Genomic Vision Extends its Patent Portfolio With the Genomic Morse Code

PARIS, July 3, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

Genomic Vision, a leading biotechnology company specializing in developing genetic diagnostic tests using DNA molecular combing, is announcing the extension of its intellectual property portfolio, with the granting in several countries of a patent on an innovative method of structural and visual analysis of the genome, called Genomic Morse Code (GMC).

     (Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120702/542983 )

"This new patent is in line with a solid portfolio of patents covering molecular combing, for which Genomic Vision holds the exclusive world license. With the GMC patent, the first of its own patents, Genomic Vision is strengthening its competitive edge and demonstrating its innovative force," says Aaron Bensimon, CEO of Genomic Vision.

The molecular combing technology allows direct microscopic visualization of large genomic regions using fluorescent markers. They form patterns specific to genomic locations using a limited number of colors, a little like traditional Morse Code, hence the name Genomic Morse Code.

Example of the gene for the genetic predisposition to cancer BRCA1. Image acquisition and analysis remain sufficiently simple thanks to the limited number of colors. Since pattern recognition is based on the size, spacing and color of several markers, the combinations are infinite, allowing for the coverage of any number of genes. Rearrangements are readily identified as modifications in the expected pattern. Photo credit: Genomic Vision©.

High-resolution technology on single DNA molecules

Genomic Morse Code is the key to diagnostics applications that make use of this high resolution, single DNA molecule technology.

"Genomic Vision developed the GMC strategy in its effort to develop practicable diagnostics tests with wide coverage of the genome," underlines Dr. Pierre Walrafen, project manager at Genomic Vision and co-inventor of the Genomic Morse Code.

"The modularity and evolutivity of the GMC will allow the constant adaptation of diagnostics tests to novel discoveries in the field of large rearrangements, which is barely beginning to reveal its extent and its importance in human health," he adds.

Eight patent families

The patent portfolio held by Genomic Vision in sole or joint ownership is continuously growing, with eight new patent families so far, covering technical developments as well as biomarkers and specific diagnostic tests involving large genome rearrangements.

"With active research in this growing field, a powerful tool which provides a unique vision and a network of key expert collaborators, Genomic Vision is uniquely positioned to improve on existing approaches and make new discoveries," says CEO, Aaron Bensimon. "New opportunities, e.g. in cross-licensing, will arise from the biomarker portfolio which will be a strong support in the growth of Genomic Vision as a global player in the field of molecular diagnostics."

More about molecular combing : http://www.genomicvision.com/technology-molecular-combing.php

More information about Genomic Vision : http://www.genomicvision.com

SOURCE Genomic Vision