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New Clinical Research Solutions Help Accelerate the Future of Precision Medicine
Thermo Fisher Scientific showcases clinical research innovations at AMP 2015
4 Nov 2015
Lois Manton-O'Byrne, PhD
Executive Editor
Industry news
For attendees of the Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) 2015 Annual Meeting Nov. 5-7, Thermo Fisher Scientific will feature a range of innovative clinical research solutions that help researchers uncover meaningful genetic information so they can better understand human disease (booth #1301). The company is also featuring several poster presentations and workshops focused on high-throughput technologies such as targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS) and qPCR for various applications, including potential uses in peripheral blood monitoring and molecular profiling in solid tumors and infectious disease.
Thermo Fisher is also hosting an evening networking event Nov. 5 featuring presentations on precision medicine from distinguished scientists, including Stanley R. Hamilton, M.D., head of pathology and laboratory medicine at the MD Anderson Cancer Center, who will provide insight into the NCI-MATCH trial.
Featured Solutions for Clinical Research:
- The Oncomine Focus Assay workflow enables researchers to obtain results with FFPE samples, including precious samples taken from fine needle aspirates. The Oncomine Focus Assay is a targeted, multi-biomarker assay that facilitates simultaneous detection of hundreds of variants across 52 genes relevant to solid tumors. Designed for translational and clinical research, this assay includes solid tumor genes targeted by on-market oncology drugs and published evidence.
- For researchers looking for a single, simplified solution for the widest range of targeted sequencing applications, the new Ion S5 and Ion S5 XL next-generation sequencing (NGS) systems are rapid, cost-effective and flexible platforms that can be scaled for all research areas. Built upon the proven capabilities of Ion Torrent technology, the new Ion S5 systems combine the ability to sequence gene panels and small genomes as well as exomes, transcriptomes and custom assays. The platforms are designed with plug-and-play, cartridge-based reagents to make setting up and operating the sequencers simple and efficient.
- Built to isolate pure cell populations from tumor tissues, the Applied Biosystems ArcturusXTLaser Capture Microdissection System helps researchers consistently obtain clear and accurate results. The system is unique in combining both an infrared (IR) and ultraviolet (UV) laser, giving researchers the flexibility to easily and rapidly capture large numbers of cells from dense tissue structures or gently isolate smaller, rare cell populations.
- Advanced molecular profiling methods using NGS and digital PCR (dPCR) help clinical researchers use blood samples to accurately profile mutations of interest in cell-free DNA (cfDNA) and circulating tumor cells (CTCs). The power of Ion AmpliSeq technology, the Ion Torrent LiquidBiopsy Platform and QuantStudio 3D dPCR System enable advanced rare cell isolation, manual or automated cell-free DNA extraction and NGS or dPCR analysis.
Hosted Workshops
Thermo Fisher will host three workshops on Wed., Nov. 4 from 8–10:50 a.m. at the Austin Convention Center, Grand Ballroom D, level 4. The talks will feature leading clinical researchers who will present data that demonstrate the power of targeted detection of variants within specific genes of interest within solid tumor and liquid biopsy samples. The featured workshops include:
- Workshop 1, 8 a.m.: Expand your results from FFPE solid tumor samples with Ion Torrent Oncomine next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays. Featured speaker is Seth Sadis, Ph.D., director of oncology research and development, Thermo Fisher Scientific
- Workshop 2, 9 a.m.: Advanced Ion Torrent next-generation sequencing (NGS) and Applied Biosystems digital PCR applications to analyze liquid biopsy samples in today’s laboratory. Featured speakers are Luca Quagliata, Ph.D., University Hospital Basel; and Jose Luis Costa, The Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP).
- Workshop 3, 10 a.m.: Molecular profiling in infectious disease research using high-throughput Applied Biosystems real-time PCR and Ion Torrent next-generation sequencing (NGS). Featured speakers include Elena Grigorenko, Ph.D., vice president of research and development, Diatherix; and Lucy E. Des Jardin, Ph.D., director, office of research and development, State Hygienic Laboratory, University of Iowa.
