Singapore, March 13, 2008: To support the growing Thai biotechnology research activities in areas related to DNA sequencing and proteomics services, the National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC) has established Thailand’s first Genome Institute at its Central Lab facility at Thailand Science Park in Pathumthani province. Research and development activities at Genome Institute (GI) include Genome, Proteomics, and Biostatics and Informatics.

 

According to Dr Somvong Traogonrung, Researcher/Director of GI, the institute offers the latest whole genome sequencing technology (GS100). This technology can be expanded for use in various genomic studies such as fast EST development and genome comparison. The pyrosequencing technology makes the genome sequencing of organism easier and cost effective than previously used conventional sequencing technology. The institute is the only facility in Thailand that provides proteomics services.

 

Currently, the Thai market for DNA sequencing services is about $3 million per year. However, with ever increasing biotechnology activities in Thailand and the region, the market looks to be very promising.