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Signature Genomic Laboratories, LLC launches its new SignatureSelect service.

Signature Genomic Laboratories has developed a new approach to cytogenetic analysis by screening for multiple clinical loci in one analysis using the latest in microarray technologies. The microarray analysis is performed with the SignatureChip™ microarray system that was developed and validated at Signature Genomic Laboratories.

Following the success of the SignatureChip analysis service that provides clinicians with a comprehensive coverage of 125 clinical loci, Signature Genomic Laboratories is excited to announce the launch of its new SignatureSelect service.

Based upon microarray technologies, this new customizable service allows the clinician to ‘Select’ exactly which loci they want analyzed from the list of 125 clinical loci currently offered by Signa-ture Genomic Laboratories. Using a new proprietary approach, SignatureSelect puts the clinician in complete control of the loci they want analyzed for their patient, while still benefiting from a 5 day turn-around time. SignatureSelect is more comprehensive than single fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) assays and provides greater resolution than existing standard cytogenetic analysis.

Lisa G. Shaffer, Ph.D., Technical Laboratory Director, commented “Finally, a test that was created for the specific needs of the patient and the flexibility that the clinicians desire. SignatureSelect is a unique blend of high-tech with personal service. This is a very creative approach to providing the best possible care for our customers”.

Bassem Bejjani, M.D. Medical Director noted “we developed SignatureSelect because many of our cus-tomers asked for it. Many clinicians wanted to control the number of loci to be tested. We felt that we should be responsive to their wishes. SignatureSelect adds another service to our menu and provides unique flexibility to the clinicians.”

Located in Spokane, WA, Signature Genomic Laboratories is the leader in cytogenetic analysis services using microarray based technologies. This revolutionary approach offers clinicians the opportunity to diagnose cytogenetic disorders in a fast, reliable, and comprehensive format and provide the best service possible for their patients.

Additional information on Signature Genomic Laboratories and its clinical cytogenetic services can be found on www.signaturegenomics.com

Spencer M. Howell

Marketing Director

HOWELL@signaturegenomics.com

Ambry Genetics Introduces A Powerful New Genetic Test for Hereditary Colon Cancer

IRVINE, CA (August 13, 2004) - AMBRY GENETICS, a leading genetic testing company, announced today it has added a new genetic test for hereditary colon cancer to it product line. The new test determines if a patient has MLH1 or MSH2 gene mutations indicating hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC).

“We are pleased to continue to expand our niche of specialized genetic tests to aid physicians and genetic counselors in the management of their patients,” said Anja Kammesheidt, PhD, Chief Scientific Officer of Ambry Genetics. “This latest test is built on the same strict design parameters that have made mutation detection so successful in Ambry Genetics highly-regarded Cystic Fibrosis test,” continued Kammesheidt.

The Ambry Test: HNPCC tests for germline mutations in MLH1 and MSH2 using its proprietary full gene scanning and sequencing approach. Mutations in MLH1 and MSH2 are responsible for the majority of hereditary colorectal cancers and also increase the risk for endometrial cancers. Once a mutation has been identified through genetic testing, it may be advantageous to test presymptomatic family members to assess predisposition. Benefits of HNPCC testing include improved patient management, earlier surveillance and greater scrutiny of patients with the HNPCC gene mutation.

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 130,200 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in 2004. Colorectal cancers are the third most common cancers in men and women.

AMBRY GENETICS

Ambry Genetics is a worldwide leader in specialized genetic testing. The proprietary Ambry Test™ combines scanning and sequencing technologies to analyze a gene's entire coding region plus surrounding critical introns. Capable of identifying more than 99% of the known disease-causing mutations of the CFTR gene, the company's highly-regarded Cystic Fibrosis test has an unrivaled detection rate of over 96% across all ethnic groups. The Company also created the world's first and only comprehensive genetic test for three principal genes (PRSS1, SPINK1 and CFTR) associated with Chronic and Hereditary Pancreatitis. Ambry Genetics most recent development detects mutations of the most significant genes (MLH1, MSH2) causing hereditary colon cancer, significantly optimizing patient management and risk assessment. Headquartered in Irvine, California, the Company's advancements are providing precise, cost effective methods to aid in disease definition and early, more accurate diagnosis.

Several academic and pharmaceutical research projects are underway, including expanded population statistical analysis and the development of assays for other genes. Website: www.ambrygen.com.

The “New Products” page is designed to offer you news and information from businesses serving the genetics community. We welcome your submissions. All submissions are subject to review by the Editor. For more information, contact Al Lucchesi, National Accounts Manager, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 530 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106; phone 215-521-8409; fax 215-521-8411; email alucches@lww.com.

Typical result from SignatureSelect microarray clinical cytogenetic service