By using Roche’s exome capture product, NimbleGen SeqCap EZ Exome Library, combined with Caliper Life Sciences Sciclone NGS Workstation, the Erasmus MC team will now look to discover more data with an automated exome sequencing sample preparation solution. In implementing this optimized automated solution using multiplex protocols for capture and sequencing, they are anticipating to complete this phase of the project shortly in processing and sequencing 3,000 samples in the next 3-4 months.
“The automated Roche capture platform was in our case the most optimal solution to analyse these thousands of DNA samples,” stated Prof Uitterlinden, Head of the Genetic Lab. “It will bring the large database we have been creating over the years of the Rotterdam Study to a new and deeper level of genetic resolution, hopefully leading to further exciting discoveries in the field of complex genetics.”
This exome sequencing study is being done in collaboration with the other members of the CHARGE consortium who are involved in a similar study in their respective cohorts. The study takes place within the framework of the NGI-sponsored Netherlands Consortium for Healthy Ageing (NCHA; www.healthy-ageing.nl ). In autumn 2011 the first data are expected to be available for analysis.
“We’re extremely excited to see our technologies selected for use in the Rotterdam Study,” said Frank Pitzer, CEO of Roche NimbleGen. “This sample cohort has been used to significantly advance our knowledge of age-related disorders and we are honored to have our technology adopted for use in such a comprehensive and well-organized study.”