Genetic analysis system claims to deliver more genes per reaction and more samples per run, removing bottlenecks in gene expression studies for drug discovery and development research
Beckman Coulter introduces the GenomeLab GeXP genetic analysis system, providing high-throughput, quantitative gene expression via scalable, multiplexed PCR.
The system's patented priming strategy overcomes the biases that limit standard multiplexed PCR analysis to just a few genes at a time.
GenomeLab GeXP delivers more genes per reaction and more samples per run, removing bottlenecks in gene expression studies for drug discovery and development research, says the company.
The system can run two 96-well plates in 24 hours, and cost-effectively look at the expression of 20 to 35 genes in a single reaction per well.
Ideal for applications working with smaller gene sets that can provide key information relating to biological state or response, GenomeLab GeXP operates at a fraction of the cost of a standard RT-PCR system.
The system delivers highly accurate and quantitative results for hundreds or even thousands of samples using very small amounts of total RNA.
"This new system meets a critical need in the marketplace today for an alternative to realtime PCR, which is expensive and has very low throughput," explains Noreen Galvin, GenomeLab business manager for Beckman Coulter.
"Our multiplexed system can profile as many as 30 genes in a single well for significant time and money savings".
The GeXP uses a two-primer process with gene-specific universal primers that overcome biases from primer-primer reactions, primer-product cross-reactions and from variations in amplification efficiency.
This priming strategy, combined with single endpoint fluorescence detection, enables higher levels of quantitation and multiplexing.
The system includes a series of software tools for automated primer design and multiplex assembly, reaction plate setup, data collection, data checking and first-pass analysis.
GenomeLab GeXP also provides important genetic analysis functions including sequencing, heterozygote detection, SNP detection, STR, visualisation, AFLP, and LOH.
Sample preparation and reaction setup and cleanup can be done on Beckman Coulter's Biomek 3000 laboratory automation workstation.
A new line of consumables for the GenomeLab GeXP includes reagents for discovery, master mix reagents for user-defined genes and multiplex kits for performing quantitative gene expression studies on human, mouse or rat genes.
Existing CEQ 8000 and 8800 genetic analysis systems can be upgraded to the new GeXP system capabilities.
GenomeLab is a family of genetic analysis tools from Beckman Coulter that innovate, simplify and automate genomics processes to enable identification of new markers of biological, diagnostic and therapeutic interest.