Opportunity: Meeting the Needs of Genetic Researchers
In June 2000, the scientific community reached a momentous milestone, the complete
mapping of the human genome. But even before this breakthrough, molecular
biologists conducted new genetic experiments. They started with organisms with
simpler genetic codes, such as yeast, and worked towards more complex genomes and
partial strands of human DNA.
Once scientists had completely mapped the human genome, literally millions of new
tests were possible. There was no scientific field ready to grow as explosively as
genomics. Researchers sought new knowledge about the genetic basis of life, and in
particular, genetic markers for diseases. They anticipated advancing to experiments
with specific subsets of genes known to be related to a particular disease. They
foresaw a revolution in medical therapies.
Genetic experiments involved measuring the magnitude of DNA interactions.
Measurements were always comparative, between an experimental sample and a
control sample. Due to the complexity of genetics and the imperfect nature of the
laboratory apparatus, experiments were run multiple times, and conclusions drawn
on statistical inference. The high standards of proof expected in the physical sciences
were not possible in genetic research. Experimentation generated tremendous
volumes of data, and was computationally intensive.
To increase the speed and efficiency of genetic experimentation, researchers used
equipment that facilitated batch testing. One such piece of equipment was the DNA
microarray, a glass slide that contained thousands of microscopic DNA samples. An
entire genomics system included robots for “printing” DNA onto the microarrays,
optical scanners, which measured light emitted from reactions, and specialized
computers. As of the late 1990s, much of the technology was still new and not
completely reliable.
Affymetrix, a startup launched in 1992, supplied complete systems, including the
microarrays, and was the market leader. Affymetrix’ sold closed systems (you bought
all or nothing) which were not necessarily interoperable with other equipment on the
market. There was no other company selling complete, closed systems.
Many laboratories chose to “self-print,” that is, to assemble their own systems by
buying components from other suppliers. They cited the high price of Affymetrix’
products, mentioned that their in-house approach was at least as reliable, and
complained that because some of the inner workings of the Affymetrix system were
not disclosed, they did not have the flexibility and control they desired.