The Added Value of GeneArt Gene Synthesis

All that you hoped for… and more

Since 2000, scientists have trusted their work to Invitrogen GeneArt services—not only because we provide exceptional performance for a low price per milligram of delivered protein, but also because your genes arrive as requested and are backed by unrivaled support. But that’s not enough. You can also have peace of mind knowing that you can get the support you need. As your gene synthesis provider, we offer you dependability, optimized performance, cost-effectiveness, and a great customer experience. That’s the real deal.

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GeneArt gene synthesis services

 

We are ready for your project

With over 20 years of experience in the field of commercial gene synthesis, we are one of the longest-serving commercial providers and understand how challenging it can be to synthesize your gene of interest. We are proud to achieve a consistently high finalization rate for our customers due to our expertise and in-depth sequence analysis prior to initiating synthesis (Figure 1). Our scientists evaluate each project to help ensure success regardless of sequence complexity. We do what it takes to get your sequence synthesized.

Finalization rate of gene synthesis constructs
Figure 1. Finalization rates of gene synthesis constructs over two and a half years, with an average of 99.8% of finalized constructs.

Our commitment to quality

We adhere to specific quality management standards that help ensure stable, reproducible, and timely results for the reliable production of your gene sequence of interest. To this end, the products and services delivered by our manufacturing site in Regensburg, Germany is certified to the ISO 9001:2015 standard.

But what does this ISO 9001:2015 certification really mean?

Figure 2 provides an overview of important criteria included in ISO 9001:2015 certification, our everyday benchmark. Hover over the individual circles for more details.


ISO
certification

for your GeneArt project
  • 100% sequence verification

    100% sequence verification

    Sequence verification by a two-layer Quality Control System.

  • Compliant to biosecurity and biosafety standards

    Compliant to biosecurity and biosafety standards

    Compliant to applicable regulatory, biosecurity, and biosafety demands, e.g., for S1/S2 production environment or special export requirements.

  • High quality standards

    High quality standards

    GeneArt production facilities are regularly audited by internal and external auditors to ensure the high quality standards.

  • Focus on customer satisfaction

    Focus on customer satisfaction

    Daily meetings enable rapid responses to key indicators in order to keep our promise to the customer.

  • Continuous improvement of existing processes

    Continuous improvement of existing processes

    Continuous analysis and improvement of existing processes. Nobody is perfect.

  • Full traceability
    of our production process

    Full traceability of our production process

    Complete documentation and full IT integration of manufacturing process.

  • Dedicated complaint management

    Dedicated complaint management

    Complaint tracking and handling including all involved departments conducted via formal communications.

  • Change control process

    Change control process

    Process changes are coordinated, controlled, and documented via our change control process.

  • Safe working environment

    Safe working environment

    E.g., SHED (Safety, Health & Environmental Data) system for hazard identification and reporting to prevent and correct risks at workplace.

  • Customer property handling/data protection

    Customer property handling/data protection

    E.g., >5,000 different vectors handled as customer property; no third-party involvement—all information and material remain in-house; all data archived as part of GeneArt synthesis service but can be destroyed upon customer request.

Figure 2. Key attributes of ISO 9001:2015 certification for the production of GeneArt products.

Sustainability matters to us

Should you expect your gene synthesis provider to care about sustainability? Certainly. At Thermo Fisher Scientific, we take responsibility for our environmental impact. There is a growing amount of human-generated waste each year. Greater self-awareness by consumers is encouraging, but individuals are only part of a complex waste equation. Businesses must take stock, too.

As of 2016, Thermo Fisher Scientific has 13 externally-certified Zero Waste sites around the globe, including the production site for GeneArt projects in Regensburg.

What’s Zero Waste at Thermo Fisher Scientific?

Zero Waste

A site is designated Zero Waste after achieving 90% diversion from landfill of nonhazardous waste, and when waste is incinerated only as a last resort. For the facility in Regensburg, 0% of our waste goes to landfill. It is separated and recycled in a modern waste separation and power plant. These efforts are taken to avoid, reduce, reuse, and recycle as much as possible.

