In the crossfire: Collins on genomes, patents, and 'rivalry'. Interview by Eliot Marshall, Elizabeth Pennisi, and Leslie Roberts

Range of separation of potential tool for bioseparation, microchip electrophoresis system, for DNA polymorphisms on the human Y-chromosome

For the requirement of a high, fast and sufficient technology to suit the needs of 21st century biotechnology, the separation range of a microchip electrophoresis system was studied. Two DNA fragments on the human Y-chromosome, SY594 (82 bp) and 12f2 (88 bp), were successfully separated with a reproducibility of 1.9% and an accuracy of 2.8%. Then, a mixture of 10 DNA markers ranging from 61 bp to 189 bp was successfully separated with high resolution. All of these results demonstrate the superiority of microchip electrophoresis as a tool for 21st century bioseparation.

Fruits of human genome project and private venture, and their impact on life science

A small knowledge base was created by organizing the Human Genome Project (HGP) and its related issues in "Science" magazines between 1996 and 2000. This base revealed the stunning achievement of HGP and a private venture and its impact on today's biology and life science. In the mid-1990, they encouraged the development of advanced high throughput automated DNA sequencers and the technologies that can analyse all genes at once in a systematic fashion. Using these technologies, they completed the genome sequence of human and various other organisms. These fruits opened the door to comparative genomics, functional genomics, the interdisprinary field between computer and biology, and proteomics. They have caused a shift in biological investigation from studying single genes or proteins to studying all genes or proteins at once, and causing revolutional changes in traditional biology, drug discovery and therapy. They have expanded the range of potential drug targets and have facilitated a shift in drug discovery programs toward rational target-based strategies. They have spawned pharmacogenomics that could give rise to a new generation of highly effective drugs that treat causes, not just symptoms. They should also cause a migration from the traditional medications that are safe and effective for every members of the population to personalized medicine and personalized therapy.

Recent advances in DNA sequencing by capillary and microdevice electrophoresis

A number of significant improvements in the electrophoretic performance and design of DNA sequencing devices have culminated in the introduction of truly industrial grade production scale instruments. These instruments have been the workhorses behind the massive increase in genomic sequencing data available in public and private databases. We highlight the recent progress in aspects of capillary electrophoresis (CE) that has enabled these achievements. In addition, we summarize recent developments in the use of microfabricated devices for DNA sequencing that promise to bring the next leap in productivity.

Quo vadis, biotech? (Part 1)

The recent increase in the capitalization value of the biotechnology industry appears to be sustainable. The phenomenon is interpreted as an acknowledgement by the markets that this industry has become the main source of innovation for the pharmaceutical industry. In addition, biotechnology is beginning to impact on other industries. However, from a methodological and strategic point of view, the biotechnology industry is still too fragmented. Consolidation along the lines of value generation in drug research and development, however, will occur. Over the next 5 to 10 years, the biotechnology industry will remain the fastest growing industry in the health care arena.