Sequenom, Inc., a leading provider of genetic analysis solutions, announced the purchase of Sequenom's MassARRAY system by the DNA Diagnostic Lab of the McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine and the Translational Technology Core of the Institute for Translational Clinical Research at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Scientists plan to use the system as a platform for genotyping, clinical genotyping, DNA methylation and quantitative gene expression (QGE) analyses.

"The Sequenom MassARRAY system brings new high-throughput genetic analysis technology to the Hopkins campus that will facilitate efficient translation of genomic discoveries to clinical application," said Dr. Garry R. Cutting, director of the DNA Diagnostic Laboratory and Director of the Medical Genetics Residency Post-doctoral Training Program.

Aravinda Chakravarti, Ph.D., director, Center for Complex Disease Genomics, stated, "Given the rapid progress in discovery of polymorphisms in human disease, it is important that we replicate and validate these findings in many types and cohorts of patients to understand the full spectrum of the natural history of mutations. This technology will allow us to progress rapidly, accurately and in a cost-effective manner."

"We are gratified by the MassARRAY system placement at the distinguished Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, which is home to some of the most globally recognized and world-renowned experts in genetics research," said Sequenom president and CEO Harry Stylli, Ph.D. "The MassARRAY's robust throughput capability and proven reliability make it ideal for broad-based use in research institutions and academic medical centres worldwide."