Here are some examples of how we reduced waste:

Package redesign

Redesign of GeneArt product packaging

  • Replacement of the original 20-tube rack with an 8-tube rack, for a reduction of weight by 54% and cardboard by 1,100 kg/yr
  • Fully recyclable cardboard
  • Increased functionality for customers
Argon Tank

Development of an automated reagent transfer system for oligo synthesis

  • Avoids manual handling of hazardous substances
  • Reduces labor time
  • Reduces glass waste by approximately 20 tons/yr and cardboard waste by 4.5 tons/yr
  • Saves costs for reagents and waste disposal
QAD Cloud Icon

Quality Assurance Documentation (QAD) data transfer via Thermo Fisher Cloud solutions

  • Optional download of QAD data from Thermo Fisher Cloud, instead of receiving a CD with the shipment; look for this icon
  • Eliminates CDs for QAD data, printed manuals, and product information

Start your expression with an optimal DNA sequence using GeneOptimizer

One of the advantages of de novo gene synthesis is the opportunity to make changes to the nucleotide sequence without altering the amino acid sequence. 

Codon usage is different in each organism, so it can be challenging to get expression in heterologous expression systems. Furthermore, regulatory sequence elements at the transcriptional, translational, and mRNA levels can limit recombinant protein expression. With our gene synthesis and DNA fragments services, we offer free sequence optimization using our proprietary GeneOptimizer software. During the optimization process your DNA sequence will be adjusted to represent your defined host codon usage, and expression-limiting sequence motifs will be eliminated to provide you with an optimal sequence for reliable protein expression.

Our sequence optimization can help increase protein expression levels compared to wild type expression. Figure 4 illustrates the results of an internal study comparing expression of wild type sequences with sequence-optimized counterparts generated with GeneOptimizer software, for five randomly selected different proteins and antibodies. Protein levels of the sequence-optimized constructs are clearly increased compared to the corresponding wild type constructs. Further examples of the impact of sequence optimization on protein expression can also be found in a large-scale expression study published by Fath et al. [1].

Open Reading Frames
Figure 4. Open reading frames (ORFs) of three intracellular proteins and two antibodies were optimized with the GeneOptimizer algorithm, and protein expression was compared to that of wild type counterparts.

Gene synthesis, subcloning into Invitrogen pcDNA3.3 vector, and plasmid preparation were performed by our scientists in Regensburg, Germany. Intracellular proteins (RFP, CREB1, OPRM1) were expressed in adherent HEK293 cells (2 mL scale) in triplicate and quantified by α-His western blot analysis. Antibodies (VRC-01, 10E8) were expressed in Invitrogen FreeStyle 293 cells (30 mL scale) in duplicate, and expression levels were determined via the BLItz system (ForteBio). The mean protein expression levels for each of the five proteins, for wild type and optimized sequences, are graphed in Figure 4. Protein expression was normalized to expression of the wild type sequence.

Increased protein yield is not the only advantage of sequence optimization. Sequences that have been traditionally difficult to clone due to the presence of unstable elements can be subjected to sequence optimization, which can result in improved cloning efficiencies and higher expression levels (2). Additionally, using GeneArt optimized sequences can help with overall experimental cost savings (see the Cost Effectiveness tab at the top of this page).

If your project doesn’t require the use of wild type sequences, let us help by starting with an optimized DNA sequence.

Learn more.

Reference

  1. Fath S, Bauer AP et al. (2011) Multiparameter RNA and Codon Optimization: A Standardized Tool to Assess and Enhance Autologous Mammalian Gene Expression. PLoS One 6(3): e17596.

Get more for your money—optimize your workflow and your budget

With GeneArt Gene Synthesis, you can increase your cost savings in two different ways.

a) GeneArt Gene Synthesis without sequence optimization: If wild type gene sequences are sufficient or required for your project, GeneArt Gene Synthesis can help save you time over traditional cloning technologies. All you need to do is place an order online, and your time will be freed up to do other things; you no longer need to optimize and troubleshoot your cloning steps. And time is money.
b) GeneArt Gene Synthesis with sequence optimization: In addition to saving time with our gene synthesis services, if your project can accommodate non-wild type, optimized gene sequences, you can also save on cost per milligram of protein (Figure 5). With the assistance of GeneOptimizer software, we have demonstrated that the expression levels for sequence-optimized proteins are far above those of their wild type counterparts (see the Optimized Performance tab at the top of this page). The amount of cells required for culturing and purification can be far less or one can make much more protein with the same amount of cells, which helps save both time and money in the overall experiment and thus can enhance your overall experience.

