Sigma-Aldrich® (Nasdaq: SIAL) today announced the launch of SAGEspeed(TM), a program to develop human disease models in rodents using its proprietary novel CompoZr(TM) Zinc Finger Nuclease (ZFN) gene editing technology (http://www.compozrzfn.com). This program will provide researchers access to custom creation services for developing genetically-engineered 'knockout' rodent animal models for use in research and the development of therapeutic treatments in as little as four to five months. The technology and methodology employed by SAGEspeed reduces the cycle time that it takes to create knockout mouse models using conventional embryo stem (ES) cell-based technologies by around two-thirds. Additionally, SAGEspeed can also create targeted knockout rats, which was previously not possible.
The SAGEspeed program, available through the recently announced Sigma Advanced Genetic Engineering (SAGE(TM)) Labs (www.sigma.com/sagelabs), a Sigma® Life Science initiative, offers customers dedicated model design support, significantly reduced model development time and comprehensive management of the entire project from initial consultation through the delivery of the custom rodent models. The knockout rodent models are created using CompoZr to deactivate or 'knockout' specific genes that are associated with certain human disease conditions.
"We are excited to leverage our CompoZr technology in this new service, allowing the researcher a seamless process. The researcher simply provides his gene target and we will do the rest," commented Dr. Edward Weinstein, Director of SAGE Labs. "Once the customer's requirements have been discussed, the Knockout rodent model is developed to detailed specifications. All animals are produced and carefully fostered into maturity at our specific pathogen-free, bio-secure facility."
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