Genetic products company,
Affymetrix Inc.
(
AFFX
), recently entered into a research and service partnership with
South Africa-based Centre for Proteomic and Genomic Research
(CPGR) organization. The CPGR organization will provide
Affymetrix's GeneTitan Multi-Channel (MC) Instrument along with
customizable Axiom Genotyping Arrays to the African research
community in order to advance high-throughput genomics research
and personalized medicine studies in Africa.
The GeneTitan family of instruments and the proven GeneChip Array
Plates are the company's first hands-free, automated solution for
recording gene expression and genome-wide SNP genotyping. The
device's unique features require minimal human intervention,
which in turn enhances laboratory accuracy and efficiency.
Affymetrix holds a leading position in population optimized
genotyping analysis and management believes that the partnership
with CPGR is in line with this strategy. The company is the
pioneer in developing a genotyping assays with its content
extracted particularly from the African population.
CPGR is a non-profit research organization funded by the
Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) to cater to the life science
and biotech researchers in South Africa. It was started under the
guidance of the Department of Science and Technology to develop
the bio-economy of the country.
Earlier, in August 2012, Affymetrix signed a 'Powered by
Affymetrix' ("PbA") Program agreement with a Singapore-based
molecular diagnostics company, PathGEN Dx Pte. Ltd. Per the deal,
PathGEN Dx adopted a contract manufactured GeneChip microarray
from Affymetrix and uses its own proprietary PathGEN PathChip kit
along with an automated software package to develop an in-vitro
diagnostic ("IVD") test for pathogen detection.
Our Take
Affymetrix is a leading provider of microarray-based products and
services to the global research community. Along with
Illumina Inc.
(
ILMN
), it is one of the two major providers of microarray
technologies, primarily serving the field of genetic research.
Affymetrix holds a leading position in the gene expression
products and services market.
Affymetrix is expanding its customer base through new product
launches and strategic alliances and has reorganized its business
to drive future profitability. Moreover, the company is pursuing
a number of strategies (including acquisitions and expansion into
new markets) aimed at expanding its top line.
However, Research and Development spending by Affymetrix's
customers have fallen considerably due to a weak macroeconomic
environment coupled with stringent government actions including
budget cuts.
We are currently 'Neutral' on the stock, which carries a
short-term Zacks #3 Rank (Hold rating).
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