Cloning and protein expression workflow using GeneArt Gene Synthesis services
Figure 5. Cloning and protein expression workflow using GeneArt Gene Synthesis services, (a) without or (b) with proprietary GeneOptimizer software to optimize wild type sequences to improve cloning efficiencies and protein expression levels.

Please note that we also offer a complete suite of GeneArt protein expression and purification services.

Learn more

 

The online GeneArt Services Dashboard

For simple design and ordering of your gene synthesis projects

Nearly all of our GeneArt services can be ordered using this intuitive tool, which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can even perform in silico cloning and store your gene sequences, projects, and personal vectors for future orders. Save time and have full control and flexibility with these features:

Flexibility

Leverage this platform to support your gene's unique level of complexity

From single genes to complete workflows covering various product and service needs in modern research labs—all are available in one place.

Convenience

Use state-of-the-art ordering capabilities

Design, edit, and optimize with GeneOptimizer software, and order through this eCommerce platform that provides instant quotes, purchasing options, and suitable B2B connectivity.

Transparency

Get help along the way

Obtain complete visibility and tracking of your genes throughout the production process in real time in the Orders & Drafts menu. Quick help is also available via live chat or in the Support menu.

Control

Organize your downstream efforts

Receive immediate schedule changes regarding the finalization of your genes, to enable optimal planning efficiency and time management on your end.

Care

Access to a team of specialists 

Have no fear of getting lost. The GeneArt Services Dashboard was designed to be intuitive, but there is a global team available if you need to reach someone for that personal touch.

See what the GeneArt Services Dashboard can do for you ›

Contact info:

 geneartsupport@thermofisher.com

Europe
Tel: +49 (0)941 942 76100
Fax: +49 (0)941 942 76780

America and Asia
Tel: (800) 955 6288, ext. 60021

Live chat is also available here

Get started today

GeneArt Gene Synthesis Customer Care Group

A single point of contact for all of your gene synthesis inquiries

You have questions about products, technology, online ordering, project status, billing, shipping. Wouldn’t it be nice to have one contact team for these questions regarding your custom gene synthesis projects?

Our Gene Synthesis Customer Care Group serves as a single contact point, accompanying all customers from initial questions through the manufacturing process, up to final delivery of your gene construct. All of our customers across the globe have access to individualized project consulting. We care about your projects.




The Customer
Care Group

  • Optimal fit

    Optimal fit

    Wherever your research is starting, we can tailor the supply material for your genes in a manner compatible with your entire research workflow, from gene to protein.

  • Information is the key

    Information is the key

    We recognize that seamless information flow is a crucial part of your project design and execution. Both the ability to consult us for individual questions and the broad archive of educational information available on our website create a superior knowledgebase supporting your research.

  • Customer always first

    Customer always first

    Your GeneArt Gene Synthesis Customer Care Group is a team of scientists and specialists based in Europe and the US, always eager to provide the best technical and customer service.

  • Global sales support

    Global sales support

    For excellent support in multiple languages and time zones, the Customer Care Group is supported in the field by 35 technical sales specialists distributed all over the world, committed to assisting you.

  • Global technical support

    Global technical support

    In addition, more than 200 technical support scientists located at 18 sites around the globe provide in-depth assistance via email, phone, or chat in 11 different languages to nearly one million customer contacts per year. Winner of the Life Science Industry Awards for several years.

  • High-capacity capabilities

    High-capacity capabilities

    We service over 1,750 customers on over 7,600 gene constructs each month, so you can be sure we have the global capacity to meet your research needs.

  • Excellence through connection

    Excellence through connection

    The Customer Care Group is connected to you via your local TSS or account manager, and to your gene project via the manufacturing, logistics, and research and development groups. We have all the resources to provide holistic project care from initial idea to final delivery.

GeneArt It Customer Stories

Find out what other scientists are saying

It’s never been easier to synthesize your DNA. Read these customer testimonials to learn more about using GeneArt Gene Synthesis and other synthetic biology approaches to help simplify your molecular cloning and steer you towards success. Also feel free to share your story with us!

