MDS Analytical Technologies introduces new systems for genomics research

SUNNYVALE, CA, May 14, 2008 (Canada NewsWire via COMTEX News Network) - New Axon GenePix® microarray scanners and Arcturus® Laser Capture Microdissection instrument improve research speed and precision.

MDS Analytical Technologies, a leader in innovative solutions for drug discovery and life sciences research, announced today the release of three new molecular biology instruments designed to advance genomics and microgenomics discoveries for life sciences researchers. These instruments provide scientists flexible and open platforms to perform sensitive and specific molecular analysis in a number of fields, including stem cell research, cancer research, proteomics, drug discovery and many others.

Two new microarray scanners, the Axon GenePix® 4300A and the Axon GenePix® 4400A, represent the latest in a long line of industry-leading microarray detection and analysis systems from MDS Analytical Technologies. These newest platforms improve the efficiency of research experiments, reduce the cost per data point, and offer the broadest applicability in the microarray industry.

For researchers using laser capture microdissection (LCM), a method for isolating cells under a microscope, the new, next-generation ArcturusXTTMinstrument uses the latest advances in microscope technology by employing the Nikon Eclipse Ti-E inverted research microscope as its base. This new technology improves speed, precision and flexibility during the microdissection process - shortening the length of time required for experiments and expanding application potential through an increased range of available options.

"These new products continue our tradition of innovation and excellence, offering reliability, flexibility, and high performance solutions for life sciences researchers," commented Dr. Andy Boorn, president of MDS Analytical Technologies. "The Axon GenePix 4300A and 4400A scanners provide customers with the ability to run the most advanced microarray applications in the industry, which keeps them at the forefront of this technology field. The new ArcturusXT system gives us a solid platform upon which to offer increasingly beneficial features to researchers who use our LCM technology."

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