Helicos BioSciences Corporation, a life sciences company, focuses on the genetic analysis technologies for the research, drug discovery, and clinical diagnostics markets primarily in the United States. Its proprietary True Single Molecule Sequencing technology enables the analysis of genetic material by directly sequencing single molecules of DNA or single DNA copies of RNA. The companys Helicos genetic analysis platform consists of HeliScope single molecule sequencer; HeliScope analysis engine, an image analysis computer tower; associated reagents, which are chemicals used in the sequencing process; and disposable supplies. Its Helicos genetic analysis system is used for various applications in the areas of studying the human genome, disease association studies, molecular diagnostics, cancer research, pharmaceutical research and development, infectious diseases, autoimmune conditions, and agricultural research. The company was formerly known as Newco LS6, Inc. and changed its name to Helicos BioSciences Corporation in November 2003. Helicos BioSciences Corporation was founded in 2003 and is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts.