febit receives U.S. patent for microfluidic extraction method

febit today announced the receipt of US patent #7320862 on its microfluidic microarray-based method for extraction of DNA and RNA.

This method forms the basis of a novel technology that enables the expanded use of next-generation sequencers in genomic research. Further investigation of the human genome by resequencing will particularly benefit from the new method: febit uses its microfluidic biochip system for sequence-based selective isolation of nucleic acids from genomic samples. This new approach to high-throughput sequencing essentially relies on high-density microarray biochips with flexible design, a technology established by febit several years ago. The newly patented method is known as hybselect, targeted sequencing or sequence capture. Using this innovative technique, researchers are able to isolate genes or genomic regions of interest from a complex DNA sample prior to sequencing.

febit microfluidic biochip systems have been successfully used for several years in DNA analysis and synthesis. The latest patent was now granted in the US, patents in Europe and other foreign countries will soon follow.

febit currently holds more than 20 patents and patent applications. In addition to bioanalytics, the company's intellectual property portfolio predominantly covers the production of synthetic genes on biochips, an area where febit holds several key patents. Using a focussed application strategy, febit has been able to secure intellectual property rights on important product components, processes and evolving technologies.

febit enables scientists to read, write and understand the code of life: DNA. With its unique Geniom technology and services, febit is the only company that puts the control of simplified genomic research in the hand of the user. The seamless integration of DNA synthesis and analysis and the superior support in experiment design and bioinformatics helps to understand data and turn it into results. febit's team of experienced scientists is dedicated to support customers to solve the challenge of understanding biological processes. Geniom is a technological and service platform successfully implemented in basic and applied research by renowned institutions and companies. Geniom exploits cutting-edge microarray technology for analysis and synthesis of genes and genomes, providing superior time- and cost-efficiency combined with an unsurpassed spectrum of applications.