational lyrics to the song "This Wish."
Sailing through the parade route ahead of the iconic Mickey's Storybook Express is the adorable new FriendSHIP! The Duffy and Friends' Special Pre-Parade. Featuring a sparkling golden ship-like design adorned with playful waves and charming details like a mounted telescope, the all-new float sets the tone for the parade with the joy, warmth, and togetherness that define the friends and their stories. All seven friends will ride aboard in colorful new celebratory attire, and selected guests will join and follow the parade to become a key part of the magic themselves.
An all-new Zootopia unit will join Mickey's Storybook Express, inviting everyone to get aboard superstar Gazelle's concert bus for an epic party! Led by the dynamic duo Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, the party shifts into high gear with a squad of wild Zootopia dancers and a cast of Zootopia residents bouncing and twirling to the infectious beats played by Zootopia resident DJ, Officer Clawhauser. All around the bus, a vibrant troupe of Zootopia residents will cheer wildly: Gary De'Snake twists in knots, new Zootopia mayor Brian Winddancer is leaning confidently out of the bus, and the cute Mr. Big family, plus many more, join the fun as energy soars with infectious performances of "Try Everything" from Zootopia, and "Zoo" from Zootopia 2.
Alongside these three exciting performances, an all-new Star Squad shines in starry celebratory outfits, sprinkling extra 10th Birthday magic into other seasonal shows and performances throughout the year. Kicking things off in spring, energetic dancers will invite guests to join in the fun everywhere, starting moments before the FriendSHIP! The Duffy and Friends' Special Pre-Parade, then for summer's fun watery moments with Chip 'n' Dale at Gardens of Imagination, autumn's playful spook-tacular cavalcade, the Winter Royal Ball's Disney Princesses and Princes encounters, and the lively Zootopia Street Party during Chinese New Year.
Shimmering birthday outfits, treats, and presents give guests more ways to join the magic
From the moment guests arrive, Shanghai Disney Resort is wrapped in birthday magic. Across décor, attire, dining, and merchandise, every detail comes together to mark the 10th Birthday Celebration and create more ways for guests to participate, sparkling with even more joy, warmth, and shared wonder together.
- Glimmering décor dresses the happy destination in birthday magic
From the park and Disneytown to the resort's two themed hotels, dazzling new décor brings the festive atmosphere and a new birthday look to the resort. At the entrance gate, a new Mickey Floral featuring the 10th Birthday logo and Mickey's delightful birthday hat immerses arriving guests into birthday spirit from the moment they step into the park. Magical stars glitter with wishes along every avenue, and hidden 10th Birthday elements wait to be discovered at every twist and turn. - Disney friends light up the celebration in new fashion and accessories
In honor of the 10th Birthday Celebration, Mickey and Friends, Duffy and Friends are all dressing up in brand-new exclusive looks tailor-made for the grand occasion. Centering on the glimmering celebration theme, the outfits burst with wishing star magic, adding a glittering shine to every treasured moment with guests! Also thrilled to be part of the magic, Shanghai Disney Resort cast members will wear brand-new 10th Birthday nametags featuring the 10th Birthday Celebration logo and two shooting stars surrounded by a whimsical swirl of pixie dust as they continue to fill every guest journey with magical memories that last a lifetime. - Birthday feasts and treats celebrate a decade of delightful Disney flavors and bring new flavors nationwide
Shanghai Disney Resort has whipped up a banquet of delicious meals, snacks, and beverages, inviting guests to savor the festivities all year long. To celebrate one of China's most iconic birthday traditions, the resort offers a diverse selection of Magic Wish Noodles across multiple locations, allowing guests to share in this beloved custom. The culinary journey continues with signature flavors hailing from diverse Chinese cities, providing guests from across the country with a wide array of options to savor distinctive treats infused with a Disney twist. The resort also brings back its most popular snacks with the Magical Treat Returns program, celebrating guests' long-standing love for these fan favorites from the past decade. And for flavorful fun that never stops, 10th Birthday-themed dining souvenirs—like popcorn buckets, cups, and a series of straw clips inspired by the park's favorite snacks—can all be taken home too! Throughout the celebration, the monthly guide "Mickey Mouse's Picks: 10th Birthday Foodie Favorites" invites guests to explore and savor a delightful selection of flavors, making every visit to the resort a culinary adventure. - Collect the magic with exclusive 10th Birthday merchandise collections filled with more choices for personalization and interaction
For the milestone 10th Birthday Celebration, Shanghai Disney Resort is launching a spectacular lineup of exclusive collections that give guests countless ways to take a piece of the magic home. Making up the largest dedicated collection of merchandise in the resort's history, the diverse selections feature iconic, must-have plush and keychains, all-new apparel, accessories, collectibles and more. Adorned with stunning designs showcasing Mickey Mouse, Duffy and Friends, the Enchanted Storybook Castle, and more beloved icons, the new pieces let guests relive their happiest Disney memories time and time again. Especially for the 10th Birthday, new interactive and personalized design elements have been added to give guests of all ages new ways to express themselves and create meaningful social connections. Among the highlights, an all-new Magic Wand will take this immersive experience a step further by giving guests the special power to summon and collect magic within the park!
