Gyros Introduces new CD Microlaboratory for Gyrolab MALDI Users


UPPSALA SCIENCE PARK, Sweden, June 4, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- Gyros AB announced today the introduction of a new CD microlaboratory, Gyrolab(TM) MALDI IMAC.

Maris Hartmanis, President and CEO of Gyros AB explained, "Successful identification of proteins, especially those in low abundance, is crucial in proteomics and detection and identification of phosphorylated proteins is often a particular challenge. Gyrolab MALDI IMAC will offer users a unique solution for detection of phosphorylated peptides by MALDI mass spectrometry."

This new method offers a smoother, more reliable solution as compared to the mainly manual preparation options currently available. Protein digests are prepared in duplicate (2 x 48) on Gyrolab MALDI IMAC. Phosphorylated peptides are concentrated, purified and crystallized directly onto MALDI target areas on the CD. Each duplicate sample is subjected to the same process, but with the addition of an enzymatic step that should remove any phosphate groups before crystallization. The CD is transferred to MALDI MS for analysis. Phosphorylated peptides are detected by comparing mass spectra from phosphorylated and dephosphorylated samples. Any shifts in mass indicate that the peaks had contained phosphate groups before the enzymatic treatment.

Gyrolab Workstation controls each run through a specific software method, transferring samples and reagents into the microlaboratory and spinning the CD to drive up to 96 samples in parallel through each preparation step.

Dr. Hartmanis added, "Users of our Gyrolab MALDI solution already see the benefits of Gyrolab MALDI SP1, our first CD microlaboratory that offers two alternative sample preparation methods prior to MALDI MS. We are glad to add a second CD to our Gyrolab MALDI offering. Providing an increasing number of preparation options not only benefits Gyrolab MALDI users, but also demonstrates the flexibility and strength of Gyros technology platform."

About Gyros AB

Gyros miniaturizes and integrates laboratory applications, enabling scientists to generate more information from less sample and to improve lab performance. Using our proprietary technology platform, we increase productivity by streamlining the many steps of conventional applications into single, nanoliter scale procedures. Optimal environments are created for each application. A Gyrolab microlaboratory, in the form of a compact disk, can process hundreds of samples in parallel, under the control of Gyrolab Workstation.

Our company will realize the full potential of the Gyros technology platform in the fields of drug discovery and diagnostics. Initial product offerings are focused towards the growing area of proteomics. Gyros has more than 90 employees working at its headquarters in Uppsala Science Park, Sweden and in sales offices in the USA and Europe.

For further information, visit www.gyros.com or contact: Maris Hartmanis, President and CEO, Gyros AB Tel: +46 (0)18 566 330 Mobile: +46 (0)70 562 8617 Email: maris.hartmanis@gyros.com

Per Sjoberg, Executive Vice President Commercial Operations, Gyros AB Tel: +46 (0)18 566 318 Mobile: +46 (0)70 544 4799 Email: per.sjoberg@gyros.com

Sue Cresswell, Marketing Communications Tel: +46 (0)8 54472620 Mobile: +46 (0)70 551 9520 Email: sue.cresswell@gyros.com

Statements in this press release that are not strictly historical may be forward-looking and include risks and uncertainties. Therefore, though based on Gyros' current expectations, it should be duly noted that a variety of factors could cause actual results and experiences to differ materially from what is herein expressed. Risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, risks associated with the management of growth and international operations (including effects of currency fluctuations), variability of operating results, unforeseen changes in the diagnostic and pharmaceutical markets, market competition, rapid or unexpected changes in technologies, fluctuations in product demand, difficulties to successfully develop, adapt, produce or commercialize products, the ability to identify and develop new products and to differentiate products from those of competitors, as well as various legal hazards.

Gyros, Gyrolab and the Gyros logo are registered trademarks of Gyros AB.

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