Nanogen, Inc., developer of molecular-biology and rapid
diagnostic products, and Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., the
world leader in serving science, have entered into an agreement in
which Thermo Fisher will be the exclusive provider of a variety of
products used in gene-expression experiments. These products are based
on Nanogen’s second generation proprietary probe technology
for real-time PCR (polymerase chain reaction) applications, the most
widely used method for the amplification and measurement of DNA and RNA
for molecular diagnostics and life science research.
The agreement covers both custom and standard catalog products
based on Nanogen’s technology for real-time PCR applications.
This probe technology is used as a method of quantitative detection for
specific DNA or RNA sequences in a biological sample and incorporates
Nanogen’s MGB (Minor Groove Binder) technology. The Minor
Groove Binder is a crescent-shaped molecule that when coupled to an
oligonucleotide probe stabilizes the detection-target duplex, improving
efficiency and specificity compared to longer traditional probes.
“We’re very excited to partner with Thermo
Fisher Scientific for our probe technology,” said Howard
Birndorf, CEO of Nanogen. “Our proprietary probe technology
has proven to provide better results than traditional PCR probe
technology. We’re proud to serve the rapidly growing needs of
the research market through partners like Thermo Fisher, which can help
researchers advance basic biology and develop new
therapeutics.”
David Eansor, president of the Life Science Research business
at Thermo Fisher Scientific, added, “We are delighted to add
Nanogen’s Probe technology to our extensive range of
genomic-analysis tools. The resulting products will complement our
offering of gene-expression modulation tools, PCR reagents, plastics
and instruments, creating a more complete genomic workflow solution for
our customers.”
Nanogen’s MGB technology is licensed broadly in
various fields and is now an integral component in thousands of PCR
probe products. Nanogen has more than 35 reagent and kit products that
are sold for clinical diagnostic use under the MGB Alert® and
Q-PCR Alert™ brands.