Applied Precision introduces arrayWoRxe Biochip Reader

New DNA, protein, SNP microarray reader provides higher data quality and greater experiment flexibility to researchers worldwide

Applied Precision's (Issaquah, WA) new arrayWoRxe Biochip Reader provides users superior image resolution, highly accurate and repeatable data, and more experiment flexibility than any other reader on the market—all in an easy to use package. Incorporating the same white light-based technology originally introduced with Applied Precision's arrayWoRx Microarray Scanner in early 2000, this new biochip reader provides enhanced capabilities for reading DNA, protein and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) microarrays at considerably lower cost.

GeneScan Europe AG has evaluated the arrayWoRxe Biochip Reader as a Beta partner and as a customer, having installed five of the systems for use in its custom biochip business. "The arrayWoRxe is showing a lot of promise already in just the short time we've been using it," said Christoph Heller, scientific coordinator of GeneScan. "For the different spot densities and different biochip formats we work with, the new system's flexibility is a great benefit. Especially for gene expression experiments, but also for SNP detection, the new system is ideally suited." GeneScan is the exclusive distributor of arrayWoRx and arrayWoRxe in several European countries, Australia and New Zealand.

The arrayWoRxe (the "e" stands for easy) is designed for highly accurate imaging and analysis of microarray data, enabling scientists to conduct in-depth research into DNA, proteomics, genomics and SNPs. The PC-based system uses Applied Precision's proven light delivery and collection technology that combines a white light source and CCD (Charged Coupled Device) camera, rather than a laser light source and PMT (Photo-Multiplier Tube). This technique provides users with greater flexibility by allowing experiment designs using a wide variety of fluorescent probes and up to four wavelengths on one biochip.

The arrayWoRxe system presents a scalable platform that can offer the best imaging solution from low- to high-density microarrays. This scalability means that the arrayWoRxe system is particularly well-suited to the challenges of studying protein function that presently use medium- to high-density arrays. This capability combined with the flexibility of experiment design results in a system uniquely positioned to handle current and emerging biochip applications.

Brent Navran, product line manager for Applied Precision's biotechnology solutions, said, "By providing the highest quality images, experiment flexibility and repeatable information in an easy-to-use instrument, we can offer increased efficiency for scientists in both research and industrial applications today and in the future."

The system's lower price and wide distribution makes the technology more accessible to a variety of industrial and academic users. In preparation for the introduction of the arrayWoRxe, Applied Precision widened its distribution network to cover all of Europe, the Americas, the Middle East and the Pacific Rim. Joe Ahladis, vice president of sales and marketing for Applied Precision, stated, "This new product addresses the global needs of the exploding biochip market and our new sales and distribution strategy ensures we will be able to meet the growing demand."

About Applied Precision, Inc.
Applied Precision develops measurement, analysis and process control systems for biomedical and biotechnology imaging and analysis systems (especially live-cell microscopy, genomics and proteomics), semiconductor wafer test, and precision motion control components. Applied Precision's specialized products are based on precisionware, the company's unique convergence of mechanics, electronics, optics and software. Applied Precision, Inc. has been enabling advancements in the world's core technologies since its inception in 1985. Applied Precision (www.appliedprecision.com) can be reached in the United States at (425) 557-1000 or in the United Kingdom at +44 1672 518350.

Source: Applied Precision

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