SGS has introduced a Sanger sequencing service at its Glasgow, UK, laboratory, to support genetic stability testing and perform identity testing on cell banks, plasmids, and viral seeds/vectors. The new service, which is available under Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) conditions, is supported by an investment in ABI Life Technologies’ validated 3500xl DNA sequencing technology.
Sanger sequencing is a method of DNA sequencing based on the selective incorporation of chain-terminating deoxynucleotides by DNA polymerase during in vitro DNA replication. The technology has a broad range of applications including cell bank characterization, virus seed and plasmid identity testing and genetic stability testing of cell banks. The service will complement existing services for this testing, to provide analysis and characterization solutions for clients involved in the production and manufacturing of biopharmaceutical products.
“Biopharmaceutical manufacturing is evolving and growing at an incredible pace, but the focus of both clients and regulators is on the assurance of quality and the safety of patients,” Dr. Archie Lovatt, Scientific Director at SGS Life Sciences said. “By investing in the sequencing equipment and integrating this new service into our laboratories, we are expanding and complementing our capabilities, ensuring that SGS can offer its partners the widest range of skills, services, expertise and experience.”
The Glasgow facility was incorporated into SGS in 2012, after the acquisition of Vitrology Limited, a biopharmaceutical contract testing organization specializing in the biosafety testing sector of the pharmaceutical industry. The facility underwent expansion in 2014, adding an additional 500 m² of laboratory space.
SGS leverages its wholly-owned global network, present in North America, Europe, and Asia, to deliver harmonized solutions to large pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms. In addition to testing services for the bio/pharmaceutical market, SGS also provides Phase I-IV clinical trial management, and services encompassing data management and statistics, PK/PD modeling and simulation, pharmacovigilance and regulatory consultancy.