- LPLchip(R) Rapidly and Precisely Detects Mutations Causing
LPL Deficiency, a Cause of Acute Pancreatitis

    - LPLchip(R) Identifies Patients who Could Benefit From Gene
Therapy, Such as AMT's Glybera(R), Currently Under Review for EU Approval

    Progenika Biopharma S.A., a pioneer in the field of
personalized medicine, announced today that it has obtained the CE Mark
allowing the sale in Europe of its LPLchip(R), the first DNA chip to detect
mutations in the lipoprotein lipase (LPL) gene. This diagnostic tool rapidly
diagnoses patients with complete and partial lipoprotein lipase deficiency
(LPLD). The test has been developed under an agreement with Amsterdam
Molecular Therapeutics Holding N.V. (Euronext: AMT), which has a gene therapy
for patients with LPLD.

    LPLD is characterised by a marked increase in triglycerides
which can lead to serious complications such as acute recurring pancreatitis.
Given the progressive nature of LPLD, early diagnosis is crucial to patients
in order to reduce mortality and morbidity. The LPLchip(R) can precisely,
quickly and economically detect more than 120 mutations in the LPL gene. The
test uses Progenika's pioneering advanced DNAchip technology, which offers
reliable and fast diagnosis. All that is required for analysis using the
LPLchip(R) is a blood or saliva sample.

    At present, there is no approved treatment for LPLD, only
lifestyle moderation guidelines to minimize diets rich in fat. However, AMT
has developed a new genetic treatment for LPLD, Glybera(R), which has been
filed for marketing authorization with the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in
early 2010. A decision on the approval is expected mid-2011.

    Long term follow-up of two clinical studies conducted in
Europe and Canada is ongoing, as is a third clinical study in Canada. In
these three studies, Glybera(R) has shown a sizeable decrease in the
incidence of pancreatitis, or acute inflammation of the pancreas, the most
debilitating complication of LPLD. In addition, these studies indicate that
Glybera(R) has an excellent safety profile.

    About Progenika

    The Progenika Group develops biochips in the field of
personalised medicine aimed at the diagnosis, prognosis and prediction of
response to treatment of complex illnesses in humans. The company offers
molecular diagnostic tools in areas such as oncology, lipids, and nervous
system disorders as well as the optimisation of their treatment.

    Paramount among its technological developments are the
LIPOchip(R) for the diagnosis of Familial Hypercholesterolaemia, and the
BLOODchip(R) for ensuring compatibility in blood transfusions.

    Founded in the year 2000, its research, development and
production centres are located in the Biscay Technological Park and in
Cambridge (Massachusetts, USA). It also has laboratories in the United Arab
Emirates and in Kuwait. It has also set up commercial and intellectual
property offices in Madrid and London.

    At present, more than 150 scientists work in the company
facilities and the company's products are sold in America, Europe and the
Middle East.

    http://www.progenika.com

    PRN NLD

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