CombiMatrix Corporation
(Nasdaq:CBMX) announced today the launch of its next-generation ElectraSense(R)
microarray reader. The new ElectraSense(R) provides a robust, affordable, and
user-friendly microarray reader that electrochemically measures up to 12,000
probes on an array in less than 25 seconds. The palm-sized reader achieves compact
size and affordability by eliminating optics, light sources, and complicated
alignment components. Common enzymes and substrates replace expensive fluorescent
dyes required in existing technologies. In combination with CombiMatrix arrays,
this system for array-based analysis is the most economic package available
commercially.
The ElectraSense reader was developed with funding from the U.S. Department
of Defense, whose interest is a portable, rugged, and compact instrument. The
reader is about the size of a can of soda pop and can be carried in a pocket,
held by hand, or placed in a laboratory.
Further information, including photographs and technical details regarding
the new ElectraSense reader can be obtained at: http://www.combimatrix.com/products_electrasense.htm.
For ordering information or additional details, please contact CombiMatrix at
(425) 493-2211 (425) 493-2211.
"The combination of the new ElectraSense reader with CombiMatrix reusable
CustomArrays(R) will appeal to those laboratories wishing to drive down overall
costs in their microarray analysis," said Craig Bury, Director of Global
Sales and Marketing at CombiMatrix. "The ElectraSense offers a high-value
array reader in a compact, inexpensive, easy-to-use device. The capabilities
of our reader enable several methodologies for purchase, lease, and overall
utilization that would not be possible with more expensive readers. We encourage
potential customers to call us about these commercial programs."
"While the primary commercial focus of our company has been our diagnostic
services business and the development of our Comprehensive Cancer Array, we
continue to receive funding from the U.S. government to develop specific products.
These products are designed for dual use addressing military and government
needs, but also general research and development needs, as well as potential
diagnostic applications," stated Dr. Amit Kumar, President and CEO of CombiMatrix.
CombiMatrix CustomArrays(R)
CustomArrays are semiconductor-based arrays (approx. 1 cm(2)) integrated onto
a standard 1"x 3" slide format. CustomArrays contain in situ synthesized
oligonucleotides, prepared using CombiMatrix's patented virtual-flask technology.
The CombiMatrix CustomArray Stripping Kit enables the stripping and rehybridization
of the CustomArray up to three additional times. Additional applications for
this array have been developed based upon de novo electrochemical synthesis
and other deposition methods for capture elements. "This array can be read
with the ElectraSense reader and, with the use of fluorescent dyes, can be read
by commercial fluorescent mircroarray readers, giving it the broadest range
of detection capabilities."
CombiMatrix Corporation is a diversified biotechnology business that develops
proprietary technologies, including products and services in the areas of drug
development, genetic analysis, molecular diagnostics, nanotechnology and defense
and homeland security markets, as well as in other potential markets where our
products and services could be utilized. The technologies we have developed
include a platform technology to rapidly produce user-defined, in-situ synthesized,
oligonucleotide arrays for use in identifying and determining the roles of genes,
gene mutations and proteins. This technology has a wide range of potential applications
in the areas of genomics, proteomics, biosensors, drug discovery, drug development,
diagnostics, combinatorial chemistry, material sciences and nanotechnology.
Other technologies include proprietary molecular synthesis and screening methods
for the discovery of potential new drugs. Combimatrix Molecular Diagnostics,
Inc. ("CMDX"), our wholly owned subsidiary located in Irvine, California,
has developed capabilities of producing arrays that utilize bacterial artificial
chromosomes, which also enable genetic analysis. CMDX functions primarily as
a diagnostics reference laboratory. Leuchemix Inc. ("Leuchemix"),
a minority owned subsidiary, is developing a series of compounds to address
a number of oncology-related diseases. Leuchemix's first compound has entered
initial clinical trials.