Achieving high quality microarray results

Oxford, UK – 22 April 2014. OGT, The Molecular Genetics Company, has released a new application note detailing the technical evaluation of two DNA labelling kits, where OGT’s CytoSure^® Genomic DNA Labelling Kits were found to be quicker and more accurate than a leading alternative. Achieving efficient and uniform labelling of both test and reference DNA samples is critical for aCGH studies, enhancing data accuracy and interpretation. By ensuring greater accuracy, OGT’s kits vastly improve the identification of breakpoints and even the smallest aberrations, providing robust and invaluable insights into the underlying cause of genetic disorders.   

During the evaluation, performance was judged on two key quality control metrics of the microarray: the derivative log ratio spread (DLRS), which calculates the probe-to-probe ‘noise’ and thereby indicates the uniformity and accuracy of labelling; and the signal-to-noise ratio, which indicates how accurately each ‘spot’ of signal can be detected. The application note details how, using commercially available DNA samples, CytoSure Genomic DNA Labelling Kits consistently generated both a lower DLRS (below 0.2) and higher signal-to-noise ratio (above 100), compared to the alternative supplier. OGT’s kits also undergo stringent quality control monitoring for every reagent batch to ensure reliable the delivery of such high quality results for every experiment.

CytoSure Genomic DNA Labelling Kits utilise heat rather than restriction enzymes to fragment the DNA samples, thereby streamlining the workflow and reducing loss of material. Removing the restriction digest stage saves approximately 2 hours, allowing the whole procedure to be easily completed in a single day.

These evidence-based findings from OGT highlight the superior performance of CytoSure Genomic DNA Labelling Kits, and this conclusion is also supported by extensive customer evaluations. The Cytogenetics Laboratory, Baylor College of Medicine, commented: “Our lab has tried a variety of different labelling methods; and found OGT’s CytoSure Genomic DNA Labelling Kit to give consistently low DLRS values and excellent signal-to-noise ratios.”

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/.