In comparison to invasive techniques used for sourcing DNA such as the taking of blood samples, the buccal swabs procedure is quick and painless and can be carried out by non-trained users
DNA Research Innovation (DRI), a supplier of products for manual and automated nucleic acid extraction, has announced the signing of a new OEM distribution agreement with buccal swab innovator Isohelix.
DRI will non-exclusively supply for re-sale its ChargeSwitch genomic DNA purification kits for buccal cells to Isohelix for manual and automated use.
Buccal swabs are widely used to non-invasively remove cheek lining cells from individuals which are then processed to extract DNA.
This methodology is routinely used worldwide for criminal justice DNA databasing, clinical genotyping and lifestyle genotyping.
In comparison to invasive techniques used for sourcing DNA such as the taking of blood samples, the buccal swabs procedure is quick and painless and can be carried out by non-trained users.
Due to the rapid expansion of clinical and lifestyle genotyping and the wider use of national criminal databases, there is a growing need for rapid, high yield and effective methods for DNA extraction from buccal swabs to replace blood based protocols.
DRI markets rapid DNA and RNA purification kits based on its patented ChargeSwitch technology.
ChargeSwitch protocols do not require the use of PCR inhibitors such as alcohols, concentrated chaotropic salts or organic solvents and has received leading endorsements in the application of DNA extraction from buccal swabs.
Isohelix markets the T-Swab buccal swab and Autohelix methodology for high yield and high throughput swab processing.
This new relationship is aimed to further enable Isohelix to penetrate existing and novel US and European markets.
"This agreement gives us additional exposure and methods of distribution into the forensic and clinical genotyping community," said Simon Douglas, CEO of DRI.
"The combination of the high yield T-Swab and innovative ChargeSwitch technology will greatly enhance throughput and yield for major laboratories.
"This relationship is very much in line with our OEM strategy and we look forward to seeing an expansion of our existing customer base".
"Within the nucleic acid purification market, DRI's technology is very unique and very effective," added Ernest Poku, CEO of Isohelix.
"The high DNA yield and simplicity of protocols for both manual and automated extraction made DRI a strong partner of choice for us.
This agreement will be beneficial to both parties."
