ST. LOUIS, Oct. 19 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Sigma-Aldrich(R) today announced the launch of SAGEspeed(TM), a program to develop human disease models in rodents using its proprietary novel CompoZr(TM) Zinc Finger Nuclease (ZFN) gene editing technology (http://www.compozrzfn.com). This program will provide researchers access to custom creation services for developing genetically-engineered 'knockout' rodent animal models for use in research and the development of therapeutic treatments in as little as four to five months. The technology and methodology employed by SAGEspeed reduces the cycle time that it takes to create knockout mouse models using conventional embryo stem (ES) cell-based technologies by around two-thirds. Additionally, SAGEspeed can also create targeted knockout rats, which was previously not possible.
The SAGEspeed program, available through the recently announced Sigma Advanced Genetic Engineering (SAGE(TM)) Labs (www.sigma.com/sagelabs), a Sigma(R) Life Science initiative, offers customers dedicated model design support, significantly reduced model development time and comprehensive management of the entire project from initial consultation through the delivery of the custom rodent models. The knockout rodent models are created using CompoZr to deactivate or 'knockout' specific genes that are associated with certain human disease conditions.
"We are excited to leverage our CompoZr technology in this new service, allowing the researcher a seamless process. The researcher simply provides his gene target and we will do the rest," commented Dr. Edward Weinstein, Director of SAGE Labs. "Once the customer's requirements have been discussed, the Knockout rodent model is developed to detailed specifications. All animals are produced and carefully fostered into maturity at our specific pathogen-free, bio-secure facility."
The SAGEspeed program is now available. Further information on the program, as well as details of how to submit a custom model request, can be accessed online at www.sageresearchmodels.com.
About Sigma-Aldrich: Sigma-Aldrich is a leading Life Science and High Technology company. Its biochemical and organic chemical products and kits are used in scientific and genomic research, biotechnology, pharmaceutical development, the diagnosis of disease and as key components in pharmaceutical and other high technology manufacturing. Sigma-Aldrich has customers in Life Science companies, university and government institutions, hospitals, and in industry. Over one million scientists and technologists use its products. Sigma-Aldrich operates in 38 countries and has 7,800 employees providing excellent service worldwide. Sigma-Aldrich is committed to Accelerating Customer Success through Innovation and Leadership in Life Science, High Technology and Service.
Cautionary Statement: This release contains forward-looking statements relating to future strategic actions and initiatives and similar intentions and beliefs and other statements regarding the Company's expectations, beliefs, intentions and the like, which involve assumptions regarding the Company's operations and conditions in the markets the Company serves. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
Sigma-Aldrich, Sigma, SAGE, SAGEspeed and CompoZr are trademarks of Sigma-Aldrich Biotechnology L.P. and Sigma-Aldrich Co.
SOURCE Sigma-Aldrich
CONTACT: Sarah Bruno of Sigma-Aldrich, +1-314-286-7810,
sarah.bruno@sial.com; or Richard Kerns, + 44 (0)161-728-5880,
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mark@impress-pr.com, both of Impress Public Relations
Web site: http://www.sigma-aldrich.com/
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