Applied Biosystems Reagents for Sample Preparation Increase Effectiveness of DNA Testing
CARSLBAD, Calif., Dec 17, 2008 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Life Technologies Corporation (NASDAQ: LIFE), a provider of innovative life science solutions, today announced the availability of a new forensic reagent kit through its Applied Biosystems unit, that enhances the ability to utilize forensic evidence in criminal investigations. The PrepFiler(TM) Forensic DNA Extraction Kit improves the quantity and quality of DNA that can be extracted from forensic samples.
This reagent kit is expected to assist forensic analysts in processing evidence by improving the sample-preparation process, which is one of the most time-consuming aspects of DNA analysis. Inefficiencies in sample preparation often lead to sample re-processing or complicated data interpretation, which can slow the process of obtaining conclusive results. The PrepFiler kit maximizes the quantity of highly purified DNA that can be extracted from both routine and challenging forensic samples, enabling sample preparation to occur in a rapid, reproducible manner. It also features a streamlined, easy-to-automate workflow that is a significant improvement over alternative approaches such as custom manual methods and other automated commercial reagent kits.
"The entire DNA testing process is affected by the quantity and quality of DNA obtained and purified during the sample preparation process," said Arthur Eisenberg, Ph.D., Director of the Center for Human Identification at the University of North Texas. "By standardizing the process with a more effective method that is also less complex, forensic laboratories have the potential to increase productivity and deliver valuable investigative information that often only forensic DNA results can provide."
The PrepFiler kit is part of the workflow of human identification solutions used to analyze forensic DNA evidence. DNA extraction with this kit prepares the sample for the steps required to perform DNA testing. The PrepFiler kit complements solutions from Life Technologies' Applied Biosystems and Invitrogen units that includes broad portfolios of reagent kits, genetic analyzers, PCR and Real-Time PCR systems, bead-based nucleic acid purification technology and software applications.
"Improving sample preparation is a critical aspect in enabling forensic laboratories to help eliminate their backlogs of casework," said Lenny Klevan, Ph.D., President of Applied Biosystems' applied markets business. "Life Technologies is committed to providing complete workflow solutions that play a critical role in helping law enforcement agencies solve more crimes through effective and efficient use of genomic information."
For more information about the PrepFiler kit and the complete portfolio of human identification solutions from Life Technologies, visit: www.appliedbiosystems.com and www.invitrogen.com.
About Life Technologies
Life Technologies Corporation (NASDAQ: LIFE) is a global biotechnology tools company dedicated to improving the human condition. Our systems, consumables and services enable researchers to accelerate scientific exploration, driving to discoveries and developments that make life even better. Life Technologies customers do their work across the biological spectrum, working to advance personalized medicine, regenerative science, molecular diagnostics, agricultural and environmental research, and 21st century forensics. The company had sales of more than $3.5 billion in 2008, employs 9,500 people, has a presence in more than 100 countries, and possesses a rapidly growing intellectual property estate of over 3,600 patents and exclusive licenses. Life Technologies was created by the combination of Invitrogen Corporation and Applied Biosystems Inc. For more information on how we are making a difference please visit our website: www.lifetechnologies.com.
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Certain statements contained in this press release are considered "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, and it is Life Technologies intent that such statements be protected by the safe harbor created thereby. Potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: potential difficulties that may be encountered in integrating the merged businesses; potential uncertainties regarding market acceptance of Life Technologies; Life Technologies' ability to protect its intellectual property rights; competitive responses to the merger; an economic downturn, including the deterioration in economic and market conditions currently being experienced; risks that revenues may be lower than expected; Life Technologies' ability to make accurate estimates and control costs; Life Technologies' and its partners' ability to bid on, win, perform and renew contracts and projects; the need to develop new products and adapt to significant technological change; exposure to environmental liabilities and litigation; liabilities for pending and future litigation; the impact of changes in laws and regulations; industry competition; Life Technologies' ability to attract and retain key employees; employee, agent or partner misconduct; risks associated with changes in equity-based compensation requirements; Life Technologies' leveraged position and ability to service debt; risks associated with international operations; third-party software risks; terrorist and natural disaster risks; anti-takeover risks and other factors; as well as other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in Life Technologies' Securities and Exchange Commission filings.
For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.
Copyright 2008. Life Technologies Corporation. All rights reserved. Applied Biosystems and PrepFiler(TM) are registered trademark of Life Technologies or its subsidiaries in the US and/or certain other countries.
SOURCE: Life Technologies Corporation
Life Technologies Renaldo Juanso, 650-638-5354 (Media) Technology Public Relations renaldo.juanso@appliedbiosystems.com Amanda Clardy, 760-476-7075 (Investors) Corporate and Financial Communications amanda.clardy@lifetech.com
