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DULUTH, Ga. and LINCOLN, Neb., Dec. 16 /PRNewswire/ -- GeneSeek, Inc. and
Merial Limited announced today an agreement to conduct large-scale DNA
genotyping in cattle. The two companies are collaborating to develop seamless
and high-throughput platforms to support research and for commercial
diagnostic purposes, including sample collection, sample preparation, SNP
genotyping, data processing and data management. Cattle producers will be
able to use this information for advanced management and breeding of cattle to
optimize efficiencies.
Initially, the collaboration will focus on a demonstration trial called
"Project Lariat" to illustrate the value of these new platforms. Over 50,000
cattle will be sampled and genotyped, and their performance data recorded, to
demonstrate the benefits of cost-effective DNA analysis in support of Marker
Assisted Selection and Marker Assisted Management throughout the beef
production chain.
"GeneSeek is a very strong partner for Merial and we are excited about
what this new technology can offer the cattle producer," says Dr. Stewart
Bauck, Head of Strategic Development for IGENITY, the DNA diagnostic business
of Merial Limited. "These new sample processing and genotyping platforms
allow us to deliver a multitude of instructive new tests from a single sample,
and the consistent application of the diagnostic platform across all samples
will greatly enhance the speed and quality of the test results. The
combination of increased value of the information from new diagnostic and
identity markers, coupled with the cost efficiency to be gained from these new
approaches to genomic testing, means that virtually all components of the beef
production process can benefit from these exciting new tools."
"GeneSeek is very pleased to expand our partnership with Merial in
providing high quality DNA genotyping services for the cattle industry,"
stated Abraham Oommen, Chief Executive Officer of GeneSeek, Inc. "GeneSeek
has recently completed a major expansion of our physical plant, as well as a
technology upgrade across all facets of our laboratory and IT infrastructures.
The platforms we are developing for sample processing, genotyping and data
management will be critical in moving DNA testing from the current scenario of
conducting one or two SNP tests in a small number of animals, to a more
valuable model of facilitating breeding and management decisions based on
highly informative DNA information collected in large populations."
About GeneSeek
Established in 1998 and based Lincoln, Nebraska, GeneSeek, Inc. is a
privately held, global biotechnology company dedicated to providing quality
DNA-based diagnostic and discovery products and services. With over
100 customers in many countries, GeneSeek is committed to being an innovative
and dynamic company serving the agribusiness, food safety and pharmaceutical
markets. For additional information, visit http://www.geneseek.com.
About Merial
Merial is a world-leading, innovation-driven animal health company,
providing a comprehensive range of products to enhance the health, well-being
and performance of a wide range of animals. Merial employs approximately
5,000 people and operates in more than 150 countries worldwide. Its 2004
sales were in excess of $1.8 billion. Merial Limited is a joint venture
between Merck & Co. and sanofi-aventis. For more information, please see
http://www.merial.com.
Contact: Kelle Straw Daniel Pomp
Dir. Corporate Communications Chief Scientific Officer
Merial, Ltd. GeneSeek, Inc.
678-638-3690 402-435-0665
kelle.straw@merial.com dpomp@geneseek.com
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