Read more

Dependability

We are ready for your project

With over 20 years of experience in the field of commercial gene synthesis, we are one of the longest-serving commercial providers and understand how challenging it can be to synthesize your gene of interest. We are proud to achieve a consistently high finalization rate for our customers due to our expertise and in-depth sequence analysis prior to initiating synthesis (Figure 1). Our scientists evaluate each project to help ensure success regardless of sequence complexity. We do what it takes to get your sequence synthesized.

Finalization rate of gene synthesis constructs
Figure 1. Finalization rates of gene synthesis constructs over two and a half years, with an average of 99.8% of finalized constructs.

Our commitment to quality

We adhere to specific quality management standards that help ensure stable, reproducible, and timely results for the reliable production of your gene sequence of interest. To this end, the products and services delivered by our manufacturing site in Regensburg, Germany is certified to the ISO 9001:2015 standard.

But what does this ISO 9001:2015 certification really mean?

Figure 2 provides an overview of important criteria included in ISO 9001:2015 certification, our everyday benchmark. Hover over the individual circles for more details.


ISO
certification

for your GeneArt project
  • 100% sequence verification

    100% sequence verification

    Sequence verification by a two-layer Quality Control System.

  • Compliant to biosecurity and biosafety standards

    Compliant to biosecurity and biosafety standards

    Compliant to applicable regulatory, biosecurity, and biosafety demands, e.g., for S1/S2 production environment or special export requirements.

  • High quality standards

    High quality standards

    GeneArt production facilities are regularly audited by internal and external auditors to ensure the high quality standards.

  • Focus on customer satisfaction

    Focus on customer satisfaction

    Daily meetings enable rapid responses to key indicators in order to keep our promise to the customer.

  • Continuous improvement of existing processes

    Continuous improvement of existing processes

    Continuous analysis and improvement of existing processes. Nobody is perfect.

  • Full traceability
    of our production process

    Full traceability of our production process

    Complete documentation and full IT integration of manufacturing process.

  • Dedicated complaint management

    Dedicated complaint management

    Complaint tracking and handling including all involved departments conducted via formal communications.

  • Change control process

    Change control process

    Process changes are coordinated, controlled, and documented via our change control process.

  • Safe working environment

    Safe working environment

    E.g., SHED (Safety, Health & Environmental Data) system for hazard identification and reporting to prevent and correct risks at workplace.

  • Customer property handling/data protection

    Customer property handling/data protection

    E.g., >5,000 different vectors handled as customer property; no third-party involvement—all information and material remain in-house; all data archived as part of GeneArt synthesis service but can be destroyed upon customer request.

Figure 2. Key attributes of ISO 9001:2015 certification for the production of GeneArt products.

Sustainability matters to us

Should you expect your gene synthesis provider to care about sustainability? Certainly. At Thermo Fisher Scientific, we take responsibility for our environmental impact. There is a growing amount of human-generated waste each year. Greater self-awareness by consumers is encouraging, but individuals are only part of a complex waste equation. Businesses must take stock, too.

As of 2016, Thermo Fisher Scientific has 13 externally-certified Zero Waste sites around the globe, including the production site for GeneArt projects in Regensburg.

What’s Zero Waste at Thermo Fisher Scientific?

Zero Waste

A site is designated Zero Waste after achieving 90% diversion from landfill of nonhazardous waste, and when waste is incinerated only as a last resort. For the facility in Regensburg, 0% of our waste goes to landfill. It is separated and recycled in a modern waste separation and power plant. These efforts are taken to avoid, reduce, reuse, and recycle as much as possible.

