The New Software Provides Researchers with a Cost-Effective, Highly Sensitive Genetic Analysis Tool
HERCULES, CA — June 22, 2009 — Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE: BIO and BIOb), a multinational manufacturer and distributor of life science research and clinical diagnostic products, today announced the launch of its Precision Melt Analysis software that enables high-resolution melt (HRM) analysis on Bio-Rad's CFX96 and CFX384 real-time PCR systems.
HRM extends the usefulness of quantitative real-time PCR methodology to detailed post-PCR sequence analysis, enabling a broad range of applications such as mutation scanning, methylation analysis, and SNP genotyping. With its simplicity and abbreviated workflow, HRM analysis offers a cost-effective yet accurate alternative to other post-PCR genetic analysis techniques such as single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP), mass spectrometry, and sequencing.
Precision Melt Analysis software is a convenient and easy-to-use application that imports and analyzes data files generated from Bio-Rad's CFX96 or CFX384 real-time PCR detection systems. Researchers can use the software to genotype samples based on the thermal denaturation properties of double-stranded DNA. They can also scan for new gene variants, screen DNA samples for SNPs, identify insertions/deletions or other unknown mutations, and determine the percentage of methylated DNA in unknown samples.
Precision Melt Analysis software works with the CFX96 and CFX384 systems to deliver sensitive and reliable detection for HRM applications. This new software package accommodates the needs of all HRM users, whether they are performing a single genotyping experiment or analyzing a comprehensive study comprised of multiple runs.
Precision Melt Analysis software allows the user to:
- Streamline data analysis using the customizable default analysis settings
- Use multiple data view options to manually assign sample genotypes by tailoring the software to the appropriate analysis
- View multiple charts at once — with "Charts" view, the user can check all of the data charts, including the amplification plot
- Increase analysis throughput — analyze multiple experiments from several melt runs together using the "Melt Study" feature
For more information please visit http://www.bio-rad.com/amplification/.
About Bio-Rad's CFX96 and CFX384 Systems
Using the Bio-Rad C1000 thermal cycler chassis as the base thermal cycler instrument, the CFX96 and CFX384 real-time PCR detection systems incorporate innovative optical technologies and software to deliver sensitive, reliable detection for real-time PCR applications, including absolute quantitation, genetic variation analysis, and gene expression. Both systems read each well individually with high sensitivity and no cross talk to deliver optimal quantitative results. The CFX96 and CFX384 systems provide excellent performance in uniformity, dynamic range of detection, and multiplexing capabilities, and they can be operated in several control configurations, including a stand-alone mode with no computer attached. With the CFX384 system, researchers have access to high-throughput real-time PCR in a 384-well format without having to sacrifice convenience and flexibility. For more information please visit http://www.bio-rad.com/amplification/.
About Bio-Rad
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. (NYSE: BIO and BIOb), has remained at the center of scientific discovery for more than 50 years, manufacturing and distributing a broad range of products for the life science research and clinical diagnostic markets. Bio-Rad is renowned worldwide among hospitals, universities, major research institutions, as well as biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies for its commitment to quality and customer service. Founded in 1952, Bio-Rad is headquartered in Hercules, California, and serves more than 85,000 research and industry customers worldwide through its global network of operations. The company employs over 6,500 people globally and had revenues exceeding $1.7 billion in 2008. For more information, visit www.bio-rad.com.
This release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as, "believe," "expect," "may," "will," "intend," "estimate," "continue," or similar expressions or the negative of those terms or expressions. Such statements involve risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to vary materially from those expressed in or indicated by the forward-looking statements. For further information regarding the Company's risks and uncertainties, please refer to the "Risk Factors" in the Company's public reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the Company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K. The Company cautions you not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which reflect an analysis only and speak only as of the date hereof. Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc., disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
NOTE TO THE EDITOR:
Information in this release applies specifically to products available in the United States. Product availability and specifications may vary in non U.S. markets.
If you choose to review this item, your readers will receive the quickest response to their inquiries by emailing them to lsg.orders.us@bio-rad.com or by calling 1-800-424-6723.
For more information contact:
Richard Kurtz
Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.
800-876-3425 x5638
Richard_Kurtz@bio-rad.com
Ken Li
Chempetitive Group
312-997-2436 x 112
kli@chempetitive.com