History
Milestones
13-Feb-2008 - Prototype microarray QC material is
launched, paving the way to the first generic reference standard
for microarrays
LGC’s novel QC material paves the way to the first generic
reference standard for microarrays
LGC, an international science-based service company, has
produced a prototype microarray quality control material which
could lead to the first generic reference standard for use across
multiple platforms and applications. A prototype batch of the
material is now available to interested laboratories for trial and
feedback on the product’s applications and performance.
Microarrays have traditionally been used in laboratories for
research purposes but they are now being evaluated and developed
for a range of diagnostic purposes. Microarray technologies offer
the potential for high throughput analysis of multiple targets.
However, the high degree of systematic variability can lead to
reduced assay performance, which makes data comparison
difficult.
LGC’s new QC material can help to identify many of the technical
variables associated with microarray experiments, from preparation
through to processing and analysis of the microarrays. It is also
useful for optimisation and validation of array-based assays and it
facilitates data comparison between experiments, platforms and
laboratories.
LGC has initially evaluated this new material for gene
expression and genotyping model array systems. However, the
material could be used across multiple array applications.
LGC prepared and characterised this new material in its capacity
as the UK´s designated National Measurement Institute for chemical
and biochemical analysis. Development of the material was funded by
the UK Department of Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS)
through its Chemical and Biology Metrology Programme.
The material is available from LGC for a nominal cost to cover
postage and packing for those labs wishing to evaluate the initial
batch of the material.
For further information, please contact: arrayQC@lgc.co.uk