Affymetrix, Inc, BioRealm, LLC, and RUCDR Infinite Biologics have entered into a broad strategic alliance which will leverage BioRealm's SmokeScreen platform to genotype the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) biorepository of more than 50,000 samples, collected from human subjects studied in NIDA-funded research.

NIDA preserves these samples in a biorepository at RUCDR Infinite Biologics, on the campus of Rutgers University. The biorepository is maintained by RUCDR Infinite Biologics and in part through collaboration with the BioProcessing Solutions Alliance which was created by RUDCR Infinite Biologics and BioStorage Technologies, a global leader in comprehensive sample management.

Once the genetic information contained in these samples is made available to researchers, it will be extremely valuable for studying the link between genetic variations and addiction. Detailed genetic information might, for example, be used by researchers exploring how genetics influences patients’ individual responses to treatment approaches.

To date, the genetic information contained in these samples has been focused on specific targets and not collectively analyzed. This strategic alliance makes it possible, for the first time ever, to cost-efficiently analyse this valuable information. The genetic information will be obtained by using BioRealm’s SmokeScreen array, developed in conjunction with NIDA’s Genetics Consortium and Affymetrix. SmokeScreen array is a genome-wide array with research-driven focus on more than 1,000 addiction-related genes.

BioRealm’s co-founder Dr. James Baurley said “We are extremely honoured to have the help and support of Affymetrix and RUCDR. Our SmokeScreen technology provides a suite of genomic research tools to scientists working on addiction – one of the biggest public health threats. Because of our partners’ confidence in our technology, it will be made available to scientific teams around the world who are working on these critical health issues.”

RUCDR Infinite Biologics’ chief operating officer and director of technology development Dr. Andrew Brooks said “Because of the SmokeScreen array, we have the ability to reveal genetic information previously hidden in NIDA's samples. We have great confidence in SmokeScreen ? it is a validated platform that will become a crucial tool in advancing addiction research and moving the field towards personalized treatment.”

Dr. Frank R. Witney, president and chief executive officer of Affymetrix said “We are excited to be part of BioRealm’s vision of improving human health by providing insight into the genetics of tobacco-related illness. It was a pleasure to work with BioRealm’s team of dedicated scientists to co-develop this cutting-edge technology.”

BioRealm, a life sciences company headquartered in Monument, Colorado, uses novel technology to provide end-to-end services for researchers and product development teams, including study design, data management, and data analysis.

RUCDR Infinite Biologics offers a complete and integrated selection of biological sample processing, analysis and biorepository services to government agencies, academic institutions, foundations, and biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies within the global scientific community.

Affymetrix technologies enable multiplex and simultaneous analysis of biological systems at the cell, protein, and gene level, facilitating the rapid translation of bench-top research into clinical and routine use for human health and wellness.