NEW YORK (GenomeWeb News) – The Ontario Genomics Institute today said that it has invested an undisclosed amount in Cytognomix, a London, Ontario-based developer of cytogenetic DNA probes for potential use in diagnostics.
The firm is developing single cell DNA probes that are smaller and more densely distributed across chromosomes than probes that are currently commercially available, said OGI. These fluorescent probes can be designed to specifically target and detect chromosomal abnormalities, such as those underlying cancer.
"The investment from OGI will help us in the development of more probes for more genetic diseases, building on the existing 400 probes for around 100 diseases," said Peter Rogan, co-founder of Cytognomix. "Our long-term goal is to manufacture probes that doctors could use to diagnose literally hundreds of disorders on the spot."
OGI's investment was made through its Pre-commercialization Business Development Fund program.