MetaMorphix Introduces Canine Heritage(TM) -- The First DNA-Based Diagnostic Test to Identify Canine Breeds.

Breakthrough Diagnostic Takes Guess Work out of Establishing Your Dog's Heritage

BELTSVILLE, Md. -- MMI Genomics, a wholly-owned subsidiary of MetaMorphix, Inc., announced today the launch of the first commercial, DNA-based, diagnostic test that can genetically determine the breed composition of dogs. Canine Heritage[TM] is a diagnostic test that uses MetaMorphix's state-of-the-art, SNP-based, DNA technology to certify up to 38 major breeds. The Canine Heritage[TM] test is easy to administer and requires only a cheek swab sample to be mailed to the company for analysis. Results are returned to owners in 4-6 weeks.

The vast majority of dog owners have no records or information about their pet's family history. The Canine Heritage[TM] test can fill that gap. Owners of mixed-breeds, as well as dogs without breed registration papers, can take advantage of this exclusive technology to directly determine pedigree. The identification of parentage is no longer a prerequisite.

MMI Genomics will introduce the Canine Heritage[TM] test kit at the Global Pet Expo in Orlando, FL, from Feb. 22nd through Feb. 24th. A list of the 38 identifiable breeds as well as more information on the new product will be available at booth #2885 and on the company's website at www.metamorphixinc.com.

"This is very exciting news for dog lovers," said Dr. Ed Quattlebaum, Co-Chairman and CEO of MetaMorphix, Inc. "The first question always asked of mixed-breed dog owners is, 'What kind of dog is that?' Now, owners need not guess and can say with certainty, 'The Canine Heritage[TM] test showed that my dog is a mix of Labrador Retriever, English Setter and Border Collie'. In addition to better understanding your pet's behavior, your dog's breed analysis can enable you to work more closely with your veterinarian to develop a lifetime health and wellness program."

In the US alone, rescue organizations and animal shelters account for roughly half of the 6 million dogs taken home per year and only 25% of these pets are purebred. Beyond an adopter's innate curiosity about their new pet, owners are interested in their dog's breed composition so they can make informed decisions that ensure happy and healthy lives for their animals.

MMI Genomics has long been a leader in animal DNA identity and parentage verification. For over a decade it has provided DNA-based parent verification for major dog registries such as the American Kennel Club (AKC), the United Kennel Club (UKC), the Professional Kennel Club (PKC) and a number of other canine registries and breed clubs. With the launch of Canine Heritage[TM], the company has expanded its DNA product line to include breed identification -- it is the first and only company to offer such a service. MMI Genomics was originally a division of Celera, the company well known for sequencing the human genome. It was acquired by MetaMorphix, Inc. in 2002, and MMI Genomics continues to work on the development of products that utilize the scientific tools obtained through the human genome project. MMI Genomics continues to use its state-of-the-art genomic platform to develop companion animal products, including additional breeds for the Canine Heritage[TM] test.

About MetaMorphix, Inc.

MetaMorphix, Inc. is a life sciences company dedicated to discovering and commercializing multiple technology platforms to improve human and animal health. The company and its corporate partners are developing products to substantially increase livestock quality and production efficiency, to improve companion animal health, and to treat human muscle degenerative diseases and metabolic disorders utilizing MetaMorphix's animal genomics and growth and differentiation factors (GDFs) technologies. MetaMorphix was founded in 1994; it has headquarters in Beltsville, MD, and lab facilities in Davis, CA.

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