Dublin, May 09, 2008 (M2 PRESSWIRE via COMTEX) -- Assay Designs, a provider of immunoassay kits, antibodies, and reagents to the life sciences and translational research markets, announced a collaboration on a joint antibody research project with the Medical University of South Carolina and Dr. Jennifer Isaacs' laboratory.

Under the terms of the agreement, Assay Designs will provide anti-Heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) antibody for both cell-based and animal-based work.

This collaboration agreement will allow Dr. Isaacs to move forward with research investigating the role of Hsp90 in the progression of many cancers. "I am excited about the prospect of utilizing this antibody to target the Hsp90 chaperone and to potentially curtail the metastatic properties of some cancers. Moreover, we now have a new tool to explore the role of cell surface localized Hsp90 protein in cancer progression. Since this antibody is well-tolerated in animals, this approach paves the way for a promising therapeutic strategy, " stated Dr. Isaacs.

"As the leader in heat shock proteins (HSPs) and chaperones, collaborations such as this provide valuable insight for our new product development efforts," stated Dan Calvo, Assay Designs' President and CEO. "Supporting the validation of new and novel test protocols enhances the value and flexibility of our broad HSP product portfolio."