ZyGEM to Provide its Unique DNA and RNA Extraction Technology to Middle East Biomedical Innovator Saudi Diagnostics Ltd.

CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va., Jan. 26, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- ZyGEM Corp. Ltd., a developer and marketer of innovative products for the analysis of DNA and other nucleic acids, today announced that it has signed an OEM agreement with Saudi Diagnostics Limited (SDL) for ZyGEM's DNA and RNA extraction kits.  SDL was established by the King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSH&RC) as part of the Saudi Arabian government's drive to develop a biotechnology sector in the Kingdom.  SDL specializes in the development of molecular genetic tests that are unique in their relevance to Arab populations.

"SDL is a pioneering institution dedicated to the development and provision of advanced biotechnology products and services in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, and we are very pleased that they will be marketing our leading nucleic acid extraction products for a variety of research applications," said Paul Kinnon, CEO of ZyGEM.  "This OEM agreement is the most recent example of our ongoing strategy of partnering with innovative companies to bring the advantages of our accurate, fast and easy-to-use RNA and DNA extraction technologies to researchers worldwide."

ZyGEM's line of nucleic acid extraction kits feature optimized formulations of proprietary enzymatic technologies that use a single-tube process to provide complete extraction of high quality DNA or RNA from specific sample types rapidly and cost effectively.  ZyGEM's patented thermophilic enzymes have been isolated from the company's proprietary culture collection, consisting of rare microorganisms from extreme environments.

Established in 2007, SDL was the first company to offer molecular diagnostic tests in the Arabic Middle East that meet the rigorous College of American Pathologists (CAP) quality standards.  SDL is now serving as the commercial arm of KFSH&RC for developing and spinning-out new biotechnology companies.  KFSH&RC is Saudi Arabia's leading specialist hospital.  Its Research Centre is also the preeminent medical and biological research center in the region, with internationally renowned scientists and advanced research facilities. 

"At SDL, our commitment is to support the expansion of world-class biomedical research in Saudi Arabia and throughout the Middle East," commented Khalid S. A. Khabar, Ph.D., Director, Program in BioMolecular Research at KFSH&RC.  "Our relationship with ZyGEM, along with access to its leading DNA and RNA extraction technologies, will help SDL to rapidly develop and expand its product base and provide services at the cutting edge of science and technology."

Dr. Khabar continued, "For example, Al Bio is a recent KFSH&RC biotechnology start-up that will soon commence commercial operations, initially under SDL management.  Al Bio will provide regional research and medical institutions with a reliable local supply of key laboratory reagents at international quality standards, including kits incorporating ZyGEM's nucleic acid extraction technologies."

ZyGEM's proprietary technology significantly reduces the time and cost of DNA and RNA extractions while simplifying laboratory workflow, minimizing error, reducing the risk of contamination, ensuring sample integrity and facilitating extractions from trace samples.  It is easily adaptable for use with off-the-shelf laboratory automation systems.  The technology can be specifically formulated for use with a wide range of different sample types without the need for further purification.  ZyGEM's technology has been validated for use in highly regulated applications.

About ZyGEM
ZyGEM Corporation markets nucleic acid extraction solutions based on the company's exclusive collection of microorganisms from extreme environments, with applications in basic research, forensics, clinical diagnostics and agriculture.  ZyGEM's MicroLab unit is developing integrated sample-to-answer systems with the potential to revolutionize DNA testing.  For more information, visit www.zygem.com.

SOURCE ZyGEM Corp. Ltd.