Epoch's minor groove binder technology to be incorporated into TaqMan probes
As part of the expanded relationship, Applied Biosystems TaqMan probes will feature Epoch's minor groove binder (MGB) technology to offer improved discrimination in single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping experiments. The use of MGB also supplements the existing gene expression capabilities of TaqMan probes.
Applied Biosystems will market the new probes to its customer base. Epoch is expected to manufacture a specified portion of the new probes. In addition, Applied Biosystems will fund research at Epoch and pay supplemental license fees. Applied Biosystems had previously licensed Epoch's MGB technology. Other financial terms were not disclosed.
"Our collaboration with Epoch is a prime example of using complementary technology to continue to enhance our products," said Michael W. Hunkapiller, president, Applied Biosystems. "We foresee continued growth in the area of SNP research, and Epoch's MGB technology and accompanying design software improve our TaqMan probes to serve customers who want greater SNP capability."
William G. Gerber, CEO of Epoch, said, "Applied Biosystems is the industry leader in genetic analysis systems, and this adoption of our technology is further confirmation of its value. We anticipate a positive response from Applied Biosystems' key customers. MGB systems would also have appeal to companies outside the TaqMan probe arena, so we are pursuing additional endorsements from other corporate partners as we apply our technology and expertise to their systems."
PE Corp. comprises two operating groups. Applied Biosystems develops and markets instrument-based systems, reagents, software, and contract services to the life science industry and research community. Applied Biosystems reported sales of $1.4 billion during fiscal 2000. The Celera Genomics Group (Rockville, MD) intends to become the definitive source of genomic and related medical information.
Epoch Biosciences develops proprietary products with commercial applications in the fields of genomics and molecular diagnostics, including the detection of inherited diseases and single nucleotide polymorphisms to identify individuals at risk for disease or adverse drug reactions. The company believes that its technologies can be adapted to genetic analysis systems in use and being developed by others.
For more information, contact Jay Rhodes for PE Biosystems/Applied Biosystems at 650-554-2581, or Sanford Zweifach for Epoch Biosciences at 425-821-7535.
Edited by Laura DeFrancesco
Managing Editor, Bioresearch Online