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Recent advances in DNA sequencing technologies have improved accuracy and dramatically reduced cost. However, even with the improved efficiency of "second generation" systems, sequencing thousands of human genomes across various phenotypes is still economically unrealistic. To exploit the full potential of new sequencing techniques, a robust method for isolating biologically relevant genomic loci on the megabase scale will be required.
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Analogous to what the massively parallel sequencing technologies have done to improve the efficiency of DNA sequencing, RainDance Technologies has developed a platform to enable the use of PCR for high-throughput amplification of targeted genomic sequences.
The workshop at ASHG 2008 will explain the application of this new technology.
"The Sequence Enrichment application leverages our RainStorm(TM) technology to manipulate picoliter volume droplets in disposable microfluidic chips. We will present the use of this novel method for enrichment of genomic loci with minimal selection bias prior to sequencing, demonstrating the utility of this approach for the routine application of targeted sequencing," said Jeff Olson, Manager of Nucleic Acid Applications, RainDance Technologies. Olson will lead the workshop.
To register for the workshop, "Sequence Enrichment Using Droplet-Based Microfluidics," visit: www.raindancetechnologies.com/ashgworkshop. The workshop will be held at the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) 58th Annual Meeting, Thursday, November 13, 2008, from 1:00 -2:00 p.m. at the Philadelphia Marriott, 4th floor, Room 411.
To learn more about RainDance Technologies and its revolutionary new RainStorm(TM) droplet-based microfluidic technology, visit booth 825 at ASHG 2008, or the company's website at www.raindancetech.com.
About RainDance Technologies, Inc.
RainDance Technologies, Inc. is a provider of innovative droplet-based microfluidic solutions for human health and disease research. The speed and simplicity of the company's exciting new technology platform enable researchers to design experiments in ways that were previously unaffordable or unimaginable. The company's technology produces picoliter-volume droplets at a rate of 10 million per hour. Each droplet is the functional equivalent of an individual test tube and can contain a single molecule, reaction, or cell. This versatile technology can adapt proven assays for high-speed workflows with minimized process-induced bias or error.
RainDance's initial application will focus on the targeted resequencing of the human genome -- one of the fastest-growing segments of the $1 billion DNA sequencing market. This application will enable the high-resolution analysis of genetic variation between individuals and populations at a level unmatched by current methodology.
RainDance was founded in 2004 by scientists from Harvard University; the Medical Research Centre in Cambridge, England and the ESPCI in Paris.
For more information, please visit www.raindancetech.com.
SOURCE RainDance Technologies, Inc.
