Epigenomics AG Reports Extension of Blood Screening Product Collaboration

Wednesday, 22.03.2006, Berlin, Germany and Seattle, WA, USA, Epigenomics AG (Frankfurt, Prime Standard: ECX), a molecular diagnostics company developing tests based on DNA methylation announced today an 18-month extension of its collaboration with Roche Diagnostics on blood screening products for various cancers until September 30, 2007.

After licensing a panel of markers for a colorectal cancer screening test from Epigenomics in December 2005, Roche Diagnostics decided to extend the collaboration and to also continue work on the breast and prostate screening products for cancer marker validation employing the technology enhancements achieved for the last colorectal cancer study.

Under the extended collaboration, Epigenomics will take over tasks to validate sensitivity for all its improved blood screening tests for colorectal, prostate and breast cancer. In all of these programs, Epigenomics will expand its existing marker panels, optimize assays and validate them in patient studies, based on its proprietary workflows successfully established for the colorectal cancer screening program.

While the colorectal cancer screening work is scheduled to continue until end of 2006 with respect to Epigenomics´ contribution, Epigenomics will deliver results on marker panel performance studies and workflow adaptations until October 15, 2006 for prostate cancer screening and until March 30, 2007 for the breast cancer screening, respectively, when Roche Diagnostics will have to take a decision within 45 days as to the further continuation of these projects.

“The development of the colon cancer screening test has been very rewarding,” Alexander Olek, CEO of Epigenomics said. “We have gained significant knowledge in the development of this test that we will apply to the other screening tests and move them forward as fast as possible. Roche has now asked us to intensify the R&D on all screening tests under our joint program. We have always seen Roche as our preferred partner for these screening IVD products, and it seems that both parties are enthusiastic to extend the collaboration and may consider even further expansions in the future to approach these high volume markets.”

About Epigenomics
Epigenomics is a molecular diagnostic company with a focus on the development of novel products for cancer. By detecting and interpreting DNA methylation patterns, Epigenomics’ tests can potentially diagnose disease at an early stage and help guide physicians to select an appropriate therapy. Epigenomics collaborates with Roche Diagnostics on the development of several diagnostic products in cancer. The company has its headquarters in Berlin, Germany, and a wholly owned subsidiary in Seattle, USA. For more information, please visit our website at www.epigenomics.com.

# # #

Disclaimer
This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning Epigenomics AG and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of Epigenomics AG to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Epigenomics AG is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Contact Information

Hong Thieu

VP Corporate Affairs

Epigenomics AG

Contact via E-mail