Checkpoint Genetics Inc. Appoints John McTear to Direct Finance and Investment Activities.

Health/Medical Writers

WEST CHESTER, Pa.--(BW HealthWire)--March 23, 2001

Checkpoint Genetics Inc., an operating unit of Checkpoint Genetics Pharmaceuticals Inc. (OTC:CKPT) with cardiovascular disease preventing technology derived from a Traditional Japanese Diet, announced today the appointment of John McTear as the company's Director of Finance and Administration.

A recognized finance executive, McTear, has more than 15 years' experience in financial and managerial accounting with development-stage biotechnology and consumer product companies.

In this active role, he will lead the management team in day-to-day financial transactions, as well as guide the company's strategic direction with prospective investment partners and technology licensing negotiations.

Commenting on the appointment, Nathan Tzodikov, Ph.D., President and CEO of Checkpoint Genetics Inc., said: "I am very pleased that John is joining us, bringing his 15 years' experience in financial management and strategic advice to development activities. He will be instrumental in mobilizing our next phase of investment and technology licensing."

McTear served as controller at Cooper Biomedical Inc. and Vice President at EDI Able Inc. He trained in business and accounting at Widener University.

Checkpoint Genetics Inc., is a privately controlled pharmaceutical company focused on the development and commercialization of products for prevention of cardiovascular diseases and the maintenance of heart health.

Checkpoint Genetics' proprietary development program is based upon small molecule regulation of cell cycle signals associated with cardiovascular disease.

Checkpoint Genetics leverages these developments with commercialization of dietary supplements derived from the active principles of Sea-vegetables, an important component of a traditional Japanese diet. A society recognized as having a notably lower incidence of heart disease reflects their marine diet that includes sea-vegetable consumption.

Except for historical information, certain statements in this press release constitute "forward-looking statements" that are subject to risks and uncertainties, which may cause the actual results of the company to be different from expectations express or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to, uncertainty of market acceptance of the company's products, the uncertainty of expenses associated with clinical trials and research efforts that may affect the continued profitability of the company, uncertainty of regulatory approvals, the timing and content of decisions by the FDA, the uncertainty of market conditions and other risk factors detailed in the company's SEC filings.