OGT launches high-resolution, high-throughput PGS array

Oxford, UK – 08 July 2014. OGT, The Molecular Genetics Company, has announced the launch of a new high-resolution, high-throughput pre-implantation genetic screening (PGS) microarray aimed at improving embryo screening for in vitro fertilisation (IVF). The CytoSure^® Embryo Screen Array offers eight arrays of 60,000 spots for high-resolution genome-wide aneuploidy and copy number detection in pre-implantation embryos. The microarray can screen up to 14 embryos on a single slide, which is particularly useful in embryo banking — a common procedure for advanced maternal age samples — enabling the confident identification of the best embryo for implantation.

The CytoSure Embryo Screen Array is sensitive enough to work with small amounts of amplified DNA from a single embryo cell. For optimal hybridisation and maximum accuracy, the probe design of the CytoSure array exactly mirrors only the amplified DNA; regions of the genome that have not been amplified are therefore not represented, minimising the possibility of misleading results. Oligonucleotide arrays, such as the CytoSure Embryo Screen Array, typically provide lower batch-to-batch variation than alternative bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) arrays, enabling more reliable analysis. In addition, flexibility in design and content further enhances the ability of oligonucleotide arrays to meet future research requirements.

The CytoSure Embryo Screen Array has been research-validated by the team at the Center for Human Genetics, University Hospital Leuven, Belgium. In the lab of Professor Joris Vermeesch they found that “the CytoSure array offers a good alternative to FISH or BAC aCGH for the detection of aneuploidies and chromosomal imbalances in DNA amplified from single embryo cells”.

“With an estimated 250,000 PGS tests performed each year worldwide and growing at a rate of over 10% per annum,” said Dr Mike Evans, CEO, OGT, “we saw a clear and unmet need for our optimised, oligo-based aCGH CytoSure Embryo Screen array. It offers significant advances over alternative platforms, including the facility to analyse up to 14 samples on a single array. This new array continues our goal of helping potential parents maximise their chances of IVF success.”

About OGT

OGT, a Sysmex Group company, is a leading global provider of clinical and diagnostic genomic solutions that are created for scientists by scientists - including CytoCell^®, CytoSure^® and SureSeq™ ranges of FISH, microarray and NGS products. The company is dedicated to creating products that enable researchers and clinical decision makers to reach the right care decisions for each patient, every time. OGT strives to unlock the future of genetic clinical care with a commitment to working in partnership with its customers - not only by sharing its expertise of 25 years at the forefront of genetic endeavour, but also by working closely with scientists to understand their unique challenges, and to customise its approach to meet their exact needs. Dedicated to improving clinical care, OGT believes that through partnership—together—we’ll achieve more.

For more information on the Company, please visit our website at ogt.com

CytoSure^®, SureSeq™ and myProbes^®: For Research Use Only, not for use in diagnostic procedures. CytoCell: Some products may not be available in your region.

About Sysmex Corporation

Sysmex Corporation is a world leader in clinical laboratory systemization and solutions, including laboratory diagnostics, laboratory automation and clinical information systems. Serving customers for more than 50 years, Sysmex focuses on technological leadership in diagnostic science and information tools that make a difference in the health of people worldwide. The company is also exploring emerging opportunities in the life science field. Its R&D efforts focus on the development of high-value-added testing and diagnostic technologies that are innovative, original and optimize individual health. Sysmex also seeks to leverage its state-of-the-art technologies for cell, gene and protein analysis. The company, headquartered in Kobe, Japan, has subsidiaries in North America, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, China and Asia Pacific and employs more than 9,000 employees worldwide. Sysmex Corporation is listed in the top tier of the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

For more information about Sysmex Corporation and its affiliate companies, please visit www.sysmex.co.jp/en/.