Conference turris::scandia

48.0. "A Scandinavian "Gene machine"" by TLE::SAVAGE () Tue Feb 04 1986 09:34

    The Molecular Biology Division of the Swedish pharmaceutical 
    company, Pharmacia, has introduced a device called the 
    "Pharmacia Gene Assembler."  The first such machine produced
    in Europe, it is intended primarily for university and industrial
    researchers studying and developing genetic structures and
    functions.

    Simpler, easier to use, and less expensive than competitive 
    models, the machine can manufacture synthtic genes in a few
    hours and diagnose diseases involving genetic defects by 
    producing "quasi gene" probes.

    The actual synthesis takes place in two columns filled with
    "Mono Beads."  A microprocessor controls the chemical process
    that occurs in the columns, enabling nucleotides to be joined
    in a pre-programmed sequence to form the desired genes, or 
    pieces of genes.

    The primary target market is Europe, especially eastern Europe.
    Other markets include Asia and South America.  The machine will
    be available in the U.S.