Affymetrix Adds E. Coli to GeneChip Line

Earlier this week, Affymetrix Inc. (Santa Clara, CA) released the GeneChip E. coli Genome Array, the company's first GeneChip probe array product for the measurement and analysis of gene expression in a prokaryotic organism (bacterium). The new array enables the measurement of over 4,200 E. coli genes in a single analysis, and includes a sample preparation method that could potentially be used for all prokaryotic messenger RNAs.

To create the GeneChip E. coli Genome Array, Affymetrix scientists had to first develop a practical and robust protocol for mRNA enrichment. Since prokaryotic mRNA lacks unique structural elements, protocols that were previously used for sample preparation from eukaryotic organisms were not applicable, said G. Miyada, Affymetrix' lead scientist on the project. The new protocol, in combination with the E. coli Genome Array, constitutes a powerful tool for bacterial drug development and basic research, he added.

The E. coli product is the latest in Affymetrix' GeneChip probe array portfolio, which includes human, murine, rat, and yeast genome expression analysis arrays; application-specific arrays for human cancer, rat toxicology, and rat neurobiology; custom expression analysis arrays, single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) mapping assays, and disease management products.

Affymetrix Inc. develops and commercializes systems to acquire, analyze, and manage complex genetic information. The company's GeneChip system consists of disposable DNA probe arrays containing gene sequences on a chip, reagents for use with the probe arrays, a scanner, and other instruments to process the probe arrays and software to analyze and manage genetic information.

For more information: Affymetrix Inc., 3380 Central Expwy., Santa Clara, CA 95051. Tel: 408-731-5000. Fax: 408-481-0422.

Edited by Jim Pomager