BGI and Diagenode will collaborate to develop standard methods in sample prep for next-generation sequencing for epigenetics research, the companies said today.
Under the deal, Diagenode will provide BGI with early access to its developments in chromatin- and DNA methylation-analysis methods and tools. The company is aiming to "increase the consistency and precision" of its epigenetic sample-prep assays for next-gen sequencing, including its ChIP, MeDIP, methyl-CpG biding domain protein capture, bisulfite conversion, and DNA fragmentation assays.
BGI has been using Diagenode's reagents and its Bioruptors, which shear DNA and chromatin, for epigenetics research and exon sequencing, according to BGI officials.
"Consistency is extremely important, not only for saving reagents and precious samples, but also for creating universal high standards in the emerging field of epigenetics," Diagenode's CEO Didier Allaer, said in a statement.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.