Spartan Bioscience Inc, a Canadian molecular diagnostics company that develops, manufactures, and markets DNA analyzers for on-demand applications, and NorDiag ASA, a Norwegian biotechnology company that develops, manufacturers and markets automated nucleic acid sample preparation instruments and magnetic bead based reagents for assays that require the purification of nucleic acid from difficult clinical samples such as urine, feces, sputum and tissue announced they have signed a joint collaboration agreement with the intention of developing an end-to-end DNA preparation and analysis solution. The goal of the partnership is to provide an end-to-end solution for DNA analysis that is truly fast, affordable and user friendly. The basis of the collaboration is each company’s lab equipment which both have very small bench footprints and are easily portable. Pricing for individual systems is expected to be less than $15,000 each when both instruments are released in 2009. “The combination of the NorDiag ‘Arrow’ DNA isolation device with the Spartan DX-1(TM)2 DNA analyzer has the potential to change the playing field in the DNA analysis space,” said Mark Kershey, VP Corporate Development, Spartan Bioscience. “With a combined price tag expected to be less than $30,000 there will be nothing else like it. Each device is designed to complete its processing of 12 samples in 30 minutes or less making the entire workflow possible in less than an hour. This capability and its affordability will open DNA analysis to labs around the world.” “Tailoring our sample preparation to DNA analyzing platforms is an important element of our strategy. We believe that small flexible and affordable systems will enable smaller labs to widen their menu of diagnostics tests being offered,” said NorDiag CEO Marten Wigstol. “Even more important, new DNA based tests using samples such as urine, faeces and sputum will open up new markets and we believe that a small affordable solution is perfect for such emerging tests.” The companies will be unveiling their respective early prototypes at the Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) meeting and exhibit October 29 – November 2, 2008 at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Conference Center in Grapevine, Texas. Spartan will be located in booth # 215, adjacent NorDiag, booth # 216.