Gemini Genomics Awarded Patent For Gene Predictor for High Cholesterol - Potential for Diagnosing Principal Risk Factor for Cardiovascular Disease.

Biotechnology/Health Editors

BIOWIRE2K

CAMBRIDGE, U.K--(BW HealthWire)--April 17, 2001

Gemini Genomics plc (NASDAQ: GMNI), a world leader in clinical genomics, today announced that it has been issued a patent (U.S. Patent No. 6,218,524) for a gene that can identify a predisposition to the type of high cholesterol that leads to the development of cardiovascular disease.

This discovery has two aspects: it could allow physicians to evaluate a patient's risk of developing elevated levels of serum low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or "bad" cholesterol and determine the most appropriate therapeutic regimen; and it identifies individuals who, independent of cholesterol levels, are at risk of developing coronary artery disease. This latest issued patent follows closely behind Gemini's diagnostic announcements and patent issuances, including the recent identification of two other novel genes linked to cardiovascular disease.

The patented invention stems from a discovery made by Dr. Frederik Karpe of the Karolinska Institute, to which Gemini has exclusive commercial rights, that specific polymorphisms in the microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) affect serum LDL-cholesterol levels and determine a predisposition to develop cardiovascular disease. The protein component of LDL is secreted from the liver. MTP, which is found mainly in the liver and small intestine, plays an important role in the protein secretion. Any phenomenon that alters the MTP gene activity may influence the serum LDL-cholesterol levels. Elevated LDL-cholesterol is one of the most significant factors contributing to cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. Gemini intends to license this discovery to pharmaceutical and healthcare companies for the subsequent development of diagnostic and therapeutic products.

"This invention is extremely significant, because it can be used as the basis for developing a diagnostic kit that would allow physicians to identify patients with a predisposition to elevated levels of bad cholesterol and the ensuing cardiovascular disease. Physicians can then work with their patients to implement lifestyle changes or drug treatment to contain this disease," said Dr. Paul Kelly, Gemini's President and Chief Executive Officer. "The discovery exemplifies the future of gene-based diagnostics and demonstrates our commitment to pursue the development and commercialization of disease-gene associations."

"Our data suggests that this common genetic variation of the MTP gene is likely to have important implications for cardiovascular disease. This genetic variation influences plasma LDL levels and we know that a reduction in serum cholesterol could decrease by as much as 50% the risk of future ischemic heart disease in 40-year old men," said Dr. Patrick Kleyn, Chief Scientific Officer of Gemini Genomics. "This discovery could have tremendous impact, because more than 2,600 Americans die from cardiovascular disease every day."

The company will host a conference call Wednesday, April 18 at 5:30 AM PST / 8:30 AM EST to discuss the patent. The dial-in number for the call is [phone] for callers in the US and Canada and [phone] for international callers. A replay of the call will be available from Wednesday, April 18 at 11:30 AM EST thru midnight Tuesday, April 24. The dial in number for the replay is [phone] for callers in the US and Canada and [phone] for international callers. The access code for the replay is 762998.

Gemini is a clinical genomics company focused on the discovery and commercialization of novel gene-based targets. Because it is clear that a comprehensive understanding of disease depends on the integration of genetics, proteomics, environmental factors and clinical and medical information from humans, Gemini's approach is to collect and analyze that information from a wide range of human population groups, including twins, disease-affected families, isolated (founder) populations and drug trial subjects. By investing in leading edge bioinformatics technologies, Gemini is able to effectively apply these resources to the acceleration of disease gene identification, target discovery, and drug development. Gemini aims to maximize revenue generation arising from the commercialization of its discoveries by retaining control over the gene discovery process and taking advantage of the greater potential value offered by later-stage licensing opportunities. The Company has offices in the United States, United Kingdom, Sweden and Canada. For more information about Gemini Genomics, visit the company's website, www.gemini-genomics.com.

Except for the historical information presented, certain matters discussed in this press release are forward looking statements that are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. These risks and uncertainties may be associated with product discovery and development including statements regarding the Company's clinical development programs, the expected timing of clinical trials and regulatory filings. Other risks and uncertainties include discovering and developing the potential application based on gene associations and developing increased understanding of complex disorders. Such statements are based on management's current expectations, but actual results may differ materially.