Genomatix Offers Multigenic SNP Knockin Vectors.

ROANOKE, Va. -- Genomatix Corporation has announced the addition of SNP Knockin vectors to its growing set of multigenic targeting solutions. SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) are inheritable genetic mutations that are implicated as contributing factors in numerous complex diseases, including cancers, diabetes, Alzheimer's, and other forms of mental illness.

Genomatix SNP Knockin vectors are advanced genetic modification tools that allow research scientists to replicate the effects of SNP mutations in cell or whole organism research models, while simultaneously introducing multiple gene programs that may help alleviate or remove those effects. Genomatix produces SNP Knockin vectors using its patent-pending UltraVector(TM) technology, a modular vector production platform that enables the rapid and affordable construction of multigenic targeting solutions.

Multigenic SNP Knockin solutions are accomplished in a three-step process. Step 1 involves a single allele knockout of a normal gene, followed in Step 2 by insertion, or "knockin", of a SNP mutant to the corresponding locus on the chromosome's second allele. The result of Steps 1 and 2 is a homozygous knockout of the normal gene and a heterozygous knockin of the SNP mutant. In Step 3 researchers have the powerful option to knockin up to four contiguous gene programs, as a single multigenic insert, into a neutral locus such as Hprt or Rosa. These multigenic program combinations can include strategies such as: a) inducible genetic cascades involving sequential activation of expression domains that incorporate transcription factors, signaling molecules, metabolic enzymes and other molecules or, b) bioassay reporter genes coupled with siRNA knockdowns, mutant enzyme substrates, or mis/over-expressed cDNAs. Vectors used for cell-based SNP Knockin solutions can be reused, without alteration, to create whole organism research models via ES cell targeting and subsequent blastocyst injection.

"Our SNP Knockin approach provides a powerful tool for the characterization and potential therapeutic resolution of SNP-related diseases," states Thomas Reed, Ph.D., and Chief Science Officer for Genomatix. "What has been a future consideration for most SNP-related research is now feasible and affordable today."

Genomatix specializes in the modular production of custom multigenic targeting solutions. Additional information about the company's SNP Knockin solution is located on the company's website at www.genomatix.com/SNPKnockins.cfm