Here are some examples of how we reduced waste:

Package redesign

Redesign of GeneArt product packaging

  • Replacement of the original 20-tube rack with an 8-tube rack, for a reduction of weight by 54% and cardboard by 1,100 kg/yr
  • Fully recyclable cardboard
  • Increased functionality for customers
Argon Tank

Development of an automated reagent transfer system for oligo synthesis

  • Avoids manual handling of hazardous substances
  • Reduces labor time
  • Reduces glass waste by approximately 20 tons/yr and cardboard waste by 4.5 tons/yr
  • Saves costs for reagents and waste disposal
QAD Cloud Icon

Quality Assurance Documentation (QAD) data transfer via Thermo Fisher Cloud solutions

  • Optional download of QAD data from Thermo Fisher Cloud, instead of receiving a CD with the shipment; look for this icon
  • Eliminates CDs for QAD data, printed manuals, and product information
Optimized performance

Start your expression with an optimal DNA sequence using GeneOptimizer

One of the advantages of de novo gene synthesis is the opportunity to make changes to the nucleotide sequence without altering the amino acid sequence. 

Codon usage is different in each organism, so it can be challenging to get expression in heterologous expression systems. Furthermore, regulatory sequence elements at the transcriptional, translational, and mRNA levels can limit recombinant protein expression. With our gene synthesis and DNA fragments services, we offer free sequence optimization using our proprietary GeneOptimizer software. During the optimization process your DNA sequence will be adjusted to represent your defined host codon usage, and expression-limiting sequence motifs will be eliminated to provide you with an optimal sequence for reliable protein expression.

Our sequence optimization can help increase protein expression levels compared to wild type expression. Figure 4 illustrates the results of an internal study comparing expression of wild type sequences with sequence-optimized counterparts generated with GeneOptimizer software, for five randomly selected different proteins and antibodies. Protein levels of the sequence-optimized constructs are clearly increased compared to the corresponding wild type constructs. Further examples of the impact of sequence optimization on protein expression can also be found in a large-scale expression study published by Fath et al. [1].

Open Reading Frames
Figure 4. Open reading frames (ORFs) of three intracellular proteins and two antibodies were optimized with the GeneOptimizer algorithm, and protein expression was compared to that of wild type counterparts.

Gene synthesis, subcloning into Invitrogen pcDNA3.3 vector, and plasmid preparation were performed by our scientists in Regensburg, Germany. Intracellular proteins (RFP, CREB1, OPRM1) were expressed in adherent HEK293 cells (2 mL scale) in triplicate and quantified by α-His western blot analysis. Antibodies (VRC-01, 10E8) were expressed in Invitrogen FreeStyle 293 cells (30 mL scale) in duplicate, and expression levels were determined via the BLItz system (ForteBio). The mean protein expression levels for each of the five proteins, for wild type and optimized sequences, are graphed in Figure 4. Protein expression was normalized to expression of the wild type sequence.

Increased protein yield is not the only advantage of sequence optimization. Sequences that have been traditionally difficult to clone due to the presence of unstable elements can be subjected to sequence optimization, which can result in improved cloning efficiencies and higher expression levels (2). Additionally, using GeneArt optimized sequences can help with overall experimental cost savings (see the Cost Effectiveness tab at the top of this page).

If your project doesn’t require the use of wild type sequences, let us help by starting with an optimized DNA sequence.

Learn more.

Reference

  1. Fath S, Bauer AP et al. (2011) Multiparameter RNA and Codon Optimization: A Standardized Tool to Assess and Enhance Autologous Mammalian Gene Expression. PLoS One 6(3): e17596.
Cost-effectiveness

Get more for your money—optimize your workflow and your budget

With GeneArt Gene Synthesis, you can increase your cost savings in two different ways.

a) GeneArt Gene Synthesis without sequence optimization: If wild type gene sequences are sufficient or required for your project, GeneArt Gene Synthesis can help save you time over traditional cloning technologies. All you need to do is place an order online, and your time will be freed up to do other things; you no longer need to optimize and troubleshoot your cloning steps. And time is money.
b) GeneArt Gene Synthesis with sequence optimization: In addition to saving time with our gene synthesis services, if your project can accommodate non-wild type, optimized gene sequences, you can also save on cost per milligram of protein (Figure 5). With the assistance of GeneOptimizer software, we have demonstrated that the expression levels for sequence-optimized proteins are far above those of their wild type counterparts (see the Optimized Performance tab at the top of this page). The amount of cells required for culturing and purification can be far less or one can make much more protein with the same amount of cells, which helps save both time and money in the overall experiment and thus can enhance your overall experience.

