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"one of the world's leading DNA labs (March 4, 2004)
ReliaGene Technologies Inc. was recognized for “Best Application of Technology” in yesterday’s first annual Technology “Ewards” Gala, hosted by the Louisiana Technology Council (LTC) and Greater New Orleans Inc. (GNO Inc.). The “Ewards” were created to showcase and recognize companies, organizations and individuals in the greater New Orleans region who made a positive impact in the technology field during 2003.
ReliaGene, founded in 1990 and based in the New Orleans metro area, has grown into one of the world’s leading DNA laboratory facilities for human genetic identification and related bio-tech product development. With cutting-edge capabilities for forensic and paternity DNA testing, ReliaGene has now successfully detected human genetic profiles from over 400,000 biological samples, including cases from all 50 states and over 35 countries worldwide. Much of the lab’s work relates to extremely challenging criminal investigations, and ReliaGene experts have provided crucial court testimony in hundreds of trials across the country.
In addition, ReliaGene is a pioneer in the development of Y-STR testing, a technology which profiles genetic markers on the male Y chromosome. In 2003, the lab used this technology to provide the crucial piece of evidence linking South Louisiana serial killer suspect Derrick Todd Lee to a sixth homicide (Geralyn DeSoto). No doubt this case contributed heavily to ReliaGene’s selection for “Best Application of Technology.”
“We are extremely proud of this achievement,” said Dr. Sudhir Sinha, ReliaGene’s founder and president, after receiving the award. “It is a tremendous feeling to be recognized for our hard work and scientific contributions, but it is also encouraging that there is recognition of the importance of technology companies, especially bio-tech companies, in Louisiana’s economic landscape. We hope this trend continues, and that our success paves the way for other bio-tech firms to start-up or relocate here.”
Bio-ID Products Spark Substantial Growth
ReliaGene not only performs Y-STR testing, it has developed a groundbreaking genotyping product, called Y-PLEX™, which enables other labs to execute this increasingly important test with wide application in areas such as forensic and paternity testing, research and genealogy studies. First released in 2000, Y-PLEX™ genotyping systems have now been sold extensively in the U.S. and over 40 countries worldwide, with market demand increasing steadily.
Encouraged by this dramatic success, ReliaGene is planning to expand its research and development division into a subsidiary focusing entirely on bio-ID products, a market with tremendous potential. Several other innovative bio-ID products are already in development which are anticipated to meet with strong market demand.
The President’s DNA Initiative has proposed $1 billion in funding over 5 years to alleviate forensic DNA testing backlogs and stimulate research and development. ReliaGene is poised to benefit substantially from this, both as a forensic testing laboratory with outstanding experience and qualifications, and as a high-end bio-ID product manufacturer with in-depth market expertise.
The company currently has over 60 employees, with a growth of 5-10 positions projected by the end of 2004, and a staff of over 100 projected by the end of 2006.
For more information, please visit ReliaGene’s website at www.reliagene.com or contact Jonathan Tabak at jtabak@reliagene.com or 504-734-9700, ext. 111.
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