Customisable DNA array due in 1Q04
it claims is the first fully-customisable DNA microarray platform,
CustomArray, in the first quarter of 2004.
Acacia Research has said that its CombiMatrix unit will launch what it claims is the first fully-customisable DNA microarray platform, CustomArray, in the first quarter of 2004.
The company has started field testing of the product ahead of a planned introduction in March.
The CustomArray range consists of semiconductor based arrays integrated on a standard 1" x 3" slide format. They contain in situ synthesised oligonucleotides, prepared using CombiMatrix's patented virtual flask technology, in which synthesis components are held above each electrode on the slide.
The CustomArrays use standard hybridisation techniques and can be read with most commercial fluorescent detection reader systems, according to the company. The initial roll-out will be for product containing 1,000 sites per cm2, with a follow-up range, with 13,000 sites/cm2 , scheduled for launch in the second quarter of 2004.
Bespoke versions of the arrays can be delivered to customers within a few days, said CombiMatrix, while the company will also offer a series of off-the-shelf arrays.
In the future, said CombiMatrix, desktop array synthesisers will be launched for sites that want in-house array production capability.
Roche partnership hits obstacle
However, in less positive news for the company, Roche Diagnostics has informed Acacia's CombiMatrix group that it will go ahead with the launch this year of Acacia's matriXarray product suite, based on the same technology as is used in the CustomArray range, as previously planned.
CombiMatrix entered into a 15-year, non-exclusive partnership with Roche Diagnostics for the matriXarray, used for fluorescent-based genomic applications, in July 2001.
No new launch date has been set for the matriXarray range, which includes custom and catalogue microarrays, a fully-automated 'walk-away' benchtop instrument, software tools and reagent kits.
Under the terms of the companies' agreement, microarrays will be produced by Roche and delivered to customers around the world within 72 hours.
