Caliper Life Sciences and Covaris, announced this week a co-marketing agreement which will leverage Covaris' acoustic DNA shearing platforms and Caliper's automation and microfluidics technologies to develop automated workflows for next generation DNA sequencing. Caliper has developed a suite of solutions for library construction, sample analysis, and nucleic acid fractionation, which reportedly reduces manual manipulations, increases throughput and improves sample-to-sample consistency.
"Our [instruments] have become critical tools in leading next generation sequencing laboratories already utilizing Covaris' technology," said Kevin Hrusovsky, President and CEO of Caliper Life Sciences. "This collaboration is a logical next step toward simplifying workflows for scientists challenged with meeting the growing demands of next generation sequencing sample preparation. As sequencing technologies move from the lab bench to the clinic, it is critical that integrated solutions offer consistency and sample tracking."
"Covaris provides a wide variety of next-gen sample prep solutions for the evolving needs of sequencing laboratories relative to nucleic acid shearing and sample extraction," said Jim Laugharn, Covaris President and CEO. "Covaris recognizes the importance of high quality sample preparation as a fundamental component for advanced life science systems, such as in next generation DNA Sequencing."
According to the company, Covaris' sample preparation technology, which is based on its adaptive focused acoustic (AFA) technology, brings quality, speed, and efficiency to biological and chemical sample preparation. The isothermal and non-contact Covaris method accelerates next-generation DNA sequencing sample preparation by providing a highly predictable and reproducible DNA shearing instrumentation, consumables, and applications to the next-gen workflow.
Caliper's portfolio of microfluidic and automation solutions enable sample preparation for high throughput sequencing. Caliper's sequencing tools include those for nucleic acid fractionation, library quantification and sizing, automated nucleic acid extraction and reaction setup, as well as the recently launched tool for purity and quality control.
Caliper Life Sciences is a provider of technologies that enable drug discovery and diagnostic testing. According to them company, Caliper is continuing to develop new technologies that aim to bridge the gap between in vitro assays and in vivo results and then translating those results into cures for human disease. Caliper's portfolio of offerings includes microfluidics technologies, lab automation and liquid handling tools, optical imaging technologies, as well as discovery and development outsourcing solutions.
Covaris provides sample preparation systems for life and analytical sciences. The company's sample prep technologies support applications including DNA sequencing, ChIP, proteomics, and compound management. The company's patented AFA process, based on shock wave physics, reportedly delivers controlled, precise, and accurate energy to biological and chemical samples.
In related news, Caliper announced this week that IntegenX, based in California, has licensed Caliper's microfluidics patent portfolio. According to the companies, IntegenX will leverage its microvalve technology and Caliper's microfluidic intellectual patent estate to accelerate commercialization of IntegenX' DNA profiling system for human identification.
The profiling system automates the process of producing standardized DNA profiles from cheek swabs and other suitable human tissue samples. DNA profiles produced by the system can be used to match collected samples with existing DNA records in domestic and international databases, or to expand those databases. Numerous local, state, national and international law enforcement and security agencies use DNA-based human identification to inform decisions regarding the arrest or release of suspected terrorists and other criminals, to protect national borders, and to analyze crime scene evidence. According to IntegenX, the system reduces the time required to produce a standard human identification DNA profile from approximately 15 hours to less than two hours.
"The license agreement with Caliper supports our 'sample-to-answer' strategy and enables us to build upon IntegenX's core strengths in product development and integration," said Stevan Jovanovich, Ph.D., President and CEO of IntegenX. "Microfluidics is a key enabling technology behind the high degree of automation and unprecedented analytical speed we've achieved."
"The use of microfluidics for rapid DNA identification is an exciting market development," said Kevin Hrusovsky, President and CEO of Caliper. "We continue to leverage Caliper's microfluidics portfolio, through licensing collaborations, to extend our market reach and create revenue opportunities beyond our direct product offerings."
IntegenX, headquartered in Pleasanton, California, is a privately-held company that develops automated DNA and RNA based sample preparation systems for life sciences, applied sciences, and diagnostics markets.
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