New Platform for Performing HLA Genotyping

A new system for human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genotyping and antibody detection is designed to be fast, accurate, and cost effective. The system was announced at the annual meeting of the International Congress of Histocompatibility and Immunogenetics in Seattle (WA, USA).

Called LifeMatch, the system uses a sequence-specific oligonucleotide probe technique that utilizes fluorescent-labeled beads to simultaneously detect multicolored beads in suspension. A DNA sample can be tested with up to 100 different probes or antigens in a single reaction, reducing labor and reagent costs and interpretation times. The system runs on the Luminex xMAP platform using proprietary reagents developed by Orchid Diagnostics (Princeton, NJ, USA). The system was developed under an agreement between Luminex and LifeCodes Corp., which was acquired by Orchid BioSciences, the parent of Orchid Diagnostics, in 2001.

"With the range of LifeMatch assays for HLA antibody and DNA analysis we now offer, we believe that this innovative system is ideal for the large number of hospital and independent laboratories that perform HLA genotyping and antibody screening for bone marrow and organ transplantation,” said Donald Marvin, acting general manager, Orchid Diagnostics.




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