imaGenes GmbH passes certification process to qualify as Roche NimbleGen CSP for DNA Methylation Analysis

Roche NimbleGen (Pink Sheets: RHHBY) (SWX:RO) (SWX:ROG) is pleased to announce that imaGenes GmbH, located in Berlin, Germany, has passed the certification process to qualify as a Roche NimbleGen Certified Service Provider (CSP) for DNA Methylation Analysis. imaGenes is a solution provider for functional genomics and proteomics with a comprehensive portfolio of high-quality services for molecular life sciences. This is the second certification for imaGenes to provide service for NimbleGen arrays, following the successful certification as ChIP-chip CSP in December 2009, and makes them the first service provider in Europe with multiple certifications.

With this announcement, imaGenes now offers global DNA Methylation Analysis using Roche NimbleGen’s comprehensive array workflow. DNA methylation analysis is important as it regulates gene expression on an epigenetic level where erroneous DNA methylation may modify gene activity which can result in disease. The genome-wide analysis of DNA methylation profiles allows for the identification of novel genetic markers and opens up new avenues for the development of diagnostic and prognostic testing. Global DNA Methylation Analysis provides the possibility of large scale characterization of methylation status on a research sample.

“The awarding of the second Roche NimbleGen CSP certificate for our microarray services is a large achievement for us as we pursue becoming a premier provider for sophisticated service solutions in functional genomics. At the same time it is only a milestone, as we will certainly continue to move further with this technology in the future,” says Dr. Steffen Hennig, Director Bioinformatics & Services at imaGenes.

“In a field as dynamic as this, Roche NimbleGen is relying on cutting edge partners. We have high expectations in our certified service providers, particularly in the highly competitive European market. imaGenes has met this high standard and we are looking forward to future collaborations with them. We are convinced that imaGenes will further drive the penetration of Roche NimbleGen’s innovative products in the functional genomics market,” adds Dr. Andreas Görtz, VP of Marketing for Roche NimbleGen, Inc.