MENLO PARK, Calif., Oct. 6, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pacific Biosciences of California, Inc., (Nasdaq:PACB) provider of the PacBio® RS II DNA Sequencing System, today announced that Human Longevity Inc. (HLI) has added Single Molecule, Real-Time (SMRT®) Sequencing technology to the repertoire of DNA sequencing technologies they are using to compile the most comprehensive and complete human genotype, microbiome, and phenotype database.
HLI selected the new instruments in recognition of the unique characteristics of SMRT Sequencing, which cannot be found in other available DNA sequencing technologies. J. Craig Venter, PhD, HLI's Co-founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer, said: "Each new sequencing technology has its own unique strengths, and we recognize the value of very long PacBio reads for covering regions of the human genome that we saw with Sanger sequencing. Long-read sequencing also provides higher confidence for calling structural variants and phasing haplotypes, both of which we think will be critically important for understanding the human genome. To get to a medical grade genome, or a genome that can be used for clinical diagnostic purposes, we need to have the most accurate and complete genome for each individual. We believe that the PacBio SMRT machines will help us reach this goal."
A number of recent publications and presentations have highlighted the advantages of using long-read SMRT Sequencing data to extend the view of human genetic variation. The long sequence reads provided by the PacBio RS II are complementary to short reads from high-throughput machines because they enable human genome researchers to, for example, sequence complex genomic regions, resolve structural variation, phase haplotypes, improve the utility and mapping ability of reference genomes, fill gaps, and validate variant calls. This provides the most comprehensive view possible of the human genome.
Michael Hunkapiller, President and Chief Executive Officer of Pacific Biosciences, said: "Even organizations like Craig's with access to high-throughput sequencing instruments are realizing that in order to capitalize on their investment they need PacBio sequencing to see what all other DNA sequencing technologies are missing. As we recently demonstrated with our Macrogen instrument sales, this is creating a great market opportunity for us. We are excited to be part of these large-scale initiatives and to be providing unique value to our customers."
About the PacBio RS II and SMRT Sequencing
Pacific Biosciences' SMRT Sequencing technology achieves the industry's longest read lengths, highest consensus accuracy, and the least degree of bias. These characteristics, combined with the ability to detect many types of DNA base modifications (e.g., methylation) as part of the sequencing process, make the PacBio RS II an essential tool for many scientists studying genetic and genomic variation. The PacBio platform provides a sequencing solution that can address a growing number of complex medical, agricultural, and industrial problems.
About Pacific Biosciences
Pacific Biosciences of California, Inc. (Nasdaq:PACB) offers the PacBio RS II DNA Sequencing System to help scientists solve genetically complex problems. Based on its novel Single Molecule, Real-Time (SMRT) technology, the company's products enable: targeted sequencing to more comprehensively characterize genetic variations; de novo genome assembly to more fully identify, annotate, and decipher genomic structures; and DNA base modification identification to help characterize epigenetic regulation and DNA damage. By providing access to information that was previously inaccessible, Pacific Biosciences enables scientists to increase their understanding of biological systems. More information is available at www.pacb.com
Forward Looking Statements
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