ORGANIZERS: INDICASAT-AIP and LCRSP-ICGES
INTRODUCTION:
Targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology combines selective gene amplification with the power of NGS sequencing. This enables the detection of resistance to multiple drugs in a single test. By interrogating complete genes, targeted NGS identifies specific mutations associated with resistance with greater accuracy than existing broad-region sequencing techniques. In addition, NGS detects resistance to new and repurposed drugs that are currently not assessed by any other molecular method. For example, Illumina’s Deeplex® Myc-TB, based on massive parallel sequencing, is an all-in-one test for identification, genotyping, and prediction of antibiotic resistance at the species level in strains of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex.
Recently, the World Health Organization promoted: 1) consolidated guidelines and 2) the operational handbook on tuberculosis: Module 3 on rapid diagnostics for tuberculosis¹,². These documents provide specific recommendations for the use of targeted NGS to study resistance to a broader list of medicines. The guideline recommends the use of NGS in patients with bacteriologically confirmed tuberculosis and bacteriologically confirmed drug-resistant tuberculosis, except under certain conditions. For this reason, the prompt implementation of NGS in Latin American and Caribbean countries is essential.
SCOPE:
The targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) workshop seeks to train laboratory professionals from national tuberculosis reference laboratories in Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as scientists and students from the region, in the use and application of methods and platforms to determine point resistance mutations in Mycobacterium tuberculosis and to learn about regional experiences, current applications for public health, and research and development.
This workshop will include the participation of professional speakers from reference laboratories and scientific research institutions in Latin America. Each specialist will share their knowledge and experience in the use of NGS tools.
GENERAL OBJECTIVE:
To provide participants with relevant scientific and technical training on NGS platforms for the diagnosis of drug-resistant tuberculosis.
SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES:
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To provide practical skills in performing targeted NGS testing using Illumina’s Deeplex® Myc-TB.
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To train participants in the analysis and interpretation of results.
METHODOLOGY:
This workshop will consist of a 4-day course led by expert instructors and hands-on practical sessions. It includes discussion sessions on scientific literature and analysis of the data obtained. Topics range from DNA extraction, library preparation, targeted NGS, data generation and analysis, to data interpretation. The workshop will take place in the Genomics laboratories of INDICASAT-AIP at Ciudad del Saber, Panama.
INSTRUCTORS:
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Fermín Acosta – INDICASAT-AIP – PANAMA
- Indira Quintero – INDICASAT-AIP – PANAMA
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Samantha Rosas – LCRSP-GORGAS – PANAMA
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Prudencio González – LCRSP-GORGAS – PANAMA
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Luis Narvaez – INER – MEXICO
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Christophe Sola – Université Paris-Saclay, FRANCE (virtual)
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Jacobus de Waard – Universidad Central de Venezuela
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Monserrath Rodríguez – Genomics Specialist, Illumina – LATIN AMERICA
DATE:
August 4–7, 2026 (hands-on), INDICASAT-AIP at Ciudad del Saber, Republic of Panama.
ACCOMMODATION:
Holiday Inn Panama Canal Hotel, Ciudad del Saber, Panama. Special rate available for accepted workshop participants.
APPLICATION:
Spaces are limited. Applicants must complete the application form at:
https://es.surveymonkey.com/r/3HRSLLJ
COST:
The required workshop fee is:
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Reduced fee: USD 275 (until May 30)
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Regular fee: USD 375 (until June 30)
Payments are accepted via VISA or bank transfer to:
Intermediary Bank:
CITIBANK, N.A. – NEW YORK
SWIFT CITIUS33
ABA 021000089
Beneficiary Bank:
BANCO GENERAL, S.A. – PANAMA
SWIFT BAGEPAPA
Final Beneficiary:
INDICASAT-AIP
Current Account Number: 0338010479052
MORE INFORMATION: Dr. Amador Goodridge, +507-517-0700 or coursesytalleres@indicasat.org.pa
SPONSORS:
We thank Illumina and Biolab International as sponsors with the reagent costs of DEEPLEX Myc-TB.
Scan
PROGRAM
LATIN AMERICAN AND CARIBBEAN WORKSHOP ON TARGETED NEXT-GENERATION SEQUENCING FOR RESISTANT MYCOBACTERIUM TUBERCULOSIS.
REFERENCES:
2WHO consolidated guidelines on tuberculosis. Module 3: diagnosis – rapid diagnostics for tuberculosis detection, third edition. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2024. License: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.
3WHO operational handbook on tuberculosis. Module 3: diagnosis – rapid diagnostics for tuberculosis detection, third edition. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2024. License: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.