Oxford Gene Technology Ltd. Launches Pre-Implantation Genetic Screening Array Aimed at Improving the Chances of Successful IVF
Oxford, UK – 4 June 2013 – Oxford Gene Technology (OGT), provider of innovative genetics research and biomarker solutions to advance molecular medicine, has announced the launch of a new pre-implantation genetic screening (PGS) array aimed at improving the chances of successful in-vitro fertilisation (IVF).
The array detects chromosome number abnormalities (aneuploidy) across all 24 human chromosomes using DNA amplified from a single cell from an early-stage embryo. This allows selection of an embryo with a normal chromosomal content.
The number of women receiving IVF has increased steadily, however the percentage of IVF treatments resulting in viable pregnancies is still comparatively low with chromosomal aneuploidy a leading genetic cause of unsuccessful IVF. It has been reported that 75% of eggs in women over 37 and 23% of eggs in younger women are chromosomally abnormal1.
OGT’s CytoSure™ Single Cell Aneuploidy array is the first commercially available oligonucleotide aCGH product designed specifically for PGS. The array is sensitive enough to work with small amounts of amplified DNA from a single cell from an early-stage embryo. Unlike technologies such as fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH), the array can detect aneuploidies across the whole genome. The array allows eight samples to be run simultaneously, which is more than existing bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) aneuploidy arrays, minimising sample-to-sample variation by reducing technical noise.
The array is complemented by OGT’s CytoSure Interpret Software which analyses the data generated to produce simple, easy-to-use results. The ability to clearly identify aneuploidy is vital to make a confident and informed decision as to the chromosomal content of an embryo. The array has also been research-validated to investigate aneuploidies in first polar bodies, single blastomeres and trophectoderm biopsies.
Dr Mike Evans, CEO, OGT said, “With the launch of the CytoSure Single Cell Aneuploidy array we are moving into a new and valuable area both as a company and in the wider sense of seeking to improve reproductive health. The superior resolution, throughput and full chromosome coverage of our array allows improved identification of aneuploidy. We are hopeful that this new product will contribute significantly to helping potential parents maximise their chances of IVF success.”
The CytoSure™ Single Cell Aneuploidy array is available from www.ogt.com/ivf.
References:
1. Gutie´rrez-Mateo, C., (2004) Reliability of comparative genomic hybridization to detect chromosome abnormalities in first polar bodies and metaphase II oocytes. Human Reproduction Vol.19, No.9 pp. 2118–2125
For more information, please contact:
Oxford Gene Technology
Stephen Archibald, Director of Communications
Oxford Gene Technology, Begbroke Science Park, Begbroke Hill, Woodstock Road, Begbroke, Oxfordshire, OX5 1PF
T: +44 (0) 1865 856826
F: +44 (0) 1865 848684
E: products@ogt.com
W: www.ogt.com
College Hill (PR Agency for OGT)
Melanie Toyne Sewell / Jen Lewis
College Hill, The Registry, Royal Mint Court, London, EC3N 4QN
T: +44 (0) 20 7457 2029
E: OGT@collegehill.com
About Oxford Gene Technology
Founded by Professor Ed Southern, Oxford Gene Technology (OGT) provides innovative genetics research and biomarker solutions to advance molecular medicine. The Company has two trading businesses: Genomics comprises of CytoSure™ cytogenetics array, labelling and interpretation software products and services for the detection of chromosomal abnormalities, and Genefficiency™ Genomic Services, a unique combination of platforms, expertise and processing capabilities to deliver rapid, relevant genomic data. The Biomarkers business utilises proprietary next generation technologies to build a rich patent-protected portfolio of promising biomarkers for early stage cancer detection including advanced programmes in colorectal and prostate cancer plus the autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus.
For more information on the Company, please visit our website at www.ogt.com
CytoSure: For research use only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.
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