Sigma® Life Science and Switchgear Genomics to Co-Develop Simplified Novel MicroRNA Target Validation System

Sigma Life Science and SwitchGear Genomics, Inc. have announced a joint project to develop and distribute a novel microRNA (miRNA) target reporter system. Combining SwitchGear Genomics’ expertise with Sigma’s versatile lentiviral technology, these reporter vectors are expected to simplify miRNA target validation, enabling researchers to investigate gene regulation in a variety of biological pathways.

“This is a very exciting joint effort,” said Dr Nathan Trinklein, CEO and co-founder of SwitchGear Genomics. “We believe that combining unique technologies from SwitchGear Genomics with Sigma’s lentiviral technology and production capabilities will enable researchers to study miRNA function and gene regulation on an unprecedented scale.”

The genome-wide collection of reporter vectors is expected to provide effective miRNA target validation without the need for time-consuming and laborious reporter cloning. Use of Sigma’s patented lentiviral technology is expected to allow the regarded SwitchGear GoClone™ miRNA target sets to be used in a broad range of cell types, including primary cells and stem cells.

“We are excited to partner with SwitchGear Genomics on the co-development of this unique vector system,” added Dr. Supriya Shivakumar, Global Commercial Marketing Manager for Functional Genomics at Sigma Life Science. “By offering this novel reporter technology in a lentiviral format we are addressing specific customer needs and we believe we are helping to further fundamental understanding of gene regulation.”