Gribbles launches genotyping and sequencing service

Gribbles Molecular Science (GMS) -- a subsidiary of the Gribbles Group -- has launched a new service offering genotyping, full sequencing, sequencing cleanup and separations to researchers.

The GMS service uses high-throughput MegaBACE 1500 sequencing instrumentation from GE Healthcare, which is fluorescence-based and uses capillary electrophoresis. This technology has rapid sample turn-around times, and GMS aims to have a 24 hour turn-around for most projects.

"Having a local Australian facility with very cost-effective services will now give Australian scientists a significant edge in leading future research and commercial genetic applications," said Prof Ian Findlay, chief scientific officer of GMS in Brisbane. Findlay also said that in the past, many researchers have sent samples overseas to obtain cost effective, quality services.

Findlay runs the Brisbane-based research and development division of GMS, which was set up in purpose-built DNA labs early last year. The service arm of GMS is based in Melbourne.

GMS encompasses a range of genomic and diagnostic expertise including DNA sequencing, genotyping (including SNP analysis), and single cell analysis systems that have applications in forensics and non-invasive prenatal diagnosis of chromosomal abnormalities and genetic birth defects.

The Gribbles group, a AUD$280 million pathology and testing company, was recently taken over by Healthscope (ASX:HSP).