Desktop Genetics and LGC have been awarded funding from SynbiCITE, the UK’s national centre for the commercialisation of synthetic biology, to develop screening and validation tools for functional genomics, cell line engineering and synthetic biology. Desktop Genetics and LGC will develop a novel pipeline for rapid assessment of CRISPR-mediated editing efficiencies. They will assess and develop two different PCR-based methods and one sequencing-based method for analyzing genomic DNA, ultimately delivering a protocol for detecting and quantifying targeted mutations. This will address the dire need in biology for a standardized approach to genome editing.

“We’re excited to work with LGC on improving standards for genome editing experiments,” said Riley Doyle, CEO at Desktop Genetics. “We have repeatedly seen demand for standardization in genome editing, and this project will improve our capability to offer top-of-the-line single and multiplex CRISPR experimental support and validation to labs around the world.”

“LGC is delighted to be working with Desktop Genetics to develop tools to support the rapidly developing and growing field of synthetic biology,” said Dr. Carole Foy, Principal Scientist in the Molecular & Cell Biology Group at LGC. “The project will enable us to combine our highly complementary skill sets to provide novel QC approaches alongside time and cost savings to this sector.”

Desktop Genetics provides CRISPR bioinformatics support to industry and academic laboratories performing genome editing for fundamental and clinical research. LGC houses the UK’s National Measurement Laboratory and Designated Institute for chemical and bio-measurement. Through this SynbiCITE project, LGC, with their expertise in high performance assay development, and Desktop Genetics, with their expertise in genome editing, will deliver significant labor and cost savings and improved confidence in the routine application of CRISPR-based genome engineering.

ENDS

About Desktop Genetics, Ltd.

Desktop Genetics is an Illumina-backed bioinformatics company specializing in CRISPR sgRNA design software, multiplex experimental support and data analysis services. The company uses machine learning approaches to develop the DESKGEN platform, a free cloud system for optimal guide RNA design tool and reagents marketplace. The company also offers state-of-the-art CRISPR library design services and can orchestrate all aspects of cell line engineering and target validation projects. This includes full CRISPR genotyping options such as model characterization, guide characterization and guide analysis to improve genome editing outcomes.

For more information, please visit http://www.deskgen.com

@DesktopGenetics

About LGC

LGC is an international life sciences measurement and testing company with leading positions in growing markets. LGC provides a range of measurement products and services which underpin the safety, health and security of the public, including reference materials and proficiency testing, genomics reagents and instrumentation, and expert sample analysis and interpretation. LGC serves customers across a number of end markets including Pharmaceuticals, Agricultural Biotechnology, Diagnostics, Food, Environment, Government and Academia.

LGC’s headquarters are in London and the company employs over 2,000 people, operating out of 22 countries worldwide. Its operations are extensively accredited to international quality standards such as ISO/IEC 17025, ISO 13485, GMP, GLP and ISO Guide 34.

With a history dating back to 1842, LGC has been home to the UK Government Chemist for more than 100 years and is the designated UK National Measurement Laboratory and Designated Institute for chemical and bio-measurement. LGC was privatised in 1996, and is now owned by funds affiliated with KKR.

For more information, please visit http://ww.lgcgroup.com

@LGCGroup