Qiagen in distribution agreement with Whatman

Qiagen has signed an agreement with Whatman for the distribution of FTA products.

The sample and assay technology provider states that its non-exclusive partnership means that Qiagen will market and sell Whatman FTA and FTA-based kits to life science research, molecular diagnostics and applied testing markets.

FTA products are made up of a chemically-treated matrix that lyses cells and immobilises nucleic acids on contact.

This allows scientists to collect, transport and release nucleic acids at room temperatures using an "easy to perform protocol".

Peer M Schatz, Qiagen’s chief executive officer, commented: "This is an important and synergistic addition to Qiagen’s product offering in areas such as molecular diagnostics, pharmacogenomics, and biobanking.

"We believe that the combination of FTA-technologies and Qiagen technologies allows a very appealing, complete and synchronised workflow for our and Whatman’s customers."

Kieran Murphy, chief executive officer of Whatman, continued that the agreement will further strengthen the potential of DNA collection and storage technology.

The news follows reports that Qiagen’s QIAcube is now easier to use thanks to conversion of unmethylated cytosines to urasils using the EpiTect Bisulfite Kit.