Scientists are able to measure RNA expression directly in a tissue section at single-copy sensitivity.

The QuantiGene ViewRNA ISH tissue assay is used for the RNA measurements. Over one thousand standard probes are already available and it only takes a few days to produce a customized probe for a new gene target.

Affymetrix' (Santa Clara, CA, USA) QuantiGene ViewRNA in situ hybridization (ISH) tissue assay will be automated on the Leica (Wetzlar, Germany) Bond RX staining platform. The partnership will significantly reduce assay time for single-copy RNA in situ hybridization (ISH) analysis. It will provide scientists with a powerful automated everyday solution for drug-discovery, translational research, and the development of new companion diagnostic tests for personalized medicine.

Consistent and rapid, the Leica Bond RX system automates the staining process. This means that investigators have access to same-day assay completion with a standardized staining protocol and rapid set-up for any probe.

George Bers, vice president and general manager of Expression Business Unit - Panomics at Affymetrix states, "We are excited by this partnership with Leica as it unlocks the true potential of single-copy RNA analysis and we believe it will accelerate the discovery of important new drugs and the validation of novel companion tests."

Affymetrix' QuantiGene ViewRNA ISH tissue assay will be available in the third quarter (Q3) of 2012. An optimized QuantiGene ViewRNA staining protocol will be preloaded onto the Leica BOND RX and a complete staining kit, including probes and all detection components, will be available from Affymetrix.

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