Illumina Enters Collaborative Research Agreement with UNTHSC for Next-Generation Sequencing in Forensic DNA Analysis
SAN DIEGO, Oct 04, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Illumina, Inc. ILMN -0.60% today announced it has entered into a wide-ranging collaborative research agreement with the Institute of Applied Genetics and the Department of Forensic and Investigative Genetics at the University of North Texas Health Science Center (UNTHSC). Illumina and UNTHSC will collaborate on several visionary projects in forensics using Illumina's next-generation sequencing technologies.
The goals of this collaboration include research, development, validation, and implementation of practical assays for forensic identification using Illumina's powerful sequencing technologies. The projects outlined in the agreement include studies on a range of forensically relevant genetic markers for human identity testing, pharmacogenetics for molecular autopsy, microbial forensics, and additional markers and methods to generate investigative leads in criminal cases and matters of national security.
"We are pleased to announce this strategic agreement with UNT and we look forward to the integration of next-generation sequencing into forensic genetics," said Adam Lowe, Illumina's Director of Applied Markets. "This agreement allows us to work closely with UNT and Dr. Bruce Budowle, one of the world's foremost experts in molecular biology for human identification. Dr. Budowle and his team have demonstrated a unique ability to bring advanced technologies into practical and routine use in crime labs around the world."
"Our work with Illumina enables us to design sample preparation, analytical protocols, hardware, and software that expand the capabilities of forensic DNA analysts," said Bruce Budowle, Executive Director of UNT's Institute of Applied Genetics and Vice Chair of the Department of Forensic and Investigative Genetics. "Results of these projects will allow forensic scientists to accelerate implementation of the next wave of forensic DNA analysis tools."
This next-generation sequencing collaboration will lead us to a much stronger forensic DNA testing capability and enable forensic laboratories to apply the most advanced science to assist law enforcement and the forensic medical community," said Dr. Budowle. "Driven by the demand for forensic DNA typing and expanding DNA legislation for increased public safety, forensic biology methods can meet the demand and improve dramatically with the application of state-of-the-art sequencing technologies."
About Illumina
Illumina ( http://www.illumina.com ) is a leading developer and manufacturer of life science tools and integrated systems for the analysis of genetic variation and function. We provide innovative sequencing and array-based solutions for genotyping, copy number variation analysis, methylation studies, gene expression profiling, and low-multiplex analysis of DNA, RNA and protein. We also provide tools and services that are fueling advances in consumer genomics and diagnostics. Our technology and products accelerate genetic analysis research and its application, paving the way for molecular medicine and ultimately transforming healthcare.
Forward-Looking Statements
This release contains forward looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements we make regarding the expected impact of next-generation sequencing on forensic DNA analysis. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in any forward-looking statements are detailed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our most recent filings on Forms 10-K and 10-Q, or in information disclosed in public conference calls, the date and time of which are released beforehand. We do not intend to update any forward-looking statements after the date of this release.
SOURCE: Illumina, Inc.