Affymetrix Introduces Targeted Genotyping Bovine 25K SNP Service

Targeted genotyping bovine assay panel enables researchers to perform genome-wide association studies

SANTA CLARA, Calif., May 3, 2007 – Affymetrix Inc. recently announced the launch of its Targeted Genotyping Bovine 25K SNP Service, which includes a new assay panel designed to help agricultural researchers improve the health of cattle and the nutritional value of beef and dairy products. It includes SNPs that are informative in more than 15 different beef and dairy breeds.   The latest targeted genotyping bovine panel provides scientists with a better understanding of the genetic markers that correlate particular performance and development traits. The service could also further bovine research, which has yielded valuable insight into the human endocrine, reproductive and nutritional systems.   “The Affymetrix Targeted Genotyping Bovine 25K SNP Panel builds on the success of the Targeted Genotyping Bovine 10K SNP Panel, which was designed for linkage mapping studies,” said Richard Gibbs, Ph.D., director of the Human Genome Sequencing Center, Baylor College of Medicine. “Today, scientists are able to compare genetic information across multiple bovine breeds and within selected breeds to get a better idea of how to improve the health of cattle and quality of dairy and beef products.”

The Bovine 25K SNP Panel was developed by Affymetrix in collaboration with Dr. Gibbs and his team at the Baylor College of Medicine Human Genome Sequencing Center. Dr. Gibbs’ team selected the bovine SNP markers included in the panel using sequence data from seven breeds, including Angus, Brahman, Hereford, Holstein, Jersey, Limousin and Norwegian Red. The panel has been validated with samples from 15 breeds. The combination of beef and dairy breeds was used to remove any bias and ensure that the panel is a useful tool for all cattle breeders.   “We’ve been working with the team at Baylor College of Medicine and other leading bovine

genome researchers over the past two-and-a-half years to develop the bovine product portfolio,” said Audrey Long, product line manager, Targeted Genotyping at Affymetrix. “We are pleased to now offer this easy-to-access service to the whole bovine genome community. The results from these bovine studies will enable breeders to develop superior bloodlines, which will help improve the quality, quantity and nutritional value of milk and beef products.”   The SNPs included in the panel were discovered by the Bovine Genome Sequencing Project and Australia’s Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation. The Targeted Genotyping Bovine 25K SNP Panel is an extension of Affymetrix’ Targeted Genotyping Bovine 10K SNP product, which was introduced in June 2005.   The panel is available through the Affymetrix Services Lab, which offers customers convenience and assurance that the resulting data will be robust and of high quality. The Affymetrix Services Lab is focused on introduction of new products, market testing and strategic projects. Affymetrix intends to offer the Targeted Genotyping Bovine 25K SNP Service through its strong network of service providers once the initial launch phase is complete.

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