Affymetrix has launched SensationPlus FFPE Amplification and 3' IVT Labeling Kit (SensationPlus FFPE Reagent Kit).

SensationPlus FFPE Reagent Kit, which comprises RNA amplification and labeling modules, is designed to enable gene expression profiling of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples on Affymetrix's Almac Xcel array, GeneChip Human Genome U133 Plus 2.0 array as well as GeneChip PrimeView Human Gene Expression array.

By using as little as 20ng of FFPE-derived total RNA, the kit generates sufficient target for complete gene expression profiling applications such as biomarker discovery and validation.

University of California Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center Genomics Shared Resource spokesperson Ryan Davis said, "Using this kit's quick and user-friendly protocol with minimal sample input, we were able to reliably amplify FFPE-derived RNA where reagent kits from other vendors had failed, enabling us to obtain meaningful gene expression data from Affymetrix' GeneChip? Human Genome U133 Plus 2.0 Array."

Affymetrix expression business unit general manager and VP Kevin Cannon said the launch of SensationPlus FFPE Reagent Kit is a complement to the company's microarray portfolio, providing researchers with proven and validated performance as well as a complete workflow solution for whole-genome analysis from their FFPE samples.

"Combined with our QuantiGene Assays for single or multiplex quantification of RNA targets as well as in situ visualization of RNA, Affymetrix is able to provide a complete portfolio of products for biomarker discovery and validation," Cannon added.