OGT introduces unique CNV array with whole chromosome UPD detection

Oxford, UK – 07 September 2010. OGT, provider of innovative genetics and biomarker solutions to advance molecular medicine, has today introduced the groundbreaking CytoSure^® ISCA UPD 4 x 180k array. This offers the ability, for the first time, to simultaneously detect DNA copy number variation (CNV) using OGT’s ISCA consortium endorsed 4 x 180k aCGH array, along with whole chromosome uniparental disomy (UPD) using SNP probes, on a single array. The array format, ease-of-use and intuitive data interpretation via the complimentary CytoSure Interpret Software, combine to make the CytoSure ISCA UPD array an obvious choice for the next stage in cytogenetic research.

OGT’s unique UPD detection capability (patent pending) has been enabled by multiple rounds of SNP probe selection and validation, targeting over 6000 SNPs with evenly distributed probes, resulting in highly informative content that allows confident detection of whole chromosome UPD. Furthermore, the combined ISCA-UPD array has been developed to ensure near identical labelling and hybridisation conditions to standard aCGH. In addition, the aCGH protocol is largely unaltered and any reference DNA can be used. The latest version of OGT’s CytoSure Interpret Software provides simple and intuitive data analysis, with clear identification of regions with a loss of heterozygosity (LOH) and data processing tools to investigate these further. As a result of this unique array design and data analysis capability, segmental as well as whole chromosome UPD can be detected using the CytoSure ISCA UPD array. 

James Clough, Vice President Clinical and Genomic Solutions at OGT commented: “We have carefully implemented robust UPD detection capabilities onto our CytoSure ISCA 4 x 180k arrays, whilst avoiding wholesale changes to the protocol. Importantly, we have also made the interpretation of this additional data extremely intuitive via our CytoSure Interpret Software. As a result, our customers can now confidently detect both DNA copy number variation and whole chromosomal uniparental disomy using a single array.” 

OGT’s powerful CytoSure ISCA arrays have been carefully developed to focus on disease and syndrome-associated genome regions, in addition to offering whole genome coverage. Using a proprietary 60-mer probe design and multiple rounds of optimisation, the CytoSure ISCA aCGH arrays ensure exceptional reliability and confident detection of genetic aberrations with high 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/.