Oxford Gene Technology (OGT), provider of innovative clinical genetics and diagnostic solutions to advance molecular medicine, has released a major new update to its CytoSure^TM Interpret Software for array Comparative Genomic Hybridisation (aCGH) analysis. By utilising an entirely new relational database design, the software now allows sample data to be stored and analysed in accordance to its relationship with other data. For example, samples can be segregated into different projects by sample type or by user, thereby simplifying analysis. It can also perform common analysis steps automatically via the "Accelerate Workflow" mode, which significantly speeds up analysis, especially when working with a large number of samples. The intuitive graphical interface detects DNA regions exhibiting genomic variation, with results presented in an easy-to-use report, annotated with the relevant syndromes, genes, exons, and segmental duplications. This also includes links to external databases, putting each variation in context and helping to highlight the biological implications of the data generated. In addition, this latest software release incorporates a number of cancer annotation tracks, enabling meaningful interpretation of results obtained using OGT's growing portfolio of CytoSure Cancer arrays.

Dr. Agne Liedén from the Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery at the Karolinska Institutet, who has recently integrated the new CytoSure Interpret Software into his laboratory's workflow, commented: "I have been extremely impressed with the ease-of-use and flexibility of the software. In our experience, OGT is very responsive to customer feedback and has produced an excellent software package." OGT's CEO, Dr Mike Evans, said: "The new update is part of OGT's overall strategy, which is dedicated to providing products and services that convert complex datasets into easily interpretable, meaningful results. Our aim is to allow researchers to focus all of their time and energy on investigating the biology, rather than sifting through their data. In this case, constant innovation ensures that our CytoSure Interpret Software remains the industry-leading aCGH analysis software, and our dedicated software development team are continually implementing enhanced features and capabilities in response to customer feedback and new developments in the field."

To complement OGT's growing range of proprietary arrays containing both CNV and SNP probes, CytoSure Interpret Software can identify DNA regions exhibiting copy number variation, loss of heterozygosity and mosaicism. The latest update also provides a unique ‘Family Tree' view, which makes it easy to examine inheritance patterns in up to three generations of the same family. In addition, to further ensure reliable, consistent results, the latest version of CytoSure Interpret Software incorporates permission-based account management. This allows individual users to be assigned specific, customisable access to system functionality and delivers a comprehensive audit trail of any workflow changes, thereby providing consistency of analysis and reporting.

For more information about OGT's CytoSure Interpret Software, or the company's other genomic and biomarker services and products, visit the new OGT website at www.ogt.co.uk.