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.