SANTA CLARA, Calif.—Affymetrix Inc. announced that it entered into a five-year collaboration with the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre (Peter Mac) in Melbourne, Australia, to analyze genomic information across large patient samples. Under terms of the agreement, Peter Mac researchers will use Affymetrix GeneChip microarray technology for translational research projects, beginning with studies on ovarian cancer and carcinoma of unknown primaries.
Peter Mac researchers will use Affymetrix GeneChip technology to perform large-scale clinical studies. The Affymetrix technology will enable them to more rapidly discover RNA and DNA patterns that can better classify, manage and treat complex diseases.
"We are excited about the opportunities created by the Translational Medicine Program, particularly the chance to apply new technologies to help us answer important clinical questions," says Dr. David Bowtell, director of research at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre. "We are keen to help our collaborators across Australia gain access to Affymetrix technology, as we continue to develop as a major center for cancer genomics and genetics. We also see the program providing opportunities to interact with other centers worldwide that are involved in translational research."
Affymetrix collaborates with academic institutions, advocacy groups and the pharmaceutical and diagnostics community through its Translational Medicine Program to develop molecular signatures for improving patient care. Affymetrix GeneChip microarray technology helps researchers to diagnose and tailor treatments for individual patients by identifying and measuring the genetic information associated with complex diseases.
