Expanding Program Brings Latest RNAi Tools to Leading Cancer Centers Worldwide
HUNTSVILLE, Ala.—June 6, 2006—Open Biosystems, Inc., focused on the
commercialization of leading-edge life science research tools for drug
discovery, today announced that the Peter MacCullum Cancer Centre, the
only hospital in Australia dedicated to cancer research, treatment and
care, has joined its Open Access RNAi Program. Through this program,
the Peter MacCullum Cancer Centre has purchased Open Biosystems’ whole
genome human lentiviral shRNAmir library.
By participating in the Open Access RNAi program, the hospital’s
community of 265 researchers is provided with the most advanced RNAi
technology targeting the entire human genome with multiple constructs
per gene. With this unique technology access model, program
participants receive continual updates and upgrades as extensions of
the libraries are released. The Open Access RNAi Program also provides
off-site backups and a partner specific technical support team.
This leading-edge whole-genome resource enables all Peter MacCullum
Cancer Centre investigators to target any gene in the human genome with
improved knockdown efficiency and effectiveness.
“Our research division is one of the world’s largest groups dedicated
solely to cancer research, and we deeply value collaborative
integration with local, national and international institutions,” said
Ricky Johnstone, principal investigator at the Peter MacCullum Cancer
Centre. “Open Biosystems supports our mission to develop the very best
cancer treatment by granting us the most advanced shRNA technology at a
fraction of the cost compared to the purchase of libraries as
individuals. The libraries allow us to conduct RNAi-based studies to
develop new technologies that will result in significant breakthroughs
in biomedical research.”
“World-renowned research organizations continue to experience and
appreciate the value of shRNAmir technology through the Open Access
Program, with participation in the program expanding throughout the
globe,” said Troy Moore, chief technical officer and co-founder of Open
Biosystems. “The Peter MacCullum Cancer Centre exemplifies the benefits
that a whole genome RNAi resource provides to advancing scientific
research and underscores our commitment to furthering all aspects of
cancer research.”
About RNAi
RNAi is a mechanism cells use to naturally regulate gene expression. It
is being increasingly harnessed as a tool to identify and understand
genes that function in the disease process, especially in cancer
research. Open Biosystems is the leading provider of mammalian RNAi
resources and its RNAi portfolio includes leading-edge technology
incorporating advances in shRNA design and captured in whole genome
microRNA-adapted shRNA (shRNAmir) libraries. Open Biosystems' shRNAmir
libraries are proven to provide greater gene knockdown and fewer
off-target effects than other RNAi systems.
Additional information about Open Biosystems’ Open Access RNAi Program
can be found online at www.openbiosystems.com/OpenAccessRNAi.
About Open Biosystems
Open Biosystems, Inc. develops, manufactures and markets genomic
research tools to scientists and researchers in corporate, academic and
government laboratories. These research tools provide investigators
with standardized high-quality genes, RNAi and antibodies for
interrogating gene function in relation to oncology, neuroscience and
metabolic disorders. Founded in 2001, Open Biosystems is headquartered
in Huntsville, Alabama. For more information and details for ordering,
please visit www.openbiosystems.com.
Contacts:
Laura Huckabee-Jennings
256.325.7212
Open Biosystems
Laura.Huckabee-Jennings@openbiosystems.com
Lauren Arnold or Stacey Holifield
781.684.0770
Schwartz Communications
openbiosystems@schwartz-pr.com
