PRESS RELEASE
Genomic Vision, a leading biotechnology company specializing in developing genetic diagnostic tests using molecular DNA combing, is announcing the extension of its intellectual property portfolio, with the granting in several countries of a patent on an innovative method of structural and visual analysis of the genome, called Genomic Morse Code (GMC).
“This new patent is in line with a solid portfolio of patents covering molecular combing, for which Genomic Vision holds the exclusive world license. With the Genomic Morse Code patent, the first of its own patents, Genomic Vision is strengthening its competitive edge and demonstrating its innovative force”, says Aaron Bensimon, CEO of Genomic Vision.
The molecular combing technology allows direct visualization of large genomic regions. It is then possible to identify genetic anomalies by locating genes of specific sequences in a patient’s genome using markers. These markers, or molecular probes, can be seen using fluorescence microscopy. Using a very limited number of fluorescent dyes, the probes are designed to form patterns, each specific to one genomic location, a little like traditional Morse Code, hence the name Genomic Morse Code.
Example of the gene for the genetic predisposition to cancer BRCA1. Image acquisition and analysis remain sufficiently simple thanks to the limited number of colors. The patterns consist in the succession of several probes. Since pattern recognition is based on probe size, spacing and color, the combinations are infinite and this allows for the coverage of virtually any number of different genes and regions of any size. Modifications in the expected pattern are readily detected, which allows the identification of rearrangements in the regions of interest. Photo credit: Genomic Vision©.
High-resolution technology on single DNA molecules
The Genomic Morse Code is the key which opens the door to diagnostics applications that make use of this high resolution, single DNA molecule technology.
“Genomic Vision developed the Genomic Morse Code strategy for probe design in its effort to develop diagnostics tests that would provide wide coverage of the genome while remaining simple enough to allow their practical use”, underlines Dr. Pierre Walrafen, project manager at Genomic Vision and co-inventor of the GMC.
“The modularity and evolutivity of the Genomic Morse Code will allow the constant adaptation of diagnostics tests to novel discoveries in the field of large rearrangements, which is barely beginning to reveal its extent and its importance in human health”, he adds.
Eight patent families
The portfolio of patents held by Genomic Vision in sole or joint ownership is continuously growing. Eight patent families have been added so far. These cover technical developments, either opening the way to additional applications of Molecular Combing, or improving its utility as a diagnostics tool. They also cover biomarkers and specific diagnostic tests involving large genome rearrangements.
“With active research in this growing field, a powerful tool which provides a unique vision and a network of key expert collaborators, Genomic Vision is uniquely positioned to improve on existing approaches and make new discoveries”, says CEO, Aaron Bensimon. “New opportunities, e.g. in cross-licensing, will arise from the biomarker portfolio which will be a strong support in the growth of Genomic Vision as a global player in the field of molecular diagnostics.”
About molecular combing
DNA molecular combing technology developed by Genomic Vision considerably improves the structural and functional analysis of DNA molecules. DNA fibers are stretched out on glass slides, “combed” in a sense, and uniformly aligned over the whole surface. It is then possible to identify genetic anomalies by locating genes or specific sequences in a patient’s genome using markers, an approach developed by Genomic Vision under the name Genomic Morse Code. This exploration of the entire genome at high resolution in a simple analysis enables clear and direct visualization of genetic anomalies potentially undetectable using current technologies.
About Genomic Vision
Founded in 2004, Genomic Vision is a biotechnology company specialized in developing diagnostic tests for genetic diseases and cancer genomics. It uses an extremely powerful technology, molecular combing, which allows direct visualization of individual DNA molecules to detect quantitative and qualitative variations in the genome and to establish their role in a target pathology. Genomic Vision holds and exclusive license from the Institut Pasteur for this technology. The company, with its head office and research laboratories based in Bagneux (near Paris), employs 40 people for revenues of €3.2 million in 2011. Since its creation, it has raised €10 million. For more information: http://www.genomicvision.com
