OGT offers new genomic DNA labelling kit for cytogenetic arrays

Oxford, UK – 11 February 2009. OGT, the pioneer of microarray based technologies, has launched a Genomic DNA labelling kit offering a fast and simple protocol. The labeling kit, which is fully optimized for OGT’s CytoSure^® family of high resolution oligonucleotide arrays, adds to the Company’s comprehensive portfolio of products and services, which together provide a complete solution for cytogeneticists, from sample to result.

The Genomic DNA labelling kit contains Cy3 and Cy5 dyes for dual-color hybridizations, and uses a unique buffer formulation to allow more efficient use of reagents without loss of signal intensity. The kit contains everything required for the protocol, including nucleotide mix, random primers, enzymes and even the clean-up columns and collection tubes. OGT also offers analysis software to allow easier interpretation of results with data exchange for comprehensive, state-of-the-art cytogenetic profiling, and comprehensive training for customers of its CytoSure arrays.

Barbara DuPont, Director of the Cytogenetics Laboratory at the Greenwood Genetic Center in South Carolina, USA, which provides diagnostic and clinical genetics services, said: “We have moved from the BAC platform to using OGT’s CytoSure arrays, and it was a very easy transition. The array protocols are very quick and simple, and we get a lot of extra information with CytoSure. The addition of the labeling kit has further streamlined sample throughput.”

Spencer Howell, Director of Cytogenetics at OGT, said: “I am delighted to announce the Genomic DNA labelling kit to accompany the second generation of CytoSure oligonucleotide arrays. By supplying arrays, reagents and analysis software, and with new products and array designs in development, we continue our commitment to providing aCGH analysis to cytogenetics laboratories around the world.”

For Research Use Only

This product is provided under an agreement between Agilent Technologies, Inc. and OGT. The manufacture, use, sale or import of this product may be subject to one or more of U.S. patents, pending applications, and corresponding international equivalents, owned by Agilent Technologies, Inc. The purchaser has the nontransferable right to use and consume the product for RESEARCH USE ONLY AND NOT for DIAGNOSTICS PROCEDURES. It is not intended for use, and should not be used, for the diagnosis, prevention, monitoring, treatment or alleviation of any disease or condition, or for the investigation of any physiological process, in any identifiable human, or for any other medical purpose.

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/.