Hitachi subsidiary MiraiBio of Alameda, Calif., has released the MasterPlex GT analysis software, a genotyping data program for the Luminex 100 bead-based molecular analysis system. The software is designed for analysis of multiplexed genotyping data generated using the Luminex 100, a benchtop analyzer capable of performing up to 100 simultaneous assays with the company’s xMap bead arrays. The software provides bar charts and depth graphs for the comparison of genotypes from multiple samples, and allows users to set parameters for the designation of alleles, the company said. Additional features include the ability to flag low bead counts and graphic data analysis tools such as scatter plots, dendrograms, and depth graphs.
Schleicher & Schuell BioScience of Keene, N.H., has introduced IsoCode I.D. DNA library card, a chemically treated paper for ambient archiving of DNA libraries. The cards are bactericidal, fungicidal, and virucidal and also inactivate Dnases. A color change upon applying a sample helps locate it later, and the bar-coded card is compatible with robotic platforms.
Agilent Technologies has launched its G2565BA microarray scanner. According to the company, the new instrument allows users to scan a wider variety of 1’’ x 3’’ (25 mm x 75 mm) glass slide microarrays – both self-spotted ones and those from third-party manufacturers – than previous scanner models. Among other features, the scanner allows web-based remote monitoring of the status of the scanning process. Agilent’s Feature Extraction Software is also included for users of Agilent’s microarrays.
Exiqon of Denmark now distributes LNA amidites for researchers to synthesize their own LNA-containing oligonucleotides. Also, tools for designing LNA-spiked expression profile analysis and other assay types are now available from its website at www.exiqon.com.
GeneMachines has introduced two upgrades to its OmniGrid 100 microarrayer, including the Server Arm 3 and OmniGrid Software Version 3.1. Server Arm 3 includes the option to read plate bar codes.The user can load plates in any order, and the arm will log each plate identifier for quality-control purposes. The software, together with another feature, microwell-plate cassette random access, enables users to print any array design without having to rearrange samples in different plates. Users can simply use different pin configurations according to the company.