University of Southern California Epigenome Center Selects GenoLogics to Provide Next Generation Data Management Solution

Victoria, British Columbia, Canada ─ November 10, 2009 ─ GenoLogics today announced that the Epigenome Center at the University of Southern California (USC) has purchased its lab and data management solution, Geneus, to manage its genomics and next generation sequencing data. Geneus also provides pre-configured integrations to many of Illumina’s platforms, thus increasing the value of this solution for the USC Epigenome Center.

The University of Southern California has a rich history in epigenetics research dating back to 1980 with the discovery of the effects of azanucleoside drugs on DNA methylation. The USC Epigenome Center was established in 2007 in affiliation with the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center to perform high-throughput analysis of genetic and epigenetic variations that underlie predisposition and progression to cancer and other diseases. According to Dr. Peter W. Laird, Director of the USC Epigenome Center, and Associate Professor of Surgery and of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, “We required a centralized lab and data management system for genomics and next generation sequencing research that would allow our facility to seamlessly track samples across many projects and automate data capture for integrated analysis. Geneus meets these requirements. Also, part of our consideration in selecting GenoLogics is that we wanted to work with a vendor that has a scalable, adaptable informatics solution that can grow with our operations and accommodate new applications in the future.”

Geneus, GenoLogics’ lab and data management solution for genomics, is architected to meet the unique needs of genomics research facilities and comes pre-configured with integrations to many technology platforms including next generation sequencing. Existing integrations to Illumina’s Genome Analyzer and BeadStudio systems means Geneus is ready-to-use for the USC Epigenome Center. By also deploying GenoLogics’ web collaboration tool, LabLink, the Facility will be able to share results with its customers and collaborators. “For high throughput research facilities such as the USC Epigenome Center, Geneus provides a scalable solution that can improve operations and efficiently manage their next generation sequencing and other genomics data all in a single system,” said Sal Sanci, VP product development at GenoLogics. “In addition, our open informatics platform is highly configurable allowing for integrations across instruments and other lab systems to enable integrated data analysis.”

The GenoLogics lab and data management solution, Geneus, is being integrated with Illumina LIMS software, which will enable automated data capture into and out of the Geneus LIMS. Geneus will be the primary LIMS system in the lab and it will manage all the data collected for the samples. Since Geneus also integrates to the Genome Analyzer it will be used to track samples, manage data, workflows and protocols prior to being run on the Genome Analyzer.

Geneus is expected to decrease overall lab workload by reducing labor associated with lab operations, as it will automate many of the activities that are currently being conducted manually.

GenoLogics provides research organizations with informatics solutions for multiple sciences and technologies. Delivered as a suite of products on a common informatics platform, our solutions manage lab operations, while integrating research data across domains and providing superior sample traceability. Along with an automated bioinformatics pipelining system and reporting engine, our solutions transform data into results and enable advanced analysis and early publishing.

http://www.genologics.com

About the USC Epigenome Center

The University of Southern California established the first dedicated Epigenome Center in the nation in July, 2007. Created with a $10 million gift from the Kenneth T. and Eileen L. Norris Foundation, the USC Epigenome Center occupies an entire floor of the newly constructed Harlyne Norris Research Tower of the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center. This 8,500- square-foot facility encompasses a state-of-the-art genomics laboratory and expansive dedicated bioinformatics facilities. The USC Epigenome Center conducts genome-scale epigenetic and genetic data production and analysis, technology development, and cutting-edge epigenomic and population-based genomic research.