SANTA CLARA, Calif.--GeneChip developer Affymetrix here and Roche Molecular Systems announced a joint effort to develop and market a new generation of diagnostic tests that combines Affymetrix's GeneChip DNA probe array technology with Roche's PCR gene amplification technology. The companies will initially develop diagnostic kits for applications in HIV drug resistance. The agreement provides a framework for the development of additional GeneChip diagnostic kits as the parties identify further product opportunities.
Affymetrix also signed a series of agreements with Eos Biotechnology granting the South San Francisco startup access to custom and standard GeneChip expression arrays for application to Eos's molecular genomics research efforts in specific fields of cancer, inflammation, and cardiovascular disease. Eos will be able to purchase several thousand GeneChip probe arrays over the next 30 months. In exchange, Affymetrix will receive Series C preferred stock, gaining an ownership position in Eos of approximately 15 percent.