Suracell Selects BioServe as Testing and Technology Partner to Build Its Personal Genetic Health and Information Technology Businesses


LAUREL, MD--(Marketwire - June 25, 2007) - BioServe, a leading provider of genetic testing services, today announced that it has been selected by Suracell, Inc. as its exclusive DNA testing partner.

Suracell, a leader in the emerging field of personal genetic health, has developed a proprietary and fully integrated information technology platform to identify genetic markers related to a number of biological processes that have been shown to be associated with healthy aging.

Suracell's proprietary DNA assessment is a key component of an innovative personal genetic health program that provides the basis for developing personalized recommendations. Suracell's programs are formulated to address each person's unique genetic inheritance as it relates to healthy aging.

Suracell has also developed a proprietary "genetic testing web portal" that provides an integrated solution to the collection and processing of samples from a single source or multiple sources and dissemination of the results of both DNA testing and other specialized laboratory tests.

Through this agreement, BioServe will receive samples collected from patients seeking to take advantage of Suracell's unique programs. BioServe extracts DNA from a buccal swab collected from the de-identified patient. Next, the DNA quality is verified before undergoing analysis using a panel of proprietary single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) selected by Suracell. BioServe then transmits the analyzed data back to Suracell using Suracell's proprietary information technology platform. Suracell subsequently delivers the results to the requesting physicians and health care practitioners. BioServe is one of the few DNA testing laboratories that have been awarded the CLIA certification, the highest standard in lab certification.

In addition, BioServe is the first company providing DNA testing services to utilize Suracell's proprietary "genetic testing web portal." This portal provides a single point of access for physicians and health care centers, allowing them to use the internet to order genetic testing services for patients from participating laboratory service providers, as well as allowing for secure online delivery of test results in a format of their choosing. It also provides composite results based on input from multiple tests and other relevant data.

Bernie Landes, Suracell Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, "Suracell's 'Personal Genetic Health' program and its proprietary Information Technology platform are exciting breakthroughs in both the field of personal genetic health and genetic testing. Through this partnership we will leverage BioServe's comprehensive genetic and molecular testing services and expertise to help Suracell clients better understand how their genetic inheritance relates to their health and well being throughout the aging process. In addition, BioServe's commitment to taking a leadership role in genetic testing makes them a perfect partner for Suracell's proprietary Information Technology platform."

Kevin Krenitsky M.D., Chief Executive Officer, BioServe, said, "This is an exciting time in the science of genetics as it relates to healthy aging and personalized medicine. Understanding the relationship between genetics and healthy aging is critical as our population ages and we hope to not only help Suracell expand its personal genetic business, but also use the company's unique technology platform to spearhead BioServe's growth to a global position of leadership in the field of genetic testing. We are excited to work with Suracell on both of these exciting initiatives."

Terms of the deal were not disclosed and discussions are ongoing to develop a more comprehensive partnership between the two companies.

About Suracell

Suracell, Inc. provides Personal Genetic Health programs focused on healthy aging, based on individual genetic characteristics. Suracell has also developed a proprietary "genetic testing web portal" that provides an integrated solution to the collection and processing of DNA samples and the dissemination of the result. Suracell Inc. is a privately held company with headquarters in Montclair, New Jersey. For more information please visit www.Suracell.com or call 973-932-1200.

About BioServe

BioServe is a leading provider of genomic services to the global diagnostic market. BioServe offers genomic processing, development and validation of genetic and molecular based tests that can be used in the research and practice of personalized, predictive and preventive medicine. BioServe is also a global leader in human tissue and tissue-based services with a Global Repository® of over 600,000 human DNA, tissue and serum samples linked to detailed clinical and demographic data from 140,000 consented and anonymized patients from four continents. Pharma, biotech and diagnostic firms leverage BioServe's comprehensive genomics services to gain a competitive edge in the rapidly growing genetic and molecular diagnostic market. BioServe is privately held with headquarters in Laurel, MD and Hyderabad, India. For more information please visit www.bioserve.com or call 301-470-3362.

Contact Information: Contacts: Kevin Krenitsky Chief Executive Officer BioServe 301-470-3362 Constantine Theodoropulos Boston Communications 617-619-9801