Third Wave

Third Wave Technologies was a molecular diagnostics company that developed and marketed DNA and RNA analysis products for clinical use. The company was best known for its proprietary Invader chemistry, which provided a highly sensitive and specific method for detecting genetic variations without the need for PCR amplification. Its primary focus was on high-volume clinical testing, particularly for Human Papillomavirus (HPV), cystic fibrosis, and cardiovascular risk factors. In 2008, the company was acquired by Hologic for approximately $580 million, integrating its Cervista HPV tests into Hologic's women's health portfolio. The company's leadership, including former CEO Kevin Conroy, later went on to lead other successful biotech ventures such as Exact Sciences.