UPPSALA SCIENCE PARK, Sweden, May 29, 2002 (PRIMEZONE) -- Gyros AB today announced a collaboration agreement with Kratos Analytical to develop a microlaboratory for sample preparation prior to analysis by mass spectrometry to be based on the Gyros microfluidic technology platform. The microlaboratory will be compatible with the Axima-QIT(TM) and Axima-CFR(TM) line of mass spectrometry workstations from Kratos.
Gyros have developed a miniaturized and fully integrated process for sample preparation prior to MALDI mass spectrometry, using a microlaboratory, Gyrolab MALDI SP1, in the form of a compact disk (CD). Protein digests are concentrated, purified and crystallized directly onto target areas on the CD under the control of Gyrolab Workstation. The CD is then transferred to a MALDI mass spectrometer for sample analysis and identification.
"This collaboration is an example of the strong interest stimulated by Gyrolab MALDI and our technology platform within the mass spectrometry community." explained Maris Hartmanis, President and CEO at Gyros AB, "We have shown that preparation using Gyros technology produces samples that can be analyzed at sensitivity levels close to the detection limit of today's MALDI mass spectrometers. Entering into a research and development collaboration with one of the leading global suppliers of mass spectrometers will enable more users to increase their success rate for protein identification, particularly when working with low abundant proteins."
"A key part of the Kratos strategy is to increase the versatility of the Axima range of MALDI mass spectrometers by increasing the range of applications," said Katsu Ichimura, Managing Director of Kratos Analytical. "Making MALDI compatible with a wide variety of sample preparation formats is critical to this. Gyros technology represents a new and exciting approach to biomolecular separation, in which MALDI is the mass spectrometry technique of choice for subsequent detection of the separated analytes. The near-perpendicular laser alignment (relative to the target) of the Axima products, automated data acquisition (IntelliMarqueTM) and low extraction field of the Axima-QITTM (compatible with non-conducting materials) will offer additional benefits for users of Gyrolab MALDI SP1 microlaboratory."
About Gyros AB
Gyros miniaturizes and integrates laboratory applications, enabling scientists to generate more information from less sample and to improve lab performance. Using our proprietary technology platform, we increase productivity by streamlining the many steps of conventional applications into single, nanoliter scale procedures. Optimal environments are created for each application.
A Gyrolab microlaboratory, in the form of a compact disk, can process hundreds of samples in parallel, under the control of Gyrolab Workstation.
Our company will realize the full potential of the Gyros technology platform in the fields of drug discovery and diagnostics. Initial product offerings are focused towards the growing area of proteomics. Gyros has more than 90 employees working at its headquarters in Uppsala Science Park, Sweden and in sales offices in the U.S.A and Europe.
For further information, visit www.gyros.com.
About Kratos
Kratos Analytical Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Shimadzu Corporation of Kyoto, Japan, selling and distributing its MALDI mass spectrometry products through the global Shimadzu Biotech business organisation. Its strengths lie in the quality of design, in the excellence of products and in the commitment to partnerships with customers.
Kratos Analytical employs innovative strategies in the development of MALDI MS products, including the unique patented curved field reflectron of the Axima-CFR(TM) for controlled seamless post source decay fragmentation of peptides, and the novel Axima-QIT(TM) hybrid MALDI quadrupole ion trap time-of-flight mass spectrometer, for detailed structural determination of biomolecules.
For further information, visit http://www.shimadzu-biotech.net.
Statements in this press release that are not strictly historical may be forward-looking and include risks and uncertainties. Therefore, though based on Gyros' current expectations, it should be duly noted that a variety of factors could cause actual results and experiences to differ materially from what is herein expressed. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks associated with the management of growth and international operations (including effects of currency fluctuations), variability of operating results, unforeseen changes in the diagnostic and pharmaceutical markets, market competition, rapid or unexpected changes in technologies, fluctuations in product demand, difficulties to successfully develop, adapt, produce or commercialize products, the ability to identify and develop new products and to differentiate products from those of competitors, as well as various legal hazards.
Gyros, Gyrolab and the Gyros logo are registered trademarks of Gyros AB.
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