Duke University And Affymetrix Initiate Five-Year Translational Research Collaboration
Santa Clara, CA & Durham, NC - Affymetrix Inc. announced that it has entered into a five-year collaboration with Duke University to analyze genomic information across large patient samples. Under terms of the agreement, Duke researchers will use Affymetrix GeneChip microarray technology to develop new applications for translational research projects. The initial projects will focus on cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Duke researchers will use Affymetrix' GeneChip HT (High-Throughput) System and arrays to perform large-scale clinical studies. The Affymetrix technology will enable them to more rapidly discover RNA and DNA patterns that can better classify, manage and treat complex diseases. As part of the agreement, Affymetrix will fund creative research and clinical projects that could lead to new genomic applications on the GeneChip platform, as well as novel diagnostics and screening tests.
"This is an exciting time when genomics offers the promise of a deeper understanding of biology while at the same time improving the practice of medicine," said Joseph Nevins, Ph.D., director of the IGSP Center for Applied Genomics & Technology at Duke University. "By combining our research expertise with Affymetrix' high-throughput microarray technology, we have the opportunity to build on our prior work and develop gene expression profiles that characterize oncogenic pathways and define tumor phenotypes, which are important in determining clinical outcomes. At the same time, this can translate into improved clinical care and provide an important resource to enhance the use of microarray technology for all Duke investigators."
"Affymetrix is excited to be working with a leading research organization such as Duke University to help bring more effective personalized tests and therapies to market faster," said Gregg Fergus, senior vice president, Global Sales Operations at Affymetrix. "Together, we hope to accelerate clinical research, improve patient care and open the door to new genomic applications."
Affymetrix collaborates with academic institutions and patient advocacy groups through the company's translational medicine program to develop more effective treatments. Affymetrix GeneChip microarray technology helps researchers tailor treatments for individual patients by identifying and measuring the genetic information associated with complex diseases. The translational medicine program complements the Powered by Affymetrix program, which enables companies to license GeneChip technology to develop innovative microarray products. This custom-designed technology is being used in many applications, including diagnostics, forensics, animal, industrial and food testing.
SOURCE: Affymetrix