Cloning and protein expression workflow using GeneArt Gene Synthesis services
Figure 5. Cloning and protein expression workflow using GeneArt Gene Synthesis services, (a) without or (b) with proprietary GeneOptimizer software to optimize wild type sequences to improve cloning efficiencies and protein expression levels.

Please note that we also offer a complete suite of GeneArt protein expression and purification services.

Learn more

 

Customer experience

The online GeneArt Services Dashboard

For simple design and ordering of your gene synthesis projects

Nearly all of our GeneArt services can be ordered using this intuitive tool, which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can even perform in silico cloning and store your gene sequences, projects, and personal vectors for future orders. Save time and have full control and flexibility with these features:

Flexibility

Leverage this platform to support your gene's unique level of complexity

From single genes to complete workflows covering various product and service needs in modern research labs—all are available in one place.

Convenience

Use state-of-the-art ordering capabilities

Design, edit, and optimize with GeneOptimizer software, and order through this eCommerce platform that provides instant quotes, purchasing options, and suitable B2B connectivity.

Transparency

Get help along the way

Obtain complete visibility and tracking of your genes throughout the production process in real time in the Orders & Drafts menu. Quick help is also available via live chat or in the Support menu.

Control

Organize your downstream efforts

Receive immediate schedule changes regarding the finalization of your genes, to enable optimal planning efficiency and time management on your end.

Care

Access to a team of specialists 

Have no fear of getting lost. The GeneArt Services Dashboard was designed to be intuitive, but there is a global team available if you need to reach someone for that personal touch.

See what the GeneArt Services Dashboard can do for you ›

Contact info:

 geneartsupport@thermofisher.com

Europe
Tel: +49 (0)941 942 76100
Fax: +49 (0)941 942 76780

America and Asia
Tel: (800) 955 6288, ext. 60021

Live chat is also available here

Get started today

GeneArt Gene Synthesis Customer Care Group

A single point of contact for all of your gene synthesis inquiries

You have questions about products, technology, online ordering, project status, billing, shipping. Wouldn’t it be nice to have one contact team for these questions regarding your custom gene synthesis projects?

Our Gene Synthesis Customer Care Group serves as a single contact point, accompanying all customers from initial questions through the manufacturing process, up to final delivery of your gene construct. All of our customers across the globe have access to individualized project consulting. We care about your projects.




The Customer
Care Group

  • Optimal fit

    Optimal fit

    Wherever your research is starting, we can tailor the supply material for your genes in a manner compatible with your entire research workflow, from gene to protein.

  • Information is the key

    Information is the key

    We recognize that seamless information flow is a crucial part of your project design and execution. Both the ability to consult us for individual questions and the broad archive of educational information available on our website create a superior knowledgebase supporting your research.

  • Customer always first

    Customer always first

    Your GeneArt Gene Synthesis Customer Care Group is a team of scientists and specialists based in Europe and the US, always eager to provide the best technical and customer service.

  • Global sales support

    Global sales support

    For excellent support in multiple languages and time zones, the Customer Care Group is supported in the field by 35 technical sales specialists distributed all over the world, committed to assisting you.

  • Global technical support

    Global technical support

    In addition, more than 200 technical support scientists located at 18 sites around the globe provide in-depth assistance via email, phone, or chat in 11 different languages to nearly one million customer contacts per year. Winner of the Life Science Industry Awards for several years.

  • High-capacity capabilities

    High-capacity capabilities

    We service over 1,750 customers on over 7,600 gene constructs each month, so you can be sure we have the global capacity to meet your research needs.

  • Excellence through connection

    Excellence through connection

    The Customer Care Group is connected to you via your local TSS or account manager, and to your gene project via the manufacturing, logistics, and research and development groups. We have all the resources to provide holistic project care from initial idea to final delivery.

GeneArt It Customer Stories

Find out what other scientists are saying

It’s never been easier to synthesize your DNA. Read these customer testimonials to learn more about using GeneArt Gene Synthesis and other synthetic biology approaches to help simplify your molecular cloning and steer you towards success. Also feel free to share your story with us!

Read more

Further Education

GeneArt Gene Synthesis Product Selection Guide

Gene Synthesis and Genes-to-Proteins webinars

The Cloning Support
Center

For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic procedures.

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