27/06/11: Break Free! Trade-In Your Affymetrix GeneChip Scanner and Get 50% off the Agilent Scanner
June 27, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
This post is to alert genomics customers who have an Affymetrix system that Agilent are offering a trade-in deal that allows them to get 50% off the Agilent High-Resolution Scanner. Any arrays purchased at the same time will also receive the 50% promotional discount.
The promotion is valid from now until December 31st 2011. Further details are available on the Agilent website.
23/06/11: BioCision Launches New Tools for Cell Cryopreservation
June 23, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
An excerpt from a recent BioCision press release:
“BioCision, the coolprep™ company, today announced the release of three new cryopreservation systems: CoolCell® FTS™30, the first large-capacity, high-density cell freezing system; CoolCell SV2 for freezing cells in larger diameter 2ml vials; and CoolCell 5ml for large cryovial freezing. All CoolCell freezing solutions deliver a controlled freezing rate of -1oC/minute in a -80oC freezer, with high reproducibility of freezing profiles and consistent cell viability and function after thawing. The patented alloy-based technology allows maintenance-free operation and is a significant alternative to conventional freezing methods or programmable freezers.”
Read the full press release here.
14/06/11: Agilent Genomics e-Seminar Series on NGS Data Analysis Software
June 14, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
There are a bunch of upcoming e-Seminars from Agilent. Take a look at the details below. Since data analysis is one of the most often cited issues in today’s research, this should be interesting!
Bioinformatics eSeminars
Full ScheduleJune 14
Introduction to GeneSpring NGS Data Analysis Software
Speaker: Jean Jasinski, PhDLearn about the input data types accepted and the analysis workflows for RNA-Seq and DNA-Seq analyses—from aligned data through biological contextualization tools. Specifically designed to be compatible with Agilent’s SureSelect™ Target Enrichment System, GeneSpring NGS provides Quality metrics and SureSelect-specific workflows to enable focused analysis on your regions of interest.
June 15
Introduction to ChIP-Seq in Avadis NGS Software
Speaker: Jean Jasinski, PhD
Learn the workflow specific for ChIP-Sequence data analysis including importing aligned data, peak-finding, motif detection, and scanning the genome for other putative binding sites. See how the biological contextualization tools help you gain insight into the biology in your ChIP-seq data. Learn about the advanced tools for data manipulation built into the Avadis NGS tool for manipulating and filtering region lists.
June 24
Comparing Affymetrix and Agilent gene expression data in GeneSpring Software
Speaker: Dipa RoyChoudhury, PhD
Learn what functions, workflows, and visualization tools are available in GeneSpring to help you compare Affymetrix and Agilent microarray expression data.
July 6
Introduction to RNA-Seq in GeneSpring NGS Software
Speaker: Dipa RoyChoudhury, PhD
Learn the workflows specific for next generation RNA sequencing including differential gene and exon expression, alternative splicing, gene fusions, finding new genes and exons and visualizing changes in a Genome Browser and in a network/pathway module. Also included is the ability to detect and analyze SNPs & InDels. See how SureSelect enhances the RNA-Seq workflow.
July 8
Introduction to DNA-Seq in GeneSpring NGS Software
Speaker: Jean Jasinski, PhD
Learn the workflows specific for next generation DNA sequencing including SNP detection, predicted effects SNPs, multi-sample SNP reports, and which SNPs are differentially expressed across a pair of samples (tumor and normal). For paired end libraries, see how INDELS, translocations, and inversions are detected.
View abstracts and register at: www.agilent.com/genomics/eSeminarSeries
31/05/11: New BioSilta Catalogue Available
May 31, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
Calling all microbial cell culture enthusiasts: the latest BioSilta catalogue has recently been released. A very nice job it is too. Please download a copy here (opens PDF file in a new window).
12/05/11: Updated List of EnBase Publications from BioSilta
May 12, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
The updated list of publications involving EnBase products from BioSilta continues to demonstrate the broadening use of EnBase technology by researchers working on cell culture.
Find the updated EnBase Publication List here (opens PDF file). 
11/05/11: Accepting Orders for Lab901 Products
May 11, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
Those of you that are interested in the electrophoresis of RNA, DNA and proteins, you will be pleased to learn that it is now possible to place orders for Lab901 products through Agilent. You might be aware that Agilent recently acquired Lab901. The ability of customers to order Lab901 products through Agilent is a major step in the integration process.
