Canon BioMedical expands assays to support genetic researchers

MELVILLE, N.Y., Jan. 20, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Focusing on targets relevant to researchers, Canon BioMedical is excited to announce the addition of 72 new assays to the Novallele genotyping library. Included in this expansion are two novel assays, MELAS m.3243A>G Novallele Genotyping Assay and LHON m.11778G>A Novallele Genotyping Assay, that detect mutations in mitochondrial DNA. Providing scientists a fast and simple method to detect single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), these assays distinguish mutations that may play a role in mitochondrial disease.

Mitochondrial diseases are hard to identify because they affect individuals differently. Simple and easy diagnosis options are currently unavailable, and those afflicted undergo intense and extensive examination to receive a diagnosis. The new assays offered by Canon BioMedical support researchers and their objective of understanding the genetic basis of these complex diseases. The new MELAS m.3243A>G Novallele Genotyping Assay detects a SNP of the MELAS gene, which may play a role in the MELAS disorder. Additionally, the LHON m.11778G>A Novallele Genotyping Assay detects a SNP of the LHON gene, which may play a role in Leber hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON).

The Novallele genotyping assays detect genetic variations using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis on any thermocycler capable of HRM. All Novallele genotyping assays are functionally verified and focus on relevant genotypes to genetic researchers working to improve health and advance science.

"After launching our first assays in September, we continue to actively understand and focus on areas of discovery that are challenging for researchers," shares Akiko Tanaka, president and CEO of Canon BioMedical. "Our goal is to develop genotyping tools that address all types of genetic variation pertinent to human health, and our assays detecting mitochondrial DNA mutations exemplify our capabilities to help researchers with this type of genetic research."

Full details about these new products are available at www.canon-biomedical.com. In addition, Canon BioMedical will present the expanded Novallele genotyping library at the American College of Human Genetics in Tampa, Florida on March 9 as well as the Molecular Medicine Tri-Conference in San Francisco, California on March 8.

About Canon BioMedical, Inc.

Canon BioMedical, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Canon U.S.A., Inc., is focused on empowering the biomedical research and healthcare communities by developing, manufacturing, and marketing innovative technologies and solutions. The technologies and solutions developed will help enable clinicians and scientists to improve our health and advance science. Canon BioMedical will continue to pursue innovative solutions in line with Canon's Kyosei philosophy of social and environmental responsibility through the use of existing and emerging Canon technology as well as strategic partnerships.

Products mentioned in this release are for Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

All referenced product names, and other marks, are trademarks of their respective owners.

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SOURCE Canon BioMedical, Inc.