Applied Biosystems highlights genomic analysis approach

Applied Biosystems has highlighted the ways in which its range of next-generation genomic analysis sequencing technologies can be used.

The company believes by changing the approach to using such systems, researchers can be better equipped to understand the behaviour of methylation patterns in cancer.

It is explained that in recent testing, a team of experts employed the company’s SOLiD System in characterising methylation and its status in repetitive elements of the genome.

The group was able to use the system – alongside the MethylMiner Methylated DNA Enrichment Kit – to identify patterns which could be useful as biomarkers for the disease.

Melissa Barker, an Applied Biosystems senior staff scientist at Life Technologies, said it was becoming increasingly clear that the methylation approach is "essential for uncovering clues that will help us to effectively treat complex diseases".

Earlier this month, the firm announced the launch of new genomic analysis tools for use in disease research for the agricultural sector.