11/05/11: RNA Target Enrichment Webinar from Agilent
May 11, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
A nice, free webinar on RNA Target Enrichment, using Agilent’s SureSelect technology, is available here:
SureSelect RNA Target Enrichment
26/04/11: New BioSilta Website Launched!
April 26, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
BioSilta’s products have found place in many labs where optimal cell culture is required. They have also used their time productively to produce a great new website that is clear and easy to navigate. As well as being prettier to look at, I found it easier to locate product information and a number of key applications are highlighted, for those of you who are still asking “why EnBase?” The publications database is also very useful.
Spend some time checking it out: www.biosilta.com.
18/04/11: Roslin Cellab Selects BioCision’s CoolCell for Cryopreservation of Human Embryonic Stem Cell Lines
April 18, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
Before getting to the press release, I would just like to say that the CoolCell has proven very popular with customers who test it. They all immediately see the advantage over what they have been using in the past. I do have demo unit available, for those who are interested to try out this technology. Just contact me. Currently, it is being tested at the Panum Institute.
CoolCell Replaces Conventional Cryopreservation Tools, Offers Improved Cell Freezing and Viability
MILL VALLEY, Calif., April 14, 2011 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Roslin Cellab, the preeminent incubator for stem cell research and a leading provider of stem cell research services to life sciences companies, has selected BioCision’s®CoolCell® freezing container for cryopreservation of human embryonic stem cell lines. The decision by Roslin Cellab – a subsidiary of the Roslin Foundation and sister company to Roslin Cells, a world leader in the isolation of new clinical grade undifferentiated stem cells for use in research and therapy – comes after a comprehensive review of the CoolCell product line. CoolCell will replace the organization’s conventional cryopreservation tools sitewide.
“This is by far and away the best benchtop technology to enter the field of cell cryopreservation for decades. We have compared the BioCision CoolCell to our old conventional method of cryopreservation and found it to be easier, safer and most importantly of all, our cell lines were recovered with reproducibly higher viability yields post-thaw, and subsequent ongoing growth was improved,” said John Gardner, senior project leader at Roslin Cellab. “This suggests that the freezing rate is more accurate than the isopropyl alcohol method, which is crucial if a cell line is to survive cryopreservation.”
Roslin Cellab assists scientists and technologists with proof-of-concept research, with the goal of translating stem cell research into commercially viable technologies. It supports collaborative research and provides a wide array of services for life sciences companies interested in engaging in stem cell research.
The organization had been using a cell freezing container that required the use of 100 percent isopropyl alcohol for stepwise (-1 degree C/minute) cooling of cell lines in a -80 degree C freezer. This method requires frequent changes of the isopropyl alcohol, a cumbersome and expensive process that demands constant maintenance and yields variable results.
“Roslin Cellab’s deployment of CoolCell represents an important validation for our technology. We believe our alcohol-free CoolCell is enhancing cryopreservation for stem cells, PBMCs, cell lines and other cell types, as well as in other areas of research in which the accuracy of freezing rates is critical,” said BioCision CEO Rolf Ehrhardt, MD, PhD. “Labs at institutions such as Stanford University and University of California, San Francisco that are engaged in stem cell and other cell-based research are increasingly adopting our products to ensure the accuracy of their research.”
BioCision’s CoolCell is ideal for cell lines, stem cells, PBMC, primary cells and yeast. Designed with a patent-pending controlled-freezing technology, CoolCell offers many advantages over alcohol-filled containers, including no maintenance, no on-going cost and no hazardous waste. With the elimination of alcohol, CoolCell delivers a highly reproducible, consistent cooling rate of -1 degree C/minute and identical freezing profiles each time. The result is superior cell viability and function, and more reliable cell assays.
In addition to the CoolCell products, Roslin Cellab is deploying BioCision’s ThermalTray™ and CoolRack® modules, which eliminate direct sample contact with ice, water or liquid nitrogen and enhance sterility procedures when handling vials for tissue culture procedures. The ThermalTray platforms and CoolRack modules provide a safe and reproducible option for snap-freezing. The additional option of placing the modules in a 37 degree C water bath aids the sterile thawing of cryovials, and delivers consistent and reproducible thawing profiles.
