Merck’s CRISPR Epigenetic Activator named among top innovations of 2015

Merck's CRISPR Epigenetic Activator has been hailed for its innovative qualities by The Scientist magazine.

The product, which was added to Merck's portfolio through the acquisition of Sigma-Aldrich last year, was named as one of the publication's top ten innovations of 2015, ranking the tool in sixth place overall.

Designed to be customisable for both targeted epigenetic manipulation and transcriptional regulation, the system enables life scientists to explore advanced regulatory aspects of gene expression.

This annual competition recognises products that could have a major impact on science and medicine. It is thought that Merck's tool could enable new platforms for drug screening, gene therapy and disease monitoring.

Udit Batra, chief executive officer of Merck's life science business, said: "We are excited to bring the research community a highly specific, robust tool for both targeted epigenetic manipulation and transcriptional regulation."

This comes after the firm launched IsoBag, a convenient new method for transferring contact and settle plates to production isolators, earlier this month.