New Next Generation Sequencing Solution Unlocks Door to Previously Inaccessible Gene Expression Data

Ion AmpliSeq Transcriptome Solution enables translational researchers to mine biobanks for critical RNA profiles from as little as 10ng of FFPE samples

Ion AmpliSeq Transcriptome Solution enables translational researchers to mine biobanks for critical RNA profiles from as little as 10ng of FFPE samples. (Photo: Business Wire)

CARLSBAD, Calif.--()--Translational researchers who previously could not obtain global gene expression profiles from biobank samples due to limited amounts of tissue now have access to a wealth of valuable RNA data with the launch of the Ion AmpliSeq Transcriptome Solution for the Ion Proton System. The ability to mine many years worth of samples for critical information is expected to provide new insights into cancer research for diagnosis, prognosis and therapeutic options.

Its ability to draw gene expression profiles from just 10ng of RNA sets the Ion AmpliSeq Transcriptome Solution apart from other solutions in the market, and it is compatible with formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples. This is critical to the needs of oncology and translational researchers. The Ion Ampliseq Solution also provides a faster and more cost-effective workflow without the sample manipulation required for microarrays or analytical complexity normally associated with whole transcriptome RNA-sequencing.

“The Ion AmpliSeq Transcriptome technology is a very useful research tool for any group analyzing low input or FFPE samples using RNA-Seq,” said Brad Hancock, genomics director, Indiana University School of Medicine, Department of Surgery. “Our highly degraded, low-yield, or microdissected samples that could not be successfully processed in the past now have a dependable and efficient conduit for library preparation.”

The solution is designed with simplicity and flexibility in mind. Differential expression profiles are generated through a push button analysis application within Ion Torrent Suite Software. After primary analysis, current microarray and next generation sequencing users are able to conveniently export data into their existing downstream analysis software app. Throughput can be expanded or decreased from the recommended eight samples per PI chip, depending on the immediate need. This eliminates the need to wait weeks to batch samples for a single run.

“The ability to elucidate novel data in biobank samples is a major turning point for the translational research field,” said Chris Linthwaite, head of Genetic Sciences Research for Thermo Fisher Scientific. “Ion AmpliSeq Transcriptome enables researchers to conduct retrospective studies never before possible, which will provide significant insights into many unanswered scientific questions in oncology and other human diseases.”

AmpliSeq Transcriptome Solution is for research use only; not for use in diagnostic procedures.

About Thermo Fisher Scientific
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. is the world leader in serving science, with revenues of $17 billion and 50,000 employees in 50 countries. Our mission is to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. We help our customers accelerate life sciences research, solve complex analytical challenges, improve patient diagnostics and increase laboratory productivity. Through our four premier brands – Thermo Scientific, Life Technologies, Fisher Scientific and Unity Lab Services – we offer an unmatched combination of innovative technologies, purchasing convenience and comprehensive support. For more information, please visit www.thermofisher.com.

Contacts

Thermo Fisher Scientific
Mauricio Minotta, 760-929-2456
Mauricio.minotta@thermofisher.com

Release Summary

Researchers who previously could not obtain gene expression profiles from biobank samples now have access to a wealth of valuable RNA data.

Contacts

Thermo Fisher Scientific
Mauricio Minotta, 760-929-2456
Mauricio.minotta@thermofisher.com