AP Biotech Introduces Genetic Profile Software for Genotyping
Genotyping determines the genes responsible for specific inherited traits and it is believed that identifying genetic markers can help researchers understand the mechanisms behind certain, inherited medical disorders. The knowledge gained through genotyping can then be used to improve early detection and treatment of medical problems.
"The current method for production-scale genotyping is a time-consuming process since researchers must manually analyze data in order to locate the information that is truly useful to them," said Mike Evans, vice president of Drug Discovery with AP Biotech. "We worked closely with leaders in the genotyping community to develop a system that simplifies data interpretation to save researchers valuable time."
In collaboration with scientists in academia, AP Biotech developed Genetic Profile, the analysis software used with the MegaBACE system. The software combines fragment sizing with allele calling, a nd automates genotyping through a progression of steps, including trace processing, fragment sizing, allele calling, and genotype calling. The software assigns quality values to each marker and sorts the samples based on how well a marker fits within a specified pattern. Genotypes with high quality scores do not require further review, allowing researchers to focus on genotypes with lower quality markers.
The Finnish Genome Centre at the University of Helsinki has been using the MegaBACE 1000 Genotyping System with the Genetic Profiler analysis software for a few weeks. "Compared to the gel electrophoresis platforms, we find that the MegaBACE system has several advantages," said Juha Kere, professor and director of the Finnish Genome Center. "It is easier to use, has a faster turnaround, gives cleaner data, and the software makes the genotyping process much faster and more flexible. The quality scores will most probably speed up the genotyping process."
The new genotyping system continues AP Biotech's commitment to developing DNA sequencing technology, as its MegaBACE 1000 was the first capillary sequencer brought to market.
Owned 55% by Nycomed Amersham plc and 45% by Pharmacia & Upjohn Inc., AP Biotech has a successful track record in developing key technologies in the life sciences including MegaBACE, the automated high-throughput DNA sequencer, LEADseeker, the homogenous imaging system for high throughput drug screening, AKTA design chromatography systems.
For more information: Amersham Pharmacia Biotech, SE-751 84, Uppsala, Sweden. Tel: +46-1816-5000. Fax: +46-1816-6458.