Affymetrix and SmithKline Beecham Forge Strategic Partnership for Gene Expression Monitoring Research

Strategic Insights -

SmithKline Beecham, a pharmaceutical company, has secured exclusive access to Affymetrix's GeneChip arrays and a license to use the technology for internal research purposes. This significant partnership enables SmithKline Beecham to leverage Affymetrix's cutting-edge technology for gene expression monitoring, advancing their pharmaceutical research and development activities. The agreement includes preferential access to custom GeneChip products, allowing SmithKline Beecham to create tailored arrays for their specific research needs.

Key Takeaways:

  • Affymetrix has granted SmithKline Beecham a license to use mechanically fabricated nucleic acid arrays for gene expression monitoring experiments.
  • The license includes access to preferential volume discount pricing arrangements, known as EasyAccess Silver, for GeneChip arrays, instrumentation, and software.
  • SmithKline Beecham will pay an annual usage fee linked to the number of array-based experiments performed worldwide.
  • The partnership provides access to custom GeneChip products based on gene sequence or database information available to SmithKline Beecham.
  • Affymetrix intends to expand its licensing program to other internal users of spotted arrays.
  • The company's GeneChip system consists of disposable DNA probe arrays, reagents, scanners, instruments, and software for acquiring, analyzing, and managing genetic information.

Statistics:

  • The partnership will involve an annual usage fee linked to the number of array-based experiments performed by SmithKline Beecham worldwide.
  • Affymetrix' GeneChip system has the potential to improve the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of disease by acquiring, analyzing, and managing complex genetic information.
  • As of 1998, the company had developed and intended to establish its GeneChip system as the platform of choice for acquiring, analyzing, and managing genetic information.

Sources:

  • Affymetrix, Inc. (1998). PRNewswire. www.affymetrix.com.