Seattle, Wash. – July 26, 2010 – Stratos Product Development, LLC announces its participation in the development of the OpGen® Argus Optical Mapping System, for Automated, Microbial Whole Genome Analysis.

The Argus Optical Mapping System is based on Optical Mapping Technology which generates ordered, whole genome restriction maps from single DNA molecules. Unlike current methods, Optical Mapping is not a gel-based, PCR-based or sequencing-based approach. It is a unique technology for generating whole genome, high resolution restriction maps that can be used in strain typing, comparative genomics and whole genome sequence assembly.

Stratos worked with OpGen to develop the Argus MapCard Processor, an integral part of the Argus Optical Mapping system. “Our work with OpGen on the Argus MapCard Processor enabled Stratos to execute a full-system development effort. The result is a best-in-class instrument that reflects a unique combination of technology and intuitive user interface,” Sean Macleod, President, Stratos Product Development said.

The Argus MapCard Processor project began with Stratos implementing a test-bed proof of concept model. This model enabled OpGen to migrate the enzyme chemistry from bench methods, to automated “lab-on-card” microfluidics. The production instrument developed by Stratos provides precise fluidic control driven by a custom pneumatic pumping system, and high-precision temperature control for the enzyme reaction. System usability is enhanced by a touch screen display, and automation sensors and controls at each point of user interaction, including map card insertion and removal.

To optimize the total user experience and efficiency of use, Stratos also created the Global Design Language and performed work flow analysis, industrial design and user interface development across the entire instrumentation platform. To learn more about the Argus Optical Mapping System, click here.

About Stratos Product Development, LLC
Stratos Product Development, LLC is a comprehensive product development consulting firm. Our seasoned professional staff provides strategy, research, design, engineering, verification, regulatory and manufacturing services to clients across a diverse range of market segments. Since our inception, we have been solving complex problems for companies like Microsoft, Abbott Laboratories, Nike, Cardinal Health and Apple. Our collaborative approach enables us to reduce time-to-market, anticipate problems and create compelling solutions for unmet needs in the marketplace. Founded in 1987, Stratos’ consultative, systems-based approach to product development and robust project management process have been the key to our clients’ success. We partner with clients worldwide, from start-up companies to Fortune 500 corporations. Our experience has shaped Stratos’ core business philosophy of Creativity, Adaptability, Responsiveness, and Excellence (CARE). For more information, visit www.stratos.com.

About OpGen, Inc.
OpGen, Inc. is a leading innovator of microbial genomic solutions. The company has developed a platform for its proprietary Optical Mapping Technology. Optical Mapping is the first technology that bridges strain typing and sequencing to correlate phenotype to genotype for generating advances in fields such as biodefense, outbreak management, agriculture, and clinical microbiology. The Argus™ Optical Mapping System and MapIt™ Optical Mapping Services deliver ordered, whole genome restriction maps from single DNA molecules. The platform provides automated, high resolution, whole genome analysis for strain typing, comparative genomics and sequence assembly of microbial genomes to the life sciences market. This de novo technology is free from the limitations of gel, PCR and sequencing-based methodologies and has broad molecular diagnostic applications that are currently in development. Our customers include biodefense organizations, leading genomic research centers, academic institutions, clinical research organizations and biotechnology companies. www.opgen.com
OpGen, Inc. Contact: Eric Winzer, CFO, 301.869.9683, ewinzer@opgen.com.

Contact:
Rebecca Dawson
Marketing Communications
rdawson@stratos.com
(206) 448-1388