Gyros AB adds new functionality to Gyrolab MALDI SP1 and extends compatibility with MALDI instrumentation

Gyros AB adds new functionality to Gyrolab MALDI SP1 and extends compatibility with MALDI instrumentation Gyros AB announced today that users of Gyrolab MALDI can now employ the latest chemically assisted fragmentation when preparing protein digests for peptide sequencing by MALDI mass spectrometry (MALDI MS). MALDI MS is a key technique used for protein identification in proteomics. Gyrolab MALDI offers a unique, miniaturized and integrated process for sample preparation prior to MALDI MS that increases the success rate of protein identification, particularly when working with low abundance proteins. Gyrolab MALDI SP1, a microlaboratory in the form of a compact disk (CD), concentrates and purifies the protein digests that are used for identification, crystallizing them directly onto MALDI target areas on the CD. The CD is transferred to MALDI MS for analysis and identification by peptide mass fingerprinting. For those proteins that cannot be identified from the peptide mass fingerprint, researchers turn to MALDI PSD or MALDI MS/MS instruments to sequence the peptides. However, the mass spectra obtained are often complex and difficult to interpret. Recently, specific chemical modification of protein digests prior to analysis has been shown to significantly improve results by controlling the way in which peptides are fragmented in the MALDI instrument, so-called chemically assisted fragmentation. When required, users can now include this chemical modification within the sample preparation process on Gyrolab MALDI SP1, further enhancing the chance for positive identification. Gyrolab Workstation controls each run through the specific software method, transferring samples and reagents into the microlaboratory and spinning the CD to drive up to 96 samples in parallel through each preparation step. "Excellent sample preparation is crucial for high sensitivity MS analysis and successful protein identification" explained Per Sjöberg, Executive Vice President Commercial Operations at Gyros AB, "Adding new functionality to Gyrolab MALDI SP1 by developing a new software method clearly demonstrates the flexibility of our technology platform concept and offers our customers an important alternative route to successful protein identification. Mr. Sjöberg confirmed the interest of mass spectrometry suppliers: "Projects with Bruker Daltonics and Shimadzu Biotech have resulted in accessories that ensure compatibility with their latest MALDI instruments. Testing and discussions are underway with other manufacturers. We are extremely pleased that so many key players in mass spectrometry are acknowledging the benefits of our unique approach to sample preparation." About Gyros AB Gyros miniaturizes and integrates laboratory applications, enabling scientists to generate more information from less sample and to improve lab performance. Using our proprietary technology platform, we increase productivity by streamlining the many steps of conventional applications into single, nanoliter scale procedures. Optimal environments are created for each application. A Gyrolab microlaboratory, in the form of a compact disk, can process hundreds of samples in parallel, under the control of Gyrolab Workstation. Our company will realize the full potential of the Gyros technology platform in the fields of drug discovery and diagnostics. Initial product offerings are focused towards the growing area of proteomics. Gyros has more than 90 employees working at its headquarters in Uppsala Science Park, Sweden and in sales offices in the USA and Europe. For further information, visit www.gyros.com or contact: Maris Hartmanis, President and CEO, Gyros AB Tel: +46 (0)18 566 330 Mobile: +46 (0)70 562 8617 Email: maris.hartmanis@gyros.com Per Sjöberg, Executive Vice President Commercial Operations, Gyros AB Tel: +46 (0)18 566 318 Mobile: +46 (0)70 544 4799 Email: per.sjoberg@gyros.com Sue Cresswell, Marketing Communications Tel: +46 (0)8 54472620 Mobile: +46 (0)70 551 9520 Email: sue.cresswell@gyros.com Statements in this press release that are not strictly historical may be forward-looking and include risks and uncertainties. Therefore, though based on Gyros' current expectations, it should be duly noted that a variety of factors could cause actual results and experiences to differ materially from what is herein expressed. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks associated with the management of growth and international operations (including effects of currency fluctuations), variability of operating results, unforeseen changes in the diagnostic and pharmaceutical markets, market competition, rapid or unexpected changes in technologies, fluctuations in product demand, difficulties to successfully develop, adapt, produce or commercialize products, the ability to identify and develop new products and to differentiate products from those of competitors, as well as various legal hazards. Gyros, Gyrolab and the Gyros logo are registered trademarks of Gyros AB. ------------------------------------------------------------ This information was brought to you by Waymaker http://www.waymaker.net The following files are available for download: http://www.waymaker.net/bitonline/2003/03/31/20030328BIT01090/wkr0001.doc http://www.waymaker.net/bitonline/2003/03/31/20030328BIT01090/wkr0002.pdf