RZPD's Affymetrix Service - Faster Detection of Genetic Variations in Humans

Berlin (May 11, 2004) - The RZPD Deutsches Ressourcenzentrum für Genomforschung GmbH (German Resource Center for Genome Research), Berlin, is going to further extend its services based on the GeneChip® technology by the micro-array market leader Affymetrix. As one of the very few exclusive service providers offering Affymetrix' screening services in Europe ( www.rzpd.de/services/affymetrix  ) RZPD recently began to offer the analysis of the Human Mapping 10K Array (Full Service, Core Service).

This novel array technology for the detection of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) enables parallel screening of more than 11,500 SNPs on a single chip (Human Mapping 10K Array). This way genome scans can be performed within a week's time. The technique requires less starting material, i.e. 250ng genomic DNA. Furthermore, in comparison with the current microsatellite analysis techniques the user obtains significantly more genetic information with the SNP technique.

There are numerous fields of application for the SNP array technology. Amongst these are linkage and association analyses for the identification of genes associated with diseases or so-called "loss-of-heterozygosity" (LOH) studies for the localization of disease-causing variations in the genome (which for example could be responsible for the onset of cancer). By means of the SNP array technology these analyses can be performed much more quickly and economically than with current techniques.

As part of the current co-operation with Affymetrix, in place since 2001, RZPD also offers the analysis of all of Affymetrix's catalogue and custom GeneChips® for gene expression analyses in eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms. These offerings are complemented with services focusing on sample preparation, data integration and expression studies on protein level.


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On SNPs:
SNPs, single nucleotide polymorphisms, are by far the most frequent source of genetic variation in humans. They approximately occur every 500 to 1,000 base pairs. Currently there are several million catalogued SNPs that are stored in public databases. Because of their high density within the genome SNPs are primarily suited as markers for the localization of genes that are associated with diseases. In turn, the SNPs themselves could be the actual cause of genetically determined diseases such as cystic fibrosis. They are also ideally suited for the compilation of so-called "genetic fingerprints" since every human being possesses a unique SNP combination. 

About the RZPD:
RZPD - German Resource Center for Genome Research (Deutsches Ressourcenzentrum für Genomforschung), Berlin, is the largest and most modern service center for genome research in Europe. Based on one of the largest clone collections worldwide, it provides high quality research material, high throughput technology and automation solutions for academic institutions as well as for industry. The RZPD's portfolio includes clones of genomic and cDNA libraries, expression clones with full open reading frames, siRNA resources, colony, DNA, and protein arrays, genomic and cDNA pools, micro-arrays, expression profiling, Affymetrix service, high-throughput PCR, and cDNA library generation. All data generated with the RZPD's materials is stored in a primary database and is cross-referenced with records from other public sources. The RZPD does not claim intellectual property on the results arising from the work with the material provided. The RZPD is certified to meet the requirements and to comply with the quality standards set out by ISO 9001:2000. Further information on the RZPD is available at www.rzpd.de.

Contact:
RZPD -
Deutsches Ressourcenzentrum für Genomforschung GmbH
Dr Johannes Maurer - Scientific Managing Director
Heubnerweg 6
D-14059 Berlin
Tel.: +49-30-32639-251
Fax: +49-30-32639-262
Email: j.maurer@rzpd.de 


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