MWG Biotech AG Strengthens Bioinformatics Portfolio with siRNA Design Tool

As a further addition to their successful portfolio of bioinformatic services MWG Biotech have introduced a free web-based siRNA design tool. Special feature of the new bioinformatic service is a built-in BLAST function which allows customers to design their own specific siRNA oligonucleotides to successfully silence specific genes. The new design tool is part of MWG Biotech's easy to use ecom system, so that customers can immediately order their designed siRNAs with one simple mouse click. Gene Silencing refers to a technique, called RNA interference (RNAi), for switching off genes within a cell. This technique makes use of a natural mechanism inside the cell, where short fragments of RNA bind to a certain messenger molecule, the messenger or mRNA, that contains the building plan for an undesired protein. In the RNAi process a double strand of RNA is introduced into the cell, one strand of which is identical to the RNA that is being targeted to be switched off. The cell identifies the double stranded RNA as an intruder and then destroys it. In the process the target RNA is destroyed, thereby switching off the function of that gene. It is a revolutionary technology that is of high interest for researchers interested in gene and protein function interactions, with the potential future therapeutic application of silencing genes that cause certain diseases, like cancer. However, the choice of siRNA candidate is of vital importance in silencing the correct gene of choice. The siRNA primer has to be designed in a way to distinguish between alternative splice and isoforms of the gene in question, and to avoid off-target effects. The design and position of a 21mer siRNA oligonucleotide plays a direct role in the strength of the gene knock down and in which specific gene transcripts will be affected. Knowing the exact siRNA position, and which specific transcript it matches, is crucial for success. MWG Biotech's many years of bioinformatics expertise are the foundation of the Company's free web based design tool to ensure design success. The tool contains a BLAST function which automatically checks every candidate siRNA to see which gene or alternative splice form it matches. There is also a sense strand BLAST function so that non-specific off-target effects can be identified and avoided. MWG Biotech is the partner of choice for academic and industrial research in pharma and biotechnology, diagnostics and agrobio. As an international innovator of and enabler for consistently high quality technologies, instruments, products and services the company creates the platform for success in the life sciences today and for a better life tomorrow. Additional information at www.THE-MWG.com.