Roche and PerkinElmer Enter into Agreement for Distribution of Cytogenetics Array Workflow

Under this agreement, effective January 2012, PerkinElmer will assume responsibility from Roche for sales, service, and support of the CGX array workflow for most countries outside of the United States. Roche will continue to sell this innovative workflow system in the United States and other select markets. This is a further progression of the relationship between the two companies, which started in 2009 with the development of a comprehensive cytogenetics array-workflow system.

The combined solution, the NimbleGen CGX array workflow, uses advanced microarray technologies from Roche with the cytogenetic-focused array design and analysis software developed from Signature Genomics (acquired by PerkinElmer in May 2010), which was the first laboratory to provide microarray-based cytogenetic testing in the United States.

The workflow is a comprehensive microarray solution for the discovery and analysis of copy number variations associated with constitutional disorders for the cytogenetics research market. This optimized workflow consists of NimbleGen CGX microarrays, reagent kits, the NimbleGen hybridization systems, and Signature Genomics Genoglyphix software for data analysis. The NimbleGen CGX array design was developed by Signature Genomics based on the analysis of over 50,000 cytogenetic samples to ensure appropriate coverage of the cytogenetically relevant regions. The arrays are available in multiple formats (3-, 6-, and 12-plex) to match the throughput requirements of the researcher.

According to Jim Corbett, president, diagnostics, PerkinElmer, “We are delighted to continue our collaboration with Roche in helping to bring the benefits of a proven cytogenetics-based solution to researchers of new diagnostics outside of the US. We look forward to providing these diagnostics researchers with high-resolution, scalable, and easy to use workflows to help them unlock DNA-based complexities of critical disease states.”

“This collaboration provides cytogenetics laboratories an array workflow with robust data, a quick and easy workflow, and powerful analysis tools,” stated Frank Pitzer, CEO of Roche NimbleGen. “PerkinElmer’s global experience in the genetic screening market and expertise in the field of cytogenetics is an ideal match for Roche NimbleGen’s innovative array technologies.”

Roche is a leader in research-focused healthcare with combined strengths in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics. Roche is the world’s largest biotech company with differentiated medicines in oncology, virology, inflammation, metabolism, and central nervous system (CNS). Roche is also a leader in in-vitro diagnostics, tissue-based cancer diagnostics, and a pioneer in diabetes management.

PerkinElmer, Inc. is a global leader focused on improving the health and safety of people and the environment. The company reported revenue of approximately US$1.7 billion in 2010, has approximately 6,200 employees serving customers in more than 150 countries.

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