“The combination of controlled freezing with the CoolCell and controlled temperature for thawing greatly increases the reproducibility of the freeze-thaw process, with increased cell viability and cell growth post-thaw. The versatility of the system is simply brilliant,” Roslin Cellab’s Gardner said. “The ThermalTray and CoolRack would greatly benefit the process of transferring frozen cell lines using a dry shipper between laboratories. Transfer from the dry shipper to a tray can be achieved quickly without any thawing; the vials are maintained frozen in the tray while they are transferred to laboratory. This also eliminates the transfer of the dry shipper into the tissue culture suite, which is a source of potential contamination.”
12/04/11: Developments in Real-Time Symposium, June 13-17 2011, Prague
April 12, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
Just a little reminder about TATAA Biocenter’s great qPCR event in Prague (comprising conference, exhibition and workshops), June 13th-17th. As usual, it has the highest quality speakers and training and is a must for both experienced and novice users.
Learn more and register at http://www.qpcrsymposium.eu/content/view/1/4/
By the way, students who attend the workshop event will get to go to the conference free of charge!
12/04/11: Agilent Easter Promotions on Bioanalyzer and Bioreagents!
April 12, 2011 by Peter · 1 Comment
Enjoy Easter with Agilent’s special promotions!
Spring is coming (yes, even though this is Denmark – I just looked out of the window and it is definitely there, hiding around the corner). To celebrate, Agilent are offering two special promotions:
20% off the Bioanalyzer and one free kit
25% off or more on your Bioreagents order
To benefit from these great offers, contact Agilent before April 30th, 2011 and mention promotion code S_EASTER11 when you place your order.
To simplify your choices when it comes to Bioreagents, I have written a short post on tried and tested Agilent products in ten application areas here.
05/04/11: New SureSelect Custom Kits Capture up to 34 Mb
April 5, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
It’s been in the pipeline for a bit, but Agilent can now announce the launch of newSureSelect XT Custom Kits – now supporting large custom captures up to 34 MB.
You can download a PDF file explaining more about these new SureSelect XT Custom Kits here, or by clicking on the image below: SureSelectXT Custom Flyer April 4 2011.
With this new SureSelect XT Custom product line extension, Agilent Genomics has increased the maximum SureSelect XT Custom capture by 5-fold. Now researchers can obtain NGS target enrichment kits for captures ranging from <200 kb up to 34 Mb. This greatly expands the research applications possible by genomic enrichment, especially by facilitating large custom captures for NGS studies in non-human species.
Danish researchers, please contact Peter at You Do Bio to learn more.
05/04/11: Agilent release their new PCR thermal cycler, the SureCycler 8800!
April 5, 2011 by Peter · 1 Comment
Text of an Agilent Press release from yesterday:
Agilent Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: A) today introduced the Agilent SureCycler 8800, a full-featured thermal cycler that eliminates the need to choose between popular features of other major PCR instruments.
Actually, if you don’t want to read the rest, you can view a nice video here (opens a new window to Biocompare.com).
The SureCycler 8800 expands Agilent’s portfolio of PCR solutions, including a full selection of enzymes, RT-PCR kits and mutagenesis kits. 
The Agilent SureCycler 8800 delivers high speed and high volume in the same instrument, so users aren’t forced to choose between the two. The modular design accommodates both 96-well and 384-well microtiter plates for additional flexibility. The instrument also features temperature gradient capability without sacrificing market-leading uniformity. The high-quality touchscreen and intuitive software contribute to the SureCycler 8800′s productivity and convenience.
“Now customers can have a brand new system that combines the best features of leading PCR instruments, and equip their genomic workflows with a single, trusted vendor from start to finish,” said Carolyn Reifsnyder, marketing director, QPCR, PCR & Bioreagents, Agilent Genomics Division. “Along with providing Agilent’s line of PCR reagents and kits, we remain committed to driving innovation in life-science research with complete, customer-focused solutions.”
In addition to now having one trusted partner for all PCR needs, customers also gain access to Agilent’s technical expertise in designing assays and optimizing protocols for their workflows. The SureCycler 8800 also leverages Agilent’s Electronic Measurement Group’s expertise in precision manufacturing. The instrument joins the company’s line of high quality life-science instrumentation, including the Mx3005P QPCR instrument, 2100 BioAnalyzer and SureSelect XT workflow automation system for target enrichment.