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Cell / Tissue CultureCell culture or tissue culture is used to study the biology of cells or tissues and to isolate cellular products in an environment which can be manipulated and well defined. Accurately control your culture environment with bioreactors or culture incubators, bind your cells to a surface or together with an extracellular matrix. Distinguish cell types with differential media or proliferate cells with certain characteristics using selective media. Enrich your media with supplements such as growth factors, sera and vitamins. Find the best cell and tissue culture products, kits and equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.PCR and Thermal CyclingPolymerase chain reaction (PCR) kits and thermal cyclers are used for the in vitro amplification of DNA permitting subsequent analysis and experimental procedures. Explore a range of high-quality polymerase, primers and nucleotides or simplify your workflow with a PCR mastermix. Find reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) and cDNA synthesis kits for RNA products and libraries. Quantitatively measure the amplification of DNA with real-time PCR (qPCR) and droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) kits and systems, and discover automated PCR setup solutions to increase throughput. Alternative DNA amplification methods also include recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) kits. Find the best PCR kits and thermal cyclers and purification equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.ImmunologyImmunological techniques measure and characterize immune responses. Immunology kits and analysis systems often use techniques such as ELISA, radioimmunoassay (RIA) and immunodiffusion assays, Immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry. Immunologists use equipment such as flow Cytometers, plate readers, plate washers and fluorescent microscopes.BiomarkersBiomarkers are biological markers which can be measured and evaluated to indicate a biological state. The use of biomarkers in research and diagnosis can indicate a normal or disease state or drug response of cells / tissues. Biomarkers include genetic markers, cell surface markers such as antigens, antibodies or receptors and secreted molecules such as cytokines. An assay system is required for identification of biomarkers. :Clinical ChemistryBiochemistry (or clinical chemistry) involves the analysis of bodily fluids using chemical tests. Techniques used include HPLC, chromatography, spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, immunochemical, electrophoresis, turbidometric / spectrophotometric assay, MRI and ISE analysis. Tests are often carried out on plasma or serum but urine (urinalysis) and fecal specimens are also processed.Clinical GeneticsMolecular Genetics covers the analysis of hereditary genetic disease and chromosomal abnormalities. Genetics can be analysed using DNA, RNA, and protein microarrays, PCR, RT PCR and DNA sequencing. Genetic equipment includes genetic workstations, thermal cyclers, cooling blocks and electrophoresis products. Diagnostic kits are used for DNA / RNA extraction and purification.Clinical MicrobiologyMicrobiology is the study of microorganisms including protists, prokaryotes, fungi, and, often, viruses. Microorganisms are a useful research tool as genetic vectors and, in immunology, for antibiotic susceptibility testing, cellular biology and genetics. Microorganisms commonly grow readily in incubators with microbial culture media; this can contain chromogenic supplements to differentiate between cell lines. Estimate your culture’s density of microorganisms with colony counters, or screen and select colonies for desirable clones with automated colony pickers. Additionally, equipment is available to monitor environments for the presence of microbes and identify with microbial identification instruments. Find the best microbiology products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Next Generation SequencingNext-generation sequencing (NGS), also known as whole-genome sequencing, high-throughput sequencing and massive parallel sequencing, produces and analyses thousands to millions of nucleotide sequences at once. Sequencing systems operate via varying technologies depending on the manufacturer, including sequencing by synthesis, ligation, pyrosequencing, ion semiconductor and single-molecule real-time sequencing. For NGS, library preparation is paramount to successful sequencing. In this section, explore a range of library preparation kits, from targeted, amplicon-based or hybridization-based kits including epigenomic, transcriptomic and genomic workflows to fragmentation kits. Find the best next-generation sequencing products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.FFPEFormalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues are commonly used in medical research, particularly in histology and cancer studies. The preservation process allows long-term storage of tissue samples for later analysis. Explore FFPE research products in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Liquid BiopsiesLiquid biopsies are non-invasive tests used to detect cancer and other diseases by analyzing blood or other bodily fluids. This technique is gaining popularity for early detection, monitoring treatment response, and detecting minimal residual disease. Explore liquid biopsy solutions in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.TumorsTumor research focuses on understanding abnormal cell growth that leads to cancer. Identifying biomarkers, studying tumor microenvironments, and developing targeted therapies are critical for advancing cancer treatment. Early detection and personalized treatment options are key to improving outcomes for patients. Browse our peer-reviewed product directory to explore tools for tumor research, diagnostics, and cancer therapies; compare products, read customer reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Infectious DiseaseInfectious disease diagnostics refers to the isolation and identification of causative agents, such as viruses, bacteria or fungi. Diagnostic tests include bacterial culture, microscopy, chemistry assays, molecular diagnostics and MALDI-TOF. Tests can be carried out in the laboratory or at the point-of-care.High ThroughputHigh throughput experiments allow the simultaneous processing of several samples. This parallelization reduces the cost per experiment and increases reproducibility and output volume of data.Real-Time PCRReal-time PCR (RT-PCR) is a technique used to amplify and simultaneously quantify nucleic acids in real time. It is a key tool in gene expression analysis, pathogen detection, and diagnostics. RT-PCR allows for the detection of specific RNA or DNA sequences with high sensitivity and specificity. Browse our peer-reviewed product directory to find the best Real-Time PCR systems; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.qPCRQuantitative PCR (qPCR) is a molecular biology technique used to amplify and measure the amount of a specific DNA or RNA target. It plays a crucial role in gene expression analysis, pathogen detection, and quantifying DNA or RNA in various applications. Real-time PCR provides precise, quantitative results and is widely used in research, diagnostics, and clinical studies. Browse our peer-reviewed product directory to find the best qPCR solutions; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.