Anthrax Detection System Now Available and Affordable Announces Genelex Corporation; Can Detect Deadly Anthrax Days Before Symptoms Appear.

Business Editors & Health/Medical Writers

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SEATTLE--(BW HealthWire)--Oct. 30, 2001

Genelex Corporation, a long-established DNA crime laboratory in Seattle, today announces the availability of a system that can quickly and accurately detect Anthrax and other potentially deadly bio-agents in the workplace.

Specifically, the system includes a sensitive, atmospheric monitoring machine that collects spores and other infectious agents in the 1 - 10 micron range and traps them in vials. The vials are then removed and sent each day via overnight delivery to the Genelex lab, where the contents are quickly analyzed. Within hours of receipt, workplace managers will know if their work environment is safe, or has been contaminated by Anthrax.

The vials that trap the particles contain a "neutralizing agent" rendering them inactive. Though neutralized, the DNA "print" of the particulate matter remains intact so that the contents can be safely and accurately analyzed at the laboratory. Dr. Carl Ton, Scientific Director at Genelex, states that, "Our test is precise, sensitive, and readily adaptable to recognize a long list of potential bio-terrorist agents including smallpox and Yersinia pestis, the plague bacterium. We use a fluorescence-based polymerase chain reaction (PCR) DNA test for detecting such organisms. These tests are the 'gold standard' for this kind of work."

According to Genelex CEO Howard Coleman, "This system allows companies and government agencies to protect the health of their employees and visitors. Should our lab discover a potentially infectious agent, important and early treatment can begin immediately." Coleman continued, "In the event of an attack by weaponized Anthrax, this early warning system could save many lives and limit disease."

When a positive Anthrax result is detected in the lab, Genelex will immediately work with the site managers and government authorities to implement a response system. Coleman continues, "Imagine knowing within hours that an outbreak is about to occur. Medicines and vaccines can be diverted to areas of need. Schools and hospitals can be notified to take appropriate protective action. All before symptoms occur."

The atmospheric-monitoring system costs $32,000 per year, which includes the air sampling machine, transport kits and a year's worth of daily lab testing. The machines arrive at the workplace ready to be plugged in. They can also run on batteries when necessary, in locations such as cargo holds of ships or airplanes, or locations where power is not handy such as the tops of buildings. Genelex employees provide simple instruction on how to correctly detach, replace and ship the vials.

In addition to the initial detection of Anthrax, Genelex can perform and coordinate secondary tests in conjunction with appropriate agencies to evaluate the pathogenicity and antibiotic resistance profiles of any detected organisms.

Genelex Corporation is a respected, accredited DNA crime and medical testing laboratory specializing in forensic, pharmacogenetic, and parentage DNA testing. Howard Coleman has given more than 100 lectures and workshops to groups, including the FBI, the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, the California District Attorneys Association, the Washington Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and the Institute for Science Training and Research. He has been quoted as a result of his genetics expertise in the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, USA Today, Newsweek, Science Magazine, and The Scientist.

For further information, contact Howard Coleman, CEO of Genelex at the number at the bottom of this release. Or you may contact India Simmons, PR Ink, Inc., at 425/742-6926.