OvaGene has the world's most advanced research capabilities in-house to translate innovative ideas into clinically useful assays. OvaGene uses a variety of cutting-edge molecular based technologies to develop novel diagnostic assays including, but not limited to, Comparative Genomic Hybridization (CGH), Gene Expression Arrays, and Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR).
aCGH Technology
Changes in DNA copy number have been used to create clinically validated diagnostics such as HER2 amplification in breast cancer, EGFR amplification in lung cancer, and 1q19p changes in oligodendriglioma. The changes in these cases are detected by fluorescently labeled probes to the regions of the human genome known to be altered. This process is known as fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). However, when screening for novel DNA amplifications or deletions that can predict a clinical outcome, a faster and more comprehensive technique is needed. Comparative Genomic Hybridization arrays (CGH arrays, aCGH) are arrays used to investigate changes in DNA copy number across the genome. Large pieces of human DNA are expressed in bacteria (Bacterial Artificial Chromosomes, BACs) and attached to glass slides. These probes are then used to capture fluorescently labeled DNA from a sample. Software can then compare the results to controls and determine the change in copy number. Almost complete coverage of the human genome can be accomplished on a single slide allowing the researcher to globally assess DNA copy number changes. These changes can be validated and developed as a diagnostic using PCR, FISH, or other new technologies.
Gene Expression Arrays
Alterations in gene expression and subsequent protein expression occur in response to many stimuli the cells receive. In the case of cancer, the altered expression can lead to a more aggressive tumor, metastasis, or drug resistance. A single stimulus can create a cascade of changes in gene expression. The best and most efficient way to monitor and investigate these changes is through the use of gene arrays. In most cases, gene expression arrays contain DNA-based oligonucleotides attached to a supporting matrix. The oligos contain matching sequences to RNA expressed within the samples. The RNA from these samples can be fluorescently labeled, captured on the array, and quantitated on an array reader. The data can be analyzed in many different arrays but usually requires more intense bioinformatics to create predictive signatures.
QPCR Technology
Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) is a technique with great potential for diagnostic development. First, since the probes are designed to specific targets, miRNA, gene expression, DNA copy, and mutations can all be precisely assayed. Second, since the technique uses amplification of product, less initial sample is needed thus allowing the use of more appropriate clinical testing samples. This amplification process also produces a more dynamic range and allows detection and quantization of signal over time. Lastly, due to the specificity of the primers, multiple targets can be evaluated in the same test sample. This may include, for example, wild type gene expression and mutant gene expression, miRNA isoform expression, or a mixture of miRNA, RNA, and DNA for a specific pathway.
We are actively seeking intellectual property and licensing opportunities from academic institutions, medical centers and researchers who have clinically relevant discoveries in the area of gynecologic cancer research. Please contact OvaGene R&D department at 949-748-6415 or use the contact us form on this website.
