Company’s Access Array system will be used.

SAIC-Frederick and Fluidigm are collaborating to decode the entire genome of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). SAIC-Frederick researchers at the Core Genotyping Facility will use the Fluidigm Access Array™ system to target and amplify the genome of EBV virus taken from human volunteers.

Once the targeting and subsequent amplification has taken place, the DNA can be processed through next-generation sequencing equipment to illuminate key genetic variations. Some of these sequences have already been decoded and now can be further studied.

“Our team was able to target, capture, and amplify the entire EBV genome from human DNA samples in an easy and cost-effective manner prior to sequencing,” remarks Amy Hutchinson, director of operations for NCI’s Core Genotyping Facility. She is employed by SAIC-Frederick, the contractor that operates the facility for NCI.

Conventional DNA-amplification techniques require three steps before gene sequencing can begin: one step to combine samples and reagents for amplification, a second step to make enough copies for sequencing, and a third step to attach sequence adaptors prior to sequencing. The Fluidigm Access Array technology combines these steps into one.

“Fluidigm’s Access Array technology is the easiest, most cost-effective, and consistent way to amplify and prepare multiple samples for targeted resequencing,” according to Gajus Worthington, Fluidigm president and CEO. “When combined with almost any next-generation sequencer, researchers can efficiently explore diseases and decipher the genetic codes that might hold the keys to prevention or cure.”

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