The SureCycler 8800 is on display in Agilent’s booth (1201) at the American Association for Cancer Research, April 2-6 in Orlando, Fla.
Customers in Denmark who are interested in a demo, please contact Peter at You Do Bio.
14/03/11: BioCision’s New Blog – Sampling Science
March 14, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
Check out BioCision’s new blog, called Sampling Science, for practical and unique insights into BioCision’s technology. There is a nice mix of product info., tips and customer testimonials. Many reasons why you should try this technology out (contact me!).
02/03/11: Agilent’s Nordic Genomics Roadshow Comes to Denmark
March 2, 2011 by Peter · 1 Comment
Agilent Technologies invites you to their Genomics Roadshow.
Come along and find out more about Agilent’s microarray & qPCR platforms and get the latest update on SureSelect - target enrichment for Next Generation Sequencing and GeneSpring 12 – analysis software for microarrays, MS and Next Generation Sequencing data.
The Dates and Locations for Denmark are:
Copenhagen – March 30, 12:30-17:00, DTU
Aarhus – March 31, 12:30-17:00, Aarhus University
AGENDA highlights:
· Microarray applications – Gene Expression, Exon, CGH+SNP, miRNA & Custom array
· Genespring – Data analysis in Multi Omics Research – Analyzing MS, microarray and NGS data.
· SureSelect – Target Enrichment for Next Generation Sequencing
· Automation in genomics
· Improved detection and quantification in Real-Time PCR
> Register now, seminar is free but seats are limited!
01/03/11: e-Array Version 3.7 is Now Live
March 1, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
Agilent have announced that eArray version 7.3 is now live. This update includes enhanced support for the SureSelect Target Enrichment product line.
Key Features:
- Early Access – 34 MB Custom SureSelect XT Libraries!
Maximum SureSelect XT Custom Library size is now 34 MB. Same library design workflow in eArray – with extended maximum size
2-5 custom ELIDs blended in one library
Early Access available now – contact Peter at You Do Bio for details and pricing
Additional Features:
- Support for 6.8Mb of “Plus” content for SureSelect catalog kits.
Design wizard allows users to create supplemental “Plus” libraries for catalog kits while avoiding regions already covered in base catalog library.
- Supplemental Library Wizard changes
Users can now do supplemental or create new libraries by bait tiling using the same wizard. They are also no longer limited to adding same species design to the plus content as the base library.
- Allow bait tiling design regions to be extended 3’ and 5’.
Custom extension of the design regions to cover additional bases at the ends of the interval.
- Interval Finder Enhancements.
Users can search and design bait libraries within one workflow. eArray also reports unfound items and allows found regions to be reported in bed format.
- Provide design details coverage early on in the design process — in draft and review status.
eArray will provide users coverage early on in the design process.
- Provide an additional bait tiling file to elaborate coverage details.
Faster and more scalable bait tiling and we provide additional files to closely track the fate of input region given by user.
- Allow Supplemental and Combined Libraries to be used in Collaboration Workspace
Supplemental and Combined library creation is now extended to Collaboration workspace to enable researchers work together in creation of a custom design.
18/02/11: Safeguarding Biological Specimen Integrity
February 18, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
An informative article on improved methods for looking after your precious biological samples: http://www.genengnews.com/gen-articles/safeguarding-biological-specimen-integrity/3562/.
If any of these products interest you, please contact You Do Bio (via the “Contact” page) for a free test.
28/01/11: New Agilent BenchBot
January 28, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
Agilent have released specifications on their new, smaller robot arm – the BenchBot.
> Check out the BenchBot details (PDF file)
This new robot arm is a smaller version of the Direct Drive Robot (DDR). Although it won’t be exactly the same, you can get an idea of what the BenchBot can do by checking out the video of the DDR below:
28/01/11: Date Change: 2nd Agilent/EMBL SureSelect practical course NOW 14-18 June 2011
January 28, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
This might be good news if you couldn’t make it to the course as it was originally scheduled in March: http://www.embl.de/training/events/2011/NGS11-01/index.html
26/01/11: Colour Coded Cell Freezing
January 26, 2011 by Peter · Leave a Comment
BioCision’s CoolCell product – providing researchers with alcohol-free cell freezing – is now available in three colours. So you don’t mix your samples up (as well as avoiding the hassle of alcohol-based freezing).
Get a trial of CoolCell – just contact You Do Bio.