Engaging experiences bring more magic to every corner of the resort together with guests
From the resort to everyday life, magical interactions across physical and digital spaces invite guests to become part of the story—dancing, playing and crafting joyful moments as the magic grows.
- Join Disney cast members to create more magic
Every morning through night, cast members are ready to create unique "With You, It's Magic+" moments of joy, bringing magic into every detail of the guest experience, from themed floor art, shopping and dining experiences to special birthday and anniversary celebrations. Popping up unexpectedly at various times and locations throughout the day, a Magic Squad of cast members in brand-new glittering outfits inspired by the 10th Birthday logo will spark moments of fun with guests through playful gestures, dance moves, and surprise interactions spanning the celebration period across every corner of the resort. - Make every moment sparkle with "My Magic Star"
Every day, even beyond the park, the birthday magic continues to sparkle for guests and fans everywhere—all with a single tap on the "My Magic Star" page on the Shanghai Disney Resort App or the new WeChat mini program. Before arriving, guests can start by creating their own personalized magical star, participating in a daily magical card draw, and unlocking special incentives and coupons to make their upcoming visits even more exciting. Once inside the park, guests can light up a Disney character in the Star Group, capture cherished memories using themed photo and video templates and share the joy with loved ones. - More magic unfolds with every visit
To make every guest's park visit brim with delightful surprises, the resort will launch all-new 10th Birthday Celebration park tickets starting March 20. Featuring 30 beloved Disney characters, the tickets are designed as a collectible puzzle series, which can be pieced together across visits to complete a full set. What's more, each ticket also includes a section of an iconic Shanghai Disneyland landmark that can be used to take fun, creative photos with the real landmark in the background for the ultimate album cover shot. - Immerse in the birthday magic at Disneytown and hotels
All year long, the celebrations will also sweep over Disneytown, where special twists on classic seasonal offerings and birthday surprises are waiting to be discovered. Providing extra celebration offerings this spring, guests can enjoy the lakeshore market, create a unique keepsake at an interactive workshop, or discover springtime wonders on an adventurous walking tour. With so much to celebrate across the resort, guests can get even closer to the magic with multi-day adventures and overnight stays at the two resort hotels. From the warm welcome and in-room Birthday surprises to the fun-filled hidden "10" finding tour, birthday magic fills every single moment of the stay. - Unlock a magical birthday bundle with exclusive ticket packages
New 10th Birthday ticket offers give guests even more ways to craft their perfect celebration, whether for themselves or their groups. These special packages feature a variety of options, including family bundles with reserved viewing areas for must-see shows, exclusive 10th Birthday guidebooks and more. Standalone park ticket bundles are also available, each paired with unique celebratory surprises. With this lineup of 10th Birthday ticket offers, guests are immersed in magic at every step of their journey.
The momentous 10th Birthday is just around the corner, and a thrilling new chapter of wonder and imagination is about to begin. Join the celebration and create even more magical moments together starting March 20, 2026! With You, It's Magic+!
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
With You, It's Magic+! Shanghai Disney Resort Invites Everyone to Celebrate Ten Magical Years Together, Starting March 20, 2026
