Roche and Exiqon join marketing forces for Roche Applied Science´s RealTime ready assays and Exiqon`s miRCURY LNA Universal RT microRNA qPCR system. As indicated by respective links on their websites, each system will complement the cooperator's product portfolio. A bundle of measures like webinars and seminars and linked internet appearances are planned to promote the joined offer. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

Roche Applied Science´s RealTime ready assays offer maximized testing efficiency. Tar-gets of choice are selectable out of gene lists of functionally related gene families or biological pathways. They can be ordered as single assays or configured as custom panel on a LightCycler 480 Multiwell Plate. The function tested qPCR assays based on the proven Universal ProbeLibrary technology enable for optimum results, with detailed bioinformatics background information and novel error-detection features. The RealTime ready assays allow for discovery of the functionality of targets in complex biological pathways, to research their influence on processes leading to diseases or disorders.

Exiqon's miRCURY LNA Universal RT microRNA PCR system offers a combination of performance and ease-of-use on the microRNA real-time PCR market. The use of LNA-enhanced PCR primers secures exceptional sensitivity and specificity enabling accurate quantification of very low amounts of microRNA obtained from difficult samples such as FFPE, serum/plasma and laser capture microscopy. The product line which includes re-agents for the LightCycler 480 System consists of microRNA Ready-to-Use PCR panels for expression profiling of human and rodent microRNAs, individual microRNA assays, reference genes and reagent kits.