The Agilent Microarray Scanner provides rapid and accurate reading of fluorescently-labeled microarrays

Research into the workings of human genes is on a fast track in the new millennium. The recently-deciphered human genome promises new drugs and better diagnostic tests. Researchers around the world are exploring its possibilities. And as every carpenter, surgeon and researcher knows, the quality of their work depends on the quality of their tools. Tools that can analyze the function of specific genes have only been available for a few years -- tools such as Agilent's laser-induced fluorescence scanner and DNA microarrays (panels of thousands of gene probes used to identify genes active in biological samples). Implementing these complex new technologies in the laboratory is a time-consuming task for busy researchers. Fortunately, the new technology can be quickly integrated into the lab with assistance from the manufacturer. Equipment installation and personnel training help ease the way to maximum productivity.

Researchers -- and ultimately the public -- can benefit from the teamwork of genetics companies and the makers of genetic analysis equipment, such as Agilent, because close cooperation results in faster production of high quality results. Accelerating research through teamwork between Agilent and its customers is reaching a new level. In the last few months, Agilent has teamed with genetic research companies to deliver equipment and training through the Technology Access Program (TAP). TAP's purpose is to deliver powerful analytical tools to Agilent's customers faster than ever before.

Lending a helping hand

The Technology Access Program provides participating companies with DNA scanning equipment and early access to the customized DNA microarrays DNA microarrays that are specifically tailored to each customer's needs. Participants also receive consulting and training services from Agilent to help them use the technology to meet their particular research goals.

Companies enrolled in the Technology Access Program gain important advantages in the competitive world of genetic analysis. They use their time and expertise advancing research rather than working out analysis problems. Speedy access to individualized DNA microarrays for gene expression analysis shortens the costly search for genetic targets which hold promise as keys to new drugs or diagnostic tests. And in the end, early access to technology means that potentially life-saving products will be in the hands of doctors and patients sooner.

Partners in research

Agilent has joined with several companies to accelerate their research efforts:

• Paradigm Genetics is industrializing the process of gene function discovery to develop new products in the areas of human health, nutrition, crop production, and industry. After evaluating many technologies, Agilent's DNA scanner was selected. Vice President of Research and Development John Hamer, Ph.D., says: "With this technology we will be able to quickly and cost-effectively design new arrays that can provide high quality data."
  
  
• Exelixis is a biotechnology company known as a pioneer in comparative genomics. It will be using Agilent's microarrays to perform high-throughput gene expression profiling analysis in a variety of ways, including their "Mechanism of Action" program that studies the toxicology of drugs, or to validate drug targets in specific therapeutic areas such as oncology and inflammation.
  
  
• diaDexus is a genomics company planning to use Agilent's customizable microarrays to search for the molecular basis of cancer and other diseases. Thousands of genes will be screened to locate the ones related to various cancers, and to develop new genomic biomarkers to detect and treat disease.

A new model for rapid progress

Today's closer relationships between the manufacturers of measurement equipment and their customers reflect a new reality in rapidly evolving fields such as genetics. Often, modern measurement technology is so elaborate and evolving so quickly that maximum productivity hinges on a supportive, on-going partnership between the manufacturer of the equipment and the customers who use it. In the case of genetics research, Agilent's TAP program frees researchers to make the best use of DNA analysis technology to find potential targets for drug or diagnostic test development. In return, Agilent gains insight into the measurement needs of its customers. This insight allows them to meet their customer's needs, and by supporting better genetic research, to make dreams real.

The Agilent Microarray Scanner provides rapid and accurate reading of fluorescently-labeled microarrays.

For more information

To find out more about Agilent's laser-induced fluorescence scanner, or any of our biochemical analysis products, please visit the Life Sciences section of the Agilent web site.

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