May 19, 2003 – Agilent Technologies Inc. is building on its microarray and microfluidic technologies to develop a line of products for agriculture and biotechnology applications, according to a company news release.

The first product is a microarray that includes genetic probes from two genomes. The design allows ag-bio researchers to examine the molecular basis of plant diseases and create environmentally sound approaches to improve food quality. It was developed with North Carolina State University, the release said.

Agilent officials said the new program builds on current efforts in the ag-bio industry, including chemical analysis equipment. The company said it’s responding to growing worldwide concerns about food quality and labeling.