Singapore: Agilent Technologies has launched additional Agilent SureFISH probes, which is the largest offering of oligonucleotide-based fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) assays in the market. Over 425 probes are now available from Agilent, including centromere probes for all 24 chromosomes, and 35 telomere probes.

Agilent SureFISH probes are designed for specific, nonrepetitive regions of the genome, providing superior resolution as compared to other available technologies. Standard BAC probes are limited in their ability to detect small aberrations, as well as the ability to specifically target chromosomal regions containing repetitive sequences. Oligo FISH probes enable users to specifically target chromosomal regions with a fast turnaround - hybridization in as little as four hours.

"Agilent SureFISH probes provide high-quality results and have allowed us to reduce turnaround time and expense," said Dr Jennifer Laffin, assistant professor, department of pediatrics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine, and public health director, Clinical Genetics Laboratories.

Oligo FISH probes target relevant regions for a wide range of constitutional and cancer applications. "In just over two months, we have dramatically increased the number of probes we offer, demonstrating our commitment to quickly expand this portfolio for our customers," said Mr Robert Schueren, vice president and general manager, Genomics, Agilent. "Agilent is excited to be the only company to offer an oligo FISH platform and other molecular analysis products, including SurePrint CGH+SNP microarrays, and HaloPlex and SureSelect next-gen sequencing products, delivering a full set of solutions for cytogenetic research needs."